A Slow, Sun-Soaked 7-Day Honeymoon on the Big Island of Hawaiʻi

The Big Island of Hawaiʻi felt like the right place to honeymoon because it doesn’t rush you. It invites you to slow down, to drive a little farther, to sit longer at the beach, to let plans bend around the weather and energy levels. This kind of slow, flexible travel has become central to our style over the years, shaping not just where we go, but how we experience it.

It also ended up being our first childfree travel experience as a married couple, though we didn’t know it at the time. That freedom—traveling without a fixed schedule or added logistics—quietly shaped the ease of this trip in ways we didn’t fully appreciate until later. We weren’t sure if we wanted kids or not, but we were in no rush to decide. We spent seven days taking in the natural beauty—exploring when we felt like it, and building in plenty of time to do absolutely nothing at all.

Here’s how our week unfolded.

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Day 1: Kona Arrival + First Beaches

We landed in Kona ready to exhale. After picking up our car, we headed straight into town to get our bearings. We grabbed some coffee (because when in Kona), and let the warmth settle into our bones.

Kua Bay was our first stop, and it immediately set the tone: bright blue water, soft sand, and that feeling that you’ve officially arrived somewhere special. We followed it with time at Hapuna Beach, swimming in the surf and relaxing on the beach, watching the waves roll in.

Dinner at Kona Brewing felt like the perfect first-night meal—casual, familiar, and easy. We toasted to the week ahead and went to bed early, sun-tired and happy.

Day 2: South Kona + Captain Cook

After a very early wakeup (compliments of the jet lag), we had a quick breakfast and headed south along the coast toward Captain Cook, stopping as the views demanded.

Near Kealakekua Bay, we snorkeled at Two Step, a natural lava-rock entry that has long made this area a gathering place. Just beyond the water sits Puhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park, once a sacred place of refuge in ancient Hawaiʻi. For centuries, those who broke kapu could flee here to seek absolution and protection. Walking the grounds past reconstructed temples, kiʻi, and the massive Great Wall made the setting feel quieter and more reverent, even with the ocean just steps away.

Kealakekua Bay is also where Captain James Cook first landed in Hawaiʻi in 1779, a moment that permanently changed the islands’ history. Standing nearby, it was impossible not to feel the weight of that encounter, set against water so clear and calm it felt timeless.

On the drive back, we stopped at a small South Kona fruit stand and loaded up on fresh fruit—simple, sweet, and perfect. The rest of the day faded into beach time and sunset.

Day 3: Coffee Country + Manta Rays After Dark

Our morning began inland at Greenwell Farms, one of the oldest coffee farms in Kona. The tour walked us through the full process—from coffee trees growing on volcanic soil to harvesting, roasting, and tasting the final product. Learning how much care and patience goes into each step gave us a new appreciation for something we usually take for granted. Ending the tour with a tasting, overlooking rows of coffee plants, felt especially fitting.

That evening, we headed back out to the water for a manta ray night snorkel with Manta Ray Night Snorkel Hawaiʻi. After a boat ride offshore, we floated at the surface while powerful lights attracted plankton, drawing manta rays in from the dark. Watching them glide silently beneath us—sometimes just inches away—felt unreal. The experience was both exhilarating and strangely peaceful, a reminder of how small you feel in the open ocean at night.

We returned to shore late, salt-soaked and wide awake, carrying one of those once-in-a-lifetime memories that was truly unforgettable.

Day 4: Around the South Point to Hilo

We packed up and left the Kona side of the island behind, starting the long drive around the southern edge of the island toward Hilo. The landscape changed quickly with dry lava fields giving way to greener stretches, the ocean never far from view.

Our first planned stop was Punalu’u Bake Shop, an easy detour and an even easier decision. We ordered malasadas fresh from the fryer and ate them slowly, still warm, before getting back on the road. Just down the way, Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach felt dramatic and grounding all at once. The jet-black sand, formed from volcanic rock, made the turquoise water stand out even more sharply. We walked the shoreline, keeping an eye out for resting honu (green sea turtles) and appreciating the quiet solitude.

Later, we detoured to Papakōlea Green Sand Beach, one of the few green sand beaches in the world. The hike out and back was part of the experience, and the reward was a small cove where olivine crystals tint the sand a muted green.

By the time we reached Hilo, the air was cooler and heavier with rain. We checked into our hotel, listening to the sound of distant traffic and passing showers, and let the day settle—ready for a slower, greener side of the island.

Day 5: Volcanoes National Park

We devoted the entire day to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, a place that feels otherworldly—vast, quiet, and constantly reminding you that the island is alive. Driving into the park, the temperature dropped and the air grew cooler, the landscape stretching wide and quiet in every direction.

We explored the summit area around Kīlauea, stopping at overlooks to take in the vastness of the caldera. Walking across old lava flows, hardened and cracked, felt humbling—each one marking a moment when the island reshaped itself.

Next, we drove the Chain of Craters Road, descending from rainforest to sea through layers of volcanic history. The stark black lava fields contrasted sharply with the deep blue ocean at the road’s end, making the scale of the park feel even larger.

Throughout the day, everything moved slowly. There was no rushing from stop to stop, just space to read signs, stand quietly, and absorb the reality of being somewhere still in the process of becoming. We spent the day driving, hiking, and just taking it all in. Steam vents, craters, and endless lava fields made us feel very small, in the best way.

Day 6: Hilo Markets, Waterfalls, and Lava

The morning started at the Hilo Farmers Market, where we wandered through rows of stalls filled with tropical fruit, fresh juices, flowers, and handmade goods. It felt vibrant and local, a snapshot of everyday life in Hilo, and an easy place to linger.

From there, we drove north to Akaka Falls State Park. A short loop trail led us through dense greenery to the lookout, where Akaka Falls drops dramatically into a gorge below. The air was cool and misty, and everything felt saturated with green.

Later in the day, we drove toward the coast to see lava flows, hardened reminders of how recently the land had been reshaped. Dinner was Thai food back in Hilo—warm and comforting—followed by a quiet night in, listening to the rain come and go.

Day 7: One Last Wander

Our last day began slowly. We packed, checked out, and made a stop at Hawaiian Crown Chocolates to pick up gifts and a few final treats for ourselves.

With no schedule left to follow, we spent the rest of the day exploring Hilo at an easy pace, wandering through shops, walking near the water, and taking in the tropical scenery one last time. It was a soft landing after a full week of movement and discovery.

Leaving the Big Island felt less like an ending and more like a pause. We carried the quiet moments with us—the long drives, the beaches, the spaces in between—already knowing we’d return someday.

Final Thoughts

Our honeymoon wasn’t built around a checklist or a race to see everything. It was shaped by long drives, quiet beaches, and the freedom to change plans when something felt worth lingering over. The Big Island met us in that space, offering contrast at every turn, from dry lava fields to rain-soaked forests, from lively coastal towns to places that felt entirely untouched.

What stayed with us most wasn’t a single moment, but the rhythm of the week. Waking up without alarms. Spending full afternoons at the beach. Choosing experiences that felt meaningful rather than mandatory. At the time, it simply felt restful. Looking back, it feels like a rare kind of spaciousness—one that’s harder to come by than you realize. Trips like this have a way of recalibrating us, reminding us how restorative it can be to step away from routine for a little while.

If you’re planning a honeymoon or a trip to Hawaiʻi, consider giving yourself fewer plans and more time. Pick a handful of anchors, then let the island fill in the rest. Drive the long way. Stop at the roadside stands. Say yes to the experiences that feel slightly outside your comfort zone. When we prioritize experiences over accumulation, travel becomes less about seeing everything and more about being fully present where we are.

And if you’re in a season of life where unstructured travel is possible, take it. You don’t have to know what comes next to appreciate where you are. Sometimes, the greatest luxury isn’t where you go, but how you allow yourself to be there.

If you’re in the early stages of planning, save this itinerary, bookmark the stops that resonated with you, and start with one question: what would it look like to travel slower here? The Big Island rewards that choice every time.

6-Day Fall Road Trip Through Alaska: From Seward to Denali (Childfree & Adventure-Focused)

If you’re dreaming of Alaska but don’t want to cram your days with back-to-back tours or endless driving, a 6-day fall road trip hits the sweet spot. We spent time exploring from Seward to Denali, giving ourselves time to breathe, pivot when the weather shifted (which it did often), and enjoy this raw, moody, and unbelievably beautiful part of Alaska.

This trip had its share of rain, canceled plans, and long stretches of road (like our Iceland Ring Road Itinerary)—but also glaciers, wildlife, and the kind of scenery that makes you feel very small in the best way possible.

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Day 1: Arrival in Anchorage + Drive to Seward

We landed in Anchorage in the afternoon, picked up our rental car, picked up groceries, and hit the road toward Seward—a roughly 2.5-hour drive that winds through the stunning Turnagain Arm and the Chugach Mountains. By the time we arrived, rain was moving in (a theme for this trip), so we settled into our cozy Airbnb, made dinner, and enjoyed the sound of the storm rolling through.

Day 2: Stormy Seas & A Canceled Kayak Tour

Our kayaking excursion was canceled due to a storm rolling through, but we decided to tough it out and hop on a last-minute boat tour of Kenai Fjords National Park with Kenai Fjords Tours.

Kenai Fjords National Park is where Alaska’s wild coastline and icy wilderness collide. Just outside Seward, the park is home to towering tidewater glaciers, emerald fjords, and abundant marine wildlife—from sea otters to humpback whales. Even on stormy days, the dramatic mix of rugged cliffs and crashing waves makes it unforgettable. Whether by kayak, cruise, or scenic trail, Kenai Fjords is the kind of place that reminds you how small we really are.

“Rough seas” is an understatement—it was a wild ride with 10-foot seas that made about half of the tour-goers sick (thankfully not us). Despite the weather and less-than-ideal conditions, we caught glimpses of bald eagles, otters, orca whales, and rugged glaciers. It was absolutely worth it, but we sure were glad to be back on land after it was over.

We headed over to Sweet Darlings for some sweet treats—a reward for surviving the seas. That night, we dried off, cooked dinner at our Airbnb, and called it an early night.

Day 3: Exit Glacier + Drive Back to Anchorage

We checked out after breakfast and drove to Exit Glacier. Just outside Seward, Exit Glacier is one of the few glaciers in Alaska you can easily walk right up to. A short trail leads to viewpoints where you can see deep blue ice and the signs marking how far the glacier has retreated over the years—a sobering reminder of how quickly Alaska’s landscape is changing.

It’s an easy, accessible stop that delivers big payoff, especially if you’re short on time or want a glacier experience without booking a tour.The short hike to the overlook was easy and scenic, with blue ice peeking through the mist.

Afterward, we made the drive back to Anchorage, stopped for lunch, and spent the afternoon at the Anchorage Museum, a great rainy-day option. Make sure to check out the Alaska exhibition that tells Alaska’s story, it’s phenomenal.

That evening, we explored a few shops downtown and grabbed reindeer sausages from Red Umbrella Reindeer for dinner (an Alaskan specialty). They were delicious!

Day 4: Flightseeing in Talkeetna + Drive to Denali

We left Anchorage early to reach Talkeetna for a 10:15 a.m. flightseeing tour with Talkeetna Air Taxi. It was a splurge but it was absolutely worth every penny.

We took the “Grand Denali” tour, which is billed as the definitive flightseeing experience over the Alaska Range. The route crosses the Alaska Range, takes in the arctic alpine tundra of the remote northern side of Denali National Park, and showcases dramatic features like the Great Gorge of the Ruth Glacier and the Wickersham Wall.

It was about 2 hours in the air (we opted to add a glacier landing). For us, the clear skies at take-off made it one of the best decisions of the trip—seeing Denali (North America’s highest peak at 20,310 feet) and the surrounding peaks from above is a perspective you won’t get any other way.

After a quick lunch at Flying Squirrel Bakery & Cafe (try the birch steamer!), we drove north to Denali National Park, checking into our hotel with enough time to enjoy some tasty burgers for dinner at 49th State Brewing.

Day 5: Exploring Denali by Bus

We spent the day exploring Denali National Park and Preserve via the transit bus to Eielson Visitor Center. It’s a long ride but packed with wildlife sightings: grizzlies, caribou, and moose wandering freely through open tundra. The scenery changes constantly, and the sense of scale is unreal. It’s easy to hop off for photos or short walks, then hop back on as space allows. We did the 2-mile Savage River Loop hike and enjoyed a mellow walk along the river (without any bear encounters thankfully!).

Denali National Park feels like stepping into another world—six million acres of untouched wilderness, one long road, and the towering presence of North America’s highest peak. Even if Denali itself hides behind clouds, the landscapes alone make the journey worth it; it’s quiet, vast, and humbling.

Taking the transit bus deep into Denali reminded us how much we love slow, immersive travel, the kind that gives you space to notice things. It’s the same mindset behind my Choosing Experiences Over Things post.

Day 6: Denali to Anchorage

After breakfast, we started the five-hour drive back to Anchorage. The fall colors along the Parks Highway were stunning—golden birch and red tundra stretching for miles. Once in town, we checked into our hotel and debated hiking Flattop Mountain, but opted for a steamy bowl of phở (the perfect cold weather food) and bánh mì at Phở Lena instead. We spent the evening packing and reflecting on our six days, hundreds of miles, and countless reminders that Alaska doesn’t need perfect weather to be unforgettable.

Tips for a Fall Alaska Road Trip

• Expect unpredictable weather. Bring layers, rain gear, and patience—plans can change quickly.

• Start early. Daylight fades quickly in late fall due to Alaska’s northerly location.

• Stock up before you go. Food and gas options become sparse between towns. We brought lots of prepackaged meals and snacks to cover the gaps.

• Book tours in advance. Denali buses and tours tend fill up quickly even in shoulder season.

• Download offline maps. You’ll lose service often while on the road.

• Be flexible with your schedule. Rainy days are inevitable—embrace them. You might need to pivot from an outdoor activity to an indoor one at a moment’s notice.

• Take your time. The drives are long, but that’s where Alaska really shines. Stop at the pull-offs to take photos and pause to appreciate the natural beauty.

Final Thoughts

This trip wasn’t smooth sailing (literally), but it reminded us why we keep seeking out quieter, wilder places. Traveling childfree meant we could lean into the unexpected, skip what didn’t work, and linger when something felt special.

You can also read how we use travel to reconnect with what matters most in my Travel as a Reset Button post.

If you’re looking for an authentic fall road trip through Alaska, this route balances the wild and the practical—just don’t forget your rain gear.

Have you done an Alaska road trip? Drop a comment with your favorite spots—I’d love to hear what surprised you most about traveling in the Last Frontier.

Weekend Getaway in San Diego: Spring Sunshine by the Sea

San Diego has a way of slowing you down—in the best possible way. With sparkling beaches, a laid-back vibe, and plenty of good food to fuel your days, it’s the perfect city for a long weekend escape. We visited in the spring, when the weather was warm but not sweltering, the skies were bright, and the crowds were manageable.

This 3-day itinerary blends iconic highlights, seaside adventures, and plenty of time for simply soaking in the coastal atmosphere. It’s tailored for travelers who want a flexible, no-fuss trip without juggling nap schedules or kid-friendly stops—just the freedom to explore at your own pace.

Friday: Coronado Island & Coastal Calm

We landed in San Diego around 10 a.m. and headed straight for Coronado Island, just across the bay from downtown. Crossing the sweeping Coronado Bridge gives you a postcard-worthy view of the city skyline and the endless Pacific beyond.

Our first stop was Coronado Beach, famous for its golden sand that actually glimmers thanks to mica in the shoreline. Wide and flat, it’s the kind of beach that makes you want to kick off your shoes and just wander. The backdrop of the historic Hotel del Coronado—a red-turreted Victorian masterpiece—adds a dose of storybook charm. Be sure to grab some Baja-style fish tacos on Coronado. It’s the perfect introduction to San Diego’s food scene—crispy, fresh, and full of flavor.

Coronado itself feels like a world apart from the city: palm-lined streets, casual cafés, and boutique shops that invite slow browsing. We popped into a coffee shop on Orange Avenue, strolled the little neighborhoods, and watched surfers carve through the waves.

By late afternoon, we made our way back into San Diego, checked into our hotel, and decided on an early night. After traveling, sometimes the best way to start a trip is to let yourself settle in with no pressure to do more.

Saturday: Gaslamp Vibes, Waterfront Strolls & La Jolla Adventure

Saturday was our “big explore” day, and we started in the heart of the city: the Gaslamp Quarter. This neighborhood combines Victorian architecture with a lively mix of brunch spots, breweries, and rooftop bars. Without kids in tow, you can linger over a second latte, browse boutique shops, or simply wander the brick-paved streets at your own pace.

From there, we walked down to the Seaport Village, a waterfront area dotted with shops and restaurants, and then along the Embarcadero. Here you’ll find sweeping views of the bay and attractions like the USS Midway Museum, an aircraft carrier turned floating museum that dominates the harbor. Even if you don’t go aboard, just seeing its sheer scale is impressive.

By early afternoon, we drove north to La Jolla for one of the highlights of our trip: a kayak tour with La Jolla Sea Cave Kayaks. Paddling through the surf with sea cliffs towering above us felt adventurous yet accessible, and spotting sea lions sunbathing on the rocks was a bonus. The guides pointed out hidden sea caves and told stories about the marine life, making the experience both active and educational.

After kayaking, we explored La Jolla on foot. The La Jolla Cove is small but stunning, framed by cliffs and home to dozens of barking sea lions. We meandered along the coastal paths, stopping at tide pools and lookout points that seemed to be made for photo ops.

We capped the day with a San Diego specialty, California burritos. It’s a local invention stuffed with carne asada, cheese, guacamole, and French fries. It sounds over the top, but it’s peak San Diego comfort food.

La Jolla coastline

California style burrito

Sunday: Zoo Wonders & Balboa Beauty

For our last day, we checked out of our hotel but kept the adventure going. Our first stop was the San Diego Zoo, often ranked among the best in the world. Unlike many zoos, this one feels more like a botanical garden crossed with an animal sanctuary—lush, green, and beautifully laid out. Highlights included giraffes stretching for snacks, the playful antics of the monkeys, and the aviaries filled with vibrant tropical birds. Even if you’re not usually a zoo person, this one is worth it.

Red panda at the San Diego Zoo—so cute!

From the Zoo, it’s an easy transition into Balboa Park, San Diego’s cultural crown jewel. This massive urban park is home to Spanish-style architecture, fountains, and manicured gardens. You can pop into museums if you want (the San Diego Museum of Art and the Natural History Museum are standouts), or simply enjoy the park’s walkways and courtyards.

Spring made it especially lovely—bougainvillea spilling over walls, bursts of flowers in the gardens, and perfect weather for strolling. We found a bench near one of the fountains and let the afternoon slow to a stop before heading to the airport. Before leaving, grab a warm churro from one of the stands near Balboa Park. Simple, sweet, and the perfect farewell to San Diego.

Balboa Park

Final Thoughts

San Diego in the spring is all about balance: mornings by the beach, afternoons on the water, evenings with good food. This itinerary mixes a little adventure with a lot of downtime, ideal for travelers who prefer a flexible pace. Whether it’s the coastal views in La Jolla, the iconic animals at the Zoo, or that first bite of a California burrito, San Diego makes for a weekend getaway that feels both easy and unforgettable.

No stress. No rigid plans. Just sunshine, sea air, and a city that rewards you for slowing down.

This post is part of my Weekend Getaways in the U.S. series. Check out Seattle in Autumn for another quick, budget-friendly city break.

Have you spent a weekend in San Diego? What was your favorite spot—or your must-eat food? Share your tips in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!

Weekend Getaway in Seattle: Autumn Adventures in the Emerald City

Seattle in autumn has a kind of magic all its own—misty mornings, cozy coffee shops, and crisp air that makes the fall colors pop against the skyline. I’m sharing our 3-day itinerary for exploring Seattle in the fall. It’s a mix of iconic sights, local eats, and a scenic escape to Mount Rainier that made for a busy but totally doable long weekend.

Friday: First Taste of Seattle

We landed at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) around 10:30 a.m., grabbed our bags, and made our way into the city. After checking into our hotel and grabbing lunch, we set out for a casual first afternoon of exploring.

Highlights:

• Fremont Troll: This quirky, larger-than-life public art installation tucked under the Aurora Bridge is a must-see. It’s playful, weird, and perfectly “Seattle.”

• Gas Works Park: Next up was Gas Works Park, an old industrial site turned public green space. From here you get sweeping views of Lake Union with the skyline in the distance. Bonus points if you catch sea planes landing on the lake.

• Flagship REI: For outdoor lovers, the flagship REI is worth a stop. It’s part store, part experience—complete with trails, climbing walls, and plenty of gear to inspire your next adventure.

• Dinner with a View: We wrapped up the day with dinner at our hotel’s rooftop restaurant, taking in the city views and enjoying the gorgeous fall weather.

Travel Tip: Consider staying in a central location like South Lake Union or Capitol Hill. You’ll save time getting around and have plenty of dining options within walking distance.

Saturday: Coffee, Markets & Iconic Views

Seattle mornings in the fall call for one thing: coffee. We’re not usually coffee drinkers but we couldn’t miss out on this quintessential Seattle experience. We chased it with a day filled with sightseeing and delicious local food.

Highlights:

• Starbucks Reserve Roastery: We started the day at the Starbucks Reserve Roastery in Capitol Hill, where coffee gets the luxury treatment. It’s bigger, sleeker, and more experimental than your standard Starbucks. Be sure to get there early as it gets busy.

• Pike Place Market: Pike Place Market is touristy, yes, but for good reason. We turned it into a mini food crawl, sampling bites from local favorites—something that’s much easier to do when you’re traveling light and childfree.

  • Beecher’s Handmade Cheese – Oozy mac & cheese, grilled cheese, basically all things cheese-related!

  • Piroshky Piroshky – Eastern European hand pies stuffed with a variety of both sweet and savory fillings.

  • Rachel’s Ginger Beer – Refreshing drinks made locally using fresh water, lemons, pure cane sugar and ginger.

  • Cinnamon Works – Allergy friendly, scratch-made cookies, pastries, and muffins. Don’t sleep on the giant chocolate chip cookie!

• Free Walking Tour: To walk off all of the delicious food we joined a free walking tour. It was the perfect way to get some history and quirky facts about the city.

• Kerry Park: No trip to Seattle is complete without this postcard view. From Kerry Park, you get the classic skyline shot with Mount Rainier towering in the distance (if it’s a clear day).

• Seattle Center: We spent the rest of the afternoon at Seattle Center, home to the Space Needle, museums, and Chihuly Garden and Glass. Even if you skip the admissions, the grounds are worth a wander.

Travel Tip: Pack a rain jacket and layers, even in autumn. Seattle weather is unpredictable—sunny one hour, drizzly the next.

Sunday: Scenic Escape to Mount Rainier National Park

After checking out of our hotel early and grabbing a quick breakfast, we hopped on the train back to the airport, picked up a rental car, and set off for a day trip to Mount Rainier National Park. With towering evergreen trees lining the road, it felt like we were driving through a tunnel. As we made our way closer, Mount Rainier’s snowcapped peak appeared through the clouds like something out of a painting. We stopped at overlooks to breathe in crisp mountain air, watched fog drift lazily across alpine meadows, and listened to the quiet rush of streams cutting through the forest. Even without a long hike, the park gave us moments of pure stillness and awe that balanced perfectly with the bustle of the city.

It was the kind of ending that tied the whole trip together—a weekend that blended Seattle’s urban energy with the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest, leaving us both recharged and already dreaming about our next weekend getaway.

Final Thoughts

Seattle in autumn is the perfect balance of cozy and adventurous. One moment you’re sipping a ginger beer at Pike Place while street musicians play in the background, the next you’re standing in front of Mount Rainier with nothing but the sound of wind in the trees. The city has its quirks—like a giant troll lurking under a bridge—and its icons, from the Space Needle to the first Starbucks. But what makes a fall weekend here special is how seamlessly it shifts from urban energy to natural wonder.

We left with the taste of coffee still lingering, the memory of fiery fall colors along mountain roads, and the kind of content exhaustion that only comes from a trip well spent. Seattle gave us exactly what we needed: a little weird, a little wild, and a lot of cozy Pacific Northwest charm.

Have you been to Seattle in the fall? What would you add to this weekend itinerary? Share your favorite Seattle spots or autumn adventures in the comments below — I’d love to hear your ideas!