Lively City

Posted: 4/2/2024 | April 2nd, 2024

Iceland is a magical country. It just feels out of this world, like you’re on another planet. The rugged volcanoes and black-sand beaches give the island a desolate but striking appearance. If you ask me, it’s right up there with New Zealand and Norway in terms of the most beautiful countries in the world.

And, just like both of those destinations, it’s an amazing place to take a road trip.

Thanks to its stunning natural beauty, safety, and ease of transportation, Iceland has become a popular destination for solo travelers and first-time road trippers. Yes, it can be expensive, but it has so much to see and do, including tons of amazing hikes and waterfalls that are free to enjoy. You don’t need to break the bank here.

Having been to Iceland a handful of times over the years, I think taking a road trip is the best way to explore the country. So, to ensure you save time and money and stay safe during your trip, here are my top 13 Iceland road-trip tips:

 

1. Make sure you have car insurance

I never leave home without travel insurance. And I never rent a car without comprehensive auto insurance either.

In most destinations, this might seem like overkill. I mean, how often do you actually use your car insurance?

In Iceland, however, the weather changes often — and drastically.

Rain and snow are common, and gravel and sand often damage windows. But the real threat most drivers aren’t prepared for is the wind. The gusts here are so strong that car doors are regularly ripped off their hinges (every time I’ve rented a car here, the company has reminded me of this).

Combine that with winding, narrow roads and an abundance of active volcanoes, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for car trouble.

That’s why I always recommend travelers have comprehensive car rental coverage when they visit Iceland. Because it’s much better to be safe than sorry here!

When it comes to renting a car, I recommend Discover Cars. When you book, it’s super easy to add car insurance onto your purchase with the click of a button. They make it clear what is covered and how much it costs.

You can use the widget below to get a quote. It’s fast and free:

 

2. Rent the right vehicle

It’s easy to rent a car in Iceland. You don’t need an International Driving Permit if you have a valid license using Latin letters with a license number, photograph, and expiration date. That means Americans, Canadians, Australians, Brits, and New Zealanders can all rent a car here with their regular license.

When renting a vehicle in Iceland, you have three main choices:

A car
A 4×4 (4WD)
A van/RV

If you’re just planning to see the main sights while sleeping in hostels, hotels, and/or Airbnbs, a regular car will do the trick. It’s the cheapest option too.

If you want to explore the rugged interior (known as the Highlands), a 4×4 is required, since the roads there are often unpaved, gravel ones called “F-roads,” which can only be traversed by 4×4 vehicles (if you drive a regular car on them, your insurance coverage will be void).

Your final choice is a campervan/RV. These are for travelers who want to sleep in their vehicle as they travel. They are the most expensive option, but you’ll save money on accommodation, so it kind of balances out.

Just keep in mind that standard transmissions are the norm here, so reserve an automatic-transmission vehicle if that’s a requirement for you.

(Note: No matter what type of vehicle you have, never drive off-road. It is highly illegal due to the fragility of Iceland’s ecosystem. Not only does off-roading damage this beautiful environment, but you could face stiff fines if caught.)
 

3. Download the right apps

Everyone road-tripping around Iceland should have the following apps downloaded to or websites bookmarked on their phone:

Google Translate – While English is widely spoken, the app can be helpful for reading signs and directions. Just make sure to download Icelandic for offline use so that you can still translate things even without mobile data.
Google Maps – The best app for looking up directions. Make sure to download your maps so you have them for offline use.
Safetravel.is – This app shares weather alerts, road closure information, and more. It’s good to have so you can be kept up to date should inclement weather or emergencies arise.
Vedur.is – This is the best weather app for Iceland.
Samferda – This website is great for finding passengers if you want to share a ride with someone. (If you’re a passenger and need a ride, you can post here too.) Another helpful site for finding passengers is Couchsurfing.

Check the international policies and charges on your phone plan before leaving, so as to avoid unexpected charges when using these apps and/or websites. If you want to stay connected with unlimited data on your trip, get an eSIM.
 

4. Bring a paper map

Whenever I go on a road trip, I always bring a paper map. I know, Google Maps is easy and free, and mobile data coverage in Iceland is reliable. But it’s better to be safe than sorry. You never know when your phone is going to break, if your signal will be lost, or there will be an emergency.

Give yourself peace of mind: bring a paper road map with you, and just leave it in the glove box. You likely won’t need it, but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it!
 

5. Choose your direction wisely

The vast majority of travelers road-tripping through Iceland drive the Ring Road (aka Route 1, the country’s main highway) counterclockwise. This allows you to start with the famous Golden Circle and then head toward popular sights like the Skógafoss and Seljalandsfoss waterfalls, the Sólheimasandur crash site, the glacier lagoon, and more. If you only have a few days to explore, this is the best direction to choose. If it’s your first-time visiting Iceland, this is the direction I suggest.

However, if you want to be contrarian or you want to get off the beaten path, head clockwise. There are still some sights you can visit to kick things off, such as the postcard-perfect Mount Kirkjufell and the rugged Snæfellsnes Peninsula.

If you really want to get off the beaten path and beat the crowds, head to the Westfjords. Only a fraction of travelers come here, so it’s home to some of the most unspoiled landscapes in the country. It was also the highlight of all my time in Iceland.
 

6. Avoid the F-roads (if you have a car)

As mentioned above, F-roads are rugged, unpaved routes that generally lead off the main Ring Road into the interior. Driving on these roads requires a 4×4 (4WD). If you have a regular car, you won’t be permitted to drive on them. You will void your insurance coverage while also risking blowing a tire or damaging the car. It’s not worth it!
 

7. Check the weather often

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: the weather in Iceland changes rapidly. For that reason, you’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast. While driving in wind or rain might not be an issue, if you’re planning to get out and hike or visit some of the waterfalls, you’ll want to make sure you’re prepared for the weather. The Vedur.is app (mentioned above) is a must.

No matter what time of year you visit, bring rain gear (including a hat), waterproof footwear, and a sweater. Even in the summer, Iceland is rarely hot, and rain isn’t uncommon either. Prepare accordingly so your trip isn’t ruined (especially if you plan on hiking).
 

8. Only pull over where there is space

You are going to be tempted to stop your car often to take photos. And I mean really often. Not only are the main sights in Iceland awe-inspiring, but the average sights are stunning too. You’ll come across random vistas and waterfalls, craggy moss-covered hills, black-sand beaches, and so much more.

It will be tempting to pull over to get out and take photos, but do so with caution. Try to pull off the road only at designated stops or where there is room to do so without impeding traffic. While the Ring Road isn’t a superhighway, it is a busy route with regular traffic in both directions. Don’t endanger yourself or others for a photo. Stick to designated stopping areas.
 

9. Keep an eye on your gas tank

Once you leave the busier part of the island around Reykjavik, gas stations become few and far between. For that reason, you’ll want to fill up when you can. Don’t just wait until you have a quarter tank, as you might run out of gas before you get to the next station.

While you can generally look up where gas stations are via Google Maps, I always make sure to top up when I can. The peace of mind is worth it. You’ll also be covered in case you get delayed or change your travel plans at the last minute.
 

10. Don’t rush

A lot of people think that, because Iceland is small, you can see the sights in just a matter of days.

You can’t.

If you’re looking to drive the entire Ring Road, plan for at least 10-14 days. While you can do it in less, you will be rushed and will spend more time driving than I’d recommend. (If you just want to see the main highlights in the south and east, 5-7 days is sufficient.)

I prefer quality over quantity, so I always suggest travelers slow down and really soak in the sights. You won’t regret it.

If you’re looking for recommended itineraries, this post breaks down all my suggestions for different time frames, all the way up to an entire month.
 

11. Avoid the summer (and also the winter)

Iceland suffers from success. The country is swamped by travelers during the summer, between late June and early August, as that is when the weather is the warmest and the days are the longest. While “busy” in Iceland is a far cry from “busy” in cities like Barcelona or Venice, it can still be crowded around Reykjavik and the sights closest to the city.

For that reason, I suggest visiting in the shoulder season. The weather is still warm and there will be far fewer people. Everything will be a little cheaper too.

If you are set on going in the summer, I’d suggest heading off to the Westfjords. It’s the least-visited area of the country and offers some of the most untamed and beautiful landscapes in Iceland.

Additionally, I suggest avoiding winter visits too if you plan on driving. Road conditions are less than ideal, and snowstorms are frequent. Unless you have lots of experience with winter driving, skip that season. (You can definitely do a winter visit to see the northern lights, I just wouldn’t rent a car for that.)

Personally, I think late May to early June and late August to early September are the best times to visit. Prices are cheaper, the weather is decent, and the crowds are thinner.
 

12. Pick up passengers

If you’re traveling on a budget, consider taking passengers. Having people chip in for gas for a leg or two of your journey is a great way to save money while also connecting with like-minded travelers. As mentioned above, you can use websites like Samferda or Couchsurfing to find them.

Another option is to pick up hitchhikers. In the warmer months, hitchhiking is super common along the Ring Road (I hitchhiked here and had a great experience). While they generally don’t have money to contribute, they likely have cool stories and great tips. It’s an easy way to help other travelers and liven up your own trip.
 

13. Follow the rules of the road

Being a responsible traveler means following local norms and laws. Be aware that Iceland has stricter driving laws and penalties than you may be used to. Make sure to do the following:

Never drive off-road. Respect the fragile Icelandic ecosystem and never drive off-road.
Never drink and drive. Iceland has very strict laws about driving under the influence (0.02% is the limit). Not only are you endangering yourself and others, but the fines are extremely high (100,000 ISK).
Never use your phone while driving. Use a hands-free setup if you need to talk and drive, or else pull over. Not only is it dangerous, but you could face high fines as well.
Watch out for others on the road. This includes sheep (there are more sheep than people here) and cyclists. Pass slowly and give them a wide berth.
Know who to call. If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance. It’s the equivalent of 911 in the US/Canada.

 

Iceland Road Trip FAQ

How difficult is a road trip in Iceland?
Iceland is one of the easiest countries in the world for a road trip. The reason is that there is essentially just one long road that circles the country (known as Route 1, or the Ring Road). That makes it quite easy to get around and difficult to get lost.

How long do you need to road-trip around Iceland?
If you plan to drive the entire Ring Road, you’ll want at least 10 days (14 days would be better). If you just want to see the main sights in the south and east, 5-7 days should be plenty.

Is Iceland very expensive?
Iceland can be very expensive. Food, accommodation, rental cars, and gas are all pricey. However, there are plenty of ways to save too. By sharing a vehicle (and splitting costs), cooking all your meals, and camping or sticking to hostels, you can easily do it for under $100 USD per day.

Is it worth renting a 4×4?
I would only rent a 4×4 if you have prior road trip experience and are planning to go off road. For the average visitor looking to see the main sights, a 4×4 is not necessary.

What is an F-road?
An F-road is a route on which only 4×4 vehicles can travel. They are very rugged, unpaved roads, generally leading you into the interior.

If you have a regular rental vehicle, you’re forbidden to drive on them.

Is it safe to drive solo in Iceland?
Iceland is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in the world. If you’re new to solo travel, it’s the perfect place to start.

***

Iceland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. It’s also one of the best (and easiest) places to do a road trip. While it may be expensive, it’s very safe and easy to get around, and there are lots of free things to see and do to keep costs down. Just follow the tips above, and you’ll have a fun and safe visit to this rugged island nation!

CLICK HERE TO GET A FREE RENTAL CAR QUOTE!
 

The post 13 Iceland Road Trip Tips: What You Need to Know Before You Go appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

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Posted: 4/2/2024 | April 2nd, 2024

Trip planning can be a daunting task. Flights, insurance, gear, itineraries, accommodation, and so much more all need to be considered and sorted out before you go.

It’s easy to get overwhelmed, especially when you haven’t done something like this before.

After over close to twenty years of traveling the world, I’ve planned countless trips and vacations for myself, friends, and family, even group tours. In the beginning, it was trial by fire. I learned a lot of lessons the hard way. However, that helped me develop an efficient checklist that ensures I don’t miss anything important during the trip-planning process.

One big question I get asked a lot is when to start planning. To answer that question, this post breaks the planning process down into month-by-month steps so you can plan your next trip with ease.

Here’s how to plan a trip:

12 Months Out: Decide on Your Destination(s)

A lot of people talk vaguely about travel: they never say where they are going, just that they are going. They might talk about it for years before actually departing (if they go at all). But it’s much easier to reach and plan for the goal of “I am going to Paris for two weeks this summer” than “I’m going somewhere.”

If you already have a dream destination in mind, great! If not, here are some posts to help you get started:

11 Cheap Places to Visit on the US Dollar
10 Places to Travel on a Budget
The Best Tropical Islands in the World
My Favorite Cities in the World
My 31 Favorite Places to Visit in the USA

But, this far out, the real thing you want to do is start saving money and figuring out your costs. Accommodation and flights are the obvious ones, but how much do restaurants, attractions, and other activities cost? Knowing these costs will allow you accurately estimate how much money you’ll need. Here is how to research costs:

Buy a guidebook
Check out my free travel guides (we break down all costs for each destination)
Skim the cost of living on Numbeo.com
Google prices for major activities you want to do, such as scuba diving, winery tours, etc. (Get Your Guide is a good place to start)
Use Skyscanner or Google Flights for flight prices and sign up for alerts to get emails if the price changes
Use Discover Cars to price out (and book) a rental car if you need one
Use Booking.com and Hostelworld to research accommodation costs

That may seem like a lot but you just want to get a general idea of how much you need to save. You can head to this page to see all my articles on how to save money for your trip.

12 Months Out: Start Collecting Points & Miles

While you’re working to save money, get a travel credit card so you can earn miles and points for free flights and hotel stays. It’s what has kept my costs down and me on the road for so many years.

These days, most cards have welcome offers of 60,000-80,000 points (some can be as high as 100,000) when you meet their minimum spending requirement (generally $2,000-5,000 USD within a 3–6-month time frame). That’s enough miles for a free round-trip economy flight to Europe from the East Coast of North America.

For more information on this subject, check out these posts:

Points & Miles 101: A Beginner’s Guide
How to Pick the Best Travel Credit Card
My Favorite Travel Credit Cards
How to Earn Points by Paying Your Rent
The Ultimate Guide to Points & Miles
How to Collect Points & Miles in Canada

In addition, get a fee-free ATM card. I use Charles Schwab, but there are lots of other banks that don’t charge ATM fees (don’t forget to check your local banks and credit unions too). Here’s how you can avoid bank fees while traveling.

8 Months Out: Visa Requirements, Passports, and Vaccines

While you likely won’t need a visa to your desired destination, you should still check to make sure. If you’re a US citizen, use the State Department’s search tool to learn about your destination’s entry requirements. (Canadians can use this search tool.)

Additionally, make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months after your trip ends. Many countries require this for entry. Passport application and renewal wait times can be long (the standard is 6-8 weeks in the US), so do this as soon as possible.

Also, research if you need any vaccines for your trip as many countries require vaccines to enter (and I don’t mean COVID). You can learn more about country requirements and recommendations at the CDC’s website. They can help you find a clinic near you as well (if you’re in the US).

4-6 Months Out: Book Your Flight

The best time to book your flight is generally around 3-4 months before your departure, or 5-6 months before if you are going during a destination’s peak season. This isn’t a hard-and-fast rule, though, so use it as a guide.

Here are two articles on how to score a cheap flight:

How to Always Find Cheap Flights
5 Steps to Booking a Cheap Flight

If you’ve signed up for a travel credit card and received your sign-up bonus, use your miles to book your flight and/or hotel. The further out you book, the more availability there will be. Use tools like Point.me and Awayz to help you find the best redemptions on your points (for flights and hotels, respectively).

But even if you aren’t using miles or didn’t find a cheap flight deal, there are still many ways to avoid being the person on the flight who paid the most for their ticket. My two favorite sites for finding cheap airfare are Skyscanner and Google Flights.
 

3-4 Months Out: Book Your Accommodation

If you’re traveling for under two weeks and have a set schedule, book accommodation for the duration of your trip. If you’re visiting during the high season, it’s also a good idea to book everything in advance. For trips longer than two weeks, I suggest booking only the first couple of nights of your trip. Once there, you may end up wanting to change your plans based on insider advice from other travelers and/or hotel/hostel staff. I prefer having flexibility, so I always just book a few nights and go from there.

Here are my go-to sites when it comes to finding the best deals on accommodation:

Hostelworld – Hostelworld has the largest selection of hostels and is my go-to site for finding affordable hostels.
Booking.com – Booking.com is the best overall platform for finding budget hotels and guesthouses.
Agoda – Agoda has the best results if you’re heading to Asia (though it sometimes has good US deals too).

I recommend checking the cancelation policy of wherever you book. I like having the flexibility to cancel if something comes up.

If you’re on a tight budget or you want to connect with more locals during your travels, consider joining platforms like Couchsurfing or BeWelcome. These communities allow travelers to stay with residents for free as a sort of cultural exchange.

Long-term travelers can also try housesitting or WWOOFing as well, as they both offer free accommodation (in exchange for pet sitting or farm work, respectively).

2 Months Out: Plan Your Activities

Now it’s time for the fun part of travel planning! That means reading books about your destination, learning general travel tips, connecting with online communities, and pre-booking any necessary activities.

Pre-booking ensures you don’t miss out on things that you really want to do on your trip. If you’re going to a popular destination, tours and activities fill up quickly, and if you’re going to a smaller place, activities or tours might only run on certain days and have limited availability.

Either way, Get Your Guide the best place to search for and pre-book activities, tours, and tickets. Local tour operators and attractions can list their offerings on this online marketplace, so you can find tons of stuff here, from food tours to museum tickets with skip-the-line entry.

1 Month Out: Get Travel Insurance

Get travel insurance. That way, these purchases are protected should something happen that makes you cancel your trip.

A lot of people think, “I’m healthy. I don’t need travel insurance.” But travel insurance is much more than just medical protection. It covers you when your camera breaks, your flight is canceled, a family member dies and you have to come home, or something gets stolen. (That’s why you’ll also want to familiarize yourself with any common travel scams to look out for, as well as how to conduct yourself in order to blend in to avoid looking like a target for petty theft.)

Yes, it’s an added expense. But it’s always better to be safe than sorry. I never leave home without it, because I’ve seen firsthand just what can happen on the road.

I never thought I would pop my eardrum while I was scuba diving in Thailand, break my camera in Italy, or get knifed in Colombia.

Unfortunately, bad things can happen when you’re traveling. True, these events are few and far between. But they can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If you’re not prepared to pay out of pocket, buy travel insurance.

Here are some posts on travel insurance to get you started:

How to Buy Travel Insurance
The 5 Best Travel Insurance Companies
The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors

I never leave home without travel insurance. You shouldn’t either.

7 days out: Pack!

Your trip is almost here, and it’s time to pack! It can be tempting to want to bring everything with you “just in case.” But when it comes to travel, less is more. While what you pack will depend on where you are going, remember that you don’t need to take everything you own. You can buy things you need and do laundry on the road. At the end of the day, you have to carry everything you bring. So bring less!

I travel with a 45L REI bag and then a smaller day bag. Here’s my suggested packing list to help you take just the right amount of stuff and avoid overpacking (here’s a list for female travelers).

Additionally, bring any prescriptions you need for the duration of your trip. Try not to rely on filling those abroad (though bring a prescription and doctor’s note just in case).

***

With everything taken care of, it’s time to go on your trip and have fun! Make a list of last-minute items you need to pack the day of (your toothbrush, glasses, phone charger, etc.) and check in online beforehand (you can do so 24 hours in advance). (If you’ve got lounge access through a premium travel rewards card, you might find yourself looking forward to getting to the airport early.)

If you’re feeling nervous, don’t worry. That’s perfectly normal. Feeling anxious or unsure is something every traveler experiences. But you’ve made it this far. Trust your planning and follow your instincts. You’re about to have the trip of a lifetime.

The post How to Plan a Trip: A Month-by-Month Guide appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

​https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/how-to-plan-a-trip/ 

Just because much of the world is welcoming spring doesn’t mean you have to, as these are the best destinations for skiing in April around the world. These destinations in Europe, Asia, …

The post Where to Ski in April: 14 Best Destinations for Spring Skiing appeared first on Adventures & Sunsets.

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A trip to Oahu is truly not complete without a visit to the majestic North Shore. This region is best known for its world-class massive waves, surfing competitions, great snorkeling spots, delectable shrimp trucks, and stunning beaches.

If you’ve committed to spending a whole day out there, then you are doing Oahu correctly!

Looking for the best things to do on the North Shore of Oahu? Our 1-day itinerary of the North Shore will help you have one of the best days of your Hawaii vacation!

This full-day tour showcases the natural beauty, delicious food, and fresh produce of Oahu’s stunning North Shore, featuring stops at beaches, food truck stands, a mac nut farm, a coffee farm, the world-famous Dole farm, and much more.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more for any of your purchases, but the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep the content coming to you. Thanks!

How To Get To Oahu

Honolulu International Airport (HNL), the one that you’re most likely flying into, is conveniently located in Honolulu. The HNL airport is about 20 minutes away from Waikiki and about 45 minutes away from Haleiwa (a town on the North Shore).

There are plenty of ways to get to and from the airport upon arrival or departure. If you’re staying in Waikiki:

You could rent a car right from the airport.

We like renting with Hertz because their free Gold Rewards Membership allows you to skip the counter entirely and go right to your assigned rental car. This is so valuable in Hawaii, where almost everyone else flying in also needs a rental car–rental car lines get long.

You can get to downtown Waikiki via The Bus route #20.
You could also take a taxi or rideshare to your hotel for a relatively low fare. 

We usually stay outside of Waikiki if we can help it because we like other parts of the island so much more. Hotels and resorts in the Waikiki area typically charge an arm and a leg for resort fees and parking, which I am not a fan of. 

By staying outside of Waikiki, we’re able to rent a car for the entirety of our trip because we’re usually able to park our car wherever we want–free of charge!

If you are staying in the Waikiki area, you can either get a car only for the days you plan on doing this North Shore day trip, or opt for a North Shore guided tour offered by various tour operators.

Here are a couple of tours you could opt for:

Tour of North Shore and Sightseeing
Full-Day North Shore Activities Tour

How To Get Around Oahu

Waikiki / Honolulu area

If you’re happy staying in the Waikiki / Honolulu area for the majority of your trip, then a car rental is not needed. There are plenty of great public transportation options that make it easy to travel around the main areas of Oahu, like the bustling downtown area and popular tourist attractions.

There’s an excellent local bus system called TheBus, that mostly services Honolulu and Waikiki, but has lines extending out to just about every major town on the island.

Catching a ride on The Bus is very straightforward. Just stand in front of the bus stop, and wait to be picked up. Once onboard, make sure to pay attention to each stop, as you’ll have to pull the stop cord to request a stop.

Fares are reasonable and transfers are allowed. For more information, check out TheBus’ website for info on departure times, system maps, ticket prices, and more.

Ridesharing services, like Uber and Lyft, are now available in Hawaii as well. These may be cheaper than hailing a taxi, so make sure to download your preferred service to your phone and compare prices.

If you plan on walking or biking as your main form of transportation, this is best in the Waikiki and Honolulu areas. These areas are very pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods and you’ll find plenty of restaurants, attractions, tours, and other exciting sights just by exploring on foot or bike.

The rest of the island

Those looking to explore past what Waikiki offers and do as the locals will prefer to rent a car. 

Renting a car is the most popular option for travelers visiting Oahu. Because the island is spread out with lots and lots of things to do in many of the island’s neighborhoods, you can see a ton more with a car rental.

If you plan on exploring parts of the island outside of Waikiki, a car is absolutely necessary and you will not regret the decision of renting one. Even if you are staying in Waikiki, without a car, you’ll be pretty much confined to that area.

That will make for one heck of a mediocre vacation in Hawaii because the best parts of Oahu are outside of the Honolulu area!

Driving in Oahu is easy and straightforward, though traffic can sometimes be an issue during the busy months of the tourist season and during rush hour on weekdays.

Be aware that speed limits in Oahu are generally lower than those in the continental United States and are strictly enforced.

You can rent cars directly at the airport. Many rental car companies require drivers to be 25 years of age or older.

We typically like to rent from Hertz. With their free-to-join Hertz Gold Membership program, you’ll get counter-free pickup (great for skipping those long Hawaii airport lines), and even mobile alerts with your exact rental car and its location before you arrive. 

When To Start Your North Shore Day Trip

If you’re staying in the Waikiki area, it’ll take you about 45 min to 1 hour to get to your first few stops in this itinerary.

If you do this North Shore day trip on a weekday, the initial drive to get to the North Shore will be on the longer side compared to taking the day trip on a weekend. This is because, just like in any other city, there is rush hour traffic as locals make their way to work in the morning.

I recommend departing for your day trip no later than 8:30 am to maximize your time in the North Shore.

Another little benefit of this is that you’ll be able to arrive at Dole Plantation just as they open, avoiding all the lines and mayhem you might encounter if you were to show up later.

12 Stops For The Perfect North Shore Day Trip

Here are all the stops that we recommend on a trip to the North Shore!

1. Green World Coffee Farm

Green World Coffee Farm is a small local coffee farm consisting of 7 acres of land with approximately 3,000 arabica coffee trees. Green World Coffee buys green beans from local farms across Hawaii such as Maui, Molokai, Kauai as well as Waialua, which is located on the North Shore of Oahu.

In addition to a large gift shop selling everything from coffee, tea, and other local merchandise, they also offer a full menu of drinks that can be purchased off the espresso bar.

At the gift shop, there are free coffee and tea tastings! Personally, the chocolate mint tea was unique and delicious! And because they roast their coffee daily, you know you’ll be tasting fresh beans whether you buy beans to take home or order a drink.

After you pick up your drinks and gifts, head out back to the little coffee farm area to enjoy a few moments outdoors before heading back in your car for your next stop.

2. Dole Plantation

The Dole Plantation, located just a few minutes from the previous stop on the North Shore of Oahu, is a fun stop for the entire family. Established by James Dole in 1899, the company now ships 170 different food products to over 90 countries. 

If you’re traveling with children, you may want to consider doing the Pineapple Express Train Tour and the Pineapple Garden Maze. The Plantation Garden Tour is free and fun, allowing you to take a pleasant stroll through cute little pineapple plants on display.

While you’re strolling through the gardens, be sure to stop to read the informational displays and presentations, where you’ll learn all about the history of the pineapple.

After you’re done exploring the outdoor grounds, head into the plantation country store where you’ll find a huge (and I mean huge) variety of Dole Plantation gifts, local snacks, and gifts. Sure it’s touristy, but still a lot of fun to look through.

In the cafeteria area, you can find foods and refreshments to enjoy including their iconic Dole Whip. And if you’re looking to bring an actual pineapple home, they have those for sale too!

Pro Tip: Parking gets crazy here, so you’ll want to arrive around 9:30 am when they open. You’ll get the shortest lines at all the attractions–gift shop, train rides, maze, etc.

On a more recent trip, we decided to take our first-timer family members to the plantation. We arrived after 12pm and the whole place was mayhem. No one was able to find a spot. We just left.

3. Haleiwa Town

Located about 1 hour from Waikiki (15 minutes away from Dole Plantation) is Haleiwa. Along with the North Shore of Oahu, this area is known as the surfing capital of the world!

Historically, Haleiwa is an old community dating back to the 1900’s contributing to the sugar plantation industry.

Once you pass Haleiwa’s iconic sign with the surfer, you’ll find a bunch of cool surf shops, boutiques, art galleries, and local food joints housed in plantation-era buildings.

You’ll find lots of shrimp trucks, shave ice joints, and acai/smoothie shops, and lots of people sitting around enjoying them! Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck also has a location here, located in one of the food truck pods.

You could get garlic shrimp, but what I recommend even MORE is Poke For The People. More on that below!

Take a stroll around the various plazas that make up Haleiwa for an hour or two, including the old Waialua Sugar Mill. The sugar mill features local crafts, products, and services in a unique, old-Hawaii setting. 

Shops include the Coco’s Trading Post, North Shore Soap Factory, Charley Walker’s All Surf Glassing, Haleiwa Surfboard Company, Old Sugar Mill Brand Coffee & Chocolate, the weekly Saturday morning Farmers’ Market, and more.

You can also find lots of shops at the North Shore Marketplace, including Patagonia (we love stopping in to see what new Pataloha gear is for sale), Aloha Vintage Vibes, and Polynesian Treasures.

You may want to get Matsumoto’s Shave Ice now, but if you’d like to get some real food in your belly first, you can always come back later in the day for it!

4. Haleʻiwa Bowls

Acai bowls are such a refreshing treat after a beach day or during a hot and sunny day out in the North Shore.

Haleʻiwa Bowls serves up some of the most delicious and beautiful acai bowls and smoothies on the North Shore of Oahu. If you’ve been looking for an antioxidant fix in Hawaii, this is the place to get it!

We ordered a large Local Bowl to share and were pleasantly surprised to find poi in our bowl! With the almond butter we added, our acai bowl was extra nutrient-packed and filling.

What I love about Haleʻiwa Bowls is that they use real, straight-up acai (as opposed to an acai blended base with other fruits). It’s also the perfect amount of frozen, which is really important because Hawaii is so hot all the time!

Not feeling acai right now? No problem. Sometimes we get smoothies instead.

A great alternative spot for acai further down the road is Sunrise Shack, located about 7 miles east of Haleʻiwa Bowls. If you’re not feeling up for acai in the morning, you’ll have a second chance later!

5. Get lunch at Poke For The People

My favorite poke spot on the whole island!

Time for lunch! While there are tons and tons of great options in the North Shore, I would highly recommend Poke For The People. While writing this now, I am drooling and dreaming about the freshness of the fish…

We ordered a 2-item bowl with the shoyu ahi and the daily special, creamy garlic marlin. The quality of the fish was perfection. The sides that came with our poke bowl also complimented the fish so well! 

Personally speaking, Poke For The People has made it on our top 3 best poke spots we’ve had on the entire island! Don’t miss this one!

6. North Shore Macadamia Nut Company

Can you really go to Hawaii and not eat a whole bunch of macadamia nuts? The best place to get mac nuts to snack on (or to bring home as gifts) is straight from the source!

The North Shore Macadamia Nut Company has been a working macadamia nut farm in Waialua since 1972. I love stopping here for mac nuts gifts when I’m in the North Shore–this last time around, we left with 6 bags total to bring back to our family/friends back home. 

You have to know that these aren’t just the regular boring macadamia nuts you find in your local Walmart or Target. We’re talking about all kinds of great flavors, including coffee-flavored, cinnamon-flavored, lilikoi-flavored, coconut-roasted, and more. 

The best part? They have free samples so you’ll know exactly what kind of deliciousness you’re going to get before even buying.

7. Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach)

The next stop is Laniakea Beach, otherwise known as “Turtle Beach”. This is a great spot to warm your toes in the golden sands and–with a bit of luck–spot some green sea turtles basking in the sun!

If you haven’t been able to guess it, the beach is named for the large sea turtles that frequently sun themselves on the sand. For decades, Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles have frequented Laniakea Beach more than any other spot on Oahu, which is why this beach has taken on the name “Turtle Beach”.

If you get lucky, you may even see a few for yourself. Also at the beach will be a group of volunteers that serve to provide information about the turtles and make sure tourists are viewing from a distance.

I cannot stress this enough, please respect the laws and the turtles and admire them from afar. It is prohibited by federal law to touch, provoke, or even get too close to the turtles.

Pro Tip: Parking can get really bad here, so be prepared to hunt for nearby parking along the main road and walk to the beach.

8. Waimea Valley

Waimea Valley is a hidden gem of an area that’s chock-full of authentic Hawaiian history, culture, nature, and tradition. The main highlight at the end of the road? A beautiful waterfall that you can actually swim in!

Because we didn’t do much research before deciding to visit, we didn’t know what to expect at Waimea Valley. We had never really done attractions on Oahu that had admission fees, but we were so pleasantly surprised by what Waimea Valley had in store for us!

On top of being a beautifully manicured botanical garden, there was so much education and history surrounding us. We learned about the significance of the valley and the gods that Hawaiians believed in, and the way that they lived.

If you’d like a more enriching experience, consider taking the guided botanical or cultural tour, beginning at 12:30 pm and 1 pm respectively.

Getting to the waterfall does take a bit of effort. The walk up the waterfall is a paved path through the botanical gardens and historical sites. The walk is 0.75-mile (1200 meters) one way or 1.5-mile (2400 meters) round trip. There’s a shuttle option as well.

If you’re up for a quick adventure, consider taking a dip in the waterfall! This was probably the most fun part of Waimea Valley because of how refreshing the water was!

While swimming at the waterfall is totally allowed, the status of swimming changes throughout the day depending on the weather. All guests who would like to experience a swim at the falls are required to wear a life vest, which is included in your admission fee.

9. Snorkel or beach at Waimea Beach

Waimea Bay Beach Park is one of the most beautiful beaches on the North Shore. It’s also a perfect place to visit with the whole family after your adventures in Waimea Valley.

In the summer, Waimea Beach offers visitors a beautiful white sand beach to lounge on and picturesque waters to swim in. During winter, it’s one of the world’s most historical surf breaks!

During the summer months, visitors can do all sorts of things, including snorkeling, swimming, boogie boarding, or even surfing.

Looking to snorkel during your beach time too? Waimea Bay is a wonderful place to do that. While the waters here are rough in winter, Waimea Bay can be as calm as a swimming pool on summer days, meaning lots of great snorkeling opportunities.

In fact, the bay is part of the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District, which means that the amount of fishing is limited, protecting the local aquatic life.

There are no snorkel rentals available at Waimea Bay, so if you want to snorkel, you must bring your own snorkeling set.

10. Winter Months: Watch the surfers at Bonzai Pipeline

Ever heard of the Banzai Pipeline? It’s majorly famous in the surfing world.

The Pipeline is a surf break on the North Shore in Ehukai Beach Park with waves that are considered some of the most dangerous on the planet. You really have to be a pro to even consider taking on these waves! Its powerful, hollow barrels and shallow reef demand true skill from surfers, earning it the nickname “The Banzai.”

Because of how massive and legendary the waves are here, the Banzai Pipeline hosts some of the world’s most prestigious surfing events and competitions.

If you’re visiting during the winter months, definitely try to make a stop here. On my latest North Shore road trip with my Oahu-first-timer cousin, we made a stop here. He loved it! We stayed for about 30 minutes, mesmerized by the skills of the surfers taking on the Pipeline. 

Other beachgoers had beach blankets and even binoculars to help them enjoy their surfer-watching!

Alternative Beaches: Sunset Beach or Shark’s Cove

If you’re traveling in the wintertime, head to Sunset Beach to catch some of the best surfers carving some truly impressive waves.

Sunset Beach is one of the three surf breaks where the famed Triple Crown Surfing Contest is held over the course of the winter months. The other two surf spots where this contest takes place are Waimea Bay and the Banzai Pipeline at Ehukai Beach.

In the summertime, however, the surf really flattens out to almost nothing, making it a really family-friendly beach to swim and snorkel in. 

If you want to get some more snorkeling in, head to the rocky areas on the outskirts of the beach area. Don’t go out too far because currents can be strong in some areas. In these areas, the visibility varies with how calm it is. The depths over the rock and coral are about 8-15 feet.

But above all, visit Sunset Beach for its namesake–offering some of the most breathtaking sunsets in all of Hawaii!

Another north shore beach is Shark’s Cove, part of Pupukea Beach Park, one of the best snorkeling spots on the North Shore. This area is so teeming with life that it’s even been rated by Scuba Diving Magazine as one of the “Top 12 Shore Dives in the World”.

Snorkelers will be able to see a large variety of marine life here, including butterflyfish, parrotfish, surgeonfish, tang, eels, and even sea turtles!

On the south side of Shark’s Cove are the Pupukea tide pools, a great place to explore and take the little ones.

11. Sunrise Shack

While driving down the main road, Sunrise Shack is unmissable. It’s literally a bright yellow food truck off the side of the road in the North Shore. Sunrise Shack is just south of Shark’s Cove and just a 1-minute drive from Sunset Beach Park. 

Yes, these acai bowls are as great as everyone says! There will likely be a line, but it’ll be so worth the wait!

12. If you have time… go kayaking or SUP on the Anahulu River

If you’re looking to get out onto the water while you’re in the Haleiwa area, why not hop aboard a kayak or stand-up paddleboard?

Few places have as many sea turtles as readily visible as the Anahulu River that flows right out into Haleiwa Beach Park. You can do a 1-mile paddle up the slow-moving river, where pods of sea turtles venture upstream to eat the grass that grows in the river bottom.

Along the way, you’ll be able to see old taro and flower patches. The entire excursion should take you approximately 45 minutes from start to finish.

This is a great way to get out into the water in the winter months, especially since the beaches on the North Shore are too rough to swim in. Plus… sea turtles!

Other stops in the North Shore to consider:

Go cage diving with sharks – you’ll find posters for this type of excursion all throughout the North Shore towns
Go skydiving – we went with Skydive Hawaii a few years back and it was such an unforgettable activity
Do the Ehukai Pillbox Hike – 2.3-mile loop trail near Haleiwa
Eat a bunch of garlic shrimp – Jenny’s Shrimp, Big Wave Shrimp, and Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp are all good!

Visiting in the wintertime? Don’t miss the following stops:

Head to Banzai Pipeline to watch professional surfers tackle the infamous Pipeline wave
Surf at Chun’s Reef

Oahu North Shore Day Trip: Essential Packing List

Bring a lightweight jacket.

The weather is quite variable depending on what part of the island you’re on. Depending on when you go, one side of the island can be sunny while the other side sees fog and rain.

Nights sometimes get cold, as do hiking summits. And the last time we visited, it was both windy and sporadically windy for 1-2 days!

To best be prepared for all types of elements, go with a lightweight rain jacket to cover all your bases.

Sunscreen is a must.

Even if you don’t normally wear sunscreen outdoors, I implore you to wear sunscreen, especially during your first few days in Hawaii. If you do burn easily make sure to also pack some aloe vera gel.

Even if it’s overcast and cloudy, the UV index can be very high, so be sure to apply whenever you’re outdoors.

If you plan on snorkeling near the reefs, choose a coral reef-safe brand, as traditional sunscreen contains chemicals that damage and even kill the precious reefs. Here are a few travel-sized biodegradable sunscreens you can easily buy online:

Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen
All Good Sport Face & Body Sunscreen Lotion

Don’t forget the bug spray.

When you are packing for Hawaii in general, you may want to consider getting some travel-sized mosquito repellent. While mosquitos don’t hang around Waikiki, they can be found in the more lush tropical settings of the island.

While mosquitos exist year-round, the peak season for mosquito activity is during the warmer months, running from March through early November.

Repellent may not be as necessary on Oahu compared to some of the other less developed islands, but it’s good to have it just in case. Just remember to pack it in your checked luggage so it doesn’t get taken away at the airport!

As an alternative to using mosquito repellent, you can also wear long-sleeved tops and loose linen pants.

Bring hiking boots / water shoes if you plan to do outdoor activities.

If you have one that serves as both, even better. Having some sort of protection from the many rocky shores as well as decent traction on muddy trails and wet rocks on hikes is very crucial for outdoor adventures in Hawaii.

A waterproof phone case to capture all the fun.

If you plan on doing a bunch of adventurous activities (ziplining, skydiving, kayaking, paddling, ATV-ing) and/or want some underwater footage when surfing or snorkeling, you should definitely go with the waterproof GoPro.

Too expensive? The next best thing is a waterproof phone housing!

While most new phones are waterproof to some extent these days, they aren’t meant to stay submerged for prolonged periods of time without protection. With an actual heavy-duty waterproof phone case, you’ll have peace of mind bringing your phone with you when participating in water activities.

On our last trips to Hawaii, we forgot to bring our waterproof phone cases and our GoPro camera. We totally missed out on a bunch of awesome underwater photo ops during two snorkeling trips!

These phone cases provide excellent waterproof performance housing for underwater photos and videos. They’ve been tested more than a thousand times, and the case enables you to dive to 50ft/15m of depth in water for 60 minutes without leaks.

A sand-free beach mat.

There are actually beach mats that are quick-drying, waterproof, and sand-proof, making setting up on the beach super, super easy.

This beach mat is all those things, plus it has sand anchor pockets and 6 ground stakes so that your beach mat is wind-resistant even when you’re not laying on it!

Your own snorkeling set.

Bringing your own snorkeling set is pretty freeing. It means you can choose to snorkel anytime you want without having to track down a rental shop to rent gear. This is important because not all beaches have rental shacks nearby.

In addition, you’ll have the comfort of knowing the snorkel and mask haven’t been used by a million other people.

Seavenger, one of the best snorkel gear makers in the game, sells a Hanalei Anti-Fog 4-Piece Snorkeling Set that’s really loved by both kids and adults.

I recently upgraded to the WildHorn Outfitter’s Seaview 180° V2. Because I tend to get anxious/nervous in the water, I wanted something that would truly make my snorkeling life easier. This full-face snorkeling mask does just that.

All the problems I used to face while snorkeling–water leaking into my mouth, limited google view, foggy goggles mid snorkel–completely gone!

It’s a bit pricier than other basic snorkel masks out there, but let me tell you this thing was a game-changer for me. Being able to breathe normally through my nose underwater made this mask completely worth every penny!

Where To Stay In Oahu

Staying in Honolulu/Waikiki can be a good idea for first-timers, as it puts you close to plenty of introductory things to do, places to eat and shop, and tourist attractions.

While it is convenient and close to a lot of restaurants, bars, and shopping, there are some drawbacks.

First off, because of how compact and populated this area is, street parking is hard to come by.

Do note that a lot of the hotels and resorts here charge both resort fees and parking fees. These fees range anywhere from $20-50 per night for parking and $15-35 per night for the resort fee.

So if you’ve found a hotel you like, be sure to check for these ‘hidden’ fees!

Many hours of research later–here are a few hotels that I’ve found to be the most budget-friendly in the Waikiki area, after accounting for all the added fees:

Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Waikiki – no resort fee!
Aqua Oasis – affordable, even with both parking and resort fees factored in.
Polynesian Residences Waikiki Beach – affordable resort fee and parking fees.

If you’d rather get off the beaten path a little, I would actually recommend staying in a VRBO vacation rental or hotel on any part of the island other than Waikiki. While Waikiki is beautiful and convenient, it is also very developed, meaning it’ll have more of an impersonal city feel.

Other parts of Oahu are way more scenic!

My favorite part of the island to stay is in Kailua, located on the East Shore. Lanikai Beach, named one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, is located on the Eastern part of the island, too.

Best lodging/transportation combination: Rent a car + rent a vacation home/private room in a neighborhood with driveway parking or street parking outside of Waikiki. Free parking = more money to spend on other parts of your vacation!

And that about wraps up our list of things to do on a North Shore day trip. Are there any must-do activities that I left out? Let me know in the comments!

Looking for more Oahu travel tips? Read more:

33 Fun and Free Family Activities In Oahu

125+ Bucket List Things To Do In Oahu, Hawaii

Essential Oahu Tips For First Timers: 38 Things You Need To Know

2 Days In Oahu: The Perfect Weekend Itinerary In Hawaii

6 Best Hikes In Oahu For Every Type of Traveler

​https://travelswithelle.com/travel-guide/oahu-north-shore-itinerary/ 

Palm trees, coconuts, fresh fish, lush rainforests, white sand beaches with turquoise-colored waters. Hawaii is a destination most people dream of experiencing at least once in their lives.

The combination of the beautiful scenery, alluring weather, and enriching culture all contribute to making it one of the most popular vacation destinations!

Making an itinerary for a trip to Oahu can be hard. There are so many things to do and see, ranging from shopping to eating, going on hiking adventures to exploring botanical gardens, and parasailing to even sky diving!

Sure, there are the typical touristy things to do such as hiking Diamond Head and snorkeling in Hanauma Bay, but I wanted to share with you all the other fun things you could do in Oahu.

This Oahu bucket list is conveniently broken out into four different sections–one for each part of the island:

South Oahu – Waikiki and Honolulu areas, Kahala, Makapu’u, Hawaii Kai

North Oahu – Ka’ena, Kahuku, Pupukea, Haleiwa

East Oahu – Kailua, Lanikai, Kaneohe, Punalu’u, Waiahole

West Oahu – Ko’olina, Kapolei, Nanakuli, Makaha

Continue reading to discover the ultimate Oahu bucket list of things to do. You’ll find no shortage of exciting excursions, dining recommendations, and off-the-beaten-path gems!

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

Grab a pen and paper because you’re gonna have a lot of itinerary ideas after this post!

Things To Do In Oahu: South Shore (Honolulu and Waikiki)

Get a feel for the whole island on a full-day Grand Circle Island and Haleiwa tour – 9 hours of pure awesomeness where you’ll get to see all of Oahu’s most important landmarks, from Diamond Head to the North Shore.

Walk Waikiki Beach – you’ll pass great beaching spots like Queen’s Beach, Kuhio Beach Park, and more.

Spend a day at the Honolulu Zoo – expect Asian elephants, hippos, lemurs, tortoises, Komodo dragons, and more.

Hike Manoa Falls – Falls are located just 0.8-miles from a trailhead that takes you through the lush rainforest. This is a quick and easy side trip that complements any day of exploration.

Snorkel at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – Oahu’s most popular snorkeling spot! While beautiful, there is a rather steep admission fee (and snorkel rentals are not included in that price).

Snorkel for free at Kiona Beach Park – if you bring your own snorkel set, it’s completely free! Please note there are no snorkel rentals on site.

See Honolulu from the air on an exhilarating 60-min helicopter tour – you’ll fly above the island’s most well-known landmarks, such as Diamond Head, Sacred Falls, the Dole Plantation, and Pearl Harbor.

Hike Koko Head – a total butt-burner, but the views at the top are totally worth the effort. Try a sunrise hike! The views in the morning are just beautiful.

Climb the Diamond Head State Monument – this is one of the best-known volcano craters in the world. The view from the summit of this 760-foot crater is well worth the climb! There is an admission and a parking fee, so if you can’t justify paying a fee to hike, skip this one. You’ll need to make reservations before your visit.

Rent surfboards or take surfing lessons at Waikiki.

Go on a parasailing adventure – despite it looking scary and intimidating, it’s actually quite calm and scenic at the top!

Eat at Zippy’s or Rainbow Drive-In – At Zippy’s, get the Zip Pac, Korean Chicken, or Chili Rice. At Rainbow, get the combo plate lunch!

Take the kids to Waikiki Aquarium – be sure to check the calendar of events to see if anything special is happening!

Visit the USS Arizona Memorial to learn all about Pearl Harbor.

Visit the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum – the hangars housing the museum were bombed during the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941, and you’ll explore the place where history happened.

Tour the USS Missouri at the Battleship Missouri Memorial – the site of Japan’s unconditional surrender to the US that brought an end to Japanese involvement in WWII.

Go on a snorkel excursion of Turtle Canyons – one of the most epic snorkeling tours offered on the island! Green sea turtles, tropical fish, spinner dolphins–what else could you want?

Go to the KCC Farmers Market on Saturday mornings at the Kapiolani Community College.

Looking for the best FREE vista point in Honolulu? Soak in the vista views at Pu’u Ualaka’a State Wayside Park! You’ll have Diamond Head views on your left, Honolulu and Waikiki front and center, and the Wai’anae Range to your right. Plus, it’s all backdropped by the gleaming sight of the Pacific Ocean!

Go shopping at the Ala Moana Center – the world’s largest outdoor shopping center! The best part is, all the parking here is free! Be sure to stop at Foodland Farms (a massive Foodland grocery store) to pick up fruits, poke, local treats, and bento boxes before heading home.

Pick up souvenirs at Don Quijote – they have snacks, groceries, gifts, and literally anything else you can think of.

Learn about Hawaiian royalty history at the Iolani Palace – the grand staircase area is drop-dead gorgeous!

Explore the cafes, restaurants, and art galleries in the Arts District.

Take a free lei-making class at the Royal Hawaiian Center – check out a bunch of their other free events here.

Go on a dolphin-watching snorkel cruise from Honolulu – you can do so many water activities on this cruise; snorkel gear, kayaks, and paddleboards are available onboard.

Stroll through a tropical rainforest research center at Lyon Arboretum.

Go shopping for discounted premium goods at Waikele Premium Outlets – they have stores like Tori Burch, Kate Spade, and more.

Attend the nighttime farmers market at the International Market Place – a great place to pick up local jams, honey, and other handmade gifts. You can also find many retail stores and restaurants here.

Go on a catamaran cruise – we did a sunset catamaran cruise and had a very relaxing time (with those unlimited drinks). And even saw dolphins!

Visit Chinatown – spend an hour or so strolling through Chinatown, making sure to peek into all the noodle factories, herbal shops, grocery markets, and gift shops.

Learn all about Polynesian culture at the Bishop Museum – enjoy fun exhibits on Polynesian culture, 22 million specimens of animal and plant life, and even an ‘active’ volcano display.

Explore the Queen Emma Summer Palace – a seven-room home that was once the royal family’s retreat, featuring a unique blend of Victorian furniture, royal art, and the hallmarks of Hawaiian royal style!

Pick up traditional Hawaiian snacks and candies at Lin’s Hawaiian Snacks – be prepared to spend a lot of money here, especially if you like dried fish and li hing candy!

Art lovers, visit the Honolulu Museum of Art.

Pick up cheap and delicious musubis at Musubi Cafe Iyasume – they have locations across the Waikiki/Honolulu area!

Eat poke – there are so many awesome poke spots on Oahu! It’ll be impossible to try them all, but in this area, we are fans of Ono Seafood, Maguro Brothers Hawaii, and Fresh Catch. If these places run out of fish, the poke at Foodland is always a reliable option!

Visit the Hawaii State Art Museum – one of the few state-sponsored art museums in the country. Did we mention this museum is completely free to the public? Score!

Get underwater via a submarine with Atlantis Adventures – you’ll go down to the depths of ~120 feet and explore the Atlantis reef, home to exotic marine life. There are sunken ships, airplanes, and other structures to see too!

Explore the Hawaiian Mission Houses, a National Historic Landmark – the site of Honolulu’s oldest structures.

Attend the Aloha Stadium Swap Meet for affordable souvenirs, gifts, tasty local snacks, and more. Bring cash!

Get malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery. The haupia-filled and the plain ones are our favorite flavors!

Swing by Liliha Bakery or Kamehameha Bakery for soft and delicious poi donuts.

Try a haupia pie or taro pie at McDonald’s – only in Hawaii! We always try to bring home a dozen to freeze and enjoy later.

Watch the Kuhio Beach Torch Lighting and Hula Show – these impressive 60-minute shows are held every Saturday from 6:30pm to 7:30pm (or 6:00pm to 7:00pm from Nov to Jan).

Attend First Fridays in Chinatown and the Honolulu Arts District – a monthly event where the art galleries, restaurants, and nightspots become bustling from around 5-9pm.

Enjoy free cultural activities at the Royal Hawaiian Center – classes include lei-making, hula lessons, Lauhala weaving, ukelele lessons, and Hawaiian quilting. They sometimes even have rooftop stargazing that’s open to the public, too.

Listen to free live music at Surfjack Hotel and Swim Club (this is also one of my favorite hotels to stay at in Waikiki–free parking, no resort fees!).

Cool yourself off at Waiola Shave Ice – don’t forget to order a side of the mochi balls, the best toppings ever.

Snap a few photos by the Duke Kahanamoku Statue – the statue commemorates Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, the “father of modern surfing” and one of Hawaii’s most influential people.

Go humpback whale watching (when whale sightings are guaranteed) – During the months from December to May, pods of humpback whales migrate through Hawaii’s warm waters, and this tour guarantees whale sightings.

Try taro pancakes at Bogart’s Cafe – this is the only place I’ve found that has fresh taro chunks as a topping, so delicious!

Eat made-to-order taro donuts at Holey Grail Donuts – can you tell I love taro everything yet?

Marvel at Islamic art at Shangri La – Be sure to book tickets for this tour as early as possible (tours are run by the Honolulu Museum of Art).

Get a crash course on Hawaiian food at Helena’s Hawaiian Food – Not sure what to get? Start with the lau lau (pork steamed in taro leaves), kalbi ribs, beef stew, and poi. I hope you love all of it!

Grab a plate lunch meal at Yama’s Fish Market – Do not miss the sweet potato haupia pie! This is our go-to spot to pick up food before heading to the airport!

Shop for premium vintage aloha shirts at Bailey’s Antiques and Aloha Shirts.

Pick up some of the freshest mochi you’ll ever taste at Nisshodo Candy Store.

Get shave ice at Ululani’s (in my opinion, the most delicious shave ice across all the islands).

Dine at STIX ASIA, Hawaii’s premiere Asian food hall featuring ramen, omusubis, matcha, and more.

Things To Do In Oahu: North Shore

Take a full-day guided tour of the North Shore – This makes sense if you don’t want to drive all day or won’t have a car during your stay. Here are a couple of tours you could opt for – Tour of North Shore and Sightseeing or Full-Day North Shore Activities Tour.

Go tandem skydiving – this is probably one of my favorite memories in Oahu. It’s less scary than it thinks because the guide is the one doing the jumping!

Explore Waimea Valley – there’s a beautiful waterfall that you can actually swim in, as well as a botanical garden here.

Try free coffee samples at Green World Coffee Farm – this is a great place to pick up a morning coffee and any coffee/tea gifts you plan to bring home!

Visit the Dole Plantation – take the free self-guided Plantation Garden Tour, and if you’re traveling with kids, do the Pineapple Express Train Tour and the Pineapple Garden Maze. Don’t leave without a DoleWhip!

Soak up the sun and get some beach time at the picturesque Waimea Bay.

Catch basking sea turtles at Laniakea Beach, otherwise known as “Turtle Beach”.

Go snorkeling at Shark’s Cove, Malaekahana Beach Park, or Three Tables at Pupukea Beach – they are all epic snorkeling spots in the summertime!

Head to Sunset Beach for some of the island’s best sunsets and see the legendary Banzai Pipeline (in the winter season).

Go on a caged shark dive – this cage dive allows you time in the water to view primarily Galapagos sharks and sandbar sharks!

Get shrimp plates on the North Shore – Giovanni’s is the popular choice, but we like Fumi’s Kahuku Shrimp, Big Wave Shrimp, and Jenny’s Shrimp.

Get a poke bowl at Poke For The People – this spot is on my list of top 3 poke spots on the entire island!

Explore historic Hale’iwa Town – browse art galleries, boutiques, and surf shops, then grab lunch plates at one of the many food trucks in town.

Take a picture by the colorful Hale’iwa surfer sign as you enter town – the sign is so cool and elaborate, there are 2–one on each side of the town.

Stroll around the Waialua Sugar Mill – the historic sugar mill features local crafts, products, and services in a unique, old-Hawaii setting.

Get acai bowls at Hale’iwa Bowls and Sunrise Shack – if you can get both during your time at the North Shore, you’ll be so lucky! The bowls here are to die for!

Get Matsumoto’s Shave Ice – these guys have been serving cool and delicious treats for more than 50 years! Don’t leave without buying one of their cute t-shirts.

Go kayaking or SUP-ing on the Anahulu River – few places have as many sea turtles as readily visible as the Anahulu River that flows right out into Haleiwa Beach Park!

Go horseback riding like an authentic paniolo in Kahuku – Take a 1.5-hour horseback ride along a scenic mountain trail with ocean views as you learn about the life of the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys).

Go ziplining at Keana Farms – CLIMB Works Keana Farms offers a 3-hour guided zipline tour that includes Oahu’s longest ziplines. Great for people who love views and adrenaline rushes!

Try Hawaiian-style chicken at Mike’s Huli Chicken – featured in Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives!

Get free mac nut tastings at North Shore Macadamia Nut Co. – a great place to pick up food gifts to bring home.

Visit Turtle Bay Resort for some world-class golfing – also if you can afford it, it’s also a top-notch resort to stay at!

Go snorkeling at Kuilima Cove (it’s even safe to snorkel there in the wintertime).

Go to Kahuku Farms for the farm tour, cafe, tours, and shopping.

Make a pit stop at Waiahole Poi Factory for a plate lunch, ice cream with kulolo, and of course, poi!

Do the Ehukai Pillbox Hike.

Head to Banzai Pipeline to watch professional surfers tackle the infamous Pipeline wave (during winter months, it’s epic).

Surf at Chun’s Reef.

Things To Do In Oahu: East Shore

Hike the Lanikai Pillbox (Kaiwa Ridge) – this short and sweet trail features two military bunkers decorated in colorful graffiti that you can climb on in order to enjoy panoramic views of Lanikai Beach.

Have a beach day at Kailua Beach – recognized as one of the nation’s top beaches and a consistent favorite among locals and visitors alike. It’s certainly one of my personal favorites!

Hit up Lanikai Beach – this beach is consistently voted Oahu’s “most beautiful” beach. In fact, it’s even been ranked as one of the most beautiful beaches in the world!

Kayak to the Mokulua Islands (two bird sanctuaries) from Kailua – To get to “the mokes”, both guided tours and self-guided rentals are available.

Spend a day at the Polynesian Cultural Center – opt for the Ali’i Luau Package (package comes with a traditional Hawaiian Luau and the best evening show on the island, Ha: Breath of Life).

DEAL ALERT: Save 10% on select packages when you book at least 10 days in advance!

Visit Sea Life Park – see dolphins, monk seals, sea lions, rays, sharks, and native fish at this day park featuring lots of interactive programs, shows, and talk sessions with trainers.

Explore Kualoa Ranch – a massive ranch that offers a bunch of different tours including horseback riding, ATV excursion, a jungle expedition, Hollywood movie set tour, Jurassic Park tour, farm tour, and more.

Zipline above the treetop canopies at Jurassic Valley in Kualoa – features 7 tandem sections, 2 suspension bridges, and 3 mini-hiking nature trails.

Kualoa Ranch’s Aloha Aina Tour

Kayak to Mokoli’i (Chinaman’s Hat) – Launch your kayak from Kualoa Beach Park under the towering cliffs of Kualoa Ranch. You can paddle to Chinaman’s Hat in less than half an hour.

Check out the Makapu’u Point Lookout – featuring dramatic sea cliff views and epic ocean views. From here, you’ll also be able to spot Manana Island, aka Rabbit Island (aptly named for its shape).

Hike to the lighthouse on the Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail – great whale spotting opportunities along the 2-mile out-and-back route!

See the Halona Blowhole – marvel at the natural and breathtaking blasts of water in the air! When wind and tide conditions are right, this blowhole shoots water up to 20 feet in the air.

Go bodyboarding and picnicking at Waimanalo Beach Park – a great boogie-boarding spot as the waves are not too high and break close to shore!

Visit Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden – Laid out on 400 acres backdropped by the beautiful Ko’olau Mountains. Admission is free, and guided hikes are offered.

See the majestic Byodo-In Temple – a replica of the magnificent 900-year-old Byodo-In Temple of Equality in Japan. This temple was built in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii!

Pick up musubis for your East Shore adventures at Got’z Grindz – They’ve got the best (and most creative) musubi flavors ever!

Drive to Pali Lookout for one of the most epic views of the East Shore, Kaneohe Bay, and the Pacific Ocean.

Paddle out to the Kaneohe Sandbar (also known as “Sunken Island”) – This is a total hidden gem! Paddling to the sandbar can take up to an hour, but it’s well worth it. This gorgeous multi-mile-long bank of sand in the middle of the bay is always between waist and ankle-deep, and when the tide is very low it can be completely exposed!

Buy macadamia nuts and other gifts at Tropical Farms Macadamia Nuts.

Catch a sunset at China Walls – known as a hidden gem for sunsets!

Take a factory tour of the Manoa Chocolate Factory.

Eat mac nut pancakes or guava chiffon pancakes for breakfast at Cinnamon’s Restaurant in Kailua.

Got’z Grindz, views of Mokoli’i from Kualoa Ranch, Byodo-In Temple

Things To Do In Oahu: West Shore

Spend the night at a luau at the Paradise Cove Luau – stroll the village, sip on mai tais, learn to craft, or play traditional Hawaiian games. Then eat and enjoy the nighttime entertainment!

Go to the Wet n’ Wild waterpark – the only water-themed amusement park on the Hawaiian Islands! There are over 25 rides and attractions to choose from in this 29-acre park, from mild to wild and everything in between.

Visit the Hawaii Plantation Village in Waipahu.

Charter a fishing boat at Ko Olina Marina – there are a number of fishing charters in the Waikiki/Honolulu area as well.

Visit the Coral Crater Adventure Park for some epic ATVing and ziplining.

Go on a rum tasting tour at Ko Hana Distillers.

Head to Ka’ena Point State Park for some challenging rock climbing, hiking, and mountain biking – this is where the road dead-ends on the West Shore!

Go on a half-day sailing and snorkeling excursion from Ko’olina

Hike the beautiful Makua Cave during sunset.

Go snorkeling at Electric Beach – very, very good snorkeling, but only good for intermediate to advanced snorkelers only.

Visit the Ko’olina Resort  – this region features 4 lagoons and the popular Aulani Disney Resort and Four Seasons. Even if you’re not staying around here, Ko’olina Beach is still a fantastic place to swim, relax, and explore.

Enjoy the luxurious KA WA’A Luau at Aulani Hawaii Resort & Spa, if you can snag reservations (need to book a month or two in advance).

Calling all Disney lovers! Have breakfast with your favorite Disney characters at Makahiki.

Hike up Mount Lahilahi for epic views of Waianae.

Take a farm-to-table tour and enjoy a farm-fresh meal at Kahumana Farm.

Have a truly creative and delicious brunch at Nami Kaze (get the Japanese breakfast set with black cod — best meal ever).

Consider Getting The Go City Oahu Pass

We love an affordable vacation just as much as the next person. Having done almost all of Oahu’s free attractions throughout our four previous visits, on our fifth trip, we wanted to explore some of the island’s premier paid attractions such as Kualoa Ranch and the Polynesian Cultural Center.

On our latest visit, we got the Go City Oahu Pass. This all-inclusive attraction pass is a great way to see some of Oahu’s best attractions at steeply discounted prices.

Instead of paying full-price admission for each tour, museum, and guided excursion you want to do, you’re able to do unlimited things with the All-Inclusive Pass for one fixed price. You can check out all the attractions they offer here.

We experienced it for ourselves–the Go City Oahu Pass really is the easiest way to see the very best of Oahu! During our last trip to Oahu which you can read all about here, we were able to do a lot with the All-Inclusive Pass.

But even more importantly, we were able to save a ton of money!

The All-Inclusive Pass gets even cheaper the more days you opt for. The 2-day pass costs $204 ($102/day), 3-day pass costs $259 ($86/day), 5-day pass costs $369 ($73/day), so on and so forth. You can choose between a 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7-day All-Inclusive Pass.

Do note that Go City does offer “Premium Attractions” that are only available to those who opt for a pass of 3 days or more. These premium attractions include full-day tours, luaus, sunset catamaran sails, and more!

Getting access to one of these attractions was so worth it (we opted for the catamaran sail). I’d highly recommend going with a 3+ day pass, especially if you’re going to be visiting Oahu for 4+ days.

Some of the fun attractions that we were able to enjoy with the Go Oahu Pass!

And that about wraps up our Oahu bucket list of things to do. I hope you were able to discover a few new activities to make your trip that much more fun. Thanks for reading!

Looking for more Hawaii travel tips? Read more:

7 Best Hotels In Oahu With NO Resort Fees

What To Pack For A Week In Hawaii: 60 Essential Things To Bring

33 Fun and Free Family Activities In Oahu

The Ultimate Oahu 4-Day Itinerary For Budget Friendly Travelers

Oahu North Shore: 12 Stops For A Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

9 Best Snorkeling Spots In Oahu, Hawaii

​https://travelswithelle.com/travel-guide/things-to-do-in-oahu-bucketlist/ 

Heading to Coachella this year? If you’re attending the music festival and camping, congratulations–you’re in for an unforgettable experience in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley area!

Now that you’ve started planning your desert weekend experience, it’s time to get serious about your Coachella packing list. Before you can begin having fun, it’s important to think through the logistics of camping at Coachella.

If you’re wondering what you should pack for Coachella, this post is for you. If it’s your first time camping at a festival and confused about where to start? We’ve got you, too.

Here’s your essential Coachella camping packing list to grant you the most fun and comfort from your 3-day experience!

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

TYPES OF CAMPING AVAILABLE AT COACHELLA

When it comes to camping at Coachella, there are a few different types of camping you can do: Car Camping, Preferred Car Camping, and Tent Camping.

These types of camping are NOT allowed: RV/Motorhome camping, motorcycles, RVs, trailers, motorhomes, buses or U-Haul trucks, and vehicles with running water/toilets. 

CAR CAMPING + PREFERRED CAR CAMPING DETAILS

What Is Car Camping? The OG (and most popular) overnight option lets you park a vehicle on your campsite and build your home away from home for you and your crew.

You can also level up with a reserved “Preferred” campsite located in lot 8, which is much closer to the festival grounds than other lots (less walking back and forth from festival to campsite).

Sites are 30’x10′.
One vehicle per site allowed/required.
Unlimited friends/tents per site – also, all Coachella attendees may enter the camping area, even if they are not staying the night
Sites assigned in order of arrival.
Vehicles searched on check-in.
No ins/outs with your car.
There’s usually a no exit timeframe (like Fri-Sun 9pm-2am, but check the site for the latest times) – if you need to leave early, make sure you plan to do it outside of this time window.
Passenger cars, trucks or vans only.
Additional vehicles must purchase Camping Companion Parking – this is usually about half the price of a regular camping pass.
Campers 21+ may bring one case of beer cans or box of wine.
There is free WiFi in the Connected Lounge as well as USB and AC charging stations throughout the camp.
If you need to buy something that you forgot to bring or need to buy more food to cook, you can head to the General Store. They sell ice, food, toiletries, camping supplies and more.

TENT CAMPING

What is Tent Camping? Tent camping means no car, just tent. With this camping type, you’ll just pitch your tent on a field of grass. This option is good for international travelers, campers without cars, or folks who want a vehicle-free environment.

All tent camping sites are 15’x10′
Unlimited friends/tents per site, if they fit!
Sites assigned in order of arrival, separate from car camping.
Includes one (1) overnight parking space in an adjacent lot to leave a car for the weekend. Additional vehicles must purchase Camping Companion Parking.
Short walk to visit your friends in Car Camping!
Review all camping info & rules below!

There’s also the Lake Eldorado option, which is super bougie because you just show up (no tent needed!) to one of the following:

2-Person Lodge: Ready to go 8’ x 12’ x 8’ wood lodge. Comes with two cots, sleeping bags and pillows, a lockable door, wood floor, 3 windows for added ventilation, indoor/outdoor lighting and storage cubbies. Includes 2 GA or 2 VIP passes.
4-Person Tent: Ready to go 12’x14′, fully pitched with four cots, sleeping bags and pillows, as well as chairs and a cooler. Includes 4 GA or 4 VIP passes.

Other even more bougie glamping/residence options exist, but you can head to the Coachella site to learn more about those.

Camping Costs:

Car Camping: $145 + Fees
Preferred Car Camping: $375 + Fees
Tent Camping: $145 + Fees
Camping Companion Parking: $199 + Fees

WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE CAMPING AT COACHELLA

Coachella is located at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. Being so deep in the desert, you’re in for a very, very warm camping trip–yes, even in the month of April. Sorry, I’m not even going to sugarcoat it for you. I’m telling you this early on so you can mentally prepare yourself for it!

Aside from the warm weather, there are a few other things you can expect while camping at Coachella. 

Keep reading to find out more about the camping rules and what to expect within a typical day at the campground.

IN THE MORNING

Upon waking up to the dramatic warmth from the sun, you’ll begin to see other festival-goers and campers heading toward the shower facilities.

There are the free showers and then there are Super Duper showers which cost ~$10. The paid shower area is a tad bit nicer (with actual shower doors instead of curtains separating the shower from the changing area), mirrors, and an outdoor vanity area with blowdryers.

No matter which shower you choose, the best time to shower is early in the morning. And by early, I mean before 8am (if you can manage to wake up by then). Any time after that and you’ll have to wait in long, long lines. 

Getting to the showers around 7am usually means no wait at all!

PRO TIP: We usually pick our shower type based on the length of the lines. Game time decision! Though the line for the free showers is usually MUCH longer than the line for Super Duper showers, there are more free shower stalls, so the lines actually move faster than expected.

IN THE DAYTIME (BEFORE THE FESTIVAL)

Before the festival, you can expect people to be lounging around, playing music, cooking breakfast or grabbing breakfast at the Camping Hub area.

This is a good time to fuel up, get ready for the day (get dressed, put on your makeup), refill the ice in your coolers, pack your bags for the festival, and start hydrating for all the daytime drinking to come!

If you’re up for it, head to the main village area to get in a free instructor-led morning yoga class or a game of dodgeball where you can win actual prizes!

IN THE DAYTIME (DURING THE FESTIVAL)

A lot of people tend to skip the first portion of the day either because it’s so hot out there or because there are no artists performing that interests them. Expect a lot of partying, grilling, eating, and drinking at the campsites!

You’ll find people socializing, playing games, drinking, throwing around footballs, inviting other groups to party with them, and more. From about 11am to 4pm is the most lively time at the campsites!

PRO TIP: Need to go #2? If you need to go poop and can’t fathom the idea of going in a steaming hot porta-potty once the sun is at full force, head into the festival grounds. There are real flushable toilets in there. It’s pretty breezeless in the bathrooms still, so bring a neck fan or a paper fan to decrease your mental struggles.

AT NIGHT: AFTER THE FESTIVAL

Though the festival’s scheduled sets have ended, that doesn’t mean the party has to stop! You can expect random people DJing at their campsite and even dance parties that sprout up from the music played throughout the campsites.

There is often even an official silent disco after the festival sets end for the night.

PRO TIP: Plan to sleep right when the festival ends? You NEED earplugs. Don’t forget your eyemask either.

So now that you have a good idea of what to expect when camping at Coachella, let’s dive more into the details of how to get into the campgrounds when you first arrive.

BEFORE THE FESTIVAL: GETTING INTO THE CAMPGROUNDS

Festival campers will start lining up to get into the campground as early as early Thursday morning. Lining up early means getting the best campsites–the ones closest to the music festival grounds. Camping is open Thu 9am-Mon 10am. This means you’re in for a 4-night stay.

If you plan to camp with your friends who have other car camping passes, you will need to coordinate with them to drive in together.

NOTE: Whichever cars are in front/behind yours will be the people you’re camping next to. If you have a group with two or more vehicles, you’re going to want to meet up and drive into the line together.

Read More: 35 Awesome Things To Do On Your Palm Springs Road Trip

SETTING UP CAMP AT COACHELLA

Hopefully, you’ve practiced setting up your tent before arriving at Coachella. If you are driving into the campground at night, be sure to pack some headlamps so you can see while you’re setting up camp!

But don’t just set up a tent, canopy, and chairs. Spice it up a little–make it your own little oasis! Campsites become an expression of creativity and free speech at Coachella! Expect to see everything from flags and posters to colorful tapestries, all serving as a marker of where your campsite is.

And definitely don’t forget a canopy! It’s the California desert in late April. That means it gets HOT.

Each day once the sun rises, it’s unlikely you’ll be getting much sleep inside your tent. You can do your best to escape the heat with a combination of tents, tapestries, outdoor seating areas, camping fans, and more.

COACHELLA CAMPING PACKING LIST: FOR THE CAMPSITE

Our packing list below contains things you should definitely bring for Coachella camping. For a full list of things you CANNOT bring, check out Coachella’s car camping page here.

1. Car camping pass

Seriously, don’t forget this. I have heard a lot of horror stories where groups have driven hours to get to Coachella only to remember that they forgot to pack their festival wristbands and car camping passes. Big, catastrophic uh-oh.

2. Camping chairs

You’ll want somewhere to sit when you’re not in your tent. Camping chairs are perfect and simple, but make sure they have cup holders for your drinks!

Alternatively, you can bring tufted floor pillows if sitting on the ground is more your thing.

Another option for seating is to get an inflatable couch. In fact, you might want to bring both for yourself just so you have multiple seating options. These things provide even more relaxation because you’ll feel like you’re resting in a hammock (as opposed to sitting up straight in a camping chair).

The Chillbo Shwaggins Inflatable Couch comes with elastic anchor loops to allow you to stake down your portable hammock when it’s windy. It also has large side pockets to hold books, glasses, snacks and an ice cold beer! Plus, they come in a lot of fun, unique colors.

If you plan on sitting on the ground at any point, consider picking up an extra waterproof camping tarp to place on the floor so that the grass doesn’t poke your butt/make your legs itchy! You can then place extra rugs/blankets on top of the tarp to make things more comfortable.

Pro Tip: With a larger group, there’s a high possibility that not everything will fit under your canopies. Your tents, coolers, picnic table, and edible items should fit, but huddling all the camping chairs under there may not work (unless you’ve purchased 2+ campsites next to each other!). I’d recommend bringing camping chairs with built-in shade or picking up an adjustable shade umbrella that can clamp to anything you want! 

Versa-Brella Adjustable Shade:

 

Sport-Brella Shaded Camping Chair:

 

That way, you can place your camping chairs outside of the canopied area and not feel so cramped at the campsite. 

3. Foldable table

A large foldable table is a must-have for Coachella camping. This is where you will place all your food and drinks.

If your group plans on playing games, it’s best to have a table to do it on so you’re not all straining your backs playing on the floor.

4. E-Z Up Canopy

You cannot think of camping at Coachella without one or even two canopy shades. The canopy will essentially serve as the centerpiece of your campsite–it’s where everyone will come together during the day to shield themselves from the beating sun and heat.

What you’ll find is that most campsites will pair their E-Z UP canopies with tarps or tapestries hung up on the sides. This will allow for some privacy as well as some much-needed shade, but it will also allow for breezes to enter the area. Don’t forget to pack some clips to help hang these up!

5. Tapestries or tarps

As I mentioned above, bring tapestries, extra tarps, or light blankets to hang up for shade.

Tarps, bedsheets, and blankets from home will be your most affordable option, while colorful tapestries can be an affordable and really fun way to spice up the aesthetic of your campsite!

Consider some of these unique patterns/designs, or explore the expansive tapestry options here:

Trippy Mushroom and Flowers Tapestry
Moonlit Garden Tapestry
Bohemian Peacock Mandala

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to expand your campsite’s shaded area, you can create more shade between your car and your canopy. You’ll just need to bring extra sheets for this.

6. String lights

Spice up your campsite with some fun battery-powered string lights! Not only will string lights provide you with extra lighting at night, but they are so festive and will make your campsite easier to find in the dark.

String lights come in so many fun decorative shapes and sizes, so have fun with it! Here are a few that will help your campsite stand out from others:

Fairy String Lights
Star String Lights
Natural Amethyst Lights
Window Curtain-style String Lights

7. Lanterns / headlamps

While it is usually really sunny and bright at Coachella during the day, it gets pretty dark at night. If you need nighttime lighting for your campsite, bring something like this battery-powered LED camping lantern.

Bring a personal headlamp too in case you need to build your campsite late at night, look for something in your campsite at night, or if you need to use the bathroom at night. Being hands-free while doing these activities is crucial!

8. Tent

Some people swear by sleeping out in the open, but we recommend sleeping in a tent for privacy and protection against the elements (dust, dirt, etc.).

If you don’t already have one, we recommend getting something that is both affordable and easy to set up and take down. The Coleman Cabin Tent was designed with a super cool feature in mind– instant setup within 60 seconds! If you want to share a tent with your friends, the 6-person tent offers enough room for two queen size air beds.

Having said that, it is important to note that the tents will become virtually useless by 8am. Due to the intense warmth during the day, what you’ll find is that a tent will block most breezes that come by. It will essentially turn into a sweatbox by each morning until nightfall.

We recommend getting out of there as soon as you feel hot because it’s only going to get hotter as time passes! That means if you need to change for the day, get it done early in the morning so you won’t need to crawl back in there until it’s cool again.

9. Air mattress / inflatable sleeping pad

For maximum comfort, go with an inflatable air mattress paired with a blanket or two. This is a good choice if you are not going to be camping with that many people and have more room for a larger tent.

For a more compact (yet still very comfortable) option, bring your sleeping bag paired with an ultra-thick self-inflatable sleeping pad. We like this one because it comes with a built-in “pillow”!

 

 

Whichever option you choose, these will be good investments as you can often use them in your own home, on future camping trips or even backpacking trips.

10. Sleeping bag

Because it’s so warm in Indio, California, you can get away with any type of sleeping bag in terms of warmth factor. Nothing fancy is needed.

Here are a few affordable options on the market:

Coleman 30°F Palmetto Sleeping Bag
Marmot Voyager 55 Mummy Sleeping Bag
Double Sleeping Bag – sleeps 2 (and comes with 2 pillows)

I would also recommend bringing a thin blanket in case it gets too hot at night to be inside your sleeping bag.

11. Eye Mask

Absolutely necessary to shield your sleeping eyes from the bright sunrises of Indio, CA! An eye mask is also great if you are rooming with others and you like your privacy when you sleep.

12. Earplugs

Very, very necessary. Do you know how many people you’ll be camping with? Thousands! There will be so much noise all throughout the night (due to late-night partiers) and in the morning (hello, early risers). A good set of earplugs will grant you a decent if not a good night’s sleep!

These earplugs by Mack’s are my absolute favorite.

Pro Tip: Earplugs are also good to bring into the actual festival because the music can be LOUD. Wearing earplugs is better for your ears.

13. Reusable Water Bottle

There will be lots of water refill stations inside the campsite and festival.

For something more durable that keeps your water cold for hours upon hours, Hydroflasks are my favorite for everyday use. These will probably be your best option because you will most definitely crave ice-cold water!

14. Battery-powered fan

If I had to bring just five top essentials to Coachella camping, this would hands-down be at the top of the list.

As a matter of fact, bring 2-3 of these battery-powered fans, because everyone will want to plop themselves down in front of a fan during the day. One is never enough! (Especially if you are with a group of individuals who need to apply a lot of makeup for the festival!)

15. Floor mirror

Speaking of applying makeup, don’t forget to bring a floor mirror! This will come in handy when the girls need to do their makeup or when everyone is getting dressed for the festival.

Any cheap, college student floor mirror from Target or IKEA will do!

16. Propane Stove or Camping Griddle

Cooking your own food is part of the camaraderie and fun of Coachella camping! It’s always a good idea to cook at least 2 or 3 meals during your Coachella camping experience. Planning the menu with your friends can be really fun, not to mention it’ll help the group save a ton of money collectively.

For a simple 2 burner option, go with the Coleman Triton Gas Camping Stove.

If your group is serious about meal-making, go with something more standalone such as the Camp Chef Explorer that comes with detachable steel legs and a 3-sided windscreen.

Along with your propane stove, you’ll also need to bring along any pots and pans you plan on using.

Don’t feel like cooking? You can always head to the food stands in the common campground area. Here, you’ll find lots of really great food options such as burritos, pizza, sandwiches, gyros, and even vegetarian options. But be forewarned, it won’t be cheap!

17. Cooler

For Coachella, you’ll really want something with the power to really keep things cool. For us, this is the YETI Tundra 35 Cooler.

This cooler is an item that many outdoor enthusiasts yearn for in their lives, but not many pull the trigger on due to its heftier price tag. Bue one thing is for sure, with this cooler, your drinks and food will stay cold for days no matter where you are. It will most definitely hold up in the Coachella heat and save you money on having to replace the ice.

How expensive can ice be, you might think. Think $10 per bag expensive! A Yeti Cooler might be expensive, but they are so worth the investment. Plus, given their durability and high-quality build, you’ll be able to use them in your everyday life for many years to come.

The best things to stock your cooler with are as follows:

Fruits – pre-cut watermelon, tangerines, frozen grapes
Pasta salads
Vietnamese sandwiches – our personal go-to lunch meals
Coconut water
Vitamin water
Frozen water bottles – to keep cooler cold for longer
Water
Form of caffeine – pre-brewed cold brew served on ice in the morning is amazing (and saves you from having to spend $5-6 on coffee each morning!)
Beers / Hard seltzers – make sure it’s all in plastic containers, no glass is allowed at the campgrounds
Any perishable foods you plan on cooking up (butter, eggs, meat, etc)

Taking a cup of fruit with us to-go…

18. Snacks

Aside from the food you’re planning on cooking, don’t forget to pack some snacks for midday munching! Some of the best snacks to bring to Coachella are chips, cookies, crackers, trail mix, King’s Hawaiian rolls, Rice Krispies bars, etc.

Basically, anything that won’t melt from the warmth of the sun. Not the healthiest, but it sure will be nice when you’re drinking and relaxing during the day!

19. Things to eat with

Utensils, paper towels, napkins, cups, etc.

Most people go with plastic and disposable-everything, but if you’re really looking to make a difference in the world, you can bring reusable utensils to lessen your plastic waste and carbon footprint!

Alternatively, you can go with a compostable meal kit as it’s better than all the plasticky options out there.

20. Portable speakers

You will want to bring a high-quality pair of portable speakers. Everyone else will be playing music, so you’ll want something that will be loud enough so other campsites’ music doesn’t drown your music out.

We like the JBL Charge 5. Its long lasting battery delivers up to 20 hours of playtime and the built-in power bank lets you charge your devices without taking a break!

Pro Tip: If you do plan on listening to music at night after the festival ends, do remember to lower the volume to respect your neighbors. Not everyone likes to stay up until 3am, so turn the music down and allow others to get a good night’s rest.

21. Power strip

It can be a really good idea to bring a power strip so that you can charge multiple devices at the campground charging station instead of having to wait for a bunch of them to open up.

Don’t want to walk that far for charging ports? A solar-powered generator like Jackery’s Solar Generator 300 can be a REALLY good investment, allowing you to charge right at your campsite. It comes with a Jackery SolarSaga 100 (solar panel), so you can recharge your power station with nothing but the sun! And Coachella’s got nothin’ BUT sun.

22. Solar shower

If you are camping at Coachella with a large group and the majority of the group has decided that showering every day is a must, it may be worth it to invest in a solar shower. With a personal camping shower, all of you can skip the crazy lines at the shower facilities and ultimately shower any time, any day!

The Advanced Elements Summer Solar Shower is an affordable option that has a large 5-gallon capacity and is designed to heat water fast in the warm sun. You can even fill up the shower with the melted water from your cooler for an extra refreshing shower!

For something that provides a bit more privacy, invest in the Green Elephant Camping Shower Tent to pair with your solar shower. Your group can even use this when not showering for changing purposes! While this is not a Coachella camping essential, it does provide added privacy and comfort.

23. Baby wipes / body wipes

Baby wipes will come in handy for a lot of reasons. First, they are great for wiping excess dust off your body at the end of each festival night. Secondly, they can also be used for post-poop purposes!

If you want a body wipe that’s actually meant to replace a shower, we highly recommend Goodwipes Really Big Body Wipes. While obviously, it won’t completely replace a real shower, I always feel way cleaner after using these. Plus, unlike baby wipes, you won’t smell like a baby’s bottom after using them!

For the body and butt, DUDE Wipes Flushable Wipes are great for both guys and gals.

Ladies specifically should consider bringing ‘feminine’ wipes! In hot destinations where I know I’ll be sweating a lot, I’ll always carry around a few sheets of feminine wipes. I love Summer’s Eve Cleansing Cloths because they do provide that little oomph of freshness whenever I use them.

24. Shower supplies

If you plan on showering at Coachella (yes, some people can go days without showering, only relying on body wipe showers), bring along some travel-size toiletries.

Don’t forget to pack them in a waterproof bag or container so that it’s able to get wet in the shower (there is often no dry rack to put your stuff inside the shower).

25. Shower slippers / casual slides

Bringing a pair of waterproof slides or sandals is smart because you’ll be able to wear them around the campsite when you want to skip the shoes as well as get them wet in case you plan to shower.

The Birkenstock Arizona EVA Sandals are our favorite because they’re stylish enough to wear in your everyday life too.

26. Other Toiletries

Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, makeup, deodorant, dry shampoo, hair ties, etc. Don’t forget to pack deodorant if you tend to smell when sweating! Because you WILL sweat at Coachella!

Here are some not-so-ordinary toiletries that can help you make your Coachella camping experience more tolerable:

Aloe Vera Gel – Soothes that sunburnt skin; always good to lather on after a day of constant sun exposure!
Evian Facial Spray – Cool your face off pre-festival; use before moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration or use throughout the day to refresh and revive makeup.

Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo – Absorbs oils and adds lift at the roots. Works great as a pick-me-up when the sun’s been beating down on your scalp all day!
boscia Blotting Linens – Stay photo-ready by keeping the face oils at bay with some oil blotting linens.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Towelette Singles – Remember, Coachella can be dusty. These are great even for guys who don’t wear makeup because they’re great for removing dirt! And because they’re individually wrapped; you can leave them in a communal area to share among all your campmates.

Some fun things you can consider getting to spice up your Coachella look:

Face and hair glitter – spice up that look with some shimmery glitter (don’t worry, it stays on all day but comes off easily when you want it to.)
Face gems – another way to spice up your look under the California sun!

27. Hand sanitizer

At the Coachella campgrounds, it’s nearly impossible to find a sink with clean running water. Even at the portapotties, there are bottles of hand sanitizers in place of portable sinks.

Bring one large bottle of hand sanitizer for the group to share. This can be left on the communal table so that everyone has access to it at all times.

Since you’ll be using hand sanitizer so much, it’s best to get a non-drying natural hand sanitizer to prevent flaky, dried-up hands. We love Sun Bum’s Hand Sanitizer because it actually moisturizes too.

28. First aid kit

Always necessary for any type of traveling or camping! You can either make your own or buy one that’s premade.

Either way, you’ll for sure want to have a variation of these things:

ibuprofen – for hangovers or other mishaps
bandaids
alcohol wipes
allergy pills – Coachella can get really really windy depending on the year, lots of dust can fill the air
Immodium – if you get diarrhea
Pepto-Bismol chews – if you get an upset stomach 
AZO for the ladies – due to the lowered hygienic conditions, UTI’s are not all uncommon at Coachella… sadly
eye drops – remember, there is usually dry air and lots of dust
lip balm
a sharpie
tape
extra contact lenses 

Think about the ailments you typically suffer from and have to deal with on a regular basis and adjust the contents of the bag as needed!

29. Rolls of toilet paper

The #1 rule of Coachella camping–never assume there will be toilet paper in your portapotty. Always bring some with you when you go! You don’t want to be that guy who realizes there is no toilet paper when it’s already way too late.

30. Trash bags

You will generate trash, so be sure to bring something to hold it all.

31. Quick-drying towel

Travel towels are probably one of the best inventions for efficient travelers and campers. They are light, super packable, and quick-drying. Definitely very useful if you plan on showering and don’t have the space to pack a real bath towel!

This one is a great option if you need to buy one.

32. Electrolyte Packets

Emergen-C packets or Liquid I.V. Hydration Packets are a must for Coachella camping. These are a great way to support your immune system and overall health on a trip. They are light, take up no space, and are very easy to pack!

Adding Pedialyte or Liquid I.V. powder packets to a water bottle will keep you hydrated and replace your body with electrolytes.

33. Powdered Greens

I’ve gone to enough Coachellas in my life to tell you that you probably won’t be eating too many greens at Coachella. Don’t let that stop you from getting the proper nutrients!

I’d recommend bringing Amazing Grass’ Greens Superfood Blend or Amen Veggies (which combines over 10 vegetables, herbal, and mushroom extracts) to make sure you get the nutrition you need while camping and partying.

34. Massage ball

A massage ball is a Coachella camping packing list essential if you know your body gets tired or achy from prolonged standing or walking.

They are great for rolling your feet, legs, or back on after a long day of dancing! If you’re serious about getting that tension relief, you can even consider bringing a travel-sized foam roller!

Trust us, these are clutch items to have at your campsite. Even if you don’t end up using it, someone in your group will!

35. Board games

You’ll have a lot of time to kill while camping, which is half the fun of it! Bring board games to keep yourselves entertained. We recommend the following:

These Cards Will Get You Drunk
Cards Against Humanity
Sequence
Blockus
A deck of cards

If you have more space in your cars, you can even bring things like:

Cornhole (this one has LED lights for nighttime use)
BucketBall (life-sized beer pong)
Ladder Toss
A simple football to throw around

COACHELLA CAMPING PACKING LIST: FOR THE FESTIVAL

36. Coachella tickets / wristbands

Just like the car camping passes, DO NOT forget these before you leave the house for Coachella.

You do not want to have to backtrack with hours of driving just to grab your tickets from home!

37. Hydration Pack

A dedicated hydration pack can actually save you a ton of money inside the festival. There will be water stations all throughout the festival, meaning you can refill your water for free all night long. CamelBak backpacks are our favorite–these backpacks usually will have secure zippered pockets too, perfect for keys, phone, or other essentials.

Alternatively, you can also buy water at many food and alcohol stands. The drawback of this: not only will you have to wait in line, but you’ll also have to spend money on water, of all things!

38. Sunscreen + after-sun lotion

100+ degree weather and the hot desert sun? Sunburns are most definitely calling your name. Protect your skin with both body sunscreen and face sunscreen.

For the face, we are absolutely obsessed with the magical Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen. No white-cast, no greasy film! Seriously, it goes on matte!

And after every night of the festival (or every shower), please replenish your skin and show it some love! Bring along something like B.TAN’s after-sun lotion, the perfect way to maintain that summer glow while also repairing dry sunburned skin. I like this brand over others as it’s sustainably created in Australia. 

 

39. Fanny Packs

I love using fanny packs at music festivals because of how hands-free they are. They won’t weigh you down at all and because you wear them in the front, it’s a lot harder for thieves to get to. These fanny packs by Vibe Festival Gear were literally made for music festivals–they come in a bunch of unique patterns so find the one that fits your style the best.

If fanny packs are not your thing, good alternatives to the fanny pack are:

small crossbody bag
anti-theft backpack
hydration backpack
shoulder sling – (we personally love our Bellroy slings!)

40. Neck pouch / wallet

If you’re a savvy festival goer, then you already know that music festivals are a pickpocketer’s wonderland. Hundreds if not thousands of people get their stuff stolen all the time at festivals. You don’t want to be that person.

If you think any of the above bags are too risky to keep your important possessions in (money, ID, credit cards), get yourself a neck pouch. These can be easily tucked and concealed under your shirt so even if your main bag gets stolen for any reason, you’ll still have your most important items with you.

We recommend Zero Grid’s Travel Neck Wallet because it also has RFID blocking which is crucial to protect against unwanted credit card scans and personal information theft.

41. Portable phone charger

Three to four days of camping at Coachella means your phone will inevitably run out of battery at some point. While the campsite’s communal areas do have charging stations where you can re-up your phone on battery life, these charging stations can be crowded.

Plus, they’re a lot harder to find within the actual festival grounds themselves.

You don’t want to get lost and/or deal with a dead phone while trying to find your friends, so consider a portable phone charger an absolute essential and bring one along with you!

Anker’s ultra-light, ultra-portable power bank is tried and true by so many campers, festival-goers, and travelers alike! This one’s made for newer phones and can charge the iPhone 12 five times (or more than 4 full charges for Samsung Galaxy S10).

42. Sunhat / Sun Visor

If sunglasses are more your thing, too bad, we still recommend wearing a hat! Sunglasses won’t protect your skin from UV rays, but hats will.

For the ladies who want to show off their elaborate hairstyles, we’ve got you covered. Go with a straw sun visor or a roll-up sun hat (what I’m wearing below).

Want your whole squad to match while protecting your faces from the harsh sun? Check out this multi-pack of colorful visors–they come in a lot of other unique colors too!

43. Cooling towels

Cooling towels are amazing because they can be used in so many ways–as a neck cooler, as a cooling bandana, or a chilled headband. Once, I’ve even had to put it over my head and eyes because the heat was too much for my eyeballs while walking into the festival!

They work so well because the towel regulates the water inside to ensure water retention, acting almost like an air-conditioner. And just like sweat on your skin, when water evaporates, it cools. It’s one of the best things you can bring with you to Coachella if you can’t tolerate heat as well as others.

While I love the ChillPal because of how affordable it is, I recently discovered the Mission Cooling Hoodie Towel which is even more awesome as it acts as a cooling towel and as some sun protection (UPF 50, much needed at Coachella). What I love about this is that you can tuck the edges into your shirt and make it look like just a hood!

If you don’t want to invest in an actual cooling towel, you can always bring a regular towel and soak it with cold water to get that cool towel effect (though it won’t stay cool as long as an actual cooling towel).

44. Personal neck fan

These things have saved my life at multiple Coachellas throughout the year. Trust me when I tell you–there are times where Coachella is as breezeless as can be. If you are not one that copes well with stifling heat like me, pack a battery-powered portable neck fan!

The O2Cool necklace fan works well, but another good option is the bladeless neck fan.

Portable neck fan saving me in 90 degree weather as I eat a hot bowl of ramen…

45. Face mask, bandana or Buff

For the inevitable dust. Not only is the Coachella Valley prone to high winds and dust storms on occasion, but there will also be thousands of people trampling over grass all weekend long. This paired with the extremely dry weather means that a lot of dust will form.

Expect your legs and even your face to be covered in dust particles. You’ll definitely want to wipe yourself down with body wipes and face wipes by the end of the night!

A face mask can help alleviate some of the dustiness and prevent you from breathing it all in. (Yes, you can expect dark boogers by the end of the night.) We like bringing our Buffs because they can be used for so many things other than as a face mask. Definitely a good investment.

46. Light long sleeve shirt / sweater

If you’re the type to run colder, you should consider bringing along a long sleeve, sweater, or flannel that can easily be tied around your waist. Coachella may be stifling hot during the day, but it can get pretty chilly at night. I will almost always bring an extra layer into the festival with me just in case.

Gotta pack that extra layer for when the sun sets!

47. Thigh Society bike shorts

Let me be the first to tell you about my newest discovery on how to keep my legs from becoming a huge sweaty mess… I love Thigh Society’s shorties for hot weather! 

There are two different options I like depending on what look I’m going for. If I want to wear an above-the-knee dress on a hot day, I go with The Cooling 5″ option. It’s so thin, meaning “sweaty butt” won’t be an issue.

And it’s especially useful if it happens to be a windy day. These lil’ shorties make me feel so much more comfortable knowing that I have an extra layer of protection and coverage should the wind decide to do me dirty and lift my dress in one swoop. Or if I’m walking by a ton of people that are sitting down — can’t look up MY skirt!

The other pair that I have is The Original, which has become a staple in my hot weather arsenal too. They’re super-versatile because these guys are very opaque, meaning they can be worn alone or layered under clothes. I wear them while grocery shopping, working out, on airplanes, on road trips, and to music festivals when it calls for bike short vibes. Love ’em!

48. Comfortable shoes

Comfortable shoes are a must–I cannot stress this enough. You can expect to be on your feet all day, walking miles upon miles getting between stages. Because of this, you’ll want to do it all in comfortable shoes.

I made the mistake one year of wearing cute sandals that I had not tested out before, and by the second hour of constantly walking in them (forming some blisters along the way), I had to head back to the campsite to change out of them!

If you need to pick up a new pair, some tried and true options include:

On Cloud Running Shoes (men and women)
ECCO Soft 7 Sneaker (men and women)
adidas Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe (men and women)

A few weeks before the festival, you should start going on long walks, or at the very least, do some cardio to get used to standing/walking for prolonged periods of time. This helps your legs get used to movement, so they don’t get completely fatigued after the first day of the festival.

If you plan on bringing some new shoes to Coachella, walking in them ahead of time will help to break them in if they aren’t already.

FYI: If you like going into the crowds during music sets, there is a good chance your shoes will get stepped on or have been spilled on them. Bringing shoes that are either washable or that you don’t care too much about is best.

COACHELLA CAMPING ESSENTIAL TIPS

Get there on Thursday morning for your best chance to be near the front by the festival gates. If you enter too late at night, you may have to walk a lifetime to get to the festival gates (I know this well from experience).
Put your wristband in your fanny pack or wallet before you leave. That way, you know you won’t forget it at home.
Become friends with your neighbors–you’re going to be living next to each other for the next few days, might as well get friendly and party together!
To extend the life of your ice, get dry ice. From there, wrap it in a towel, cover it with some regular ice, ice packs, or frozen water bottles. This will help keep your perishables and drinks cold all weekend! And save you some money on those exorbitantly expensive bags of ice the campground sells.
Bring and drink plenty of water. For an extra boost in hydration, bring hydration packets or even bottles of coconut water (it’s such a refreshing taste when hot).
Buy water in large bottles. Don’t just buy a ton of the smaller 12oz bottles of water. You can save money and reduce waste by buying large gallon jugs and some smaller bottles as well.
Keep your ice chest (and snacks) in the shade. Why try to melt your ice faster than it needs to?
Put your makeup (and anything else you don’t want to be melted/hot) in an extra cooler. Alternatively, you can keep this stuff in an area of your campsite that always has shade. During the day, things tend to get really hot inside the tents, so I’d avoid keeping anything other than clothes and sleeping stuff in there.
Create a little pantry system with a cardboard box. The pantry is where you can keep all your non-perishable food stuff that doesn’t need to go in the cooler. This includes stuff like bread, peanut butter, granola bars, chips, cookies, etc. This will keep your campsite clean, and you’ll know exactly where to find the food.
Bring at least one set of warm clothes. Remember you’re in a desert so it can get pretty cold at night. Always bring something warm for the nighttime. At the very least, bring one hoody and a pair of sweats or leggings.
Know what your camping spot address is, especially if you don’t have a campsite that stands out. It will be dark at night, meaning it will be harder to find your friends and your campsite. There are “street” numbers to help you, but taking a picture of your surroundings never hurts.
For sleeping, have one of the following: an air mattress, a camping pad, or an inflatable pool raft. You will sleep much better than lying directly on the hard floor.
If you have to go #2, try to go in the morning as soon as possible after the portapotties have been cleaned, re-stocked with toilet paper, and haven’t turned into a complete hotbox under the sun.
Don’t forget your portable charger! You don’t want to be one of those people stuck in front of the scarce charging stations for hours at a time.
Bring cash! Not just to buy things inside the festival, but also to save your poor legs after the festival ends. If you have cash on you and really can’t want anymore, you can pay for one of the pedicabs and get back to your camping spot in no time.
Prepare a music playlist for the campsite jams a few days ahead. Then at the campsite, you can have this list on autoplay–no need for someone to play ‘DJ’ and pick songs as they come on.
Be aware of the threat of wind! Campsites can easily be destroyed if not set up and monitored correctly.

Tip #1: Take down any tarps and lower your E-Z UP canopies before heading into the festival. If the wind happens to pick up, it’ll sweep underneath any tarps and shoot any canopies up in the sky. Seriously, I’ve seen full-on built canopies flying around in the sky (where it landed, not entirely sure, but I wouldn’t be happy at all if it landed on my car).
Tip #2: Stake everything down, and then make sure it’s staked down correctly.

To beat the crazy, crazy traffic leaving Coachella/Indio, CA on Monday, either leave Sunday night after the festival ends or before the sun comes up on Monday morning. We’ve done both and have gotten back to Los Angeles in under 2 to 3 hours.

COACHELLA: WHAT TO WEAR INSPIRATION

LADIES: WHAT TO WEAR TO COACHELLA

GUYS: WHAT TO WEAR TO COACHELLA

And that wraps up our Coachella camping packing list. We hope this has better prepared you for your ultimate music festival camping experience!

Ultimately, you’re going to want to pack things that you normally would for any car camping trip. The thing you’ll need to keep in mind the most is this–be prepared for sun and heat during the day, chillier weather during the night, dustiness, and even potential windiness during your 3-day Coachella experience.

Most of all, stay cool, drink lots of water, make memories, and have an experience of a lifetime! Oh yeah, and don’t forget your wristbands and camping passes!

Want more Southern California travel tips? Read More:

21 EDM Festivals In California For Your Next Music-Filled Weekend

35 Things To Do In The Palm Springs Area For The Perfect California Desert Trip

Los Angeles To Las Vegas Road Trip: 25+ Awesome Stops (ROUTE 66)

24 Best Stops on a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

2 Days In Los Angeles: Itinerary Ideas For The Perfect Trip

30+ Travel Essentials for Hot Weather and Tropical Climates

​https://travelswithelle.com/lifestyle/coachella-camping-packing-list/ 

Heading to Coachella this year? If you’re attending the music festival and camping, congratulations–you’re in for an unforgettable experience in Palm Springs and the Coachella Valley area!

Now that you’ve started planning your desert weekend experience, it’s time to get serious about your Coachella packing list. Before you can begin having fun, it’s important to think through the logistics of camping at Coachella.

If you’re wondering what you should pack for Coachella, this post is for you. If it’s your first time camping at a festival and confused about where to start? We’ve got you, too.

Here’s your essential Coachella camping packing list to grant you the most fun and comfort from your 3-day experience!

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

TYPES OF CAMPING AVAILABLE AT COACHELLA

When it comes to camping at Coachella, there are a few different types of camping you can do: Car Camping, Preferred Car Camping, and Tent Camping.

These types of camping are NOT allowed: RV/Motorhome camping, motorcycles, RVs, trailers, motorhomes, buses or U-Haul trucks, and vehicles with running water/toilets. 

CAR CAMPING + PREFERRED CAR CAMPING DETAILS

What Is Car Camping? The OG (and most popular) overnight option lets you park a vehicle on your campsite and build your home away from home for you and your crew.

You can also level up with a reserved “Preferred” campsite located in lot 8, which is much closer to the festival grounds than other lots (less walking back and forth from festival to campsite).

Sites are 30’x10′.
One vehicle per site allowed/required.
Unlimited friends/tents per site – also, all Coachella attendees may enter the camping area, even if they are not staying the night
Sites assigned in order of arrival.
Vehicles searched on check-in.
No ins/outs with your car.
There’s usually a no exit timeframe (like Fri-Sun 9pm-2am, but check the site for the latest times) – if you need to leave early, make sure you plan to do it outside of this time window.
Passenger cars, trucks or vans only.
Additional vehicles must purchase Camping Companion Parking – this is usually about half the price of a regular camping pass.
Campers 21+ may bring one case of beer cans or box of wine.
There is free WiFi in the Connected Lounge as well as USB and AC charging stations throughout the camp.
If you need to buy something that you forgot to bring or need to buy more food to cook, you can head to the General Store. They sell ice, food, toiletries, camping supplies and more.

TENT CAMPING

What is Tent Camping? Tent camping means no car, just tent. With this camping type, you’ll just pitch your tent on a field of grass. This option is good for international travelers, campers without cars, or folks who want a vehicle-free environment.

All tent camping sites are 15’x10′
Unlimited friends/tents per site, if they fit!
Sites assigned in order of arrival, separate from car camping.
Includes one (1) overnight parking space in an adjacent lot to leave a car for the weekend. Additional vehicles must purchase Camping Companion Parking.
Short walk to visit your friends in Car Camping!
Review all camping info & rules below!

There’s also the Lake Eldorado option, which is super bougie because you just show up (no tent needed!) to one of the following:

2-Person Lodge: Ready to go 8’ x 12’ x 8’ wood lodge. Comes with two cots, sleeping bags and pillows, a lockable door, wood floor, 3 windows for added ventilation, indoor/outdoor lighting and storage cubbies. Includes 2 GA or 2 VIP passes.
4-Person Tent: Ready to go 12’x14′, fully pitched with four cots, sleeping bags and pillows, as well as chairs and a cooler. Includes 4 GA or 4 VIP passes.

Other even more bougie glamping/residence options exist, but you can head to the Coachella site to learn more about those.

Camping Costs:

Car Camping: $145 + Fees
Preferred Car Camping: $375 + Fees
Tent Camping: $145 + Fees
Camping Companion Parking: $199 + Fees

WHAT TO EXPECT WHILE CAMPING AT COACHELLA

Coachella is located at the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California. Being so deep in the desert, you’re in for a very, very warm camping trip–yes, even in the month of April. Sorry, I’m not even going to sugarcoat it for you. I’m telling you this early on so you can mentally prepare yourself for it!

Aside from the warm weather, there are a few other things you can expect while camping at Coachella. 

Keep reading to find out more about the camping rules and what to expect within a typical day at the campground.

IN THE MORNING

Upon waking up to the dramatic warmth from the sun, you’ll begin to see other festival-goers and campers heading toward the shower facilities.

There are the free showers and then there are Super Duper showers which cost ~$10. The paid shower area is a tad bit nicer (with actual shower doors instead of curtains separating the shower from the changing area), mirrors, and an outdoor vanity area with blowdryers.

No matter which shower you choose, the best time to shower is early in the morning. And by early, I mean before 8am (if you can manage to wake up by then). Any time after that and you’ll have to wait in long, long lines. 

Getting to the showers around 7am usually means no wait at all!

PRO TIP: We usually pick our shower type based on the length of the lines. Game time decision! Though the line for the free showers is usually MUCH longer than the line for Super Duper showers, there are more free shower stalls, so the lines actually move faster than expected.

IN THE DAYTIME (BEFORE THE FESTIVAL)

Before the festival, you can expect people to be lounging around, playing music, cooking breakfast or grabbing breakfast at the Camping Hub area.

This is a good time to fuel up, get ready for the day (get dressed, put on your makeup), refill the ice in your coolers, pack your bags for the festival, and start hydrating for all the daytime drinking to come!

If you’re up for it, head to the main village area to get in a free instructor-led morning yoga class or a game of dodgeball where you can win actual prizes!

IN THE DAYTIME (DURING THE FESTIVAL)

A lot of people tend to skip the first portion of the day either because it’s so hot out there or because there are no artists performing that interests them. Expect a lot of partying, grilling, eating, and drinking at the campsites!

You’ll find people socializing, playing games, drinking, throwing around footballs, inviting other groups to party with them, and more. From about 11am to 4pm is the most lively time at the campsites!

PRO TIP: Need to go #2? If you need to go poop and can’t fathom the idea of going in a steaming hot porta-potty once the sun is at full force, head into the festival grounds. There are real flushable toilets in there. It’s pretty breezeless in the bathrooms still, so bring a neck fan or a paper fan to decrease your mental struggles.

AT NIGHT: AFTER THE FESTIVAL

Though the festival’s scheduled sets have ended, that doesn’t mean the party has to stop! You can expect random people DJing at their campsite and even dance parties that sprout up from the music played throughout the campsites.

There is often even an official silent disco after the festival sets end for the night.

PRO TIP: Plan to sleep right when the festival ends? You NEED earplugs. Don’t forget your eyemask either.

So now that you have a good idea of what to expect when camping at Coachella, let’s dive more into the details of how to get into the campgrounds when you first arrive.

BEFORE THE FESTIVAL: GETTING INTO THE CAMPGROUNDS

Festival campers will start lining up to get into the campground as early as early Thursday morning. Lining up early means getting the best campsites–the ones closest to the music festival grounds. Camping is open Thu 9am-Mon 10am. This means you’re in for a 4-night stay.

If you plan to camp with your friends who have other car camping passes, you will need to coordinate with them to drive in together.

NOTE: Whichever cars are in front/behind yours will be the people you’re camping next to. If you have a group with two or more vehicles, you’re going to want to meet up and drive into the line together.

Read More: 35 Awesome Things To Do On Your Palm Springs Road Trip

SETTING UP CAMP AT COACHELLA

Hopefully, you’ve practiced setting up your tent before arriving at Coachella. If you are driving into the campground at night, be sure to pack some headlamps so you can see while you’re setting up camp!

But don’t just set up a tent, canopy, and chairs. Spice it up a little–make it your own little oasis! Campsites become an expression of creativity and free speech at Coachella! Expect to see everything from flags and posters to colorful tapestries, all serving as a marker of where your campsite is.

And definitely don’t forget a canopy! It’s the California desert in late April. That means it gets HOT.

Each day once the sun rises, it’s unlikely you’ll be getting much sleep inside your tent. You can do your best to escape the heat with a combination of tents, tapestries, outdoor seating areas, camping fans, and more.

COACHELLA CAMPING PACKING LIST: FOR THE CAMPSITE

Our packing list below contains things you should definitely bring for Coachella camping. For a full list of things you CANNOT bring, check out Coachella’s car camping page here.

1. Car camping pass

Seriously, don’t forget this. I have heard a lot of horror stories where groups have driven hours to get to Coachella only to remember that they forgot to pack their festival wristbands and car camping passes. Big, catastrophic uh-oh.

2. Camping chairs

You’ll want somewhere to sit when you’re not in your tent. Camping chairs are perfect and simple, but make sure they have cup holders for your drinks!

Alternatively, you can bring tufted floor pillows if sitting on the ground is more your thing.

Another option for seating is to get an inflatable couch. In fact, you might want to bring both for yourself just so you have multiple seating options. These things provide even more relaxation because you’ll feel like you’re resting in a hammock (as opposed to sitting up straight in a camping chair).

The Chillbo Shwaggins Inflatable Couch comes with elastic anchor loops to allow you to stake down your portable hammock when it’s windy. It also has large side pockets to hold books, glasses, snacks and an ice cold beer! Plus, they come in a lot of fun, unique colors.

If you plan on sitting on the ground at any point, consider picking up an extra waterproof camping tarp to place on the floor so that the grass doesn’t poke your butt/make your legs itchy! You can then place extra rugs/blankets on top of the tarp to make things more comfortable.

Pro Tip: With a larger group, there’s a high possibility that not everything will fit under your canopies. Your tents, coolers, picnic table, and edible items should fit, but huddling all the camping chairs under there may not work (unless you’ve purchased 2+ campsites next to each other!). I’d recommend bringing camping chairs with built-in shade or picking up an adjustable shade umbrella that can clamp to anything you want! 

Versa-Brella Adjustable Shade:

 

Sport-Brella Shaded Camping Chair:

 

That way, you can place your camping chairs outside of the canopied area and not feel so cramped at the campsite. 

3. Foldable table

A large foldable table is a must-have for Coachella camping. This is where you will place all your food and drinks.

If your group plans on playing games, it’s best to have a table to do it on so you’re not all straining your backs playing on the floor.

4. E-Z Up Canopy

You cannot think of camping at Coachella without one or even two canopy shades. The canopy will essentially serve as the centerpiece of your campsite–it’s where everyone will come together during the day to shield themselves from the beating sun and heat.

What you’ll find is that most campsites will pair their E-Z UP canopies with tarps or tapestries hung up on the sides. This will allow for some privacy as well as some much-needed shade, but it will also allow for breezes to enter the area. Don’t forget to pack some clips to help hang these up!

5. Tapestries or tarps

As I mentioned above, bring tapestries, extra tarps, or light blankets to hang up for shade.

Tarps, bedsheets, and blankets from home will be your most affordable option, while colorful tapestries can be an affordable and really fun way to spice up the aesthetic of your campsite!

Consider some of these unique patterns/designs, or explore the expansive tapestry options here:

Trippy Mushroom and Flowers Tapestry
Moonlit Garden Tapestry
Bohemian Peacock Mandala

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to expand your campsite’s shaded area, you can create more shade between your car and your canopy. You’ll just need to bring extra sheets for this.

6. String lights

Spice up your campsite with some fun battery-powered string lights! Not only will string lights provide you with extra lighting at night, but they are so festive and will make your campsite easier to find in the dark.

String lights come in so many fun decorative shapes and sizes, so have fun with it! Here are a few that will help your campsite stand out from others:

Fairy String Lights
Star String Lights
Natural Amethyst Lights
Window Curtain-style String Lights

7. Lanterns / headlamps

While it is usually really sunny and bright at Coachella during the day, it gets pretty dark at night. If you need nighttime lighting for your campsite, bring something like this battery-powered LED camping lantern.

Bring a personal headlamp too in case you need to build your campsite late at night, look for something in your campsite at night, or if you need to use the bathroom at night. Being hands-free while doing these activities is crucial!

8. Tent

Some people swear by sleeping out in the open, but we recommend sleeping in a tent for privacy and protection against the elements (dust, dirt, etc.).

If you don’t already have one, we recommend getting something that is both affordable and easy to set up and take down. The Coleman Cabin Tent was designed with a super cool feature in mind– instant setup within 60 seconds! If you want to share a tent with your friends, the 6-person tent offers enough room for two queen size air beds.

Having said that, it is important to note that the tents will become virtually useless by 8am. Due to the intense warmth during the day, what you’ll find is that a tent will block most breezes that come by. It will essentially turn into a sweatbox by each morning until nightfall.

We recommend getting out of there as soon as you feel hot because it’s only going to get hotter as time passes! That means if you need to change for the day, get it done early in the morning so you won’t need to crawl back in there until it’s cool again.

9. Air mattress / inflatable sleeping pad

For maximum comfort, go with an inflatable air mattress paired with a blanket or two. This is a good choice if you are not going to be camping with that many people and have more room for a larger tent.

For a more compact (yet still very comfortable) option, bring your sleeping bag paired with an ultra-thick self-inflatable sleeping pad. We like this one because it comes with a built-in “pillow”!

 

 

Whichever option you choose, these will be good investments as you can often use them in your own home, on future camping trips or even backpacking trips.

10. Sleeping bag

Because it’s so warm in Indio, California, you can get away with any type of sleeping bag in terms of warmth factor. Nothing fancy is needed.

Here are a few affordable options on the market:

Coleman 30°F Palmetto Sleeping Bag
Marmot Voyager 55 Mummy Sleeping Bag
Double Sleeping Bag – sleeps 2 (and comes with 2 pillows)

I would also recommend bringing a thin blanket in case it gets too hot at night to be inside your sleeping bag.

11. Eye Mask

Absolutely necessary to shield your sleeping eyes from the bright sunrises of Indio, CA! An eye mask is also great if you are rooming with others and you like your privacy when you sleep.

12. Earplugs

Very, very necessary. Do you know how many people you’ll be camping with? Thousands! There will be so much noise all throughout the night (due to late-night partiers) and in the morning (hello, early risers). A good set of earplugs will grant you a decent if not a good night’s sleep!

These earplugs by Mack’s are my absolute favorite.

Pro Tip: Earplugs are also good to bring into the actual festival because the music can be LOUD. Wearing earplugs is better for your ears.

13. Reusable Water Bottle

There will be lots of water refill stations inside the campsite and festival.

For something more durable that keeps your water cold for hours upon hours, Hydroflasks are my favorite for everyday use. These will probably be your best option because you will most definitely crave ice-cold water!

14. Battery-powered fan

If I had to bring just five top essentials to Coachella camping, this would hands-down be at the top of the list.

As a matter of fact, bring 2-3 of these battery-powered fans, because everyone will want to plop themselves down in front of a fan during the day. One is never enough! (Especially if you are with a group of individuals who need to apply a lot of makeup for the festival!)

15. Floor mirror

Speaking of applying makeup, don’t forget to bring a floor mirror! This will come in handy when the girls need to do their makeup or when everyone is getting dressed for the festival.

Any cheap, college student floor mirror from Target or IKEA will do!

16. Propane Stove or Camping Griddle

Cooking your own food is part of the camaraderie and fun of Coachella camping! It’s always a good idea to cook at least 2 or 3 meals during your Coachella camping experience. Planning the menu with your friends can be really fun, not to mention it’ll help the group save a ton of money collectively.

For a simple 2 burner option, go with the Coleman Triton Gas Camping Stove.

If your group is serious about meal-making, go with something more standalone such as the Camp Chef Explorer that comes with detachable steel legs and a 3-sided windscreen.

Along with your propane stove, you’ll also need to bring along any pots and pans you plan on using.

Don’t feel like cooking? You can always head to the food stands in the common campground area. Here, you’ll find lots of really great food options such as burritos, pizza, sandwiches, gyros, and even vegetarian options. But be forewarned, it won’t be cheap!

17. Cooler

For Coachella, you’ll really want something with the power to really keep things cool. For us, this is the YETI Tundra 35 Cooler.

This cooler is an item that many outdoor enthusiasts yearn for in their lives, but not many pull the trigger on due to its heftier price tag. Bue one thing is for sure, with this cooler, your drinks and food will stay cold for days no matter where you are. It will most definitely hold up in the Coachella heat and save you money on having to replace the ice.

How expensive can ice be, you might think. Think $10 per bag expensive! A Yeti Cooler might be expensive, but they are so worth the investment. Plus, given their durability and high-quality build, you’ll be able to use them in your everyday life for many years to come.

The best things to stock your cooler with are as follows:

Fruits – pre-cut watermelon, tangerines, frozen grapes
Pasta salads
Vietnamese sandwiches – our personal go-to lunch meals
Coconut water
Vitamin water
Frozen water bottles – to keep cooler cold for longer
Water
Form of caffeine – pre-brewed cold brew served on ice in the morning is amazing (and saves you from having to spend $5-6 on coffee each morning!)
Beers / Hard seltzers – make sure it’s all in plastic containers, no glass is allowed at the campgrounds
Any perishable foods you plan on cooking up (butter, eggs, meat, etc)

Taking a cup of fruit with us to-go…

18. Snacks

Aside from the food you’re planning on cooking, don’t forget to pack some snacks for midday munching! Some of the best snacks to bring to Coachella are chips, cookies, crackers, trail mix, King’s Hawaiian rolls, Rice Krispies bars, etc.

Basically, anything that won’t melt from the warmth of the sun. Not the healthiest, but it sure will be nice when you’re drinking and relaxing during the day!

19. Things to eat with

Utensils, paper towels, napkins, cups, etc.

Most people go with plastic and disposable-everything, but if you’re really looking to make a difference in the world, you can bring reusable utensils to lessen your plastic waste and carbon footprint!

Alternatively, you can go with a compostable meal kit as it’s better than all the plasticky options out there.

20. Portable speakers

You will want to bring a high-quality pair of portable speakers. Everyone else will be playing music, so you’ll want something that will be loud enough so other campsites’ music doesn’t drown your music out.

We like the JBL Charge 5. Its long lasting battery delivers up to 20 hours of playtime and the built-in power bank lets you charge your devices without taking a break!

Pro Tip: If you do plan on listening to music at night after the festival ends, do remember to lower the volume to respect your neighbors. Not everyone likes to stay up until 3am, so turn the music down and allow others to get a good night’s rest.

21. Power strip

It can be a really good idea to bring a power strip so that you can charge multiple devices at the campground charging station instead of having to wait for a bunch of them to open up.

Don’t want to walk that far for charging ports? A solar-powered generator like Jackery’s Solar Generator 300 can be a REALLY good investment, allowing you to charge right at your campsite. It comes with a Jackery SolarSaga 100 (solar panel), so you can recharge your power station with nothing but the sun! And Coachella’s got nothin’ BUT sun.

22. Solar shower

If you are camping at Coachella with a large group and the majority of the group has decided that showering every day is a must, it may be worth it to invest in a solar shower. With a personal camping shower, all of you can skip the crazy lines at the shower facilities and ultimately shower any time, any day!

The Advanced Elements Summer Solar Shower is an affordable option that has a large 5-gallon capacity and is designed to heat water fast in the warm sun. You can even fill up the shower with the melted water from your cooler for an extra refreshing shower!

For something that provides a bit more privacy, invest in the Green Elephant Camping Shower Tent to pair with your solar shower. Your group can even use this when not showering for changing purposes! While this is not a Coachella camping essential, it does provide added privacy and comfort.

23. Baby wipes / body wipes

Baby wipes will come in handy for a lot of reasons. First, they are great for wiping excess dust off your body at the end of each festival night. Secondly, they can also be used for post-poop purposes!

If you want a body wipe that’s actually meant to replace a shower, we highly recommend Goodwipes Really Big Body Wipes. While obviously, it won’t completely replace a real shower, I always feel way cleaner after using these. Plus, unlike baby wipes, you won’t smell like a baby’s bottom after using them!

For the body and butt, DUDE Wipes Flushable Wipes are great for both guys and gals.

Ladies specifically should consider bringing ‘feminine’ wipes! In hot destinations where I know I’ll be sweating a lot, I’ll always carry around a few sheets of feminine wipes. I love Summer’s Eve Cleansing Cloths because they do provide that little oomph of freshness whenever I use them.

24. Shower supplies

If you plan on showering at Coachella (yes, some people can go days without showering, only relying on body wipe showers), bring along some travel-size toiletries.

Don’t forget to pack them in a waterproof bag or container so that it’s able to get wet in the shower (there is often no dry rack to put your stuff inside the shower).

25. Shower slippers / casual slides

Bringing a pair of waterproof slides or sandals is smart because you’ll be able to wear them around the campsite when you want to skip the shoes as well as get them wet in case you plan to shower.

The Birkenstock Arizona EVA Sandals are our favorite because they’re stylish enough to wear in your everyday life too.

26. Other Toiletries

Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, makeup, deodorant, dry shampoo, hair ties, etc. Don’t forget to pack deodorant if you tend to smell when sweating! Because you WILL sweat at Coachella!

Here are some not-so-ordinary toiletries that can help you make your Coachella camping experience more tolerable:

Aloe Vera Gel – Soothes that sunburnt skin; always good to lather on after a day of constant sun exposure!
Evian Facial Spray – Cool your face off pre-festival; use before moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration or use throughout the day to refresh and revive makeup.

Drybar Detox Dry Shampoo – Absorbs oils and adds lift at the roots. Works great as a pick-me-up when the sun’s been beating down on your scalp all day!
boscia Blotting Linens – Stay photo-ready by keeping the face oils at bay with some oil blotting linens.
Neutrogena Makeup Remover Towelette Singles – Remember, Coachella can be dusty. These are great even for guys who don’t wear makeup because they’re great for removing dirt! And because they’re individually wrapped; you can leave them in a communal area to share among all your campmates.

Some fun things you can consider getting to spice up your Coachella look:

Face and hair glitter – spice up that look with some shimmery glitter (don’t worry, it stays on all day but comes off easily when you want it to.)
Face gems – another way to spice up your look under the California sun!

27. Hand sanitizer

At the Coachella campgrounds, it’s nearly impossible to find a sink with clean running water. Even at the portapotties, there are bottles of hand sanitizers in place of portable sinks.

Bring one large bottle of hand sanitizer for the group to share. This can be left on the communal table so that everyone has access to it at all times.

Since you’ll be using hand sanitizer so much, it’s best to get a non-drying natural hand sanitizer to prevent flaky, dried-up hands. We love Sun Bum’s Hand Sanitizer because it actually moisturizes too.

28. First aid kit

Always necessary for any type of traveling or camping! You can either make your own or buy one that’s premade.

Either way, you’ll for sure want to have a variation of these things:

ibuprofen – for hangovers or other mishaps
bandaids
alcohol wipes
allergy pills – Coachella can get really really windy depending on the year, lots of dust can fill the air
Immodium – if you get diarrhea
Pepto-Bismol chews – if you get an upset stomach 
AZO for the ladies – due to the lowered hygienic conditions, UTI’s are not all uncommon at Coachella… sadly
eye drops – remember, there is usually dry air and lots of dust
lip balm
a sharpie
tape
extra contact lenses 

Think about the ailments you typically suffer from and have to deal with on a regular basis and adjust the contents of the bag as needed!

29. Rolls of toilet paper

The #1 rule of Coachella camping–never assume there will be toilet paper in your portapotty. Always bring some with you when you go! You don’t want to be that guy who realizes there is no toilet paper when it’s already way too late.

30. Trash bags

You will generate trash, so be sure to bring something to hold it all.

31. Quick-drying towel

Travel towels are probably one of the best inventions for efficient travelers and campers. They are light, super packable, and quick-drying. Definitely very useful if you plan on showering and don’t have the space to pack a real bath towel!

This one is a great option if you need to buy one.

32. Electrolyte Packets

Emergen-C packets or Liquid I.V. Hydration Packets are a must for Coachella camping. These are a great way to support your immune system and overall health on a trip. They are light, take up no space, and are very easy to pack!

Adding Pedialyte or Liquid I.V. powder packets to a water bottle will keep you hydrated and replace your body with electrolytes.

33. Powdered Greens

I’ve gone to enough Coachellas in my life to tell you that you probably won’t be eating too many greens at Coachella. Don’t let that stop you from getting the proper nutrients!

I’d recommend bringing Amazing Grass’ Greens Superfood Blend or Amen Veggies (which combines over 10 vegetables, herbal, and mushroom extracts) to make sure you get the nutrition you need while camping and partying.

34. Massage ball

A massage ball is a Coachella camping packing list essential if you know your body gets tired or achy from prolonged standing or walking.

They are great for rolling your feet, legs, or back on after a long day of dancing! If you’re serious about getting that tension relief, you can even consider bringing a travel-sized foam roller!

Trust us, these are clutch items to have at your campsite. Even if you don’t end up using it, someone in your group will!

35. Board games

You’ll have a lot of time to kill while camping, which is half the fun of it! Bring board games to keep yourselves entertained. We recommend the following:

These Cards Will Get You Drunk
Cards Against Humanity
Sequence
Blockus
A deck of cards

If you have more space in your cars, you can even bring things like:

Cornhole (this one has LED lights for nighttime use)
BucketBall (life-sized beer pong)
Ladder Toss
A simple football to throw around

COACHELLA CAMPING PACKING LIST: FOR THE FESTIVAL

36. Coachella tickets / wristbands

Just like the car camping passes, DO NOT forget these before you leave the house for Coachella.

You do not want to have to backtrack with hours of driving just to grab your tickets from home!

37. Hydration Pack

A dedicated hydration pack can actually save you a ton of money inside the festival. There will be water stations all throughout the festival, meaning you can refill your water for free all night long. CamelBak backpacks are our favorite–these backpacks usually will have secure zippered pockets too, perfect for keys, phone, or other essentials.

Alternatively, you can also buy water at many food and alcohol stands. The drawback of this: not only will you have to wait in line, but you’ll also have to spend money on water, of all things!

38. Sunscreen + after-sun lotion

100+ degree weather and the hot desert sun? Sunburns are most definitely calling your name. Protect your skin with both body sunscreen and face sunscreen.

For the face, we are absolutely obsessed with the magical Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen. No white-cast, no greasy film! Seriously, it goes on matte!

And after every night of the festival (or every shower), please replenish your skin and show it some love! Bring along something like B.TAN’s after-sun lotion, the perfect way to maintain that summer glow while also repairing dry sunburned skin. I like this brand over others as it’s sustainably created in Australia. 

 

39. Fanny Packs

I love using fanny packs at music festivals because of how hands-free they are. They won’t weigh you down at all and because you wear them in the front, it’s a lot harder for thieves to get to. These fanny packs by Vibe Festival Gear were literally made for music festivals–they come in a bunch of unique patterns so find the one that fits your style the best.

If fanny packs are not your thing, good alternatives to the fanny pack are:

small crossbody bag
anti-theft backpack
hydration backpack
shoulder sling – (we personally love our Bellroy slings!)

40. Neck pouch / wallet

If you’re a savvy festival goer, then you already know that music festivals are a pickpocketer’s wonderland. Hundreds if not thousands of people get their stuff stolen all the time at festivals. You don’t want to be that person.

If you think any of the above bags are too risky to keep your important possessions in (money, ID, credit cards), get yourself a neck pouch. These can be easily tucked and concealed under your shirt so even if your main bag gets stolen for any reason, you’ll still have your most important items with you.

We recommend Zero Grid’s Travel Neck Wallet because it also has RFID blocking which is crucial to protect against unwanted credit card scans and personal information theft.

41. Portable phone charger

Three to four days of camping at Coachella means your phone will inevitably run out of battery at some point. While the campsite’s communal areas do have charging stations where you can re-up your phone on battery life, these charging stations can be crowded.

Plus, they’re a lot harder to find within the actual festival grounds themselves.

You don’t want to get lost and/or deal with a dead phone while trying to find your friends, so consider a portable phone charger an absolute essential and bring one along with you!

Anker’s ultra-light, ultra-portable power bank is tried and true by so many campers, festival-goers, and travelers alike! This one’s made for newer phones and can charge the iPhone 12 five times (or more than 4 full charges for Samsung Galaxy S10).

42. Sunhat / Sun Visor

If sunglasses are more your thing, too bad, we still recommend wearing a hat! Sunglasses won’t protect your skin from UV rays, but hats will.

For the ladies who want to show off their elaborate hairstyles, we’ve got you covered. Go with a straw sun visor or a roll-up sun hat (what I’m wearing below).

Want your whole squad to match while protecting your faces from the harsh sun? Check out this multi-pack of colorful visors–they come in a lot of other unique colors too!

43. Cooling towels

Cooling towels are amazing because they can be used in so many ways–as a neck cooler, as a cooling bandana, or a chilled headband. Once, I’ve even had to put it over my head and eyes because the heat was too much for my eyeballs while walking into the festival!

They work so well because the towel regulates the water inside to ensure water retention, acting almost like an air-conditioner. And just like sweat on your skin, when water evaporates, it cools. It’s one of the best things you can bring with you to Coachella if you can’t tolerate heat as well as others.

While I love the ChillPal because of how affordable it is, I recently discovered the Mission Cooling Hoodie Towel which is even more awesome as it acts as a cooling towel and as some sun protection (UPF 50, much needed at Coachella). What I love about this is that you can tuck the edges into your shirt and make it look like just a hood!

If you don’t want to invest in an actual cooling towel, you can always bring a regular towel and soak it with cold water to get that cool towel effect (though it won’t stay cool as long as an actual cooling towel).

44. Personal neck fan

These things have saved my life at multiple Coachellas throughout the year. Trust me when I tell you–there are times where Coachella is as breezeless as can be. If you are not one that copes well with stifling heat like me, pack a battery-powered portable neck fan!

The O2Cool necklace fan works well, but another good option is the bladeless neck fan.

Portable neck fan saving me in 90 degree weather as I eat a hot bowl of ramen…

45. Face mask, bandana or Buff

For the inevitable dust. Not only is the Coachella Valley prone to high winds and dust storms on occasion, but there will also be thousands of people trampling over grass all weekend long. This paired with the extremely dry weather means that a lot of dust will form.

Expect your legs and even your face to be covered in dust particles. You’ll definitely want to wipe yourself down with body wipes and face wipes by the end of the night!

A face mask can help alleviate some of the dustiness and prevent you from breathing it all in. (Yes, you can expect dark boogers by the end of the night.) We like bringing our Buffs because they can be used for so many things other than as a face mask. Definitely a good investment.

46. Light long sleeve shirt / sweater

If you’re the type to run colder, you should consider bringing along a long sleeve, sweater, or flannel that can easily be tied around your waist. Coachella may be stifling hot during the day, but it can get pretty chilly at night. I will almost always bring an extra layer into the festival with me just in case.

Gotta pack that extra layer for when the sun sets!

47. Thigh Society bike shorts

Let me be the first to tell you about my newest discovery on how to keep my legs from becoming a huge sweaty mess… I love Thigh Society’s shorties for hot weather! 

There are two different options I like depending on what look I’m going for. If I want to wear an above-the-knee dress on a hot day, I go with The Cooling 5″ option. It’s so thin, meaning “sweaty butt” won’t be an issue.

And it’s especially useful if it happens to be a windy day. These lil’ shorties make me feel so much more comfortable knowing that I have an extra layer of protection and coverage should the wind decide to do me dirty and lift my dress in one swoop. Or if I’m walking by a ton of people that are sitting down — can’t look up MY skirt!

The other pair that I have is The Original, which has become a staple in my hot weather arsenal too. They’re super-versatile because these guys are very opaque, meaning they can be worn alone or layered under clothes. I wear them while grocery shopping, working out, on airplanes, on road trips, and to music festivals when it calls for bike short vibes. Love ’em!

48. Comfortable shoes

Comfortable shoes are a must–I cannot stress this enough. You can expect to be on your feet all day, walking miles upon miles getting between stages. Because of this, you’ll want to do it all in comfortable shoes.

I made the mistake one year of wearing cute sandals that I had not tested out before, and by the second hour of constantly walking in them (forming some blisters along the way), I had to head back to the campsite to change out of them!

If you need to pick up a new pair, some tried and true options include:

On Cloud Running Shoes (men and women)
ECCO Soft 7 Sneaker (men and women)
adidas Ultraboost 22 Running Shoe (men and women)

A few weeks before the festival, you should start going on long walks, or at the very least, do some cardio to get used to standing/walking for prolonged periods of time. This helps your legs get used to movement, so they don’t get completely fatigued after the first day of the festival.

If you plan on bringing some new shoes to Coachella, walking in them ahead of time will help to break them in if they aren’t already.

FYI: If you like going into the crowds during music sets, there is a good chance your shoes will get stepped on or have been spilled on them. Bringing shoes that are either washable or that you don’t care too much about is best.

COACHELLA CAMPING ESSENTIAL TIPS

Get there on Thursday morning for your best chance to be near the front by the festival gates. If you enter too late at night, you may have to walk a lifetime to get to the festival gates (I know this well from experience).
Put your wristband in your fanny pack or wallet before you leave. That way, you know you won’t forget it at home.
Become friends with your neighbors–you’re going to be living next to each other for the next few days, might as well get friendly and party together!
To extend the life of your ice, get dry ice. From there, wrap it in a towel, cover it with some regular ice, ice packs, or frozen water bottles. This will help keep your perishables and drinks cold all weekend! And save you some money on those exorbitantly expensive bags of ice the campground sells.
Bring and drink plenty of water. For an extra boost in hydration, bring hydration packets or even bottles of coconut water (it’s such a refreshing taste when hot).
Buy water in large bottles. Don’t just buy a ton of the smaller 12oz bottles of water. You can save money and reduce waste by buying large gallon jugs and some smaller bottles as well.
Keep your ice chest (and snacks) in the shade. Why try to melt your ice faster than it needs to?
Put your makeup (and anything else you don’t want to be melted/hot) in an extra cooler. Alternatively, you can keep this stuff in an area of your campsite that always has shade. During the day, things tend to get really hot inside the tents, so I’d avoid keeping anything other than clothes and sleeping stuff in there.
Create a little pantry system with a cardboard box. The pantry is where you can keep all your non-perishable food stuff that doesn’t need to go in the cooler. This includes stuff like bread, peanut butter, granola bars, chips, cookies, etc. This will keep your campsite clean, and you’ll know exactly where to find the food.
Bring at least one set of warm clothes. Remember you’re in a desert so it can get pretty cold at night. Always bring something warm for the nighttime. At the very least, bring one hoody and a pair of sweats or leggings.
Know what your camping spot address is, especially if you don’t have a campsite that stands out. It will be dark at night, meaning it will be harder to find your friends and your campsite. There are “street” numbers to help you, but taking a picture of your surroundings never hurts.
For sleeping, have one of the following: an air mattress, a camping pad, or an inflatable pool raft. You will sleep much better than lying directly on the hard floor.
If you have to go #2, try to go in the morning as soon as possible after the portapotties have been cleaned, re-stocked with toilet paper, and haven’t turned into a complete hotbox under the sun.
Don’t forget your portable charger! You don’t want to be one of those people stuck in front of the scarce charging stations for hours at a time.
Bring cash! Not just to buy things inside the festival, but also to save your poor legs after the festival ends. If you have cash on you and really can’t want anymore, you can pay for one of the pedicabs and get back to your camping spot in no time.
Prepare a music playlist for the campsite jams a few days ahead. Then at the campsite, you can have this list on autoplay–no need for someone to play ‘DJ’ and pick songs as they come on.
Be aware of the threat of wind! Campsites can easily be destroyed if not set up and monitored correctly.

Tip #1: Take down any tarps and lower your E-Z UP canopies before heading into the festival. If the wind happens to pick up, it’ll sweep underneath any tarps and shoot any canopies up in the sky. Seriously, I’ve seen full-on built canopies flying around in the sky (where it landed, not entirely sure, but I wouldn’t be happy at all if it landed on my car).
Tip #2: Stake everything down, and then make sure it’s staked down correctly.

To beat the crazy, crazy traffic leaving Coachella/Indio, CA on Monday, either leave Sunday night after the festival ends or before the sun comes up on Monday morning. We’ve done both and have gotten back to Los Angeles in under 2 to 3 hours.

COACHELLA: WHAT TO WEAR INSPIRATION

LADIES: WHAT TO WEAR TO COACHELLA

GUYS: WHAT TO WEAR TO COACHELLA

And that wraps up our Coachella camping packing list. We hope this has better prepared you for your ultimate music festival camping experience!

Ultimately, you’re going to want to pack things that you normally would for any car camping trip. The thing you’ll need to keep in mind the most is this–be prepared for sun and heat during the day, chillier weather during the night, dustiness, and even potential windiness during your 3-day Coachella experience.

Most of all, stay cool, drink lots of water, make memories, and have an experience of a lifetime! Oh yeah, and don’t forget your wristbands and camping passes!

Want more Southern California travel tips? Read More:

21 EDM Festivals In California For Your Next Music-Filled Weekend

35 Things To Do In The Palm Springs Area For The Perfect California Desert Trip

Los Angeles To Las Vegas Road Trip: 25+ Awesome Stops (ROUTE 66)

24 Best Stops on a Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

2 Days In Los Angeles: Itinerary Ideas For The Perfect Trip

30+ Travel Essentials for Hot Weather and Tropical Climates

​https://travelswithelle.com/lifestyle/coachella-camping-packing-list/ 

The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of the most popular activities in Oahu. So much so, that it’s often even rated as the #1 attraction in all of the island!

It’s easy to see why – the Polynesian Cultural Center is home to some of the most fun daytime activities and luaus on the island. It’s definitely a bucket list-worthy thing to do in Oahu!

With Polynesian Cultural Center luau tickets, you’ll not only get a delicious dinner with entertainment but also admission to the Islands of Polynesia area. With the right tickets, you’ll also be able to watch the nightly entertainment show, which in our opinion, is not to be missed.

I’ve been to the Polynesian Cultural Center FOUR times and I still find myself learning so much about Polynesian history and customs every time. If you don’t know much about PCC but are curious about what it is and what you’ll get out of a day there, I’m here to demystify it all for you.

In this post, I’ll be breaking down what exactly the Polynesian Cultural Center is and reviewing the entire experience for you.

I’ll provide you with everything you need to know, including what to expect at the park, what the different luau packages look like, and how to snag some discounts (hintbook tickets early for a discount, at least 10 days in advance!), as well as some essential tips for visiting.

In my opinion, PCC is totally worth the money. Read on to discover why!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

What Is the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC)?

For those of you who are less familiar, the Polynesian Cultural Center is essentially a cultural park that brings to life the spirit of Polynesia through its six Polynesian villages. You’ll be able to enjoy shows, demonstrations, and immersive activities, all while learning facts about the islands of Fiji, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Aotearoa, and Hawaii.

As soon as you arrive at the Polynesian Cultural Center, you’ll notice that this park is unlike any other park or attraction in Oahu. It’s unlike any other attraction across all of the Hawaiian islands, for that matter!

This venue was founded by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in 1963 as a way to provide job opportunities for students at BYU (Brigham Young University) who were looking for work opportunities during the summer months.

Thanks to the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC), thousands of students have been able to achieve an education when they may have otherwise not been able to afford it.

Today, the Polynesian Cultural Center has become a very popular tourist destination where guests can truly immerse themselves in local culture while learning about different Polynesian islands, histories, and customs.

Book your Polynesian Cultural Center tickets on the official site here!

What To Expect At Polynesian Cultural Center

When you’re at PCC, get ready for a sensory overload.

Islands of Polynesia

At the Islands of Polynesia, you’ll find a wide variety of interactive exhibits, replica Polynesian villages, and hourly spotlight shows featuring traditional rituals, music/dance performances, tree climbing, and even fire dancing!

You’ll find a ton of hands-on activities such as learning how to do a Tahitian dance, learning how to twirl poi balls, making fire the Samoan way, tasting coconut bread, tasing poi, and so much more.

The immersive, hands-on aspect is what’s coolest about the Islands of Polynesia. It’s a great place to experience what it’s like to have lived on these islands because you can take part in so many activities that are unique to each island.

Other daytime activities at PCC

Outside of the six village areas, you can do a bunch of other stuff in the daytime including:

shopping in the large Hukilau Marketplace

see the Football Hall of Fame

watch a cinematic movie showcasing the beauty of the Hawaiian islands

go on a canoe ride

grab a bite to eat (at Ali’i Luau, Gateway Buffet, or at Hukilau Marketplace)

take a tour of La’ie and BYU

The luau and the evening show

And when night falls, you can partake in an award-winning luau and even watch their high-production value evening show, Hā: Breath of Life.

Having said that, the Islands are really the main attraction during the day. These six villages of the Polynesian Cultural Center have a lot to offer, so let’s dive into these first!

Polynesian Cultural Center: Islands of Polynesia

There are six villages at the Polynesian Cultural Center: Samoa, Fiji, Tonga, Tahiti, Aotearoa (New Zealand) and Hawaii. Each village has its own history and customs, as illustrated via the interactive island cultural presentations and hands-on activities.

One of the coolest aspects of visiting the villages of PCC is that most of the people staffing each village are actually from the island they’re representing!

Here’s what you can expect from each of the islands.

Samoa

Samoans are known throughout Polynesia as the “happy people”! Samoans are famous for their cooking skills as well as fire knife dances. You can experience both of these skills at the Samoan Village.

Since Papu is half Samoan, we always like spending a little extra time in this village.

I’d highly recommend catching the cultural presentation that takes place multiple times per hour. It’s SO funny, and if you catch the later shows (around 4pm and after) you’ll even catch some really impressive fire dancing!

Activities include:

Weaving your own fish with coconut leaves

Learning how to spin a fire knife

Making fire the Samoan way (without matches!)

Coconut shell dance

Fiji

Fijians may be most famous for their skills in battle, but they are also wonderful singers and makers of clay pottery. This is definitely a very energetic and exciting village to visit!

Activities include:

Discovering how coconut oil is made

Learning about an authentic Camakau (Fijian outrigger canoe)

Learn to play the derua (bamboo instrument)

Getting a washable Fijian warrior tattoo

Make your own Kesakesa Pattern

Tonga

If you’re at PCC and you hear drumming in the distance, chances are it’s coming from Tongan village. This area is a ton of fun, as you’ll get to try your hand at a lot of activities such as spear-throwing and even paddling in an outrigger canoe.

The canoes here are NOT on a track, so you’ll actually have to paddle to get moving! For a more leisurely canoe ride where you can just sit back and relax, hop on the 20-person canoe ride instead.

The cultural presentation at Tonga is a lot of fun, as there’s a lot of focus on dance, music, the Nafa (drums), and cultural core values.

Activities include:

Paddling in a Tongan-inspired outrigger canoe (my personal fave!)

Trying lafo (Tongan shuffle board), an ancient royal game

Touring a replica of the Queen Salote’s Summer Home

Weaving a windmill from coconut leaves

Trying your hand at hiko, the ancient art of juggling

Learning Nafa-drumming

Tahiti

On top of showcasing the dancing skills that they’re so famously known for, you’ll also get to learn about other aspects of Tahitian culture such as love and marriage, fishing and cooking.

You’ll find multiple types of cultural presentations at the Tahiti area throughout the day. At the time of writing, there’s the Intro to French Polynesia, Rhythms of the Islands, and the Tahitian Wedding Ceremony.

I’ve personally seen the wedding ceremony show at it’s great!

Activities include:

Tasting handmade coconut bread

Fishing in the lagoon with bamboo poles

Learning how to dance the Ori Tahiti

Get a washable Tahitian tattoo

Spear throwing

Witness a traditional Tahitian wedding ceremony

Aotearoa (New Zealand)

Aotearoa (The Land of the Long White Cloud) is the home of the Māori, the indigenous people of New Zealand.

Māori people are known for their elaborately carved meeting houses as well as their dancing, including the Haka which many of you may have already seen without knowing it at some point in your lives!

No matter when we’re at PCC, we always try to make it a point to catch the Aotearoa cultural presentations — I love watching their high-energy singing and dancing performances. Plus, getting to see the haka performed is always so moving.

Activities include:

Twirling the double-long Poi (ball on end of string)

Try the Kapo Rākau to help you quicken your reflexes and reaction time

Testing your hand-eye coordination skills with Titi-torea (Maori stick game)

Exploring replicas of an ancient dwelling site, ancestral meeting house, Māori war canoe, and more

Hawaii

Hawaiians are great storytellers, and at the Hawaiian village, you’re going to hear a lot about not only the beauty of their islands but the beauty of their culture as well. 

Our favorite activities here and taking the hula lessons and trying the freshly made poi! If you’re a fan of hula dancing, do not miss their cultural presentation, The Sound of Hula.

Activities include:

Practicing Hawaiian hula

Watching how poi is made (and then tasting it for yourself!)

See all of the beautiful items that can be made with lauhala

Try your hand at traditional Hawaiian games of skill

Traditional net throwing

Get a washable Hawaiian tattoo

Iosepa Learning Center

Don’t forget to head to the corner of the Hawaiian village, where you’ll find the Iosepa Canoe and Learning Center. The canoe is a working replica of a traditional Hawaiian double-hulled voyaging canoe, and it’s MASSIVE.

We found that it was so awe-inspiring being that close to it, imagining what life would have been like in the past, traveling on such a massive yet traditional watercraft!

While you’re here, you can also learn a bunch of things, including:

learning how to make ropes with coconut husks

learning how to navigate by the stars

learn about the wood species used to build canoes

Building wooden canoe puzzles

learning how to tie sailing knots

Rapa Nui (Easter Island)

This smaller island exhibit in the center of the villages features seven hand-carved moai, or stone statues, created onsite by artisans from Rapa Nui.

There are no activities in this area, but there sure is a lot to learn via the interpretive signs detailing the Rapa Nui history.

Book your Polynesian Cultural Center tickets on the official site here!

Other Daytime Activities At Polynesian Cultural Center

Other daily activities that aren’t tied to a specific island include:

catching a quick 14-minute film about Hawaii in a cinematic theater (a great place to get some shade and air-conditioning)

taking a canoe tour from the comfort of a 20-passenger double-hulled canoe (the canoe takes you from one side of the property to the other; you can do a round-trip ride too)

This canoe ride will take you to the other end of the park so you can hop off there and continue exploring. It’s a nice little break for your feet/legs if you’ve been walking too much!

You can also marvel at the Iosepa Canoe, where you’ll be able to learn about the migrations of early Polynesia.

Outside of the village area by the entrance, there are a few other fun places to check out, including the Hukilau Marketplace where you can shop for Polynesian gifts and clothing, as well as a few restaurants including Kiwi Style Fish & Chips, Shaka Shake Korean BBQ, Fat Poi Hawaiian, and Tita’s Grill.

And if none of those restaurants get your tastebuds going, there are food trucks dotted throughout the area, too! For dessert, options include malasadas, shave ice, cookies, ice cream, and crepes.

You can even buy a high-quality ukulele from Mahinalani to take home or a piece of artwork by Kap Tafiti at Kap Culture & Art Gallery.

If you’re unsure of who Kap is, you’ll know of him as soon as you visit the Samoa area — I beg you, do not miss him at the Samoan cultural demonstration! He is pure comedy!

Sports lovers will enjoy the Football Hall Of Fame, where you’ll be able to see many of the Polynesian football legends honored alongside coaches and contributors.

The last activity is to take a shuttle out to the town of La’ie and through the campus of Brigham Young University–Hawaii. You’ll then enjoy a 20-minute stop at the La’ie Temple Grounds where you can either tour the Visitors Center or simply enjoy the beautiful garden’s fountains and waterways.

The villages at PCC do close at about 5:30 to 6 pm (check the PCC website for the latest hours), but the fun doesn’t stop there!

There are two activities in the evening worth partaking in– having dinner (at the Ali’i Luau or Gateway Buffet) and the Hā: Breath of Life evening show.

The Dinner Options At Polynesian Cultural Center

Ali’i Luau At Polynesian Cultural Center

The Ali’i Luau is a traditional luau set up, where a couple hundred people will attend and dine around the main stage. When you arrive, you’ll get lei’ed and have the option to take a group pic (for purchase).

Upon getting seated, you’ll get a fun little welcome drink. Ours was a non-alcoholic pina colada inside of a pineapple! The food is served buffet-style for about 30 minutes before the entertainment begins.

You can expect typical luau buffet-style food such as taro rolls, poke, kalua pork (from a pig cooked onsite IN the ground), steamed Kona kanpachi fish in ti leaves, pan-seared local fish, teriyaki brisket, huli chicken, fried saimin, salads, assorted fruits, and desserts.

The entertainment usually lasts around 30 to 45 minutes and is comprised of a mix of professional performers (hula dancers and young kiddies) and bits where the host is calling people up to the stage to dance.

While the food was by no means “gourmet”, the whole luau was interactive and really just a lot of fun!

UPDATE: I got the chance to re-do the Ali’i Luau in 2024 and found the food to be immensely better than when I first went years ago! I went with three other people (two are really judgy and picky when it comes to food) and we all agreed the food was pretty darn good for a buffet-style luau!

The Gateway Buffet At Polynesian Cultural Center

If you’re looking for a less expensive dinner package without the mini luau show, there is another dinner package — the Gateway Buffet.

At the Gateway Buffet, you can expect food such as whole grilled Kona kanpachi fish, top sirloin roast, salads, vegetables, beef, seafood, poke, chicken, keiki-friendly foods (kid-friendly), beverages and desserts.

Ali’i Luau or Gateway Buffet? The price difference between the Ali’i Luau Package and the Gateway Buffet Package is about $40-50, depending on if you’re buying a child or adult ticket. You can compare the two options here.

While I haven’t eaten at the Gateway Buffet, I’d guess that the food is pretty good, given what I experienced at the Ali’i Luau.

If you ask me though, I’d tell you to splurge on the Ali’i Luau, especially if this is your first time in Hawaii and have never experienced a luau before.

Evening Show: Hā: Breath of Life

Regardless of your dinner choice, the one thing at the Polynesian Cultural Center that you absolutely can’t miss is the evening show, Hā: Breath of Life.

This show is truly entertaining! I don’t want to give any spoilers, but you can expect a lot of dancers and performers, a good plot, lots of acting, and fire dancing!

Per the PCC website, this “stunning evening show featuring over 100 Polynesian natives, special effects, animation and surround sound. It is a Pacific isle saga of birth and death, love and family, tragedy and triumph.”

I gotta reiterate the fire dancing section of the show. PURE AMAZEMENT!

Polynesian Cultural Center: Package Options

So now that you have a good idea of everything you can expect at PCC, let’s dive into some of the packages they offer. Because there are SO many options, it can be confusing for first-timers. Let’s break it all down.

In a nutshell, these are the packages you can choose from:

Super Ambassador Lūʻau Package: PCC’s most premium luau package, super popular and tends to sell out the fastest. You’ll have a private tour guide for the Islands of Polynesia and reserved seating everywhere you go.

Aliʻi Lūʻau Package: PCC’s second-most premium luau package, also tends to sell out fast.

Gateway Buffet Package: PCC’s most popular dinner package and is offered as an alternative to the luau.

Islands of Polynesia & Hā: Breath of Life Package: Access to the Islands and the nighttime show. Because dinner is not included, this is PCC’s most affordable package.

Islands of Polynesia: Access to the Islands only (no show, no dinner).

Check what packages are available for your travel dates here!

1. Super Ambassador Luau Package

This is PCC’s most premium package. If you’re interested, do book as early as possible because these sell out FAST.

Package Details

Admission to the park

All the activities and demonstrations during the day

Access to the Ali’i Luau buffet with live entertainment

The nighttime show, Hā: Breath of Life

Private guided tour through 6 island villages

Access to the VIP Check-In area (with free snacks!)

Platinum level seating at “Hā: Breath of Life” show (Super Ambassador level seating is in the front two rows by stage, with unobstructed views)

Additional Perks

Ivory kukui nut lei at arrival and flower lei greeting at luau

Free photo pass (includes 8 free welcome photos)

Reserved premium seating at all village presentations

Reserved canoe ride

Free Smoothie at Ali’i Luau

Free 3-day re-admission pass to the island villages

Again, you can expect a luau menu of veggies, taro rolls, poke, kalua pork, steamed Kona kanpachi fish in ti leaves, teriyaki brisket, huli chicken, pipikaula, fresh fish, fried saimin, salads, assorted fruits, vegan entrees, and desserts.

2. Ali’i Luau Package

Package Includes

Admission to the park

All the activities and demonstrations during the day

Access to the Ali’i Luau buffet with live entertainment

The nighttime show, Hā: Breath of Life

Group guided tour through 6 authentic island villages

Gold level seating at “Hā: Breath of Life” evening show (right behind the Super Ambassador rows)

Additional Perks

Flower lei greeting at Luau

Free smoothie at Alii Luau

Free 3-day re-admission pass to the island villages

Free photo pass

3. Gateway Buffet Package

The Gateway Buffet is PCC’s most popular dinner package and is offered as an alternative to the luau. This dining experience includes live music in a relaxed atmosphere with an expansive buffet of island-inspired dishes.

Package Details

Self-guided experience through 6 island villages

Gateway Buffet dinner with live music

Silver level seating at “Hā: Breath of Life” evening show

Additional Perks

Free 3-day re-admission pass to the Islands of Polynesia

Free photo pass

At the Gateway Buffet, you can expect food such as whole grilled Kona kanpachi fish, top sirloin roast, salads, vegetables, beef, seafood, poke, chicken, keiki-friendly foods (kid-friendly), beverages and desserts.

4. Islands of Polynesia & Hā: Breath of Life Package

This will be the package for you if you’re not interested in buffet or luau-style dining. Because dinner is not included, this is PCC’s most affordable package.

Package Details

Self-guided experience through 6 island villages

Free photo pass

Dinner NOT included

Bronze level seating at “Hā: Breath of Life” evening show

Free 3-day re-admission pass to the Islands of Polynesia

5. Tickets for Islands of Polynesia (Only)

Not interested in the luau or the evening show? It’s possible to buy tickets for just admission to the Islands of Polynesia.

In fact, that’s what we did on our most recent trip to Oahu. We had Go City Oahu passes, which at the time, offered free daytime admission to PCC with the pass. So, we visited PCC from about 1pm to 5pm, leaving when the dinners were just starting.

We ended up eating poke closer to our hotel for dinner–and despite not being able to enjoy the luau or evening show, it was still a very fun day out!

Having said that, if you have not yet had the chance to do the whole thing–the islands, the luau, and the show–I would highly recommend it!

Pros And Cons Of The Polynesian Cultural Center

Pros

A jam-packed day of entertainment–you will NOT be bored!

The food at the luau is good and comes with entertainment.

High production value show included in the cost of many packages. We highly recommend seeing the evening show if you can! 

You have the ability to go back to PCC (Islands of Polynesia) with the complimentary 3-day readmission ticket, free with any package purchase.

Cons

Limited hours of exploration before the islands close for dinner. PRO TIP: We recommend getting there right when they open so you can maximize your time for exploration and hands-on activity. Getting their at 2pm or later will leave you very limited in time!

Compared to other excursions or activities on Oahu, PCC is a tad bit on the pricier side.

My Overall Thoughts About The Polynesian Cultural Center

PCC is a great place to spend a day. Not only is the luau a ton of fun (especially if you’re traveling with friends/family), but so is the Hā: Breath of Life evening show. If you’re on Oahu and looking for an excursion to do with your family or friends, PCC is an enriching and fun whole day activity!

Heck, Papu and I love PCC so much that I’ve gone on FOUR separate occasions! We opted for the Ali’i Luau Package on 2 out of 4 of our visits. And the only reason we did not go for the luau package on our other visits was that we were attempting to travel on a budget those times!

It is worth noting that because this luau (like many other luaus on Oahu) is buffet-style, you shouldn’t go in expecting fine-dining quality food. They are cooking for the masses, so while the food is not Bib Gourmand or Michelin star-worthy, it certainly is not bad.

Their latest luau menu has improved dramatically from when I first tried it in 2015.

Luau aside, it’s impossible to ignore how educational this place is. I not only love the hands-on demonstrations and activities, but the hourly presentations at each village all have history, comedy, and culture woven into them.

We especially loved the shows and activities at Samoa, which — over the course of our four visits — has remained our favorite village at the Center!

The cultural presentation that featured Kap (pictured above) was essentially a comedy skit with a lot of Samoan-related facts thrown in. This was followed by coconut tree climbing and fire knife spinning. It was all so funny and overall a really great time!

We also found the cultural presentations at Tonga and Aotearoa to be a lot of fun and educational too. We witnessed what playing the flute with a nose sounded like for the first time. Something that I didn’t even know existed!

And if there’s one activity I recommend you not miss, it’d be the canoeing activity.

I just love the Polynesian Cultural Center’s three-pronged approach to a good time–

educating through interactive shows and activities

feeding you a good meal

and providing top-notch entertainment to round out the night!

On top of being a really fun day out, they have a mission I can really get behind, being a non-profit dedicated to preserving the cultural heritage, arts, and traditions of Polynesia.

All of the revenue that they make is used for daily operations and to support the education of its student-employees from Brigham Young University-Hawaii.

No matter how much you already know about the Polynesian islands, you will leave with a deeper knowledge and appreciation for these cultures!

Last note here–if I’m a grown adult gushing about how much I love PCC, I’m sure the kids will be huge fans as well!

Is The Polynesian Cultural Center Worth The Money?

Ultimately, whether PCC is worth going to depends on what you’re looking to get out of the experience.

If you’re looking primarily for a luau experience, PCC is a good option, but not the greatest. If you’re also looking to drink mai tais and pina coladas alongside your meal, you’ll want to look elsewhere because there is no alcohol at PCC.

For a traditional luau experience with alcohol, we think there are better ones out there like Paradise Cove Luau and Toa Luau.

However, if you’re looking for a jam-packed day of immersive fun, learning, cultural activities, and entertainment with a luau, I’d say PCC is unbeatable and 100% worth the money!

If you’re down to visit the Polynesian Cultural Center, I’d recommend you at least opt for the Ali’i Luau Package. This is our go-to package whenever we visit with friends.

And if you’re celebrating something special (like a birthday, honeymoon, anniversary, etc.), I’d say splurge and go for the Super Ambassador Package. We opted for this package on our latest visit as it was my cousin’s 35th birthday and we were treated like royalty! It was amazing.

Book your Polynesian Cultural Center tickets on the official site here!

How To Get Discounted Tickets To Polynesian Cultural Center

Book Ticket Early

The most straightforward way to get your tickets is to go straight to their website and book directly. The PCC website clearly outlines all of the ticket package options, and provides you with a 10% discount on tickets purchased at least 10 days in advance.

This is a great deal because finding Polynesian Cultural Center promo codes or coupons is pretty hard to do. Check out all of the ticket options here.

DEAL ALERT: Save 10% on select PCC packages when you book at least 10 days in advance!

Get The Go City Oahu Pass

If you only want basic admission to the villages (no luau, no nighttime show), you can actually get access to the park via the Go City Oahu Pass.

This is actually how we got into PCC during one of our visits!

Should you want to upgrade and add on the luau and/or show, you can pay an additional fee upon making your reservation and have the best of both worlds.

Because the Go City digital pass includes a bunch of other activities on Oahu, it’s actually an excellent value! You can buy a digital pass here on the Go City website.

Essential Tips For Your Visit To The Polynesian Cultural Center

Arrive early! And we mean it! You will need all of the hours PCC is open in order to see everything in the Islands of Polynesia area. (This is the exact reason I’ve gone 3 times–I’ve always gone later in the day and ran out of time to explore.)

Take advantage of the transportation option from Waikiki if you aren’t renting a car for the duration of your trip. More on that below.

You will walk a lot (several miles worth of walking), so wear comfortable shoes–you can go with comfortable walking shoes or supportive sandals.

It can get very hot during the summer months so make sure you pack plenty of water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the day. Bring a water bottle and refill it throughout the day.

Shoes and shirts must be worn at all times; no swimsuits.

Wear sunscreen and a hat! The Polynesian Cultural Center is mostly outdoors with grassy fields. The cultural demonstration shows do have shaded seating, but some of it can be in the sun (depending on time of day and whether you can get a seat or not).

Two great reef-safe sunscreens that we like to use when we go to tropical destinations are: Thinksport SPF 50+ Mineral Sunscreen or Kokua Sun Care 50/80 Min Water Resistance Reef Safe Natural Zinc Sunscreen

When an island/village is putting on its cultural presentation (usually about 30 minutes long), the island activities will not be held. You have two choices here–either watch the main show or visit other villages until they resume their activities once the show is over.

Island villages close at around 5:30 pm to allow visitors who opted in for the luau to eat before the evening show (seating starts at 7 pm).

For those visiting with very young children who may also be jet-lagged: the evening show runs from about 7:30-9 pm Hawaii time. This can be really late depending on what your home time is, especially for those who are dealing with a large time change. Do carefully consider whether or not they can make it through the show without being too fussy and disrupting others’ viewing experience.

Be aware that strobe lights and sudden loud noises are used in the show.

Best Time To Visit Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is open from the early afternoon until about 5:30 to 6pm, and the best time to visit is as soon as they open (around 12:30pm).

This allows you to see the entire park as well as take advantage of all the activities in each island village before they start to shut things down for the dinner and evening show portions of the night.

You can easily keep yourself busy for five hours at PCC. Start your day at the park with some shopping, followed by a visit to all 6 villages where you can do activities and watch their super-fun cultural presentations (these typically run for 30 minutes).

If you complete all of that early, ride the canoe, catch the quick movie about Hawaii in the theater, take a ukelele lesson, or chat up the workers to learn even more about Polynesian culture.

By the time you know it, it’ll already be time for the luau/buffet and the post-dinner show!

How To Get To The Polynesian Cultural Center

By car / bus

The PCC is located on the north shore of Oahu in Laie. It’s easy to reach by car or bus. Simply follow Highway 8 east from Honolulu and head toward Laie town. The best part about driving is that you can arrive on your own time and parking is completely free!

Allow yourself at least 60-75 minutes of straight drive time. Please note that commuter traffic from Honolulu to the North Shore can be heavy from 3:30 pm to 6:30 pm on weekdays.

Staying in Waikiki and don’t have a rental car? PCC offers convenient transportation from Waikiki to the Polynesian Cultural Center and back. They have two transportation options: Motor Coach or the Circle Island Tour.

Motor Coach (from Waikiki)

This is the standard transportation option. This includes roundtrip transportation in a top-of-the-line motor coach with A/C and restrooms on board.

You’ll be picked up at a designated location near your Waikiki hotel, where you’ll simply hop on and enjoy the road trip, narrated by a local guide. Pickups start around 10:30 am and the entire trip takes about 90 minutes.

Circle Island Tour (Sightseeing Tour from Waikiki)

The Circle Island transportation option is for those who want to tack on an island sightseeing tour before arriving at the Polynesian Cultural Center.

While you will have to be up a bit earlier for this tour (pick-up time starts at 6:45 am), you will have the pleasure of visiting various scenic and historical sites on Oahu. The trip will be narrated by a professional local guide and includes at least 3 stops of 10 to 20 min each.

If you need transportation provided by PCC, you can add that to your online cart upon checkout.

Hotels Near The Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center is quite the drive from Honolulu and Waikiki, where most visitors tend to stay. With traffic, it could easily take 1.5 hours to drive back to your hotel!

If you want to make the most of your time at PCC, as well as enjoy the change of pace on the quieter northeast side of Oahu, consider staying a couple of nights at one of these hotels near the Polynesian Cultural Center:

Turtle Bay Resort – If you’re looking for a splurge-worthy resort on the North Shore, this is the best of the best! We’re talking world-class golfing, spas, and restaurants–the whole shebang. If you’re traveling during off-peak seasons, you might be able to find some nightly prices that really aren’t too expensive.

Paradise Bay Resort – This little resort is located slightly down the highway near Kaneohe. The resort offers so much! Not only are free yoga and meditation classes offered, but kayak rentals and snorkel equipment are also included in the resort fee. They have an Aloha Nights Buffet Dinner is offered on certain days of the week as well as other scheduled entertainment.

Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore – This is the closest hotel near the Polynesian Cultural Center (located just across the street). It’s modern, with a cute touch of Hawaiian flair!

PCC: Frequently Asked Questions

What do you wear to the Polynesian Cultural Center?

First off, wear comfortable shoes! You will be doing a lot of walking over the course of the day, so you’ll want good support for your feet.

Next, because it will likely be hot and sunny, plan to wear comfortable clothes and a hat for sun protection.

While there is no requirement to look fancy or done up, for the ladies and fellas who want to dress up a bit for the luau, flowy dresses and light linen shirts/pants will do.

How long does it take to do the Polynesian Cultural Center?

Honestly, it could take the whole day from the time the park opens until the park closes.

The park typically opens around the early afternoon and closes at 9 pm.

For the best experience in the island villages, plan to spend five hours there alone. If you have tickets to the luau and evening show, plan on being there until 9 pm.

Polynesian Cultural Center Luau vs Paradise Cove Luau

In my opinion, the overall Polynesian Cultural Center experience is a much better value than the Paradise Cove experience. Why? Because it is so much more than a luau!

While you can get the same types of foods at both luaus, there are some differences in what their admissions come with.

Drinks: Paradise Cove does offer a welcome mai tai drink as well as bars with alcohol for purchase, while PCC has no alcohol, but offers punch, soft drinks, water, coffee, and tea.

Night Entertainment: The entertainment at Paradise Cove can be considered ‘better’ to some, as it has more traditional Polynesian acts compared to what you’ll get at PCC.

Activities: And while Paradise Cove does offer pre-dinner activities, PCC offers a whole afternoon filled with activities and shows (6 villages, canoe rides, a marketplace for shopping, and a movie theater).

All in all, I’d say if you’re looking for a more traditional evening luau, then go with Paradise Cove.

If you’re looking for a whole day of cultural immersion and entertainment that also happens to have a luau and an evening production (a show with a storyline that features Polynesian dancing), go with Polynesian Cultural Center!

The decision between which luau to choose is ultimately up to you and what you’re looking for!

I hope you found this Polynesian Cultural Center review helpful. If you’re looking for additional Oahu travel tips, check out my other posts here:

What To Pack For A Week In Hawaii: 60 Essential Things To Bring

116 Bucket List Things To Do In Oahu, Hawaii

Go City Oahu Review: Is The Pass Worth The Money?

30 Fun and Free Family Activities In Oahu

Essential Oahu Tips For First Timers: Things You Need To Know

Oahu North Shore: 10 Stops For A Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

9 Best Snorkeling Spots In Oahu, Hawaii

​https://travelswithelle.com/hawaii/polynesian-cultural-center-review/ 

During the pandemic, my cousins and I became obsessed with trivia. We played it at least weekly on the Nintendo Switch, on JackboxTV, via board games like Trivial Pursuit, and even went as far as to seek out and join random local Facebook events that happened to be hosting Trivia Nights!

Because of how fun and educational trivia questions are, I’ve compiled a post with some of my favorite trivia questions and answers out there.

Whether you’re looking for trivia questions to play at home with family or on the road to pass the time away, you can use these random multiple-choice trivia questions to keep you entertained. And educated!

This post may contain affiliate links. You won’t be paying a cent more, but in the event of a sale, the small affiliate commission I receive will help keep this blog running/pumping out useful and free content. Thanks a lot!

How many Infinity Stones are there?

3

5

6

10

What is the only food that cannot go bad?

Dark chocolate

Peanut butter

Canned tuna

Honey

Which was René Magritte’s first surrealist painting?

Not to Be Reproduced

Personal Values

The Lovers

The Lost Jockey

What 90s boy band member bought Myspace in 2011?

Nick Lachey

Justin Timberlake

Shawn Stockman

AJ McLean

Which of these is the most visited attraction in the world?

Eiffel Tower

Statue of Liberty

Forbidden City

Colosseum

The Forbidden City in China is the #1 most visited attraction in the world, seeing over 17 million visits per year. The Colosseum is the next most visited, clocking in at just under 8 million visitors per year. The Eiffel Tower sees 7 million visitors, and the Statue of Liberty sees 4.3 million.

What’s the name of Hagrid’s pet spider?

Nigini

Crookshanks

Aragog

Mosag

What’s the heaviest organ in the human body?

Brain

Liver

Skin

Heart

The first heaviest organ is the skin with a mass of 4 to 5 kg (or nearly 10 lbs). The liver is the second heaviest organ in the body.

Who made the third most 3-pointers in the Playoffs in NBA history?

Kevin Durant

JJ Reddick

Lebron James

Kyle Korver

Which of these EU countries does not use the euro as its currency?

Poland

Denmark

Sweden

All of the above

Which US city is the sunniest major city and sees more than 320 sunny days each year?

Phoenix – Phoenix sees more than 320 sunny days each year.

Miami

San Francisco

Austin

What type of food holds the world record for being the most stolen around the globe?

Wagyu beef

Cheese – It’s estimated that as much as 4% of the cheese produced around the world is stolen.

Coffee

Chocolate

What element does the chemical symbol Au stand for?

Silver

Magnesium

Salt

Gold

What is the highest-grossing Broadway show of all time?

The Lion King

Wicked

Kinky Boots

Hamilton

On average, how many seeds are located on the outside of a strawberry?

100

200

400

500

Which fast food restaurant has the largest number of retail locations in the world?

Jack In The Box

Chipotle

Subway

McDonald’s

Where is recognized as the location of the hottest temperature ever recorded on Earth?

Mitribah, Kuwait

Death Valley, California

Yuma, Arizona

Key West, Florida

What is the oldest major soft drink brand in the United States?

Coca Cola

Pepsi

Dr. Pepper

Canada Dry Ginger Ale

What river passes through New Orleans, Louisiana?

Orleans River

Mississippi River 

Atchafalaya River

Colorado River

In what country do more than half of people believe in elves?

Norway

Russia

Holland

Iceland

What is the name of the coffee shop in the sitcom Friends?

Central Perk

Java Park

Central Park Coffee

Central Park Roastery

Which pop star burnt down her home gym with candles?

Kim Kardashian

Lady Gaga

Zendaya

Britney Spears

What is the highest-grossing video game franchise to date?

Mario

Pokemon

Call of Duty

Street Fighter

“Cirque du Soleil” started in what country?

France

USA

Canada

Russia

Which country’s national animal is a unicorn?

Scotland

Denmark

New Zealand

France

What are the two highest-grossing films of all time?

Avengers: End Game and Star Wars: Episode VII – The Force Awakens

Avatar and Avengers: End Game

Avengers: Infinity War and Titanic

Furious 7 and Avatar

Which Avenger other than Captain America was able to pick up Thor’s Mjolnir in the Marvel movies?

Wanda

Spiderman

Doctor Strange

Vision

What is the main ingredient in a falafel?

Lentil

Chickpea

Broccoli

Split pea

What color dresses do Chinese women traditionally wear on their wedding day?

Blue

Gold

White

Red

What is yellowtail fish called in Japanese?

Ahi

Ikura

Hamachi

Maguro

What sport has been played on the moon?

Frisbee

Soccer

Golf

Bocce ball

What is the highest-grossing holiday movie of all time?

Elf

The Grinch

It’s A Wonderful Life

Home Alone

What was the first cash crop in America?

Tobacco

Corn

Sugar Cane

Grapes

Mycology is the scientific study of what?

Cancer cells

Flowers

Fungi

Blood

What animal is the closest living relative of a human?

Gorillas

Monkeys

Bonobos

Homo sapiens

The chimpanzee and bonobo are humans’ closest living relatives. These three species look alike in many ways, both in body and behavior. Humans, chimps and bonobos descended from a single ancestor species that lived six or seven million years ago. As humans and chimps gradually evolved from a common ancestor, their DNA, passed from generation to generation, changed too. Many of these DNA changes led to differences between our appearances and behaviors!

What does the meaning of the word “zodiac” in Ancient Greek?

Circle of personalities

Circle of stars

Circle of animals

Circle of futures

Aries, Sagittarius, and Leo are three zodiac signs in which triplicity?

Air

Water

Fire

Earth

The first vaccine was for which disease?

Chickenpox

Polio

Measles

Smallpox

Which Beatle made Elton John the godfather of his son?

Paul McCartney

John Lennon

Ringo Starr

George Harrison

What lobster organ is made into a delicacy known as “tomalley”?

Claw

Tail

Liver

Antennae

The villains in the 2007 version of the movie “Transformers” are known as what?

Decepticons

Storm Troopers

Death Eaters

Sentinels

Which cereal grain is the most commonly used in beer?

Wheat

Barley

Hops

Rice

“Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” is based on whose story idea?

Michael Bay

Ernest Hemingway

Tim Burton

George Lucas

What country are the Galapagos Islands located in?

Belize

Brazil

Ecuador

Colombia

Which sea creature has three hearts?

Shark

Jellyfish

Stingray

Octopus

Pupusas are from what country?

Mexico

El Salvador

Brazil

Poland

What is the name of the talkative parrot in “Aladdin”?

Pascal

Meeko

Iago

Abu

On “Friends”, what is Ross’ occupation?

Paleontologist

Meteorologist

News Anchor

Teacher

What is Rick’s last name in “Rick and Morty”?

Sanchez

Smith

Guetterman

Noopers

Where did the croissant originate?

France

Austria

Turkey

Tokyo

In what U.S. state does “Breaking Bad” take place?

Utah

Missouri

Texas

New Mexico

What country is Shakira from?

Mexico

Puerto Rico

Paraguay

Colombia

Which of these retailers is the oldest operating?

Macy’s

Brooks Brothers (opened in 1818)

Kiehl’s

Saks Fifth Avenue

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in what country?

Italy

Spain

Portugal

Greece

Which country ranks first in cereal consumption per capita?

USA

Italy

Ireland

Philippines

From which country do French fries originate?

Belgium

France

USA

England

What sport is referred to as the “sport of kings”?

Bocce Ball

Cricket

Rugby

Polo

Who was the first Disney Princess?

Cinderella

Snow White

Aurora

Jasmine

What year was In-N-Out Burger founded?

1968

1975

1948

1985

How many islands are in Hawaii?

4

7

48

137

What is the national alcoholic beverage of America?

Rye

Bourbon

Whiskey

Cognac

What is Bruno Mars’ real name?

Peter Gene Hernandez

Michael Nguyen-Stevenson

Ray Aguirre

Bruno Maritza

What was the very first Pixar movie?

Wall-E

Monsters, Inc.

A Bug’s Life

Toy Story

What was the ancient Goddess of Love?

Athena

Venus

Helen

Hera

What are imitation crab sticks made of?

Whitefish

Cuttlefish

Tofu

Calamari

Which ocean is the Bermuda Triangle in?

Pacific Ocean

Atlantic Ocean

Caribbean Ocean

Indian Ocean

Where is Kanye West from?

Chicago, Illinois

Boston, Massachusetts

Detroit, Michigan

Los Angeles, California

What is the smallest country in the world?

Luxembourg

The Vatican City

Palau

San Marino

What animal species is the only male that gets pregnant?

Dolphin

Elephant Seal

Sea Turtle

Seahorse

Who was the first woman to ever be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?

Dolly Parton

Janis Joplin

Joni Mitchell

Aretha Franklin

What is the hardest natural substance in the world?

Granite

Marble

Iron

Diamond

Which “Wonders Of The World” is still in existence?

Temple of Artemis

Pyramids of Giza

Hanging Gardens of Babylon

Statue of Zeus

Who painted the Mona Lisa?

Michelangelo

Vincent van Gogh

Rembrandt

Leonardo da Vinci

Which company was the first to reach 1 trillion dollars?

Microsoft

Apple

Amazon

Google

Which animal has the largest eyes?

Giant squid

Blue whale

Ostrich

Elephant

From what country did jazz originate?

France

USA

Canada

Germany

What aerobic Latin dance workout craze launched its own clothing line in 2007?

Zumba

Jazzercise

Masala Bhangra

Feel The Heat

Which store, known for its giant furniture warehouses, sold an estimated 150 million Swedish meatballs in 2013?

Pottery Barn

Living Spaces

CB2

IKEA

Can you name the national dog breed of France?

Bichon Frise

Poodle

Shih Tzu

French Bulldog

What cup size, meaning “thirty” in Italian, was introduced by Starbucks in 2011 for 31-ounce cold beverages?

Venti

Venta

Trenti

Trenta

Which animal kills the most humans annually?

Bees

Mosquitoes

Sharks

Alligators

Which losing team did billionaire Mark Cuban buy for 285 million in 2000, and eventually lead to an NBA championship in 2011?

Dallas Mavericks

Cleveland Cavaliers

Boston Celtics

Golden State Warriors

In 1998, Jeff Bezos made a deal with British film fan Col Needham to purchase what movie-related site for $55 million?

Fandango

Rotten Tomatoes

IMDb

Plex TV

Arachibutyrophobia is the feat of what sticking to the roof of your mouth?

Soft bread

Gummies

Peanut butter

Medicine

What country is the world’s largest coffee bean producer?

Brazil

Tanzania

Mexico

Hawaii

What alcoholic spirit is found in all four of these cocktails: Gimlet, Negroni, Aviation, and Tom Collins?

Gin

Vodka

Whiskey

Cognac

Poutine, often referred to as Canada’s national dish, consists of french fries, gravy, and which other ingredient?

Mustard

Tortilla chips

Parmesan shavings

Cheese curds

What was the main dish at medieval Christmas feasts?

Turkey

Peacock

Cornish Hen

Roasted Pig

“Eating good in the neighborhood” is the slogan of what restaurant chain?

Texas Roadhouse

Chili’s

TGIF

Applebee’s

Agar-agar is a jelly obtained by boiling several kinds of what edible food stuff together?

Seaweed

Horse hooves

Tapioca

Collagen

A delicacy in Scotland, haggis is served inside what animal part?

Crab’s shell

Pig’s trotter

Sheep’s stomach

Cow’s intestine

Often used to add a flavorful boost to sushi, wasabi has a flavor very similar to what?

Horseradish

Worcestershire sauce

Jalapeno

Mayonnaise

Steak tartare is served in what way?

Grilled

Raw

On the bone

Sliced

From what country did Prawn Crackers (Krupuk) originate?

Indonesia

China

The Philippines

Japan

In what country was The Lord of the Rings trilogy shot?

New Zealand

Croatia

Iceland

Ireland

In Thor: Love and Thunder, what is the name of Thor’s new axe called?

Bowcaster

Jarnbjorn

Thunderstrike

Stormbreaker

Which Tropic Thunder character was based on the combination of Russel Crowe, Daniel Day-Lewis and Colin Farrell?

Tugg Speedman

Kirk Lazarus

Les Grossman

Alpa Chino

In 2015, which European city hosted the first Lollapalooza concert outside of the USA?

Barcelona

Berlin

Madrid

Budapest

Which of New York City’s five boroughs is the most populous, with over 2.5 million people in 2014?

Queens

Brooklyn

Manhattan

Staten Island

Can you name the capital of Mexico?

Mexico City

Oaxaca

Chihuahua

Havana

Who is Taylor Swift’s “We Are Never Getting Back Together” allegedly about?

Harry Styles

Taylor Lautner

Jake Gyllenhaal

John Mayer

Which country is renowned for its traditional dish of sushi, consisting of vinegared rice, fish, and various toppings?

China

South Korea

Japan

Vietnam

In which European city can you savor authentic paella, a popular rice dish typically cooked with saffron and various ingredients such as seafood, chicken, or vegetables?

Paris, France

Madrid, Spain

Rome, Italy

Athens, Greece

If you’re seeking the world’s best-known bagels with cream cheese and lox, which city in the United States is your prime destination?

Los Angeles, California

Chicago, Illinois

New York City, New York

Miami, Florida

Which Southeast Asian country is famous for its rich and flavorful red and green curry dishes made with coconut milk, herbs, and spices?

Indonesia

Malaysia

Thailand

Singapore

In which South American country can you indulge in a traditional barbecue known as “asado,” featuring a variety of grilled meats and sausages?

Brazil

Argentina

Colombia

Peru

If you enjoyed this list of trivia questions with answers and would like to see more of this content, let me know in the comments!

Read More:

Family Road Trip Trivia: 130+ Fun Middle School Trivia Questions (Perfect For Any Age)

85 Fun Multiple-Choice Travel Trivia Questions (With 2 Picture Rounds!)

45 Must-Have Road Trip Essentials For Your Next Road Trip

The Ultimate Car Camping Packing List: 35 Must-Have Items

10 Books That Will Inspire You To Travel

​https://travelswithelle.com/other/multiple-choice-trivia-questions/ 

Posted: 4/1/24 | April 1st, 2024

Madrid has it all: incredible food, world-class museums, stunning architecture, non-stop nightlife, and picturesque winding streets. The vibrant capital of Spain, here you can spend your days exploring iconic landmarks like the Prado Museum and your evenings luxuriating over glasses of wine in bustling tapas bars.

While my first visit to the city was a bit ill-fated (I was sick and spent most of the time in bed), I’ve been able to visit many times since then.

Over the years, I’ve stayed at lots of hotels here. To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best hotels in Madrid:

1. Petit Palace Puerta del Sol

This three-star hotel is housed in a 19th-century building a few steps from Puerta del Sol, Madrid’s central plaza. It’s a bargain given its amenities and location. The overall design is minimalist but cozy, with a warm color palette of salmon and peach tones. In the mornings, there’s an expansive buffet breakfast that caters to all diets with a wide variety of pastries, cold cuts, and fresh fruit.

The soundproofed rooms are compact (to be expected in such a central location) but optimize the space with flatscreen TVs, Wi-Fi, parquet floors, small desks, and minibars. The rooms are are minimalist with no real décor to speak of, though they’re clean and comfortable. Some rooms have a lot of natural light, while others are windowless, so if that matters to you, be sure to book a streetside room for a lovely view. The recently renovated bathrooms have rainfall showers with excellent water pressure.

Book here!
 

2. Radisson RED Madrid

Located in Madrid’s Art Triangle (home to the city’s world-famous art museums), this four-star hotel is just steps away from lush green spaces like the botanical gardens and Retiro (the city’s main park). The hotel is very chic, with pops of their signature red color and fun artwork throughout. There are a ton of amenities here too, including a co-working space, fitness center, and three eateries designed by a Michelin-starred chef. The breakfast buffet is a bit pricey for Madrid, but it’s quite varied, including eggs, pastries, and fresh juice. I love the fact that it starts at 6:30am too (a lifesaver if you’re an early riser, as you won’t find anything else open for hours).

The rooms have a beautiful contemporary design, with artwork on the walls and ample amounts of natural light. Each room has a flatscreen TV, work desk, Nespresso machine, AC, safe, and a spacious bathroom. There are also family rooms and rooms with a massive private terrace available too. It’s an excellent place to stay if you plan on taking the high-speed rail elsewhere in Spain, as you’re right across from the main train station.

Book here!
 

3. L& H La Latina

This aparthotel is located in La Latina, the culinary epicenter of Madrid. There are a variety of apartment types to choose from, including ones for small groups and ones with private terraces. All kitchenettes have a mini fridge, cooktop, microwave, toaster, Nespresso machine, and a little table to sit at. There’s no breakfast on site, but there are plenty of grocery stores and eateries just steps away.

The rooms and suites are painted in a calming sage green color, with minimalist décor and artwork on the walls. All apartments have a lot of natural light and feature a flatscreen TV, wardrobe, and AC. The large bathrooms have complimentary toiletries and showers that have excellent water pressure. Overall, this is a great centrally located hotel perfect for travelers who want extra space or access to a kitchen.

Book here!
 

4. Hotel Catalonia Goya

Set in a 19th-century building, this four-star hotel is right on Calle de Goya, one of the city’s most exclusive shopping streets. Despite being on such a busy street, the hotel is tranquil inside, with a plunge pool, fitness center, and soundproofed rooms. The hotel also offers a nice breakfast spread with fresh bread, pastries, cold cuts, fruit, and there’s also a cook preparing eggs and pancakes (there’s a machine for making your own freshly squeezed orange juice too).

The sizable rooms are clean and stylish, with a contemporary design and parquet floors. All rooms have a desk, smart TV with Chromecast, minibar, coffee maker, and safe. The bathrooms are spacious too and have hairdryers as well as large showers with good water pressure. While you’re walking distance to many attractions, the hotel is also right next to a metro station that can take you across the city in just a few stops. I think the value of what you get here is phenomenal.

Book here!
 

5. Hotel Indigo Madrid–Princesa

The Indigo is an excellent mid-range accommodation option in Argüelles. The three-star property boasts a gym and a continental breakfast spread that includes cold cuts, pastries, fresh fruit, and tea/coffee. I really like the welcoming, colorful design of the rooms and the unique, nature-inspired artwork on the walls.

All room types have a large smart TV, minibar, Nespresso machine, and desk. The beds are comfy with extra plush duvets, and the bathrooms are large with nice walk-in showers, hair dryers, and comfy bathrobes. The hotel is walking distance to main sights like the Templo de Debod and Royal Palace, but you’re also just steps from a metro station so it’s easy to get across the city too.

Book here!
 

6. VP Plaza España Design

This five-star hotel has a strong focus on art and design, with a private art collection made up of more than 300 original works by over a dozen artists. It’s located right on Plaza España (one of the city’s main plazas). The 12th-floor Gingko rooftop bar offers spectacular views over the entire city, great cocktails, and live music every week. The hotel restaurant serves an excellent breakfast buffet and there’s also a plunge pool, sauna, luxurious spa, and fitness center.

There are nine different types of rooms and suites to choose from here (including rooms with a private terrace, and others that have an elliptical and stationary bike). All are spacious and soundproofed, decorated with curated artwork and fresh flowers. In-room amenities include a minibar, desk, Nespresso machine, Bluetooth speakers, flatscreen TV with Chromecast, and 24-hour room service. The beds are super comfy and there are both blackout blinds as well as a pillow menu so that you can get a good night’s sleep. The bathrooms are large too, with a towel warmer, complimentary luxury toiletries, rainfall shower with excellent water pressure, and a separate bathtub. You won’t want for anything here!

Book here!
 

7. Four Seasons Madrid

This five-star hotel is spread across seven historic buildings in the center of the city. I especially love the grand two-story lobby with its marble floors, ornate chandeliers, and intricately carved woodwork. While you’re just steps away from all of the city’s main attractions, there’s tons to do at the hotel too, with a beautiful indoor pool, spa, and 24/7 fitness center. There are several eateries here, including an award-winning cocktail bar and rooftop bar/restaurant. The breakfast buffet is fantastic as well.

The rooms here are fit for royalty, decorated in cream tones with contemporary art on the wall and lots of natural light from the large windows. All rooms include an array of furniture, including a chaise longue, desk, dining table, and amenities like a coffee maker, flatscreen TV, and minibar. The marble bathrooms are just as elegant, furnished with a deep bathtub and separate shower, thick terry bathrobes and slippers, and luxurious toiletries. There’s also a nightly turndown service as well as room service available 24/7. If you want to splurge, this is the hotel for you.

Book here!

***

The sunny capital of Spain has so many things to see and do (and eat!) that you’ll be able to hard-pressed to fit them all in. But no matter how long you visit for, be sure to pick one of the hotels above. Do that, and you’ll have an unforgettable stay in one of the greatest cities in Europe!

The post The 7 Best Hotels in Madrid appeared first on Nomadic Matt’s Travel Site.

​https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/best-hotels-madrid/