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Spring Break with the Family: From Grand Canyon Trails to Hawaiian Waterfalls

 By Katelyn Mayer | PA & MD REALTOR® | Iron Valley Real Estate of Central PA

When I’m not helping families buy or sell homes, I’m focused on building meaningful memories with my own. This past Spring Break 2024, my fiancé Brad and our two kids, Peyton (11) and Paisley (9), took off on an unforgettable adventure — first to Arizona for rugged beauty and snow-covered surprises, then to Hawaii for whales, waterfalls, and way too much chocolate (no regrets).

Here’s a look at our journey — what worked, what we’d skip next time, and why a solid plan (and a flexible attitude) makes all the difference.

✈️ Flight Times

  • Depart Philadelphia (PHL): March 22, 2024, 5:25 PM → Arrive Phoenix (PHX): 7:52 PM

  • Depart Phoenix (PHX): March 24, 2024, 11:06 AM → Arrive Kona (KOA): 2:44 PM

  • Depart Kona (KOA): March 29, 2024, 9:44 PM → Arrive Los Angeles (LAX): March 30, 6:06 AM

  • Depart Los Angeles (LAX): March 31, 2024, 6:50 AM → Arrive Philadelphia (PHL): 2:50 PM

🚙 Arizona Adventure: Grand Canyon & Snowfall

We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Flagstaff after flying into Phoenix. On March 23, we took a half-day rental of two Polaris RZR off-road vehicles and explored the Grand Canyon with Grand Canyon Rentals Adventures — a pricey but thrilling way to see this natural wonder.

Later that night, snow surprised us in the desert town of Flagstaff! It was magical but also meant an early and careful drive to the airport the next day.

🌋 Hello Hawaii: Volcanoes, Heat Vents & Diverse Climates

After flying into Kona, we settled into our two-bedroom condo at Kings’ Land by Hilton Grand Vacations. Hawaii blew us away — not just with its beauty but with its fascinating geography.

Did you know Hawaii has 10 different climate zones? From tropical beaches to alpine deserts and rainforests, it’s incredible how varied the island is.

During our Ultimate Circle Island Explorer Tour, we saw:

  • Volcanoes and steaming heat vents, reminding us this island is still very much alive and changing.

  • Lush waterfalls tucked into green valleys.

  • A visit to Hapuna Beach State Park, one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches. Keep in mind there’s a small entrance fee to access the park, but the white sand and crystal-clear water made it worth it.

🐋 Whale Watching, Luau & Wildlife

We went whale watching on March 26 with Ocean Encounters, spotting a mother and baby whale preparing to migrate. It was one of the trip’s highlights.

Later that day, we attended the Island Breeze Luau — a fun experience, though a bit overpriced for our family’s tastes.

On the island roads, the kids spotted wild goats and weasels wandering near the roadside — a cute reminder of how much wildlife thrives here.

🏖️ More Big Island Highlights

The Ultimate Circle Island Explorer Tour also included:

  • Kona coffee tasting

  • Sampling Big Island Candies

  • Visiting the Captain Cook Memorial, located on land still technically owned by the UK

Cost: $1,333.59 for the full-day tour, which we thought was worth it for the convenience and variety.

🏠 Heading Home

After a relaxing pool day on March 29, we caught our red-eye flight from Kona to Los Angeles. Brad caught the flu in LA, so we rested up at a nearby hotel before flying back home to Philadelphia on March 31.

💡 Realtor Takeaways: Travel Tips from a Busy Mom

  • Plan for weather surprises (hello, snow in Arizona!)

  • Book tours and rentals early

  • Pack flexibility for sick days or unexpected changes

  • Explore the diverse climate zones if you visit Hawaii — it’s more than just beaches!

  • Bring a camera for wildlife — goats and weasels included!

Thanks for following along on our adventure! Whether you’re dreaming of a second home in paradise or just want travel tips from a busy mom, I’m here to help you navigate the journey.

Katelyn Mayer
📍 PA & MD REALTOR® | Iron Valley Real Estate of Central PA

Contact Me
📧 katelynm359@gmail.com
🌐 kmayer.ironvalleyrealestate.com
📱 Cell: 717-446-1640 | ☎️ Office: 717-563-0008
🏢 121 Towne Square Dr. Suite 203, Hershey, PA 17033

I am not an attorney licensed to practice law in this Commonwealth. I am not allowed to draft legal records, give advice on legal matters, including immigration, or charge a fee for those activities.

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