This article was originally published on Islands.com By Tammy Grey July 1, 2025 5:00 pm EST
While Seattle may be closely linked to coffee and almost daily rain, the city also has a wide variety of outdoor activities for both residents and tourists to enjoy. People in the Washington city love being outside so much that a report sponsored by RVshare found that Seattle is the “most outdoor-friendly” large city in the U.S. Cities with at least 1 million residents were ranked according to many criteria, including how close the city was to national and state parks, forests, and trails; how often the parks were visited; and how many days people engaged in outdoor activities.
This West Coast destination has breathtaking mountain vistas, plenty of waterways, and scenic beauty at every turn; it is no surprise that people want to get out and explore their amazing city. Washington has plenty of places perfect for outdoor adventures, including the turquoise water of Lake Diablo in the Cascade Mountains. Visitors to Seattle can fly into the city’s Sea-Tac airport or arrive by car via I-90 from the east or I-5 if traveling north or south.
Hiking in Seattle
Hiking is a popular pastime in Seattle, and for good reason. The city has almost 120 scenic trails (99 of them considered “easy”) in Seattle, perfect for hiking, running, or biking. You can venture through historical areas or see more of the beauty the city has to offer. One of the more popular trails, the Discovery Park and Lighthouse Loop, is a 4.4-mile dog-friendly trail that is labeled an “easy” hike. Hikers enjoy viewing wildlife, particularly birding, as well as getting spectacular views of the West Point Lighthouse and both the Cascade and Olympic mountains.
Looking for a more challenging hike? Try the Cable Line Trail to West Tiger #3; this 3.1-mile out-and-back, pet-friendly trail fits the bill. Hikers will gain just over 2,000 feet in elevation, and the steep trail is wooded until you reach the logged summit. Your efforts to reach the top will be rewarded with stunning views of lakes and Mount Rainier (and a bench where you can relax before heading back down the trail). When in Seattle, be sure to also hike in the Billy Frank Jr. Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge, found on Puget Sound, to see many diverse habitats and several species of migratory birds.
Fun on the water in Seattle
Between the saltwater Puget Sound and the freshwater Lake Washington, Seattle is home to almost 200 miles of shoreline. There is an abundance of water-based activities for people to enjoy. Puget Sound is home to some amazing wildlife-viewing opportunities — sightings of harbor seals, sea lions, porpoises, and three species of whales (orcas, humpback, and gray) happen all year long. Transient pods of orcas visit the area regularly, and southern resident Orcas can be spotted near the San Juan Islands from May until October. You can watch for these amazing creatures from the shore, a guided kayak tour, or one of the city’s many sightseeing boats.
Lake Washington (the second-largest lake in Washington) is the perfect place to try out some water sports. Seward Park on the lake’s south side has numerous swimming areas and offers several places to launch a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard. Prefer to let someone else guide you? Go inner tubing or waterskiing and let a boat pull you around the lake. Wakeboarding and wake surfing are also great ways to spend time on the lake, and lessons are available for those new to the sports. For a less-crowded Lake Washington experience, visit Road End Beach in Yarrow Point.
Summer is right around the corner, and it is time to get outside and soak up the sun. The weather is great, the kids are out of school, and it’s the perfect time to seek adventure and make memories.
The key to a successful trip begins before you pack your suitcases in the car. These travel essentials will help you have a great vacation.
Note: This author received samples for this article.
Bedgear’s Storm Performance travel pillow is a must-have for travelers. The carrying case easily slides onto the handle of your luggage, making moving it through the airport a breeze. Not only does it prevent a buildup of heat, it feels cool to the touch. You won’t believe how much better sleep you will get with this pillow.
Traveling and summer weather can both take a toll on your skin. Rehydrate and refresh your skin with the Hydrator in Chief by Pietro Simone. His blend of antioxidant and hydration components work together to replace and maintain a proper level of hydration while botanical extracts work to improve the surface of your skin. Pack the Hydrator in Chief on your next trip; your skin will thank you.
It can be easy to overlook self-care when you’re traveling and on the go. Zion Health has products with natural fragrances that allow you to pamper yourself after a day of fun and adventure. The Bergamot Rose Clay Bar Soap and Bath Bomb will both leave your skin feeling (and smelling) amazing, while the White Rose Lotion helps rehydrate skin after spending time in the sun.
Packing for a trip becomes much easier when you have the Nomatic Travel Pack. Perfect for short trips, it can be used as a backpack or briefcase. It’s made from water-resistant materials, has pockets for water bottles and RFID storage. Out of packing space? The pack can expand by 50%, so there’s room for last-minute additions.
Vacations can be ruined by sleepless nights leading to groggy days. “Do Not Disturb” sleep supplements by Life Happns can help you get restful sleep while traveling. The capsules help muscles relax, reduce stress, and help reduce the effects of caffeine on your sleep. Do Not Disturb helps you relax after a busy day, allowing you to get a restorative night’s rest and play hard the next day.
The Duracell 2000 Lumen Tri-Power Lantern is a powerhouse and should always accompany you when you travel. Since it uses three different power sources (solar, batteries, and a charger), you will never have to worry about losing your light source. It doubles as a power bank allowing you to charge your phone or tablet when there isn’t an electrical outlet in sight.
Quantum Energy Square
Half snack and half energy bar, these delicious squares of chocolatey goodness have the same amount of caffeine as a cup of coffee. These plant-based bars are made with organic green coffee beans and whole foods. The caffeine is absorbed slowly, so you won’t experience the jitters and crashes normally associated with energy drinks. The individually wrapped bars are easy to pack for travel and can help relieve the symptoms of jet lag.
I tried the Quantum Energy Squares out for myself. They were tasty, easy to eat on the go, and most importantly, gave me a much-needed energy boost to get me through a day of traveling.
Anyone who has ever tried to apply sunscreen to their child will love the Sunny Stik. Despite our best efforts, most of us get more sunblock on ourselves than the children. The Sunny Stik will change all of that. It’s super easy: squeeze sunscreen onto the foam tip and then swipe to apply quickly and (most importantly) evenly.
COR Surf Packing Cubes offer compression to save space in your suitcase; you can also save money at the airport by using a carry-on instead of checked luggage. The cubes are three-and-a-half inches thick when unzipped; when compressed and zipped up, they are just 2 inches thick. You can choose from beautiful designs in small, medium, or large packing cubes. The four-pack includes all three plus a rectangular packing cube.
The LectroFan Micro 2 Portable Bluetooth Sleep Sound Machine will help you relax and fall asleep quickly after a day of non-stop fun and memory-making. Drift off while enjoying the sound of ocean waves, white noise, or several other options. Connect your Bluetooth to play your favorite songs or connect to your phone to place a call. You will wonder how you ever traveled with this versatile product.
Get your vacation off on the right foot by getting your hands on these wonderful travel products. All the items below easily fit into a carry-on bag, which just happens to be on the list as well.
Please note: this author received samples to use for this article.
Getting good sleep is essential when you’re traveling. Nobody wants to be sluggish while they’re trying to enjoy their vacation. Saatva has the perfect solution: silk eye masks. The masks are made with pure Mulberry silk, which helps keep your skin smooth and hydrated. The weighted eye mask reaches from your forehead to your cheekbones and is a bit larger than the non-weighted option (which is still oversized). Both come in Sand and Slate; you can’t make a bad choice.
Packing for a trip isn’t the most enjoyable activity. Make it easier by getting “minis” from FACTORFIVE. They have anti-aging cream, nourishing silk, regenerative serum, and eye cream. The cap twists up, so you don’t have to worry about them accidentally opening and making a mess. Best of all, their small size makes them perfect for weekend trips.
Illness can ruin a vacation; be sure to protect yourself by using Power Mist hand sanitizers. Not only do they decrease your odds of getting sick, but they come in a variety of scents. Rainwater is my favorite; it smells amazing. They are TSA-approved, so be sure and toss one in your carry-on suitcase.
Grabbing a shower is a great way to relax after a day of fun activities. Using Herbal Zen shower steamers is a great to take a shower. You can pick from essential oil-packed blends like SleepyTime, Cold Kicker, Morning Energy. and several others. They are individually wrapped, so it’s simple to throw them in your carry-on bag.
Strength x Beauty has travel kits designed specifically to protect your hair during summer travel. The products are just the right size for packing in your luggage; all kits are contained in a waterproof travel bag. Formulated for a variety of hair types, you are sure to find your perfect fit. “Try me” sizes are also available at a special price.
Regardless of where you travel, you are going to want to take pictures and videos of your destination to relive later. Sometimes to get the perfect shot, you have to lean and twist around. The Snap 4 Luxe phone grip reduces the odds that you will drop your phone while taking pictures. It also functions as a phone stand to make viewing easier while traveling.
The “ULTI” bag will make traveling more comfortable. No other bag features a built-in pad just perfect for extended layovers and long flights. The bag checks all the boxes: beautifully styled, keeps everything organized and close at hand, and even has a pocket designed for a water bottle. You will wonder how you ever traveled without it.
Juvea’s travel-size pillow will be your best friend on long car rides or flights. It provides much-needed support for your head and neck. The pillow has an open-cell structure so air moves through easily making it feels cooler in the warmer months and warmer in the winter. Best of all, the pillows are organic, cruelty-free, vegan, and made in America.
Parents of small children will love using this versatile monitoring device while driving. The wireless camera system allows you to see what your child is doing while still looking at the road ahead. You can snap pictures and record videos to save special moments. It is easy to remove from the car, so you can use it inside your house or while visiting the homes of family and friends.
Original Press Release issued by Sanaz Fakhimi, The ACE Agency
Experience Waterfront Adventure at Campland on the Bay and Mission Bay RV Resort Memorial Day Weekend
Featuring Family-Friendly Activities, Campland Rocks Live Entertainment Series, Newly Added Campsites & More
May 24-26, 2024
Campers enjoy watersports rentals on Mission Bay. Photo courtesy of Campland on the Bay.
San Diego, CA (April 25, 2024) – Campland on the Bay and Mission Bay RV Resort, the iconic resort campgrounds nestled in San Diego’s Mission Bay, are thrilled to announce the summer return of family-friendly activities and the Campland Rocks live entertainment series beginning Memorial Day weekend, May 24-26, 2024. The 147newly added campsites atMission Bay RV Resort offer beachfront RV and tent accommodations on Mission Bay, along with resort-style amenities.
“With our two beautiful waterfront locations in Mission Bay, we offer unique experiences tailored to different kinds of camping preferences,” said Jacob Gelfand, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of Terra Vista Management. “Campland provides vibrant and family-friendly entertainment, while Mission Bay RV Resort offers peaceful surroundings and spacious, new campsites. Camp overnight to enjoy all of our activities and amenities or just come for a day to enjoy the public beaches, the Campland Cantina and our watercraft rentals.”
Pickleball players pose with Friendly the Wolf at Campland’s sports court. Photo courtesy of Campland on the Bay.
Pickleball players pose with Friendly the Wolf at Campland’s sports court. Photo courtesy of Campland on the Bay.
Campland Programming
Guests can dive into the Campland Activities & Eventscalendar, offering a diverse range of entertaining activities for guests of all ages. Kids will love the arts and crafts sessions, bubble soccer, pickleball, dodgeball and ping pong tournaments, capture the flag and other games. Adults will enjoy bingo, bean bag and horseshoe tournaments. For those looking to relax and stay centered, Campland offers complimentary yoga classes held on the Central Park lawn every Monday and Thursday at 10:30 a.m. For the full calendar of events, visit Campland.com/activities-events.
Campland Rocks Live Entertainment Series
The Campland Rockslive entertainment series returns this summer to the Central Park Stage every weekend at 7 p.m. through the end of September. Starting May 24, sway to smooth yacht rock tunes with Band Overboard. On May 25, enjoy country music by Branded, followed by electrifying rock music with Black Rock Candy on May 26. Bring your blankets and camping chairs to the Central Park Stage for exclusive performances under the stars, only for Campland and Mission Bay RV Resort guests. For more information, visit Campland.com/campland-rocks-schedule/.
Campland Cantina
Located just steps away from the Central Park Stage, the Campland Cantinaoffers delicious daily specials guaranteed to please the whole family, including pizza, tacos, burgers and fresh salads. Adult beverages including craft cocktails, beer and wine are also available. Every morning, guests can enjoy made-to-order breakfast burritos, pancakes and delicious breakfast sides. Dine on the patio while enjoying views of the bay or take your meal to-go. Then, after a day of fun in the sun, cool off with a trip to the Ice Cream Parlor and enjoy a variety of ice cream flavors, toppings, shakes and sundaes.
Additionally, Campland Cantina’s happy hour promotion runs Monday-Friday from 4-6 p.m., featuring $2 off lite bites and $1 off cocktails, draft beers and wine. Indulge in Taco Tuesday through May 28 every Tuesday starting at 4 p.m. until sold out, where you can savor TJ Street Style Tacos with your choice of carne asada, pollo asada, carnitas or pescado frito, available at two for $7.
Daytime Adventures at Campland Marina and VIP Amenities
Make the most of the premium bayfront location with watersports rentals at Campland Marina. Choose from pedal boats, kayaks and pontoon boats for a leisurely excursion, or opt for more thrilling experiences on ski boats, wave runners and stand-up paddleboards from Adventure Water Sports. For more information, visit campland.com/watercraft-rentals.
Guests can also explore the beauty of Mission Bay on two wheels with beach cruiser rentals from Campland Marina. Cruise along 12 miles of scenic trails on bikes, or navigate the parks in style with golf cart and surrey cart rentals. For more information, visit campland.com/bike-cart-rentals. Additional Campland amenities include a convenience market, coffee counter, fitness center, sports court, dog park, playground, game room, skate park, two heated pools and spas for ultimate relaxation.
New campsites at Mission Bay RV Resort North. Photo courtesy of Mission Bay RV Resort.
New campsites at Mission Bay RV Resort North. Photo courtesy of Mission Bay RV Resort
Discover the Serenity of Mission Bay RV Resort
For those seeking a tranquil and peaceful camping experience, Mission Bay RV Resort offers 147 spacious, new campsites nestled in the serene Northeast corner of De Anza Cove. With full hookups, restrooms and showers available, along with the newly renovated pool and clubhouse, guests can indulge in a relaxing camping getaway surrounded by stunning views of Mission Bay.
Positioned steps away from the sports court, which offers basketball and pickleball, as well as the pool and spa, these spacious sites are ideal for campers seeking the perfect balance of relaxation and recreation. Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Mission Bay Public Golf Course and Practice Center just across the street. Additionally, all of Campland’s activities and amenities are accessible to guests at Mission Bay RV Resort, just a short stroll or bike ride away over the Mike Gotch Memorial Bridge.
For guests who are new to camping or do not own an RV, Campland and Mission Bay RV Resort have a directory of local RV rental companies listed on their websites that will deliver an RV to your site, hooked up and ready to enjoy. RV arrangements must be made directly through the rental companies. Tent camping is also available at Campland and Mission Bay RV Resort. To book a reservation or to learn more about resort amenities, please visit Campland.com and MissionBayRVResort.com.
Campland on the Bay®, San Diego’s favorite resort campground, offers affordable waterfront RV and tent camping along the shores of Mission Bay in San Diego. Campland has repeatedly been voted Best Staycation Location by San Diego Union-Tribune readers. For over 50 years, Campland has provided family-friendly fun, drawing campers back year after year and bringing generations together to create memorable experiences. The resort offers a wide range of amenities, activities and recreational opportunities onsite, including watersports, skateboard park, and a cantina, just steps away from a scenic public beach. Campsite offerings include full hook-ups with beachfront or nature preserve views in shady or sunny areas.
Mission Bay RV Resort™, San Diego’s iconic RV campground provides an affordable waterfront destination, the ideal basecamp to relax and explore the beautiful city.
Overlooking the tranquil shores of De Anza Cove, scenic RV sites are steps from the sandy, public beach and calm, waveless waters. Mission Bay RV Resort offers showers, restrooms, laundry facilities, full hook-ups and a newly renovated pool and clubhouse with complimentary access to additional resort amenities and activities at nearby sister property, Campland on the Bay. Mission Bay RV Resort recently unveiled 147 new premium-sized campsites on the northern end of De Anza Cove.
Do you want to be surrounded by crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches, and warm, tropical climates while relaxing on your vacation? If so, Hawaii should be at the top of your list.
Kris Labang, the owner of Hawaii Wedding Photography, discusses Instagram’s most popular Hawaiian beaches, and why you should choose them for your vacation or wedding.
Rank
Number of Hashtags
Beach Name
Island
1
218,430
Lanikai Beach
O’ahu
2
206,995
Hanauma Bay
O’ahu
3
161,448
Kailua Beach
O’ahu
4
84,422
Hanalei Bay
Kaua’i
5
76,845
Ka’anapali Beach
Maui
6
53,822
Po’ipu Beach
Kaua’i
7
34,642
Hapuna Beach
Big Island
8
30,307
Makena Beach
Maui
9
21,727
Ko Olina Beach
O’ahu
10
20,040
Tunnels Beach
Kaua’i
11
17,236
Ho’okipa Beach
Maui
12
16,421
‘Anini Beach
Kaua’i
13
10,308
Punalu’u Beach
Big Island
14
7,131
Kawela Bay
O’ahu
Lanikai Beach
Lanikai has been described as the most beautiful beach on O’ahu. It’s only forty-five minutes from Honolulu, and ideal for snorkeling, swimming, and kayaking. Kris says, ‘In fact, it’s so beautiful that superstar Rihanna often comes here on vacation, staying at the Paul Mitchell Estate.’
If you get married here, Kris suggests spreading some rose petals on the beach beforehand. However, parking is limited, and the local amenities are sparse. Also, you’ll need to purchase a beach permit for your wedding beforehand.
Aerial view of Lanikai Beach. Photo via Shutterstock.
Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay was shaped by volcanic forces millions of years ago, but it’s now a peaceful marine sanctuary. If you arrive between December and April, you may catch a glimpse of humpback whales in the bay, which is a center for conservation and a goldmine for keen photographers.
Kris advises, ‘Wedding planners should encourage attendees to watch the sunrise before – or perhaps during – the festivities. There are also plenty of scenic walks where you could take pictures as a newly married couple!’
Barack Obama grew up in Honolulu but rented a beach house here during his presidency. Superstar couple Beyonce and Jay-Z also own a local private estate here.
Some great places to get married include the Male’ana Gardens and Ko’olau Ballrooms and Conference Center. There are a wealth of venues to choose from around Kailua Beach, which shows just how great this destination is for weddings.
Kris says, ‘People who love food, mai tais, and live music will enjoy the Tahiti Nui restaurant and bar. If you watched the movie ‘The Descendants’ you’ll have seen George Clooney in this very bar!’
At Hanalei Bay, vacationers and wedding visitors can explore and swim, or join the kayakers, stand-up paddle boarders, and boaters. Put safety first, however, and only venture out when the waters are calm.
Kris says, ‘Dwayne Johnson and Lauren Hashian got married in Hawaii, and so did Miles Teller and Keleigh Sperry. Whether you follow suit or simply come for a vacation, you’ll understand why Instagrammers so love these beaches.’
With over 20 years of experience shooting weddings in Hawaii, Kris knows how to get that perfect shot every time for his clients. Based in Honolulu, Hawaii, Kris captures the couple’s most special moments on the beautiful Hawaiian Islands.
Kris Labang is the company owner of Hawaii Wedding Photography.
The Methodology
Several travel websites (including The Lonely Planet) were consulted to find notable beaches in Hawaii. They were then searched for on Instagram to find the hashtags associated with each beach. Their number of hashtags was recorded and then ranked in a table for easy reference.
Recently, I was fortunate enough to visit Myrtle Beach, South Carolina and we had a blast. We spent hours at Broadway on the Beach. First up was a trip through Ripley’s Aquarium. The new penguin exhibit was the first stop, and it turned out to be the highlight of the aquarium. I had no idea they could swim underwater as quickly as they did. They all had name tags and apparently know their names. The people beside us called one of the penguins by name, and he charged at the glass in front of them.
The viewing tunnel was amazing. The sharks were so close you could count their teeth.
Far less scary were all the colorful fish darting about the tank and the sea turtle who was just taking his time moving around.
After the aquarium, we were off to WonderWorks. We played with bubbles, tried our hand at trivia, and tried out the tornado simulator. We also enjoyed their 6D motion ride. A little shopping completed our time at Broadway on the Beach.
Our hotel was perfectly located on Ocean Boulevard at the Pavilion. The ocean beckoned from the balcony and out the front door of the hotel was a street lined with shopping, food and attractions, all within walking distance. We walked up and down Ocean Boulevard, stopping at several souvenir shops. We went to Ripley’s Believe it or Not Odditorium, where there was no shortage of creepy exhibits. Next up was the Sky Wheel; the views from the top were amazing.
It was too cold to get in the water, but we did go down to the beach and walked in the sand. It was great to listen to the waves crash from the balcony.
All in all, it was a fun trip, and I am glad I got to see Myrtle Beach for myself.
TammysTravelTales 