Blog All Posts »

Bellagio Fountain View King Review (510 sq ft): Day/Night Show + $0 Stay Hack (2025)

August 30, 2025 / Sandtastic Travels / Travel Blog

Full 4K walkthrough of the Bellagio Fountain-View King (510 sq ft): Lake Como–inspired bathroom, smart drapes & lighting, minibar with personal shelf, day & night fountain shots — plus how we paid $0 via a status-match combo. Bellagio Fountain View King is the classic “watch the show from your room” pick—here’s our 4K room tour, real fountain-view tips, and how we paid $0 to experience the Bellagio Fountain View Room. 4K Room Tour ^^^ – The quickest way to feel the room: bathroom → closet/lounge → minibar shelf → smart controls → fountain reveal (day & night). Quick Facts 🎥 Just here for the Fountain-View King tour and ready to book? 🏨 Check Live Bellagio Rates & Offers | See All Bellagio Rooms BOOK BELLAGIO FOUNTAIN-VIEW KING ❓ Questions? Jump to the FAQ ↓ Room Walkthrough We start in the beautiful bathroom for our Bellagio Fountain View King room tour. Be sure to hang out until the end to see the breathtaking views! Bathroom (Lake Como-inspired) Marble in neutral tones, oversized shower, dual sinks, lighted mirror, dedicated makeup mirror. High-end without the bling. If you are considering staying at the Bellagio, the Bellagio Fountain View King is highly recommended for its unparalleled experience. The views from the Bellagio Fountain View King are fantastic both day and night. Many guests rave about the Bellagio Fountain View King for its luxurious amenities and breathtaking sights. Sustainability touches you actually notice Air circulation improved ~180%, LED lighting, eucalyptus furnishings, double towel bar to reduce laundering, and organic carpeting. Closet & Lounge Nice-sized walk-in closet, in-room safe, plush bathrobes. Lounge corner with marble table + seating for coffee/laptop breaks. Entertainment Center & Minibar (with a rare bonus) A fully stocked minibar plus a personal shelf to store your own drinks/snacks. Uncommon in Vegas and genuinely useful. Smart controls One-touch lighting and automatic drapes—time your reveal with the fountain music for a full cinematic moment. Plush King Bed & Lounge Area At 510 square feet, the Bellagio Fountain-View King feels genuinely spacious. The bed wall is the showpiece: a tall upholstered headboard framed by classic moulding and warm Art-Deco–style sconces that make the room feel polished at night (and perfect for timing a fountain-show reveal). The Bellagio Fountain View King room is well-known for providing a stunning backdrop of the iconic fountains. Not only does the Bellagio Fountain View King offer luxury, but it also provides an unforgettable experience. The king mattress leans medium-plush—supportive without being firm. We slept great (side and back sleepers). Matching nightstands on both sides give you real surface area for phones and glasses, and the outlets are within easy reach so you’re not fishing behind furniture. Across from the bed, the seating zone is more than an afterthought: a curved velvet loveseat with a round table for coffee or light laptop work, plus a round stone-top café table by the window with a task lamp. If you like breakfast with a view, this is your spot. Smart lighting and automatic drapery controls let you set the room to movie-night dim or throw the drapes open with one button for the big “fountain reveal.” Highlights Pro tips The View (Day & Night) This is the star. Sunrise shimmer, blue-hour color, late-night shows—you can watch multiple performances without the crowds. Pro tip: turn room lights low to reduce reflections on glass for photos/video. In-Room Dining (24/7) Quality was high and pricing was more reasonable than expected for a 5-star property at the center of the Strip. How We Paid $0 (What Worked for Us) Once we Tier Matched Caesars Diamond Plus to MGM Gold, the $249.44 we would have had to pay in Resort Fee’s was waived and our Stay was $0.00 ! 🙂 Bellagio vs Other Fountain-View Options Rates, Fees & Ways to Save FAQ Bellagio Fountain-View King Room Tour (2025): Day & Night Fountain View + How We Paid $0 Rooms & Views Stay Well Rates & Fees Requests & Booking General Rooms & Views How big is the Bellagio Fountain-View King room and what are the key features? The Fountain-View King is about 510 sq ft with one king bed. Highlights include a Lake Como–inspired marble bathroom with oversized shower and dual sinks, a 55-inch TV, automatic drapery & lighting controls, lighted makeup mirror, built-in closet with safe, plush robes, and a generously stocked minibar. Our room also included a personal shelf in the minibar for your own items. Which floors or tower give the best fountain view? For a wider panorama of the lake and Strip, many guests prefer higher floors; for dramatic water-height perspective, some like lower teens. When you book the Fountain-View category, you can request a room near the centerline facing the lake. Requests are subject to availability at check-in. Stay Well What’s the difference between Fountain-View King and Stay Well Fountain-View King? Both are ~510 sq ft and face the fountains. Stay Well adds wellness features such as air purification and circadian-friendly lighting while keeping the same layout and view category. Rates & Fees What is Bellagio’s resort fee and what does it usually include? At the time of writing, Bellagio’s published resort fee is $55 plus tax per room per night and typically includes Wi-Fi, local/long-distance calls, gym access, streaming access via in-room TV, and other amenities. Exact amounts and inclusions can change—always confirm at booking. Requests & Booking Can I guarantee a specific floor or view when I book? You can guarantee the view by booking the Fountain-View category. Specific floors and exact vantage (e.g., centerline) are requests noted on your reservation and assigned based on availability at check-in. Calling the hotel before arrival and arriving earlier in the day can help. General Is the Fountain-View King worth it vs. a Cosmopolitan terrace or Caesars fountain-view? If your priority is the closest, classic view of the show from inside the room, Bellagio wins. Cosmopolitan’s terraces are unbeatable for outdoor viewing ambience, while Caesars can offer value. We’ve stayed in all three—choose

Bellagio Fountain View King Review (510 sq ft): Day/Night Show + $0 Stay Hack (2025) Read More »

2025 West Coast Road Trip Guide — 5 States, 15 Epic Drives

June 25, 2025 / Sandtastic Travels / Travel Blog, Roadtrip Driving Tour

Sedona 4 K scenic drive along SR-179: crimson buttes, Chapel of the Holy Cross overlook, and Red Rock Scenic Byway vibes in under an hour—perfect teaser for sunrise or sunset itineraries. Road Trips hit the headlines in 2025. Deloitte’s Summer Leisure Travel Survey shows 53 % of Americans plan to travel and stay in paid lodging this season, averaging 3.1 trips—up sharply from 2.3 last year. With quick-hit getaways of three nights or fewer topping wish-lists, use the ultimate 2025 West Coast Road Trip Guide — 5 States, 15 Epic Drives across WA, OR, CA, NV, & AZ, plus Deloitte-based summer travel trends and 2-hour flight escapes info below. Roadtrips and two-hour flight escapes are the summer’s hottest currency. In this post you’ll learn: Washington: Loop Ruby Beach to Seattle via Seabrook, Lake Quinault, and Tacoma—your coast-to-Cascades game plan. Oregon: Master Hwy 101 from Astoria’s Victorian docks to Crescent City’s redwoods, spotting whales off Depoe Bay en route. California: Cruise through Monsterous Redwoods, wander Fern Canyon, and circle Lake Tahoe’s alpine rim for sunset alpenglow. Nevada: Pair Lake Tahoe’s east-shore drive with Virginia City’s Wild-West streets, then blaze Reno-to-Vegas desert miles. Arizona: Trace red-rock SR-179 through Sedona, roll Phoenix to Maricopa, and stroll Tombstone’s storied boardwalks. This video-first guide maps 15 epic Road Trips across The West Coast from North to South: Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, and Arizona, and will help you find the top 2025 west coast road trips summer travel trends. Cruise the entire Lake Tahoe perimeter in stunning 4K—2 hours of pure nature bliss.Start in Stateline, NV and follow Highway 50 north, passing Zephyr Cove, Incline Village, Emerald Bay and more. Wind through California’s forests and Nevada’s shores for a transformative, immersive tour you can enjoy from home in full 4K. From redwood cathedrals and Oregon capes to California Natural Wonders down to Nevada’s desert canyons and Sedona’s vortex-rich byway—each linked to a two-hour gateway airport and sprinkled with miles-and-points tricks so you can swap spreadsheets for switchbacks any weekend you choose. See all of our Road Trips Videos! FAQ 2025 West Coast Road Trip Guide — 15 Epic Drives & Summer Travel Trends Washington Oregon California Nevada Arizona Washington What highlights does the Washington Coast & Cascades section cover? It covers a loop from Quinault Beach Resort on the Olympic Peninsula, up the mist-cloaked Pacific coast past Seabrook to Ruby Beach and the Tree of Life. Then Heading to Tacoma’s waterfront, finishing with sweeping views of the Seattle skyline. How many days should I allocate for the Washington Coast & Cascades loop? If time is limited, 2–3 days covers the full loop—Day 1: Ocean Shores → Ruby Beach → Tree of Life ; Day 2: Seabrook → Tacoma; Day 3: Seattle highlights. Or you can drive around the entire peninsula- Ideally, each area deserves at least a full day (or more) depending on your budget and pace, so extend to 5–7 days for a more in-depth experience. Oregon Which stops are featured on the Ultimate Oregon Coast & Hwy 101 road trip? The route hits Astoria’s Victorian waterfront, Cannon Beach’s Haystack Rock, Lincoln City, Depoe Bay’s whale-watching rocks, and runs south to Crescent City at the California border. How many days should I plan for the Oregon Coast & Hwy 101 journey? If squeezing it into a short weekend, 1–3 days allows quick stops and scouting for future visits. For a relaxed trip, dedicate a full day to each major stop—plan 5–7 days depending on your time and budget to truly explore beaches, trails, and seafood. California What scenic drives are included in the California Northern Redwoods & Coastal Scenic Drives section? Explore towering redwoods along the Trees of Mystery and Fern Canyon, then head east into the Shasta-Trinity National Forest before looping the Lake Tahoe Alpine circuit. Where are the best lodging options near the Northern Redwoods & Lake Tahoe circuit? Stay near Crescent City for redwoods, Redding for Shasta access, and South Lake Tahoe for alpine lodging; book early during summer months. Nevada What experiences are covered in Nevada’s section? From predawn launches at the Great Reno Balloon Race and luxury Player Spa Suite tours in downtown Reno to historic Virginia City mining-town walks, plus scenic drives through Red Rock Canyon and past Hoover Dam. When is the Great Reno Balloon Race, and how can I include it in this itinerary? The race takes place each September; plan your Reno visit accordingly and book hotels early to catch the morning mass launch events. Arizona What drives and highlights are featured in the Arizona Red-Rock Drives section? Sedona’s SR-179 Red Rock Scenic Byway past Bell Rock and Chapel of the Holy Cross, boardwalk and saloon tours in Tombstone, then a loop from Phoenix through Ak-Chin casino resorts. Which restaurants or saloons are must-visit on the Arizona Red-Rock Drives? Don’t miss Sedona’s Elote Cafe, Tombstone’s Crystal Palace and the historic Bucket of Blood (now Longhorn Restaurant), and the Oasis Lounge at Ak-Chin for post-drive cocktails. Still need help? Contact us. Summer 2025 is the season of “quick-hit adventures.” Deloitte’s new Summer Leisure Travel Survey finds that 53 % of Americans will vacation this season (up from 48 % in 2024). Travellers now average 3.1 trips yet keep 41 % of them to ≤ 3 nights, and 22 % plan to drive or road trip instead of fly to save money. For a lot of our Road Trips we get a Rental Car: Need wheels? Grab our 10 % off Rental Cars deal while it lasts. 53 % of Americans plan a summer trip (up from 48 % in 2024). Average of 3.1 trips per traveler. 22 % will drive instead of fly to save money. Still, 45 % expect their longest getaway to last a full week—proof that well-planned local getaways and short flights dominate 2025’s wish-lists. NEW 2025 Summer Travel Trends! This summer, Americans are hitting the road in record numbers – and for once it’s not just the millennials. Many people are opting for

2025 West Coast Road Trip Guide — 5 States, 15 Epic Drives Read More »

Atlantis Bahamas Aquaventure Leap of Faith Slide

Coral at Atlantis Bahamas Review 2025 ‘Free’ Stay + Aquaventure

June 20, 2025 / Sandtastic Travels / Travel Blog, Hotels & Suites, Travel Hacks

Your ultimate Atlantis Bahamas guide: ‘Free’ Coral stay, Aquaventure tour & Caesars Rewards hack—all in one video. Want to stay at Atlantis Bahamas for “free”? Almost… A Magical Caesars Rewards loophole cuts $500 Coral rooms to ‘Free’—just $78.90 fees—and unlocks Aquaventure’s 141-acre water-park 20+ slides, 1-mile Rapids River, 14 pools, 5 Beaches, & marine exhibits that cruise guests pay $129 – $255 + VAT (tax) per person for a day-pass. See the Full Coral at Atlantis Bahamas Review 2025 ‘Free’ Stay + Aquaventure Guide Below: Or if you prefer the Royal? See our Full Video Guide HERE – Full Royal tour + “free-stay” walkthrough: Imperial Double Queen Water View room, remodeled bath, Aquaventure highlights, fee breakdown, and the step-by-step Caesars Rewards method. Free Hotels are amazing, but you don’t just get a hotel room, you get access to Paradise Island and the Best Waterpark in the Caribbean! In this post you’ll learn: How a $500/night Coral room drops to $78.90 in fees. Exactly what’s inside Aquaventure Water Park and why day-pass prices matter. The 4-hour casino-play rule + family-friendly ways to hit it. Fast-track hacks: 500 free Tier Credits & plus 5×/10× multiplier days. Status-match shortcuts (Wyndham ► Caesars) to skip gambling altogether. 🔥 Unlock 500 Free Tier Credits Instantly! Use our Referral Link , pick up your Caesars card, and we will both earn 500 Tier Credits (status credits toward Caesars Rewards levels)—no play required! That’s an instant 10% boost toward Platinum and one step closer to a free Atlantis Bahamas stay! 🎁 Claim Your Tier Credits We’ve pulled off this Paradise Island Dream three years running! (and it’s even cheaper for our Royal stay next) Below you’ll find the Exact Steps, a fresh King Terrace 4 K room tour, and every 2025 fee broken down so you can copy the deal on your own tropical escape—and score an Atlantis “free” stay just on taxes & fees. Amazing Savings! $2100 for 3 Nights Compared to $236.70 We Paid! 🤯 ‘Free’ = room comped; resort fee $64.90 + gratuity $14 = $78.90 per night All with one simple Caesars Rewards perk! – Jump to our Fast-Track Tier hack ↓ 🎥 Just here for the Coral room tour and ready to book? 🏨 Book The Coral at Atlantis Now | Compare All Towers BOOK CORAL ROOMS ❓ Have questions? Jump to our FAQ ↓ Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis Paradise Island Before we show you the Coral Hotel, let’s show you the best part of getting this room for free—access to Aquaventure! What Is Aquaventure? Atlantis’ 141-acre EPIC waterpark is free for guests—and it’s got everything from 60ft shark-tube slides to a 1-mile Rapids River. As far as the eye can see, Magical Water Playgrounds Await! This is one of our favorite places on earth. Here’s the cliff-notes: In Aquaventure you’ll find: 20+ high-octane waterslides, including the famous 60-ft Leap of Faith slide. A mile-long Rapids River, weaving you through tropical foliage. 5 miles of sugar-white sand beaches—perfect for relaxing afternoons. 14 resort pools—from serene grottoes to adults-only cabanas. 20+ swimmable spots with marine life: sharks, rays, and tropical fish. Kids’ Splash Zones, fountains, and family-friendly cabanas. 12 hydration stations throughout Aquaventure for easy refills. See why Aquaventure’s five sugar-white beaches are the ultimate Caribbean playground in this full walking tour. Tour all five Aquaventure beaches— Atlantis Beach, Paradise Lagoon Beach, Cove Beach, Paradise Beach, and Dolphin Cay Beach. Aquaventure is included for any stay at Atlantis Hotels—unlimited water-park access is a huge value on its own! Welcome to Aquaventure, Atlantis’s 141-acre waterscape of pure adrenaline and chill—included free for all overnight guests! You will not believe how amazing this place is, we have been here 3 times and have our 4th scheduled! This place still blows us away and we can’t WAIT to go back 🙂 Would you try this? Atlantis Bahamas Aquaventure Leap of Faith Water Slide 60 ft drop then through a pool of Sharks! 🦈 #shorts Atlantis #waterslide #aquaventurewaterpark #atlantisbahamas #waterslides #waterpark #sandtastictravels #travel #adventuretravel #4K Challenger Slide at Atlantis Bahamas – Can you win? Race your friends on this epic Aquaventure challenge! 🏁 #shorts #AtlantisBahamas #AquaventureWaterpark #waterslide #waterpark #sandtastictravels #travel #adventuretravel #4K Whether you’re racing down slides, snorkeling with stingrays, or simply lounging beachside, Aquaventure is a self-contained aquatic metropolis—thrill rides and chill vibes all day long. Want to Explore Nassau and the Bahamas? Check prices for Paradise Island & Nassau water adventure travel tours here → Atlantis Bahamas Paradise Island Tours & Ticket Deals Ready to plan your water-park day? Book Atlantis now → Why Pick The Coral at Atlantis Bahamas? Outstanding value: Coral room rates often top $500+/night, yet our three-night Caesars comp folio came in at just $78.90/night (fees only—initial incidental hold of $150–$250 is refunded within 72 hours post-checkout.) —and that covers unlimited Aquaventure access (normally $190 pp/day!). Note: incidentals holds (typically $150/night or $250 if you waive room-charge privileges) are released ~72 hrs after checkout. Jump to the full cost breakdown → On top of a FREE Room at The Coral at Atlantis, The Best part is you also get access to Aquaventure Water Park, and all that comes with it, as part of your stay! A huge value, especially when you see what non-guests can pay during peak season. See our full The Coral at Atlantis Review and Aquaventure Waterpark Highlights Below! Atlantis Bahamas Map – The Coral Hotel See the Official Atlantis Bahamas Map – HERE Marina Village – Great Food and Amazing Yachts The Coral sits closest to Marina Village for late-night pizza, souvenir shopping, and ATMs, yet enjoys a quieter pool scene than the neighboring Royal Towers. Arrival • Lobby • Check-In Basics After Atlantis’ $150 M refresh, rooms feature new furniture, carpet, and beachy palettes, making The Coral the perfect sweet-spot between budget and fresh-renovated style. Breeze beneath the porte-cochère and enter a lobby framed by twin dolphin fountains and mosaic floors. Credit-card hold: The Coral at Atlantis pre-authorizes $150 per night for incidentals if you

Coral at Atlantis Bahamas Review 2025 ‘Free’ Stay + Aquaventure Read More »

Kapalua to Kihei Road Trip Maui 4K Drive - Kihei to Kapalua

Ultimate Maui Road Trip Itinerary: Kihei → Kapalua & Iao Valley

June 14, 2025 / Sandtastic Travels / Travel Blog, Roadtrip Driving Tour

Welcome to our Ultimate Maui Road Trip Itinerary, the definitive Maui road trip itinerary for anyone craving epic 4K scenic drives, easy beach walking tours, and lush valley hikes. From sunrise strolls on Kihei’s golden shores to cliff-side panoramas on HI-30 up to Kapalua and the emerald peaks of Iao Valley, this guide covers every mile—complete with insider tips on the best Maui scenic drives and hidden beach gems along the way. 12-second Maui road trip teaser from Kapalua to Kihei—cliffs, beaches & palm-lined drive. In this quick 12-second short, we zoom along Maui’s West Coast HI-30 from Kapalua to Kihei, highlighting jaw-dropping coastal vistas and hidden pull-outs. For the full 4K drive itinerary and detailed tips, check our blog post below! Where We Stayed: Kohea Kai & Our Kihei Base We kicked off our Maui adventure with a one-night stay at Kohea Kai Maui, a budget-friendly oceanfront boutique hotel in Kihei featuring updated rooms, a pool, hot tub and private lanai just steps from the sand . Dive into Maui’s low-key Kohea Kai Hotel: pool, beach access & room reveal. In this honest hotel tour, we explore Kohea Kai’s garden courtyard, renovated rooms with tiny ocean-view balconies, pool, hot tub, and beachfront location—perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a true taste of Maui’s coastal charm. FAQ Ultimate Maui Road Trip Itinerary: Kihei → Kapalua & Iao Valley Timing Vehicle Requirements Safety & Regulations Permits & Reservations General Timing What is the best time of day to start a Maui scenic drive? Most guides recommend departing between 7 AM and 10:30 AM—early enough to beat the crowds but late enough for daylight views; starting before dawn offers solitude, while later departures can mean more traffic on popular roads. Vehicle Requirements Do I need a special vehicle to drive Maui’s scenic routes? No 4WD is necessary for the paved scenic byways we cover (like HI-30 S); standard 2WD cars handle speeds up to 55 mph, though narrow bridges and winding stretches call for cautious, slow driving. Safety & Regulations What speed limits and road conditions should I be aware of in Maui? Speed limits top out at 55 mph on highways, with most rural roads posted at 25–45 mph; pavement is generally good, but expect tight curves, single-lane bridges, and occasional rush-hour congestion around 7–9 AM and 4–6 PM. Permits & Reservations Are reservations or permits required for popular Maui state parks like Waiʻānapanapa? Yes—many Hana Highway parks (e.g., Waiʻānapanapa State Park) require timed-entry reservations booked in advance; check the Hawaii State Parks site before you go. General When is the best time of year to visit Maui for good weather and fewer crowds? The sweet spot is April through September: you’ll enjoy warm temperatures, minimal rainfall on leeward shores, and steadier hotel rates before the winter high season kicks in. What are the top scenic drives to experience on Maui? Must-drive loops include the West Maui Circle Drive, HI-30 S North Loop Coastline Road, Kahekili Highway, and—and although not part of this guide—the classic Hana Highway remains the island’s most iconic drive. Still need help? Contact us. Pro Tip: lock in the cheapest wheels, rooms & tours with our partner deals (paid links). After that first night, we settled into an Airbnb condo a block from Kamaole Beach Park II—waking up to swaying palms and endless ocean breezes, the perfect launchpad for every 4K drive and seaside stroll across the island . Kihei Beach & Coastline Loop The Kihei coastline loop is the perfect sampler of South Maui’s sun-drenched beaches and panoramic sea vistas. You’ll cruise HI-30 past golden shorelines, driftwood-strewn coves and sugar-pine backdrops. Then punctuate your drive with two immersive walking tours: a 12-minute exploration of Kamaole Beach Park II’s tide pools and a quick 60-second taste of Napili Bay’s turquoise crescent. It’s a seamless introduction to Maui’s best shoreline experiences. Kihei to Kapalua – Scenic Driving Tour (HI-30 S) And Back! Clifftop panoramas on Maui’s HI-30, from sun-soaked Kihei up to Kapalua. Hawaii Route 30, also known as the Honoapiʻilani Highway is an amazing stretch of coastline, see full details here- Hawaii Route 30 (Honoapiʻilani Highway) on Wikipedia This 46-minute Maui road trip itinerary winds along lush sugar-pine forests and sapphire bays, with off-the-beaten-path pull-outs and historic sugar-mill ruins to explore—one of West Maui’s top drives according to GoHawaii . Kamaole Beach Park II Walking Tour This 12-minute beach walking tour captures tide-pool snorkeling, family-friendly waves and a welcoming local vibe—TripAdvisor ranks Kamaole II among Kihei’s best beaches . Golden sands & coconut-lined paths at Kihei’s beloved Kam 2. Napili Bay Beach Walking Tour Turquoise shallows & swaying palms at Napili’s crescent bay. In just 60 seconds, discover why Napili Bay’s calm, crystal waters and crescent shape make it a local favorite—and a must-visit on any Maui travel guide . Then back to Kihei with breathtaking views! Immerse yourself in Maui’s West Coast: lush hills, ocean vistas, and hidden pull-outs on HI-30 S. Join us for a 4K, 28-minute scenic road trip from Kapalua to Kihei along HI-30 S. Wind through rugged coastal cliffs, lush tropical greenery, and charming seaside pull-outs as we highlight Maui’s hidden gems and photo-worthy vistas. West Maui Scenic & Iao Valley Drive Trading beach for rainforest, the West Maui drive to Iao Valley State Monument reveals a dramatic shift from coastal plains into mist-shrouded peaks. This 26-minute route winds through banana stands and verdant gorges, culminating at the iconic ‘Iao Needle’ spire. Follow it up with a leisurely 0.6-mile stroll through lush gardens and historic battlegrounds—an ideal way to immerse yourself in Maui’s natural and cultural heritage. Kihei → Iao Valley State Monument Drive Winding through thick rainforest en route to the ‘Iao Needle’. This 26-minute Iao Valley scenic drive climbs from coastal plains into emerald peaks, passing roadside banana stands and photo-ready pull-outs—an essential addition to any Maui road trip itinerary . ʻĪao Valley State Monument Official Site Iao Valley State Monument Walking Tour Check out their site for full

Ultimate Maui Road Trip Itinerary: Kihei → Kapalua & Iao Valley Read More »

Tacoma Waterfront Scenic Drive | Historic, Scenic, and Beautiful

May 26, 2025 / Sandtastic Travels / Travel Blog, Cities, Roadtrip Driving Tour

Few drives pack as many postcard vistas as the Tacoma waterfront scenic drive. Join us on our Postcard Tacoma Waterfront Scenic Drive | Historic, Scenic, and Beautiful – Stadium District mansions, Ruston Way promenade, Point Ruston village, Point Defiance. Starting beneath the turreted façade of Stadium High School, we weave past century‑old mansions, roll onto Ruston Way’s shoreline promenade, glide through the resort‑inspired Point Ruston village and finish among old‑growth cedars inside Point Defiance Park—all while Commencement Bay flashes blue and snow‑capped Mount Rainier crowns the horizon. FAQ Tacoma Things To Do and Info Vehicle Access Parking Facilities Best Time to Visit Vehicle Access Is Five Mile Drive open to vehicles? The outer (scenic) loop of Five Mile Drive is permanently closed to cars while a new multi-use trail is built; pedestrians and cyclists are still welcome. Parking Where can I park near Stadium High School? Visitor parking is on North 2nd Street; the campus garage opens to the public after 3 p.m. on school days. Is parking along Ruston Way free? Yes—street stalls are free from a half-hour before sunrise until a half-hour after sunset. They fill fast on sunny weekends. Do I have to pay to park at Point Ruston? Point Ruston garages charge about $4 per hour after a brief grace period; some shops validate up to 90 minutes. Facilities Are restrooms available along the route? Public restrooms are open at Les Davis Pier on Ruston Way and at the newly-renovated Owen Beach inside Point Defiance Park. Best Time to Visit Best time to see Mount Rainier? Clear spring and summer mornings (April – September) give the sharpest views; afternoon haze can obscure the peak. Still need help? Contact us. Pro Tip: lock in the cheapest wheels, rooms & tours with our partner deals (paid links). Tacoma waterfront scenic drive 1 Hour! Stadium District – Mansions & “Hogwarts High” Ruston Way Waterfront – Seals, Ships & Sound Views A two‑mile boardwalk joins parks, piers and patios. Watch harbor seals at Dukes while having amazing fresh seafood (recommend the Parmesan Crusted Halibut), or fuel up at one of the many local restaurants. Point Ruston – Tacoma’s New Waterfront Village Once a smelter site, Point Ruston is now boutiques, a public market and salts‑pray views. 90‑min garage parking is free. 🏨 ➜ Stay on the Sound: Check Hotel rates in Tacoma Point Defiance Park & Owen Beach – Rain Forest Meets Ocean Point Definace Park is a large urban but heavily forested park. The 760-acre park features Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, the Rose Garden, Rhododendron Garden, gorgeous beaches, hiking trails, and so much more Return Leg – Ruston Way Sunset & Schuster Parkway Dash Grab final photo ops as golden light paints Commencement Bay pink, then merge onto Schuster Parkway for quick access to I‑5. Tacoma Travel Deals Here ➜ Craving more drives? Watch our full 4K Road Trip playlist What do you think of Tacoma? Such a beautiful city, it has truly come a long way. Comment your thoughts below and follow us for more Pacific Northwest travel Videos!

Tacoma Waterfront Scenic Drive | Historic, Scenic, and Beautiful Read More »

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort Review: Room, Pool & Casino Stay

February 2, 2025 / Sandtastic Travels / Travel Blog, Hotels & Suites

Experience Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort in Maricopa, AZ! Get a full room tour, pool review, dining options, and casino highlights. Is it worth the stay? Maricopa, Arizona may not be the first place that comes to mind for a resort getaway, but just 30 minutes south of Phoenix, Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort & Casino offers a tropical oasis in the middle of the Sonoran Desert. With its spacious rooms, vibrant casino, and a surprisingly large pool area, this Caesars Rewards property is a solid choice for travelers looking for a mix of relaxation, gaming, and Arizona’s natural beauty. In this review, we’ll give you a full breakdown of our stay, including: ✅ A detailed tour of the Resort Premium Pool View King Room✅ A look at the massive pool area & night swimming experience✅ Dining options, amenities, and casino highlights✅ The one MAJOR issue we encountered during our stay✅ Why this resort is (or isn’t) worth booking for your next trip FAQ Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort Rooms Pool Dining Casino Amenities Location Nearby Attractions Family-Friendly Best Time to Visit Overall Value Rooms What types of rooms are available at Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort? Harrah’s Ak-Chin offers several room categories, including the Resort Premium Pool View King (450 sq ft), Resort Luxury Rooms, and tower rooms added during the 2011 and 2018 expansions. Most rooms feature a king bed, a private balcony, a work desk, a mini fridge, and a separate tub & shower. Some overlook the pool, while others afford mountain or desert vistas. What’s included in the Resort Premium Pool View King room? The 450 sq ft Resort Premium Pool View King includes a king bed with plush pillows, a large accent chair & footrest, a mini fridge, an in-room safe, a work desk, and a bathroom with a separate tub & shower. Its private balcony has two chairs and a small table overlooking the pool area. How good are the balcony views? Balcony views can vary. Some balconies look directly over the pool, while others face walls or side wings. If a clear pool vista is important, request a mid-tier floor rather than the lowest level, as lower balconies sometimes face adjacent structures. Pool What are the pool hours and amenities? The pool is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. Night swimming is allowed after 8 PM (with swim lights on). Amenities include a large main pool, rentable cabanas (rental fee applies), plentiful lounge seating, a swim-up bar, and a shallow “family zone” ideal for children. What is the pool towel policy? Harrah’s Ak-Chin enforces a strict one-towel policy at the pool: each room key can check out only one towel per day. Staff will not provide additional towels—even for family or friends—so guests often bring their own towels to avoid shortages. Dining Which dining options are available on site? On-site restaurants and bars include: Chop Block & Brew: Upscale steakhouse with craft beers and specialty steaks. The Café: Casual coffee shop serving pastries, breakfast sandwiches, and grab-and-go items. Agave’s Restaurant: Mexican/American grill for casual lunch and dinner. Dunkin’ Donuts: Coffee, breakfast sandwiches, and donuts. There’s a good range of quick-service and upscale options to fit most budgets. Casino Amenities What casino amenities does Harrah’s Ak-Chin offer? The casino floor spans roughly 40,000 sq ft and features over 1,150 slot machines, plus table games such as blackjack, roulette, and craps. There’s also video poker, a Caesars Sportsbook, keno, and bingo. While lively, it’s smaller than a typical Las Vegas Strip property—ideal for a more intimate weekend getaway. Location Where is Harrah’s Ak-Chin located, and how far is it from Phoenix? Harrah’s Ak-Chin is located at 15406 N Maricopa Road, Maricopa, AZ 85139 (Ak-Chin Indian Community). It sits approximately 39 miles (63 km) south of downtown Phoenix—about a 30-minute drive via I-10 E under normal traffic conditions. Nearby Attractions What nearby attractions and activities are there? Nearby activities include: UltraStar Ak-Chin Circle Entertainment Center: Bowling, movie theaters, restaurants—just 0.5 mile away. Ak-Chin Southern Dunes Golf Club: Championship 18-hole course about 3 miles from the resort. Desert and mountain hiking: Several trailheads offer easy to moderate hikes. Historic downtown Maricopa: Local shops, farmers’ market, and casual eateries within a 5–10 minute drive. You’re also within about an hour of major Phoenix-area attractions like South Mountain Park and Papago Park. Family-Friendly Is Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort family-friendly? Yes. Although there’s a casino, the resort’s pool area includes a shallow family section, and hotel wings are separate from the gaming floor. Casual dining and the entertainment center next door make it comfortable for families with children. Best Time to Visit When is the best time to visit for weather and sunsets? Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the most comfortable daytime temperatures (around 70–90 °F). Summers regularly exceed 100 °F. Sunsets are spectacular year-round; during monsoon season (July–September), you’ll often see dramatic clouds and brief desert storms that enhance the evening sky. Overall Value Is Harrah’s Ak-Chin worth the stay? Overall, yes. Spacious rooms, a large pool with evening swim hours, reasonably priced cabanas, several dining choices, and an on-site casino make Harrah’s Ak-Chin a compelling getaway south of Phoenix. Bringing your own towels avoids the one-towel policy frustration. Final rating: 4 / 5. Still need help? Contact us. Pro Tip: lock in the cheapest wheels, rooms & tours with our partner deals (paid links). 🏨 First Impressions: Check-In & Resort Atmosphere From the moment you enter Harrah’s Ak-Chin, the open and spacious lobby sets the tone. On one side, you’ll find the casino buzzing with excitement, and on the other, the hotel check-in area, where friendly staff make the process smooth and hassle-free. Over the years, we’ve stayed here multiple times, and the resort has maintained its reputation as a laid-back, comfortable getaway in Arizona. But is it still worth it? Let’s dive into the details. 🛏️ Room Tour: Resort Premium Pool View 1 King – 450 Sq. Ft. For this visit, we stayed in the Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort Premium Pool View 1

Harrah’s Ak-Chin Resort Review: Room, Pool & Casino Stay Read More »