Creative Retreat in Hawaii with @TheDIYMommy

Dates

Oct 19–23, 2023

Group Size

10–20 Travelers

Duration

5 days, 4 nights

Activity Level

Exploration

About This Trip

On this 5-day retreat in Honolulu, you'll find creative inspiration while crafting on the beach and shopping the local market with DIY expert Christina Dennis of @TheDIYMommy. You'll also enjoy some adventures: ride an ATV through the gorgeous mountain landscape, and snorkel through reefs to marvel at the beautiful coral & wildlife. You'll be staying just minutes from Waikiki Beach, so you'll be able to feed your creative soul by relaxing on the sun-kissed beach and enjoying the tropical weather.
$2,750USD
$2,850USD
Oct 19–23, 2023
5 days
Trip Closed

Meet Your Host

The DIY Mommy
The DIY Mommy

Christina Dennis is DIY & decor expert who loves to turn everyday items into something special. She runs her blog and YouTube channel, The DIY Mommy, to inspire others to embrace their inner makers. With a knack for repurposing and upcycling, she’s been sharing her DIY tips and tricks online since 2009.

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Trip Activities

  • Morning Snorkel Adventure

  • ATV Kualoa

Included in Your Trip

  • Double occupancy in 3-star hotels

  • Local Guide throughout trip

  • All city transfers

  • Arrival airport transfer (until 5 pm on first day)

  • Departure airport transfer (morning of last day)

Not Included

  • Flights

  • Food and alcohol (except as noted)

  • Visas and travel insurance

  • Airport transfers outside of designated times

  • Tips for Guides

What's included by Your Host

Crafting on the Beach

Informal Gathering
Join Christina on the beach as we make a simple craft and chat about all things DIY & decorating!

Find Creative Inspiration at a Local Market

Informal Gathering
Join Christina at a local market as we enjoy lunch together and find creative inspiration from local shops and artisans.

Itinerary

*All durations are approximate

Day 1

Info

Aloha and welcome to Hawai'i! Take your airport transfer into Waikiki and get to know your group.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer from Hawaii International Airport (HNL), between 2 pm and 5 pm.

dinner

Welcome dinner with your group is included.

Park Shore Waikiki Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 1/4

Overnight in Honolulu

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Day 2

Info

It's your first full day in Oahu, so get up early to enjoy the sunshine! After breakfast, you'll transfer to a nearby reef for a short snorkeling excursion. Afterward, relax at the beach or explore downtown Waikiki.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Morning Snorkel Adventure

2 Hours

Marvel at the fish and coral, and perhaps spot a sea turtle on this snorkeling excursion to a nearby reef.

Crafting on the Beach

Join Christina on the beach as we make a simple craft and chat about all things DIY & decorating!

Park Shore Waikiki Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 2/4

Overnight in Honolulu

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 3

Info

Set off to Kualoa Ranch, a wonderland of jagged green ridges and mountains, and the film site for Jurassic Park. You'll have the afternoon to relax at the beach or venture into Honolulu.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

ATV Kualoa

2 Hours

Discover the natural beauty of Kualoa Ranch on a self-drive ATV tour of Ka’a’awa Valley. Following a Guide, take turns driving through the lush valley in an open-air 4WD vehicle to check out filming sites from Hollywood movies such as "Jurassic Park." Plunging over streams and through the mud to reach remote areas, this adventure is a great way to see more of Oahu outside the resort and beach areas.

Park Shore Waikiki Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 3/4

Overnight in Honolulu

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 4

Info

Your final day in Oahu is yours to enjoy! Relax on the beach or visit the shops and town of Waikiki. In the evening you’ll head out with the group for a farewell dinner, toasting the memories made over the past days.

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

dinner

Farewell dinner with your group is included.

Find Creative Inspiration at a Local Market

Join Christina at a local market as we enjoy lunch together and find creative inspiration from local shops and artisans.

Park Shore Waikiki Hotel (or similar)

Accommodations may vary based on availability or group size, but no matter what, you can expect the same comfort and quality.

Night 4/4

Overnight in Honolulu

Show DetailsHide Details
Day 5

Info

All good things must come to an end, but only until our next adventure!

breakfast

Breakfast at the hotel is included.

Airport Transfer

1 Hour

TrovaTrip will provide one transfer to Hawaii International Airport (HNL) on the last day.

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Physical Activity Level:Exploration

These trips require some movement, but slow and steady is the name of the game. Maybe a mid-length walking tour or at-your-pace sightseeing. No rush.

Cancellation Policy

We get it—life happens. Here's how cancellations work depending on where you're at in the process:

Spot Pending

100% refundable
Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.

Spot Confirmed With 91 or More Days Before Your Trip

Partially refundable + credit towards a future trip
You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment.

Spot Confirmed With 90 or Fewer Days Before Your Trip

Non-refundable
At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure-Invest in Peace of Mind

We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events—from illness to emergencies—that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

Join 30,000 Travelers Who've Booked With TrovaTrip

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Flexible Payment Options

Reserve your spot with just 25% down, pay in full, or apply for a payment plan at booking. Your dream trip, your way.

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FAQ

Traveling with TrovaTrip

What's it like to travel on a Trova Trip?

Trova Trips are curated group travel experiences designed to help you see the world, meet new people, and connect over shared interests. Each trip is hosted by a community leader you know and trust, and run by professional local Operators who handle the logistics. Expect meaningful experiences, authentic activities, and a like-minded group to share it all with.

What's the difference between the Host, the Operator, and Trova?

Great question! Each plays a key role in bringing your experience to life:

  • The Host is your community leader who brings the group together, fosters connection, and perhaps leads a workshop or two. They're there to bring the vibes, not the logistics. That's the Tour Operator's job.
  • The Operator is the professional travel company that runs the trip on the ground. They handle it all—accommodations, local Guides, activities, and safety. Every Operator we partner with is licensed, insured, and vetted to deliver high-quality group travel.
  • TrovaTrip is the platform who connects it all. We help design the trips, partner with Hosts with Operators, and support you before and during your journey to ensure everything runs smoothly.

In short: The Host brings the vibe, the Operator runs the trip, and we make it all happen. Read more about who does what here.

I'm nervous to book. How can I feel more confident?

First, let us say—it's totally understandable, and you're not alone! Travel can feel intimidating, but we built Trova to take the guesswork out of group travel and earn your trust every step of the way:

    • Every trip is run by licensed Tour Operators with vetted local Guides.
    • Hosts are there to foster connection, meaning you'll arrive solo but never feel alone.
    • Itineraries are clearly outlined so you know what to expect, including activity level, example accommodations, and what's included.
    • Our team is available to support you pre-departure, and Operators—plus your local Guide—are on the ground to assist during the trip. And rest assured, all our Operating partners are trained in crisis management.
    • We always recommend travel insurance for extra peace of mind, whether you're traveling with Trova or solo. It can cover medical issues, lost luggage, or even cancellations.

We know it takes trust to book a trip with new people, and we're here to make sure you feel ready, supported, and excited!”

Can I book solo?

Absolutely! As of 2025, almost 84% of TrovaTrip Travelers go solo. (And yes, we may be a little biased, but we think group travel is one of the best ways to meet new people!) You'll have your own bed and the option to book a private room on most trips. Plus you'll be traveling with others who are just as excited to explore and connect.

What if I need to cancel?

We understand that life happens. Our cancellation policy is designed to provide flexibility while balancing the logistics of group travel:

  • Spot pending100% refundable. Not confirmed yet? No worries. You can cancel at any time for a full refund.
  • Spot confirmed with 91 or more days before your tripPartially refundable + credit towards a future trip. You'll receive a future trip credit for the amount of your down payment (minus a $100 cancellation fee per Traveler). This trip credit is valid for one year from the date it is issued. Additionally, any payments made beyond the original 25% down payment will be refunded to your original form of payment. 
  • Spot confirmed with 90 days or fewer before your tripNon-refundable. At this point, all payments are non-refundable because your experience is already in motion behind the scenes. By this time, our operating partners will be working with local businesses to secure your accommodations and finalize your activities.

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED: Protect Your Adventure–Invest in Peace of Mind
We strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance with trip cancellation coverage to safeguard your investment. With travel insurance, you're covered in case of unexpected events–from illness to emergencies–that could affect your plans. Life is unpredictable, but your dream trip doesn't have to be.

After booking, you'll receive a personalized recommendation for coverage tailored to your trip. For full details on our cancellation policy, please refer to our Terms & Conditions.

What's included in the trip cost?

Most trips include accommodations, daily activities, ground transportation, some meals, and a dedicated local Guide. Because Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Each trip page breaks it all down for you.

Will I have free time?

Yes! While we pack in incredible experiences, most itineraries include built-in free time so you can relax, wander, or check out personal must-sees.

What do the activity levels mean?

Every trip has a physical Activity Level from 1 to 5 so you can find the right fit for your travel style:

  • Level 1 – Relax + Unwind: Minimal movement (spa days, beach lounging, local markets)
  • Level 2 – Low-Key Movement: Light, easy-paced activity (snorkeling, boat tours, gentle hikes)
  • Level 3 – Moderate Activity: Ready to move (multi-day hikes, skiing, camping)
  • Level 4 – Get Your Heart Rate Up: More intense movement (long hikes, biking, active days)
  • Level 5 – Extreme Adventure: High-adrenaline travel (challenging hikes, dives, technical climbs – experience may be required)

You'll find the Activity Level clearly listed on each trip page, and a more in-depth explanation of each level here.

Who can I contact with more questions?

Our support team is here to help! Visit trovatrip.com/company/contact-us to reach out. You can expect to hear back within 2 business days, but probably sooner—our Trova elves are pretty speedy!

Accommodations

What does "or similar" mean next to the accommodations?

When we say “or similar,” it means the hotel listed is an example of what you can expect—not always the exact spot you'll be staying. Sometimes Operators adjust accommodations due to seasonal availability or group size. But rest assured: the quality and comfort will match what's shown.

Why would the accommodations change from time of booking?

Flexibility allows Operators to choose the best-fit accommodations closer to your trip—based on availability, logistics, and what works best for the group (like the number of Travelers and room configurations). This ensures a smooth experience without sacrificing comfort or quality.

Finalized hotel info is typically shared about 30 days before departure in your Traveler Portal, along with your final itinerary.

Trip Operations & Compliance

Who actually runs my trip, and how does Trova keep things safe?

Your trip is operated by licensed, certified Tour Operators who manage all trip logistics and safety—from accommodations and local Guides and day-to-day logistics. All trips comply with local legal and regulatory standards. We vet each Operating partner carefully so you can travel with confidence.

Who do I talk to if I have questions about safety or compliance?

If you have any questions about safety protocols or trip compliance, reach out to us at safety@trovatrip.com. We're here to help.

General Travel Questions

Do I need any documentation to travel?

It depends on where you're headed. Though it is not a universal requirement, many countries require that your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. This ensures Travelers have sufficient time to return home even if their visas are extended or if unexpected circumstances arise. 

Some destinations may also require a visa. Check our visa page to consult your country's travel resources.

Do I need any vaccines?

It's always best to check with your healthcare provider or a travel doctor before your trip. You can also visit the CDC website (or your local government's travel health resource) for destination-specific vaccine guidance. Health and safety first!

Are flights included in the trip cost?

Because our Hosts and Travelers are coming from all around the world, flights to and from your destination are not included. Some trips include internal flights (like a short domestic hop), and those details will always be listed on the trip page if applicable.

Can you accommodate my dietary needs?

We’ll do our very best! Our Operators aim to accommodate dietary restrictions, though availability varies by destination. For example, some places offer plenty of vegan and vegetarian choices, while others might be quite limited. The earlier you let us know—through your trip form or by contacting our support team—the better we can prepare. Once you arrive, be sure to remind your local Guide about any allergies or restrictions so they can help you enjoy your meals safely and comfortably.