• We asked chefs for some of the best and worst ways to use ground beef in meals.
• Tacos, soups, and meat-based sauces can be filling and easy to prepare.
• They said you should avoid using prepackaged ground beef to make burgers or beef stroganoff.

Ground beef is a popular base for many meals, but they aren't all created equally.

So, we asked chefs for some of their favorite things to cook with ground beef and a few recipes they'd probably skip.

Bolognese sauce with pasta is simple and delicious.

Palak Patel, a chef with the Institute of Culinary Education, told Business Insider that one of her favorite easy weeknight dinners is a hearty Bolognese or Italian meat sauce served over pasta.

"It's very easy to make a small or large batch to freeze for later," Patel said, "because all you have to do is combine ground beef with herbs and tomato. You can cook it slowly on the stovetop, slow cooker, or even an Instant Pot."

For a lighter version of this dish that's perfect for warmer months, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned for the sauce.

Ground-beef tacos are easily customizable.

Jessica Randhawa, a chef with The Forked Spoon, told BI that ground beef can be a scrumptious taco filling.

"Ground-beef tacos are easy to make at home and can be full of flavor," she said. "Plus, you can control the fat content based on your personal needs by choosing leaner or fattier ground beef."

You can make an easy taco filling by simmering ground beef with tomato sauce and spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cumin. Add chopped vegetables or shredded cheese for extra flavor.

Cajun rice is a cheap and filling way to enjoy ground beef.

Cajun rice, also known as dirty rice for its color, is a traditional Louisiana Creole dish made with seasoned rice, chopped peppers, and spiced meat such as ground beef.

"Cajun rice is a great way to use ground beef," Randhawa said. "Though it's usually known as a spicy dish, you can omit spicy ingredients like jalapeño if you're sensitive to heat."

In addition to being a versatile meal that can easily be scaled up or down to feed groups of different sizes, Cajun rice is an ideal way to use up different cuts of meat — toss in leftover steak, sausage, or even chicken gizzards.

Meatballs are a classic way to showcase quality ground beef.

Mila Furman, a private chef and recipe developer with Girl and the Kitchen, told BI that meatballs are an ideal way to use high-quality ground beef.

"Meatballs are one of the most versatile meals to have in your [arsenal] as a chef," Furman said. "They're super simple to put together and will always be a hit for the whole table."

Whether you're making classic meatballs with tomato sauce or whipping up a batch of creamy Swedish meatballs, using ground beef with a slightly higher fat percentage will keep them juicy and tender.

Add ground beef to soup for extra protein.

If you're struggling to think of ways to use up a small portion of leftover ground beef, putting it in a soup may just be the answer.

"Using ground beef in soups isn't just for chili," Furman said. "Add ground beef — especially in the form of leftover meatballs — into soup with plenty of hearty vegetables for a complete meal."

Lasagna can keep ground beef from tasting dry or overcooked.

A great way to infuse prepackaged ground beef with tons of moisture and flavor is to bake it into a lasagna.

"Lasagna is a versatile ground-beef meal because it's very hearty and works well with all kinds of veggies, like mushrooms, squash, or corn," Patel said. "Plus, you can add a fried egg on top to turn leftovers into a weekend brunch."

On the other hand, you shouldn't use a typical package of ground beef to make burgers.

Patel said that using an average grocery-store package of ground beef to make burgers is a mistake.

"It is important to know the type of beef that you're buying," Patel said. "Prepackaged grocery-store ground beef is not processed daily or in-house, so the resulting burgers tend to be dry and chewy."

Instead of grabbing a package of ground beef, ask the deli or butcher to grind a portion of quality beef for you. Cuts such as chuck steak usually have a better ratio of fat to lean meat, which makes for a juicier burger.

It can be difficult to make good beef stroganoff with ground beef.

Beef stroganoff is traditionally made with sautéed pieces of whole beef, but some recipes call for ground beef instead. Unfortunately, this variation is hard to get right.

"This is a very classic recipe for ground beef, but often the beef is left bland and dry while the delicate egg noodles are overcooked," Patel said.

Patel added that if the ratio of cream to beef is not balanced, this dish can become overly creamy and even soggy.

Steak tartare is tricky to prepare at home, and it isn't always safe to eat.

Steak tartare is made with lightly seared or raw ground beef, usually served as a patty topped with a raw egg yolk.

Randhawa said home chefs — and restaurant diners — should generally avoid steak tartare for safety reasons.

"Unlike other raw-meat recipes from around the world, steak tartare does not include an acidic citrus juice," Randhawa said. Acidic citrus juice can cause meat to seem somewhat cooked, but it doesn't actually make it entirely safe to eat.

"Uncooked meat can have both dangerous parasites and potentially life-threatening bacteria," Randhawa added.

You may want to avoid adding warm ground beef to chilled salads.

Some salad recipes call for ground beef as a topping. But the temperature difference between warm ground beef and a cold salad can cause the melted fats in the meat to solidify.

"Do not put ground beef in your salads if you can help it," Furman said. "You often end up with a situation where beef fat leaks down through the greens and congeals."

You could avoid this stomach-turning scenario by chilling the cooked ground beef beforehand.

This story was originally published on June 2, 2023, and most recently updated on June 9, 2025.

• I tried four different brands of buttery spread from the grocery store to see which I liked best.
• I didn't think Smart Balance or Earth Balance were very spreadable or particularly impressive.
• Country Crock was my favorite spread, and it was easy to work with.

I grew up on "buttery spreads," butter alternatives typically made with some blend of vegetable oils. We put them on everything from bread and mashed potatoes to corn on the cob.

As I've grown up, I've started using real butter for its rich flavor and creamy texture. I keep some in a covered dish on the counter for a spreadable option and some in the fridge for whenever I need it chilled.

I figured all buttery spreads tasted the same, but I decided to revisit my childhood and try four different brands to see if there are any standouts worth keeping in my fridge.

Since each container retails for just over $3 at Walmart, I didn't factor price into my review.

Country Crock had the lowest percentage of vegetable oil.

I bought a 15-ounce tub of Country Crock, which is the brand we always kept in the house when I was a kid.

The label emphasized that it was churned in Kansas and contains "farm-grown ingredients." It also had the lowest amount of vegetable oil of the brands I tried, at 40%.

Its oil blend consists of soybean, palm-kernel, and palm oils.

It was incredibly easy to spread, but needed a little more salt for flavor.

I noticed right away that Country Crock's butter alternative was easy to spread, even when chilled.

The texture was smooth, and it didn't tear the soft bread at all when I spread it.

I tasted it both plain and on the bread. Although it tasted similar to butter, I think it could've used some more salt for a better flavor — it was a little bit bland. 

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter has an AHA seal of approval.

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter's spread has an American Heart Association certification label because it's made with soybean oil (an unsaturated fat) and has about 70% less saturated fat than regular butter.

Aside from the AHA certification, the label also noted that it's rich in omega-3 alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) and contains 45% vegetable oil (a blend of soybean, palm, and palm-kernel oils).

I could believe this wasn't butter, but the flavor was still good.

The texture of I Can't Believe It's Not Butter was very smooth and almost as easy to spread as Country Crock.

As for the flavor, this didn't have me fooled into thinking I was eating real butter. But it wasn't bad by any means.

It definitely had an earthy, vegetable-oil taste, but it wasn't bland, and it thankfully didn't have an oily texture.

Earth Balance had the highest percentage of vegetable oils.

Earth Balance's spread was highly distinguishable from the others.

The label also noted it's non-GMO, dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan. It contains 78% vegetable oils, the highest of any I tried, including a blend of palm, canola, soybean, flax, and olive oils.

After opening the tub, I noticed right away that this spread was the darkest in color and looked more solid than the other products.

The Earth Balance spread didn't have a lot of flavor, and it was incredibly challenging to spread.

I found it really difficult to spread Earth Balance, maybe because of the high vegetable-oil content.

Although some of the other spreads were smooth and spreadable even when chilled, this remained pretty solid even after it came to room temperature.

The flavor was fine. It had both a slight buttery taste and an earthiness from all of the oils, but overall it was pretty bland.

Still, as the only vegan product I tried (some of the other spreads contain vitamin D that can be sourced from lanolin, which can come from sheep wool), it's a decent alternative to real butter.

Smart Balance notes health benefits on the label.

Similar to Earth Balance, Smart Balance has a high percentage of vegetable oils at 64%. Its blend includes canola, palm, and olive oils.

The label says that the product contains 400 milligrams of omega-3 ALA per serving.

This product was really difficult to spread.

It wasn't dark beige like Earth Balance, but Smart Balance's butter alternative was similarly difficult to spread.

When I tried putting it on bread, it started tearing up the piece. It also came out of the container in solid chunks.

It softened up somewhat as it came to room temperature, and the label at least warned that it would be "firm out of refrigeration." But I think the perk of a buttery spread is that it can be used right out of the chilled container, unlike waiting for real butter to soften. 

In terms of flavor, Smart Balance had a great butter-like taste at first. But then, as it melted in my mouth, it left an aftertaste I didn't love.

Country Crock was my favorite, but I still plan to stick to traditional butter.

Of the four buttery spreads I tried, Country Crock was my favorite.

It was the easiest to spread — which is the whole point, in my opinion. It wasn't the most flavorful, but none of the spreads were really rich in flavor.

I thought the flavor of I Can't Believe It's Not Butter was pretty good, but it wasn't quite as easy to spread. I'd probably skip Smart Balance and Earth Balance because of their higher cost and more solid texture.

All in all, I still plan to stick to using traditional butter. But I'd buy Country Crock again if I needed a quick, convenient butter-like spread.

This story was originally published on January 4, 2023, and most recently updated on June 3, 2025.

• We asked pros in the wedding industry about trends and traditions they don't like at receptions.
• Favors, big cakes, and Champagne toasts can end up being a big waste of money.
• Wedding trends like fireworks and food walls look better on the internet than they do in real life.

For many couples, a wedding reception is the biggest and most expensive party they'll ever throw.

However, spending more money won't always make the celebration better.

To figure out what's probably not worth spending time and money on, Business Insider asked wedding professionals what reception trends and traditions they wish couples would skip.

Champagne toasts can be a waste of money.

Wedding planner Lindsey Nickel of Lovely Day Events said couples should skip handing out flutes of sparkling wine and allow guests to toast with the drinks they already have.

"This will save you a tremendous amount of money since guests often just take a few sips of Champagne and leave the rest," she said.

If you're determined to offer bubbly, try serving it in shallow coupe glasses rather than flutes to reduce waste.

Skip individual place cards and do a big seating chart instead.

Wedding master of ceremonies Artem Lomaz told BI that place cards can add unnecessary expense, clutter, and confusion to a reception.

"Place cards often get lost or mislabeled and leave guests unsure of where to sit," he said.

Instead, do a large seating chart that's easy to personalize and allows guests to orient themselves in the space.

Trendy food walls can be unsanitary and wasteful.

The food-wall trend — in which couples set up a wall of edible decor like doughnuts or candy — tends to look better on Instagram than in real life.

"After the first few guests grab their desired pieces, the novelty wears off and you're left with stale snacks hanging on a wall," Lomaz said. "And if your reception is outside, the food may attract wildlife or bugs."

Avoid perishable decor by instead providing a photo op with draped fabric or hanging plants.

Scheduling a getaway car might cut your time with your guests short.

Renting a fancy car to make a grand exit from your reception can be pricey and lead to missed opportunities to connect with guests.

"Getaway cars can be great for photos, but couples often feel rushed to leave and miss out on saying goodbye to guests," Nickel told BI.

Instead, the wedding planner recommended using that money for the bar tab at the after-party.

Fireworks can be smoky and dangerous.

Fireworks are an exciting way to end a wedding, but they can be loud, smoky, and hazardous to the environment.

"The air and noise pollution created by fireworks can wreak havoc with the local environment and interfere with animal life," Lomaz said.

If you want something similar, try giving guests glow sticks or sparklers (with safety instructions).

A giant wedding cake isn't always necessary or cost-effective.

" … the high price of a large, elaborate wedding cake often catches couples by surprise," Nickel said.

It's often not necessary, either. Instead, order a small cake to cut at the reception and serve a sheet cake, or have a dessert bar for guests.

A long lineup of speeches can be boring for guests.

Wedding and event planner Keith Willard told BI that most receptions don't need more than one or two toasts.

"A long list of speeches or toasts can bore guests," he said. "At least half your guests won't know each other, meaning long-winded personal reflections won't be appreciated."

Willard also said that toasts should ideally clock in at under three minutes and be given by senior members of the wedding party, such as the maid of honor or the father of the bride.

You probably shouldn't serve more than three courses at the reception.

Even if you and your partner are foodies, a wedding reception isn't the best time for a seven-course dining experience.

"Don't make your guests sit through four or more courses," Willard said. "A long meal is time-consuming and takes away from the guests' ability to let their hair down and have some fun at your wedding."

Focus on choosing an incredible main course and some interesting appetizers for cocktail hour.

Dance-floor props can look out of place next to carefully chosen decor.

Wedding photographer Amy Kolodziej said that dance-floor props can detract from the elegance of a wedding reception.

"Strobing headgear and neon glow sticks very rarely match the vibe from the rest of the wedding day," she told BI.

The photographer suggested serving a signature cocktail or fun snack during the reception instead.

The bouquet and garter tosses might alienate some guests.

The bouquet and garter tosses are long-standing wedding traditions that can make some guests feel uncomfortable.

"Unless you're getting married young or before most of your friends, asking your guests to self-identify as single can be awkward," Kolodziej said.

Skipping the flower toss can also save money by eliminating the need for an extra bouquet.

Guests usually end up abandoning their favors.

"Customized favors can often feel forced," Nickel said. "Plus, the majority of favors are usually left behind by guests."

If you really have your heart set on favors, consider something consumable, like chocolates or jars of local honey.

This story was originally published in July 2021 and most recently updated on May 28, 2025.

• I've visited Italy's Amalfi Coast 3 times. It's beautiful, but I don't like the crowds and prices
• I prefer other Italian destinations like Cefalù, a small city in Sicily with great food and beaches.
• Sicily's Aeolian Islands and Matera, Basilicata, are also worth visiting.

Italy's Amalfi Coast is one of the country's most popular destinations, but after visiting three times, I think I'll skip it on my next trip.

The Amalfi Coast is known for its striking cliffside landscapes and seaside villages, but the famous region has several downsides. It gets crowded, local traffic can be horrendous, and prices are far from cheap.

I'm always looking for alternatives to popular tourist attractions, and after traveling extensively throughout southern Italy, I found a few places I liked better than the Amalfi Coast.

Next time I head to Southern Italy, I'd go to these three destinations instead.

Cefalù, Sicily

Of all of Italy's 20 regions, Sicily is my favorite.

On my first visit nearly a decade ago, the region's volcanic landscapes, unbeatable street-food scene, and welcoming locals won me over.

I've since been back three more times, and I can never seem to get enough. You can't go wrong with a trip anywhere on the island, whether visiting dynamic Palermo or the ever-so-popular Taormina.

Yet Cefalù, a small city on Sicily's northern coast, is my top pick.

The city's historic center is undeniably charming. Narrow pedestrian streets lead to Cefalù's centuries-old cathedral that's towered over by a massive cliff.

Cefalù's long, sandy beach and adjacent boardwalk made for an ideal summer getaway. Trying local cuisine is a must, too, from savory arancini rice balls to decadent granita — my Sicilian dessert of choice.

Plus, compared to navigating the often chaotic traffic along the Amalfi Coast, getting to and from Cefalù is a breeze. The city lies directly on a train line, and it only takes an hour to reach Cefalù from Palermo.

Aeolian Islands, Sicily

If you're near Sicily, I also suggest visiting Aeolian Islands, a volcanic island chain located off the region's northern coast.

The Aeolian Islands consist of seven main islands, which are home to about 15,000 people. They offer a coastal getaway with far fewer crowds than the Amalfi Coast.

Each island is unique. Some, like Vulcano, offer visitors the chance to bathe in volcanic mud baths. Others, like Panarea, feature eye-catching white buildings with vibrant blue doors.

My personal favorite is Stromboli, where you can watch a volcano erupt while sailing into or away from the island.

I'd say the best way to experience the area is with a boat tour. You can find day trips to the Aeolian Islands from the city of Milazzo in northern Sicily.

Matera, Basilicata

My last alternative to the Amalfi Coast is not on the coast at all, but in the rural southern region of Basilicata, located in the "arch" of Italy's "boot."

Nestled in the stunning Gravina Canyon is the ancient city of Matera. It's considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Matera certainly receives its fair share of tourists, but far fewer than cities like Sorrento and Positano on the Amalfi Coast.

Visiting Matera is like stepping into another era. Early inhabitants carved dwellings and churches into the canyon's limestone cliffs — I've never seen anything else like it in all of Italy.

The medieval historic center offers spectacular views, romantic restaurants built into caves, and bustling piazzas. Plus, getting to the city can be an adventure within itself.

It's not on a high-speed rail line, and the closest airport is about 40 miles away in Bari, the capital of the nearby region of Puglia. Many travelers take a local train from Bari to Matera, which takes about 90 minutes.

Visiting Matera was the highlight of my most recent trip to Italy, and I can't wait to go back.

• When I went on an Anarctic cruise aboard the Seabourn Venture I was mostly impressed.
• My add-on kayaking and photography masterclass excursions felt like an incredible value.
• However, I was pretty disappointed by the $1,000 submarine excursion.

Every traveler should experience a cruise to Anarctica at least once.

From the adorable, toddling penguins that you'll witness almost daily to the mind-blowing cerulean-blue icebergs, it's pure magic.

Of course, making your way south to the Great White Continent isn't cheap, especially when you tack on the myriad excursions you'll want to enjoy along the way.

I sailed to Antarctica on the Seabourn Venture in 2022 and enjoyed my fair share of top-shelf cocktails and three-course meals while on board.

My luxury cruise on the 264-passenger, all-suite vessel included daily activities, but I also chose to book several of the ship's extra outings for additional fees.

Surprisingly, the most expensive one was my least favorite, but I found two I'd absolutely recommend.

Antarctic kayaking was everything I hoped it would be

One of my goals on this trip to Antarctica was to kayak with minke whales. I'm happy to report that I achieved that goal during my add-on kayaking excursions.

Before my cruise set sail, I booked three kayaking sessions on different days for about $250 a pop.

I spaced them out throughout the five days our ship was in Antarctic waters. The weather in Antarctica can be volatile and unpredictable, so I wanted to have options in case one or two of the trips got canceled.

This experience was incredible. I encountered many glassy icebergs as I paddled around the area's frigid waters. In addition to seeing whales, I also witnessed penguins porpoising, where they torpedo themselves up and out of the water, like dolphins.

If you get lucky, you may even see (and hear) a whale spout on this excursion.

I'm glad I booked the photography outing and lecutres

One of the best parts of my cruise was a photography outing on a Zodiac cruise (a smaller inflatable vessel) with the ship's onboard photographer. The add-on also came with a series of lessons on taking and editing great photos.

I'd invested in a professional-caliber digital camera setup before my cruise, so I found this photography-specific trip and subsequent lectures to be particularly valuable.

Our group had plenty of time to slow down and take multiple shots of shimmering icebergs while on the Zodiac. Plus, I learned tips for taking photos at great angles with better lighting.

The best part is that I left with dozens of high-quality images to share with my family and friends when I returned home.

During my trip, the excursion was more informal and organized by my ship's onboard photographer. Now, it's been built up into an entire course called the Image Masters Photography Masterclass for both amateur and pro photographers.

The add-on is usually limited to 10 individuals and costs about $375 per person per day.

However, I wasn't impressed by the pricey submerisble excursion

Seabourn's high-end expedition submarines can take seven people at a time hundreds of feet underwater.

Although this required less work than kayaking, it was also far less scenic and way more expensive.

The one-hour underwater adventure cost $1,000. I felt that was too high, especially once I realized how dark Antarctica's oceans can be and how little I'd actually see.

I didn't really enjoy sitting in a tiny, cramped bubble and trying not to feel claustrophobic for 60 minutes while descending into the dark depths of the ocean.

Some optimistic part of me had hoped to see penguins or whales, but we just spent the hour cruising around a dense carpet of unmoving sea stars dotted with sponges.

According to our guide, my group on this excursion saw more marine life than most, which didn't feel like very much. It was also tricky to take decent photos due to hazy sediment and low light at the bottom of the ocean.

Truth be told, the coolest thing about the submersible excursion was nerding out with my fellow shipmates about being in a freaking submarine.

• Over the past few years, I've attended at least nine weddings without giving a single gift.
• I typically have to travel great distances to attend my friends' weddings, which can get expensive.
• None of my friends have brought up not receiving a wedding gift from me.

My 20s and 30s have been riddled with invitations —  weekends booked with bachelorette parties, bridal showers, and weddings that stretch from one coast to the other.

Like many young people, I followed all the unspoken rules: show up, look good, and don't forget the gift. I felt obligated and, to be honest, wanted to give the impression that I, too, "had it all together."

Weddings are treated as a grand rite of passage into adulthood, and buying a gift felt like a way to show I was on the same page.

But as the invitations kept coming, so did the reality check. I wanted to be present for my friends, but the cost of attending, participating when asked, and buying a gift for weddings just wasn't compatible with my own lifestyle goals.

So, rather than resent my loved ones for the monetary burden, I opted out: no more wedding gifts. In the past six years, I've attended at least nine weddings without giving a single gift — and I have no regrets.

In my mind, the act of giving gifts at a wedding is outdated

Wedding gifts were originally intended to help newlyweds establish their first adult household. It made sense for guests to chip in on matching dishes or a set of good knives, but let's be real — times have changed.

Most of my partnered friends have built their homes and intertwined their lives long before saying "I do."

There's also a broader cultural shift to consider. Millennials and Gen Z are facing a different economic reality than previous generations.

Student loans, stagnant wages, and rising costs of living have made it harder for many of us to achieve the financial stability our parents had by the same age.

And yet, many expectations on how we spend our money for and at weddings have persisted.

I've chosen to be present instead of buying presents

Over the past six years, I've lived in three countries and five cities, including Washington, DC, Belgium, and now Mexico.

Even when I lived stateside, many celebrations required travel to nearby states or across the country. This demanded a lot of time, effort, and careful planning — not to mention money.

No matter the location, I made it a priority to commemorate my friends' milestones with my presence. Together, we reminisced, laughed, and made new memories. In my opinion, no material gift could ever top that.

Gift or no gift, I know my friends still love me

None of my friends have ever mentioned not receiving a gift from me, so out of curiosity, I recently asked a few how they felt about it.

The consensus was that they hadn't even noticed until I mentioned it. They were honored that I made the trip to celebrate with them and didn't care that I showed up empty-handed.

In fact, one friend only realized I didn't bring a gift because I wasn't on her list for thank-you cards. When pressed about the lack of a gift, she reiterated she was not offended, especially because I'd traveled from Mexico to New York for her wedding.

My takeaway is that people who care the most just want you there, standing by their side or leading the charge onto the dance floor.

Of course, when I can't attend, I will mark the occasion with a gift to share in their joy and demonstrate my support despite the distance.

I pride myself on being a good friend; however, I refuse to let societal pressure dictate that my love and friendship must come in the form of cash or a neatly wrapped box.

This story was originally published on February 20, 2025, and most recently updated on May 5, 2025.

• As a wedding planner, I've seen guests commit many faux pas at ceremonies and receptions.
• Sit by the front if there are empty seats, and don't walk down the aisle as the wedding is starting.
• Believe that couples know what they want and don't assume they'll be following old traditions.

As a professional wedding planner, I've seen a wide range of guest behavior, from the bad to the brilliant.

Luckily, being a good wedding guest doesn't always have to be difficult.

From double-checking information you've received about the nuptials to asking how you can help, here are eight ways to be a great wedding guest.

Before you ask the couple a question, make sure you don't already have the answer

With resources like wedding websites and multipage invites, many modern couples provide a lot of information to their guests.

Be sure to check those resources before you contact the couple to ask something, especially if it's less than two weeks before the wedding. Your answer might already be out there.

Ask yourself, 'Is this for me, or is it for the people getting married?'

Weddings bring up a lot of different feelings, so it can be easy to lose yourself along the way. Before you make a request, ask yourself, "Am I asking for something that benefits me or the couple?"

It's OK if the answer is, "This is for me." Use it as an opportunity to share context with the couple on why a particular request is so important to you.

Sit close to the front during the ceremony

Although the first two rows on either side at a wedding are typically reserved for VIPs, rows three and four are usually open — I recommend sitting there.

Even better, if you see some empty spots and you've been sitting for a while, move up. Sitting toward the front will help make the space look fuller before the wedding party enters.

If the ceremony is about to begin, don't go down the aisle

You'd think avoiding walking down the aisle would be obvious, but I've seen guests coming back from the restroom do this as the wedding begins.

Rather than work their way around the side of the ceremony space or wait at the back until the processional ended, they'll cut in front of the wedding party and walk down the aisle.

Please don't do this.

Remember, nobody can read your mind

It's difficult to remember the respective needs of every single wedding guest while planning, whether someone is allergic to a particular food or is unable to safely climb stairs

If you feel comfortable doing so, tell the couple what you need, ideally no later than 60 days before the wedding. With your consent, they can then pass that information along to the members of the vendor team who can best assist on the wedding day.

If you want to help, offer a specific way to do so

Typically, the most useful ways to help a couple are to assist with setup or clean up on the wedding day.

Helping with setup often means arriving two to three hours before any pre-ceremony photos or events. Assisting with clean up means remaining sober enough to put items away at the end of the day.

If neither of those tasks works for your situation but you still want to help, ask the couple what their No. 1 wedding challenge is.

Use that answer to figure out how your specific skill set and schedule can help alleviate some of that wedding stress.

Don't assume anything

Not assuming anything is a guiding principle in my work as a planner, and it's one you can use too.

When it comes to modern nuptials, don't assume the couple will carry on traditions that meant everything 30 years ago or use old-school gendered language in their ceremony.

Instead, if you're curious about how the planning is going, ask open-ended questions. For example, "What's been the most surprising thing about planning the wedding so far?" or, "What part have you each liked best?"

Believe the couple knows what they want

It never fails to surprise me how much gaslighting is present in modern wedding planning. Even though two adults who have typically spent multiple years and many life struggles together have chosen to get married, there's usually someone who thinks they don't know what they want.

Of course, there are some exceptions to this rule, but you should almost always believe the couple when they tell you what they want.

Whether they're putting cash on their registry, will not wear white, or choose to forgo cake, they've likely made these choices consciously and because they bring value to their relationship. 

If you're in doubt, don't pummel with opinion. Instead, try asking, "Are you in a place where you'd like to receive advice on this topic?"

This story was originally published on October 22, 2022, and most recently updated on May 5, 2025.

• I've traveled to all 50 states and love exploring the country's lesser-known state parks.
• Letchworth State Park in New York and Matthiessen State Park in Illinois have gorgeous waterfalls.
• Utah's Kodachrome Basin State Park feels like stepping into another world.

National parks have never been more popular, with record-breaking visitation in 2024. I understand why so many people flock to these iconic landscapes to see some of the most breathtaking scenery in the country.

However, after traveling solo to all 63 US national parks and all 50 states, I've discovered that some of the most stunning and underrated places aren't part of the national park system — they're state parks.

These hidden gems offer the same beauty, adventure, and solitude, often without the crowds, reservations, or permit hassles that come with national park visits. Here are some of my favorites.

Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin has something for everyone.

Despite being Wisconsin's most-visited state park, I find that many people I talk to don't know about Devil's Lake in Baraboo. However, it's my favorite of Wisconsin's 50 state parks.

In my opinion, the park's East and West Bluff trails offer some of the best panoramic views in the Midwest. Additionally, the massive rock formations — like Balanced Rock and Devil's Doorway — make it a favorite for hikers and rock climbers alike.

Beyond the cliffs, the park offers kayaking, swimming, and peaceful lakeside picnic areas, making it a perfect year-round destination.

Letchworth State Park in New York is home to stunning waterfalls.

Often nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the East," Letchworth State Park is a natural wonder where the Genesee River carves through a deep gorge, creating three stunning waterfalls framed by towering cliffs.

With 66 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, Letchworth is a paradise for nature lovers.

The park is especially magical in the fall, with its vibrant autumn foliage, making it one of the most spectacular leaf-peeping destinations in the Northeast.

Coopers Rock State Forest in West Virginia is the perfect place to watch the sunset.

West Virginia is another one of my favorite states for outdoor recreation. Its state park system is full of gems, but I always recommend visiting Coopers Rock State Forest.

I love hiking in this park or simply enjoying a sunset at Coopers Rock Overlook, which offers a panoramic view of the Cheat River Gorge.

The park also has many unique rock formations scattered throughout the forest along the miles of scenic trails.

Matthiessen State Park in Illinois feels magical.

Matthiessen State Park is a hidden gem known for its dramatic canyons, cascading waterfalls, and towering forests, creating a stunning, almost magical landscape.

With peaceful trails and fewer crowds than nearby Starved Rock State Park, Matthiessen is a must-visit for nature lovers in the Midwest. I especially love visiting in the fall to enjoy the changing foliage.

Visiting Utah's Kodachrome Basin State Park feels like stepping into another world.

When visiting Utah, many travelers aim to see one (or all) of the state's "Mighty Five" national parks. However, Utah is also home to 46 state parks — my favorite being Kodachrome Basin.

Just over 20 miles from Bryce Canyon National Park, Kodachrome Basin feels like stepping into another world entirely.

The less-crowded landscape is a stunning mix of red, orange, and yellow hues, and striking "sand pipes" — tall, thin spires of rock that the park is known for.

Hike, camp, or drive through the rock formations of this hidden gem park for a peaceful adventure.

Eldorado Canyon is one of my favorite state parks in Colorado.

With four major national parks and over 40 state parks, Colorado is known for outdoor recreation. However, I've found that, outside of the locals, many people don't know about one of my favorite places to visit — Eldorado Canyon State Park.

Just 9 miles outside Boulder, the park is known for its dramatic canyon views, rock climbing, and scenic hiking trails. Its towering golden sandstone cliffs make it one of the top climbing destinations in the US, with over 500 routes.

Visitors can also choose to cross-country ski or snowshoe in the winter months.

• After many recommendations, I visited 30A and its highlights, like Seaside and Rosemary Beach.
• 30A feels like one of the best places to visit in Florida as it's beautiful and has variety.
• I enjoyed the pristine beaches and the different towns, which felt more luxurious than touristy.

On a weekend trip to Panama City Beach, a beach town in Florida's panhandle, I heard a recurring comment from the locals.

"Have you made it over to 30A yet?" said my Lyft driver. "You've got to — it's the up-and-coming spot around here."

While purchasing tickets for the Shell Island Ferry, the cashier said, "Do you have plans to go over to 30A?" When I said no, she insisted I return to the area for a trip because it's just so beautiful.

I live in a different Florida beach town that often gets inundated with spring breakers and summer beachgoers, so I couldn't decide if Panama City Beach locals were trying to run tourists out of town, or if they really meant what they said about 30A.

Eager to find out, I planned a trip to Florida's 30A area — a 24-mile stretch of beach between Destin and Panama City Beach that's been called "the Hamptons of the South."

Turns out, those locals were right. I think 30A is one of the best gems in Florida, and I liked it even more than Panama City Beach.

Panama City Beach is great for tourists, but 30A has a more luxury feel.

Panama City Beach reminds me of the beach towns I grew up visiting in the Northeast: lots of souvenir shops, a pier for walking and fishing, and more tourist attractions than one could squeeze in during a vacation.

There's lots of good food in PCB, including a crepe shop adored by reviewers on Yelp, but I'd say the general vibe of the area can best be described as "touristy beach town."

The landscape changes entirely when you drive just 15 or 20 minutes to 30A. High-rise hotel chains become private rental cottages, and souvenir shops give way to luxury shopping venues.

The overall vibe switches from a busy vacation spot to a place where you'd do beachfront yoga and sip freshly pressed juice before spending your day on a quiet, white-sand beach.

The beaches along 30A felt pristine.

The beaches alongside 30A communities like Rosemary Beach and Seaside are home to white sand and transparent blue water. They took my breath away.

To get onto most beaches in 30A, you need a wristband or beach tag — visitors can get these from whichever rental property they're occupying.

I think the beaches benefit from the lack of large nearby hotels and public access. With limited visitors, there's less of a strain on 30A's beaches, resulting in a beautiful setting that feels more intimate.

30A is also the best spot in the area to watch the sunset.

There are some spectacular sunsets along the Gulf of Mexico, and 30A is a great place to see them.

On my trip, I especially loved watching the sunset from Bud and Alley's, a Seaside restaurant with sweeping coastal views. Another evening, I watched the sun set from the beach and was equally blown away by the beauty around me.

It's easy to hop from town to town and explore 30A.

During my stay in 30A, I chose a rental property between Alys Beach and Rosemary Beach.

Fortunately, the area is very bikeable, with ample spacious sidewalks and bike lanes throughout. Lots of condos or hotels here come with bicycles, plus there are many rental companies in the area.

Often, I took a beach cruiser from my condo over to Rosemary Beach for coffee or a meal, or I'd bike down 30A and stop to explore each town.

Since I also had a rental car, I drove to some of the farther-away-from-me spots, like Seaside and Santa Rosa Beach. Parking felt easy to find, and the area was simple to navigate by car with my phone's GPS system.

I loved Seaside, which had the vibe of an upscale beach town.

My favorite spot in 30A was Seaside, a beach community where the movie "The Truman Show" was filmed.

It had beautiful beach houses, a small boardwalk area with shops and restaurants, as well as a collection of food trucks, and an outdoor amphitheater for concerts.

It felt relaxed and not too pretentious, but more upscale than Florida beach towns like Fort Lauderdale, Cocoa Beach, or Panama City Beach.

I loved exploring the area, and it's the spot along 30A where I saw the most families with children.

Visiting 30A's Alys Beach felt like stepping into the Mediterranean.

If Seaside is a family-friendly-but-upscale beach town, Alys Beach is on the opposite end of the luxury vacation spectrum.

This small community is filled with white-washed, stone vacation homes and Mediterranean-inspired architecture — it felt like a big resort.

In fact, there's nothing comparable to Alys Beach in Florida that I've seen. Because of its stunning homes and high-end feel, Alys Beach feels like one of the least-accessible-to-the-public areas in 30A.

I didn't spend much time here, especially because I saw so many residential streets with signs prohibiting the public from walking through or taking photos.

If you're interested in vacationing in a more private area of 30A, though, Alys Beach is worth taking a look at.

Visit Rosemary Beach if you want to feel like you're in a cute, European town.

Rosemary Beach has made its rounds on TikTok, going viral for its similarities to a little European town.

Its downtown area is lined with cobblestone streets full of shops and al-fresco eateries, and it has a hotel complete with spires that reminded me of something I'd see in the Swiss Alps.

I passed many street carts selling wares like scarves and fresh flowers, and homes with European-style architecture. The area also has beautiful private beaches, which can only be accessed with a key card.

There are plenty of unique, smaller beach communities to explore along 30A, too.

Seaside, Alys Beach, and Rosemary Beach are perhaps the most famous spots along 30A, but I was impressed with the lesser-known areas I visited, too, like Santa Rosa Beach.

You truly could make an entire day out of exploring the tiny towns and communities that make up this beautiful part of Florida.

30A is home to lots of nature, including state parks and coastal dune lakes.

In addition to beaches, shopping, and dining, 30A has lots of beautiful, natural landscapes to show off.

I stopped by Eden Gardens during my visit — a 163-acre state park home to sweeping gardens, a bayou, plenty of walking trails, and centuries-old oak trees.

The area also has a collection of coastal dune lakes, a rare saltwater and freshwater phenomenon that only exists in a few spots around the globe.

I can't wait to return to 30A, and think it's truly one of the most gorgeous destinations in Florida.

I've lived in Florida for nearly 10 years and call a small ocean beach town home.

As someone who's spent time on both the gulf and ocean side of the Sunshine State, I can say 30A is one of the most stunningly beautiful areas in all of Florida.

There's so much to see and do in the area, and it has a peaceful vibe I've rarely found in Florida beach towns.

I can't wait to return to 30A and think it's the perfect destination for everything from bachelorette parties to family vacations.

• I'm a professional wedding planner, and I've seen a lot of bad guest behavior at events. 
• It's your responsibility to RSVP, show up on time, and keep track of your belongings at a wedding. 
• Don't be rude to the event vendors or ask the couple questions they already answered on their site.

In my many years as a professional wedding planner, I've learned a thing or two about the people who attend my events.

Here are the most common mistakes I see wedding guests make, and how to avoid them.

Waiting until the last minute to RSVP or not doing so at all

A wedding isn't like a normal party where you can see how you feel in the morning and decide then if you'll attend or not.

Whether it's a backyard potluck or a formal dinner, the event often involves catering, and whoever's providing the food must know how many people to plan for. 

When you refuse to RSVP, you force the couple to track down the information when they're already busy trying to plan their wedding. 

Acting like you know the couple better than they know themselves

Believe people getting married when they tell you what they do or don't want, especially when it comes to registries and gifts.

If the couple asks for cash, donations to nonprofits, or non-physical presents like gift cards or experiences, please don't tell them they're wrong and buy them a vase.

The best gift you can give as a guest is respecting their wishes.

Leaving favors behind at the venue

I know none of us need more monogrammed knickknacks, but just grab the darn coozie, OK?

You can toss it or, ideally, recycle it as soon as you get home, but if you leave it at the wedding, you're just giving the couple more to clean up.

And a tip for couples: If you give favors, try to make them something that won't end up in a landfill.

Not speaking up about something that's making you nervous to attend the wedding

In some situations, wedding guests need certain things to feel safe while celebrating.

They may need information about a venue's accessibility, confirmation that the food won't cause an allergic reaction and/or violate a religious belief, or space to breastfeed, to name a few. 

In an ideal world, the couple will proactively provide this information, but some things fall through the cracks.

If you need something from the couple, please tell them with kindness, empathy, and notice. They want you to enjoy yourself as much as possible — that's why they invited you in the first place.

Asking the couple questions before reading the materials they've sent you

As a guest, you've likely received at least some correspondence from the couple. Often it's a save-the-date or an invite, but sometimes it's a wedding website, Facebook group, or long text thread.

Whatever the medium, please do the reading. 

Those messages contain vital information about the wedding — most critically, they should detail when the ceremony starts. Don't be the guest who asks the couple for this information the night before the wedding.

Not keeping track of your personal belongings

It never fails to amaze me what a wedding guest will leave out for anyone to grab — purses, phones, credit cards. I've seen it all sprawled out on tables as the guests dance the night away.

This advice isn't to scare you into thinking someone will steal your stuff — just try to remember where you put it. Ideally, keep your belongings at your seat.

It's much easier to locate these items (or, as often happens, have a sober vendor help you find them) if we can narrow down where you've been.

Being unprepared to get a little hungry

The biggest complaint I hear from guests is that they're hungry.

Although I agree that the best parties have plenty of good food, sometimes a couple literally can't afford to give you the five-course meal of your dreams. Or, you might have to wait longer than expected to chow down.

So, pack a few backup snacks in your bag or glove compartment in case you need them to avoid being hangry all day.

Acting rude toward vendors

Wedding vendors build their businesses on serving others, but that doesn't mean you should take advantage of them.

Guests can forget this, particularly after a few trips to the bar, but don't make a fool of yourself by snapping your fingers at the caterer or telling the florist how to do their job.

Treat the vendors like you would want to be treated.

Bringing a big or heavy gift to the wedding

I love the statement you're trying to make with that giant, 50-pound present. However, what's the couple supposed to do with it at the end of the night?

In nearly all situations, anything brought to a wedding must be removed the same day. That means your love token just became the problem of whichever VIP guest was tasked with clean-up.

Please make it easy for everyone and have big gifts mailed to the couple directly. If you feel odd arriving empty-handed to a wedding, bring a card and use it to tell the couple what you sent them. 

Arriving late to the ceremony because you didn't factor in travel and parking time

Please show up to the ceremony on time.

As a guest, factor in your travel time, possible traffic, and how long it could take to park so you don't arrive late.

A lot of this information may be readily accessible on the invitation. If it's not, you have Google. Use it.

Forgetting that, as a guest, the wedding isn't about you

The purpose of a wedding isn't to spend the most money, wear the nicest clothes, or eat the best food. 

The goal of a wedding is to celebrate the start of a marriage, so challenge yourself to center the couple in your thoughts throughout the big day and planning process.

Ask yourself if your complaint helps the couple accomplish their goal. If not, try to keep it to yourself. 

This story was originally published on February 2, 2022, and most recently updated on April 28, 2025.

• I tried "6-to-1" method for buying groceries to see if it'd save me money and make my life easier.
• The method focuses on picking up a few ingredients to make a mix of meals throughout the week.
• I saved money and minimized food waste, so I plan on using the method again.

Grocery shopping can feel expensive and tiring, but some people have developed methods they believe can make it easier and better.

For people like chef Will Coleman, the "6-to-1" shopping method is a helpful way to meal plan and reduce food waste.

In a TikTok video, the chef said this method involves buying six vegetables, five fruits, four protein sources, three starches, two sauces or spreads, and one "fun" item.

According to Coleman, focusing on simple ingredients and sticking to a short list can help shoppers save money.

As someone who shops for myself and my partner, I was curious if this could cut down our grocery spending and maybe even simplify our meal-planning process.

Here’s how the 6-to-1 method worked for me.

It took a minute to get the hang of grocery shopping using this method, but I was pleased with my haul

My usual shopping process involves planning my meals, checking my kitchen for what I already have, collecting coupons, and making my grocery list.

Coleman’s method seemed adaptable, as a shopper could go into the store, buy the items they like in each category, and then meal plan based on what they purchased.

At first, seeing six veggies and five fruits on my grocery list intimidated me. I followed a vegetarian diet when I tried this, but it still sounded like a lot of produce to stock up on.

However, I quickly maxed out in these categories.

Throughout my shopping trip, I struggled to decide on three starches and got creative with the categories. For example, I bought Greek yogurt, which could be a protein, to fit into my sauces category.

I left with the following groceries:

• Vegetables: carrots, spinach, salad mix, bell peppers, jalapeño, and mushrooms
• Fruits: apples, cherry tomatoes, bananas, blueberries, and frozen raspberries
• Proteins: great northern beans, chickpeas, eggs, and tofu
• Starches: spinach-and-ricotta ravioli, petite potatoes, and whole-wheat English muffins
• Spreads or sauces: plain Greek yogurt and Hershey’s chocolate-shell topping
• "Fun" item: pistachio ice cream

Only focusing on what I needed to build meals and skipping random items or add-ons that didn't fit into my plan helped me save money.

I spent about $60 on all of my items this trip. Normally, I spend between $70 and $85 on groceries each week.

I repeated my breakfast and lunch meals throughout the week to save time

I usually switch between one savory and one sweet breakfast throughout the week. My lunches typically involve a salad or leftovers, and I usually just switch between two meals.

So, I did the same when I tried the 6-to-1 method.

For the first breakfast, I chose to eat whole-wheat English muffins with nut butter, honey, and bananas or blueberries. The second meal consisted of English muffins, egg, cheese, spinach, and hot sauce.

For lunch, I mixed chickpeas and fresh apple slices into spinach and a pre-bagged salad mix. These meals were simple but utilized a lot of produce and saved time on meal planning.

My meals were more creative on evenings and weekends

I have more time to cook during evenings and weekends, so I tried to add variety to these meals.

One night, I made a spicy bean-and-tofu burrito with a Greek-yogurt dip.

I also made spinach-and-ricotta ravioli with pesto that I had in the freezer, and added mushrooms and cherry tomatoes I'd purchased to it.

Another pasta dish I made included bucatini and Parmesan I already had, as well as spinach and tomatoes. On the weekends, I roasted, quartered, and shredded potatoes for hash browns and made veggie and fried-egg dishes. 

It was nice not having to think too hard about which ingredients I had to use up since I'd only purchased a few items in each category.

During the week, I ate more fruit with the desserts I made

As a fun treat for my partner, I made our favorite chocolate-chip cookies with pantry staples and the frozen raspberries, which turned out delicious. 

I also enjoyed my "fun" grocery pick, pistachio ice cream, with fruit and Hershey’s chocolate-shell topping when I craved something sweet.

Overall, the 6-to-1 method was handy, and I'd use it again

Although I did use a few staples I already had on hand to make this method work, I'd say my week was pretty successful.

I used almost all the groceries I purchased for this experiment and spent less than I normally would on food this week. A few items that weren’t eaten after seven days, like the ravioli and carrots, were easy to save for later.

This 6-to-1 method seems especially helpful for people who struggle with making and sticking to lists, avoiding impulse buys at the grocery store, or using up food before it goes bad.

Although I won't use this every week, I'd use it again on grocery trips when I need to simplify meal planning or tighten my budget.

The plan also seems flexible, so I may swap out sauces and spreads for dairy or dairy alternatives next time. I think those would've been helpful to have on hand.

This story was originally published on February 23, 2024, and most recently updated on April 28, 2025.

• I'm from Maui, and there are spots I recommend for visitors and things I suggest they avoid.
• Some of the best things for tourists to do in Hawaii is visit Haleakala National Park or Twin Falls.
• Proceed with caution if you plan to drive the Road to Hana or go to Makena State Park.

As a born and raised Hawaii resident, navigating the beauty of Maui has been both a privilege and a joy.

While serving as a tour guide for loved ones who've visited, I've crafted a list of must-see attractions and identified spots that don't live up to the hype or, in some cases, may even pose risks.

So, consider this list a local perspective on the best ways to appreciate Maui's wonders — and which places or activities might be worth skipping.

Experience an authentic luau in Lahaina

A luau provides a glimpse into Polynesian culture through traditional cuisine, music, dance, and insightful education on history and cultural practices.

The award-winning Old Lahaina Luau has always been a personal favorite. Although the property sustained fire damage, it has since reopened and continues to welcome guests with its renowned spirit of aloha.

Let the luau staff and performers — many of whom are longtime Lahaina residents — transport the audience back in time to ancient Hawaii with the Pacific Ocean as a serene backdrop.

The evening includes a captivating performance paired with a multicourse meal with dishes like locally sourced ʻulu (breadfruit) hummus, kalua pork cooked in an imu (traditional Hawaiian underground oven), and fresh-caught fish.

Explore rare landscapes and vegetation at Haleakala National Park

One of my favorite activities while growing up on Maui was spontaneously driving up to Haleakala National Park (home to the island's dormant volcano) to watch the sunrise.

The park is a great spot for a sunset or a daytime hike, whether you want to try a short walk to a viewpoint or a full-day hike into the crater.

Drink in the sunset and cocktails at Ocean Organic Vodka

Nestled on the slopes of Haleakala is an 80-acre organic farm and distillery that produces Ocean Organic Vodka and other liquor, including my personal favorite, Kula Rum.

Guests can take a guided tour of the farm and distillery that's followed by a tasting.

Alternatively, head straight to the al fresco Cafe at The Point to enjoy dishes like poke nachos, teriyaki chicken sandwich, and an array of cocktails. With its panoramic views of the Maui landscape, this is the perfect place to catch a sunset.

Connect with the local community at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center

The Maui Arts & Cultural Center is a venue for education and entertainment, including performances of Hawaiian music and dance as well as cultural programs and gallery exhibitions.

Some standout events include the annual Slack Key Guitar Festival, with live music, and the Maui Brewers Festival, with beer and food tastings.

Plus, there are shows by renowned musicians, comedians, and much more all year round.

Have family-friendly fun at the Twin Falls

This leisurely hike through Wailele Farm includes various waterfalls and fresh-water pools that are fun for all ages to swim in.

The path to the upper falls is only about a mile roundtrip and is an ideal place to immerse yourself in some of Hawaii's natural wonders.

The family-owned-and-operated farm also grows more than 350 species of tropical plants. Try a taste of fresh produce like mangoes, lilikoi (passion fruit), coconuts, and more — all of which are available for purchase at the on-property Wailele Farm Stand.

Be sure to check trail conditions before heading out, as there can be closures due to flooding.

On the other hand, don't play in the waves at Makena State Park

Makena State Park, also known as Big Beach, is a popular spot for experienced surfers, but I don't recommend coming here if you want to float around or go for a swim.

The shorebreak can be dangerous, and the powerful waves frequently create hazardous conditions. Although there are sometimes lifeguards on duty, even experienced swimmers can struggle to keep up in the waters here.

The waves may look fun to play in, but the risk simply isn't worth the potential reward.

Be discerning about driving on the Road to Hana

Hana is my favorite place on Earth, but the road to get there is treacherous, with dozens of one-lane bridges and hundreds of curves, many of which are on the edge of a cliff.

This journey is not recommended for novice drivers or those who are prone to getting carsick. Parking is also an issue, as the narrow roads don't provide much room to pull over.

Instead of driving yourself, consider booking an official tour with a professional guide if you want to visit the Road to Hana.

It's better to view the Nakalele Blowhole from a distance

The Nakalele Blowhole is a natural wonder that's caused by ocean waves shooting through an underwater lava tube to create a geyser-like spout.

It's certainly a sight to behold, but witnessing it up close requires hiking across rocky terrain. This can be dangerous if you have children or other curious souls who could venture too close and slip on the rocks or (worst case scenario) get sucked in.

Instead, consider just enjoying the sprays of water from a distance.

A hike on Waihee Ridge Trail can be great, but only in the right conditions

The Waihee Ridge Trail is stunning but fickle. The trail typically has one of two extremes: It's either hot and sunny with minimal shade or covered in slippery mud on a steep slope with no views from the top due to thick clouds.

Even my friend who's an avid hiker wasn't inclined to hit the Waihee Ridge Trail when they visited.

It's really only worth going on this hike if you go early in the morning on a day with great weather. Otherwise, your trek may be a lot more taxing than it might be worth in the end.

Leave jumping off Black Rock to professional cliff divers

At the north end of Kaanapali Beach stands Black Rock, which is a popular cliff-jumping spot about a dozen feet (or more in some places) above the water.

It's frequented by locals as well as hotel employees who light torches along the rocks before diving into the water at sunset most evenings.

However, cliff diving can be extremely dangerous, especially when done without proper precautions, supervision, or prep.

Even if you don't get seriously hurt, it's still painful if you hit the water wrong, and you're sure to hear commiserating cries from onlookers — something I know from personal experience.

There are also strong currents around Black Rock, so please carefully consider entering the water.