Get there on miles and points

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    • Kauai, Hawaii

      Visiting Kauai on Miles and Points

      Dreaming of visiting the lush Hawaiian island of Kauai? You can make that dream a reality for very little out-of-pocket cost by using credit card points and miles. In this guide, I’ll show you how to fly to Kauai using Southwest Rapid Rewards® points, stay at the beautiful Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa using World of Hyatt® points, and explore Kauai’s top attractions—all on a budget.

      Flying to Kauai with Southwest Rapid Rewards® Points

      Southwest Airlines® offers direct flights to Lihue Airport (LIH) on Kauai from several West Coast cities, making it a great option if you live in the Southwest. And because Southwest flights are booked with Rapid Rewards points, they stay flexible—points bookings can be changed or canceled with no fees, and even the taxes you pay in cash ($5.60 one-way) are refundable!

      An Easy Shortcut: The Southwest Companion Pass®

      If you plan strategically, you can bring a travel companion nearly free on every Southwest flight for up to two years by earning the Southwest Companion Pass®. The easiest way?

      • Open two Southwest credit cards (one personal and one business) to earn welcome bonuses that help you hit the required points threshold fast.

      Flight Times from Southwestern Cities to Kauai

      Departure CityTypical Flight Time (with connection if no nonstop)
      Phoenix (PHX)~6.5 hours (1-stop via OAK or LAS)
      San Diego (SAN)~6 hours nonstop or 7 hours with connection
      Los Angeles (LAX)~6 hours nonstop
      Las Vegas (LAS)~6.5–7 hours (usually 1-stop)
      Denver (DEN)~8 hours (typically 1-stop in California)
      Oakland (OAK)~5.5–6 hours nonstop

      Top Credit Cards for Earning Points for Kauai Travel

      For Southwest Flights

      1. Southwest Credit Cards – Southwest offers both personal and business credit card options with welcome bonuses ranging from 50,000–80,000 points. These points can help cover your flights, and they count toward earning the Companion Pass.
      2. Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve® – These cards frequently offer 60,000–75,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards® points as a welcome bonus. Ultimate Rewards® points transfer 1:1 to both Hyatt and Southwest Airlines to book your flights, making these cards a powerhouse.
      3. Chase Ink Business Preferred® – A fantastic option for business owners, this card often offers a huge welcome bonus (75,000–100,000 points) after meeting the minimum spend. Those points can transfer to Southwest or Hyatt, making it a versatile choice. Ultimate Rewards® points transfer 1:1 to both Hyatt and Southwest Airlines to book your flights

      For Hyatt Stays

      These cards earn World of Hyatt® points:

      Personal Card:

      Business Card:

      Where to Stay: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa (Poipu)

      An amazing Hyatt property that you can book entirely with points:

      • Category 8
      • Points needed:
        • 35,000 off-peak
        • 40,000 standard
        • 45,000 on-peak

      Mini-review:
      One of the most luxurious resorts on the island! The property features sprawling lagoon pools, a lazy river, saltwater pools, beach access, lush gardens, multiple restaurants, and a world-class spa. The beautiful grounds and wide range of activities make it a perfect base for both couples and families.

      Pro Tip: Consider booking a room with Grand Club® access (or use a club lounge upgrade if you have Hyatt elite status or certificates). The club serves breakfast, midday snacks, and evening hors d’oeuvres that can easily replace a meal—saving your family a ton on food costs during your stay.

      Must-See Attractions on Kauai

      Once you’re there, it’s time to explore! Here are some can’t-miss sights and experiences:

      🌿 Limahuli Garden & Preserve

      • Gorgeous botanical garden on the North Shore
      • Preserves native Hawaiian plants
      • Amazing backdrop of green cliffs

      🌊 Nā Pali Coast

      • World-famous coastline of sheer cliffs
      • Best seen by boat or helicopter tour
      • Consider a catamaran sunset cruise or zodiac raft adventure

      🎶 Smith Family Garden Luau

      • One of the best family-friendly luaus on the island
      • Includes boat ride through Fern Grotto (another must-see!)
      • Traditional Hawaiian food, music, and hula

      🚤 Fern Grotto Boat Tour

      • Peaceful boat ride up the Wailua River
      • Ends at the famous Fern Grotto cave—magical setting

      🏞️ Waimea Canyon (“Grand Canyon of the Pacific”)

      • Incredible lookout points and hiking trails
      • Drive up for sunset views over the canyon and ocean

      🏝️ Hanalei Bay & Hanalei Town

      • Beautiful beach with epic mountain backdrop
      • Great local shops, casual eateries, and surf vibe

      Final Tips for Booking Your Kauai Trip

      ✅ Start by opening a Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve® to build up Ultimate Rewards® points, which you can transfer to both Southwest and Hyatt.
      ✅ Pair it with Southwest® credit cards to fly for nearly free AND earn the Companion Pass®.
      ✅ Add a Hyatt® credit card to build up even more Hyatt points for your stay.

      Bottom line:
      With smart use of credit card points and miles, you can fly to Kauai and stay in stunning resorts without paying full price—leaving more room in your budget to explore this natural paradise. 🌴🌊

    • Big Sur, California

      Visiting Big Sur on Points and Miles

      Imagine escaping to the rugged beauty of Big Sur, staying at the luxurious Alila Ventana Big Sur, and experiencing one of the most scenic drives in the world—all without spending a fortune. Thanks to Hyatt points, Southwest Rapid Rewards, and credit card perks, this dream trip can become a reality.

      Getting There with Southwest Rapid Rewards

      The closest airport Southwest serves near Big Sur is San Jose International Airport (SJC). Once you land, renting a car is the best way to reach Ventana. The drive from San Jose to Big Sur takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, but the journey along Highway 1 is just as spectacular as the destination.

      Save Even More with the Southwest Companion Pass

      If you have the Southwest Companion Pass, you can bring a companion with you for just the cost of taxes and fees, making your flight half price when traveling with someone else.

      Shortcut to Earning the Companion Pass

      The fastest way to earn the Companion Pass is by signing up for both a Southwest business credit card and a personal Southwest credit card. If you time it right and meet the minimum spending requirements, you can quickly rack up the 135,000 points needed to earn the pass, giving you unlimited BOGO flights for up to two years!

      Southwest offers different versions of their credit cards depending on your needs:

      • Personal options: Southwest has three personal credit cards, each with different benefits, such as free in-flight Wi-Fi or anniversary points.
      • Business options: If you have a small business (including side gigs), the Southwest business cards offer larger welcome bonuses and better earning potential.

      The Breathtaking Drive Along Highway 1

      Carmel-by-the-Sea

      This fairytale coastal town is worth a stop on your way to Big Sur. Stroll through art galleries, boutique shops, and charming cottages, or head down to the beach for stunning ocean views.

      If you have time, grab a drink or a meal at one of Carmel’s excellent restaurants:

      • La Bicyclette – A cozy European-style bistro serving wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes.
      • Cultura Comida y Bebida – Known for its craft mezcal cocktails and modern Mexican cuisine.
      • Aubergine – A Michelin-starred fine dining experience featuring locally sourced ingredients and expertly paired wines.

      Whether you’re in the mood for a casual drink or an elegant meal, Carmel is the perfect place to soak in the coastal charm before continuing your drive.

      Bixby Bridge

      One of the most iconic photo stops on the Pacific Coast Highway, Bixby Bridge is a must-see. The sweeping ocean views and towering cliffs make this an unforgettable part of the drive.

      Staying at Alila Ventana Big Sur on Hyatt Points

      Alila Ventana is a Category 8 Hyatt property, meaning award nights cost:

      • 35,000 points (off-peak)
      • 40,000 points (standard)
      • 45,000 points (peak)

      Since cash rates often exceed $2,000 per night, using Hyatt points is one of the best redemptions out there.

      Mini Review: What to Expect at Alila Ventana Big Sur

      This adults-only, all-inclusive resort is designed for relaxation and immersion in nature. Your stay includes:
      ✔ All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) at the on-site restaurant
      ✔ Guided hikes, yoga, and other activities
      ✔ Access to Japanese hot baths, infinity-edge pools, and spa facilities

      Alcohol is not included, so if you’d like a glass of wine with dinner or a cocktail by the pool, you’ll need to pay out of pocket. However, the included gourmet dining and experiences make it one of the best ways to enjoy luxury on points.

      Must-See Attractions in Big Sur

      Pfeiffer Beach

      Famous for its purple sand and the Keyhole Rock, Pfeiffer Beach is a must-visit, especially at sunset. It’s hidden down Sycamore Canyon Road, an unmarked turnoff from Highway 1.

      McWay Falls

      This 80-foot waterfall is located in Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. It cascades onto a secluded beach. The waterfall is one of the most photographed spots in California.

      Partington Cove

      A short, steep trail takes you through a historic tunnel. It leads to a secluded cove with dramatic waves and rocky cliffs.

      Henry Miller Memorial Library

      This quirky library and event space is a cultural landmark dedicated to the legendary writer and artist Henry Miller. It is a hidden gem in Big Sur. It’s a great place to browse books, enjoy live music, or simply soak in the artistic, bohemian atmosphere.

      Big Sur River Inn

      For a truly relaxing experience, stop at the Big Sur River Inn. Order a drink from the bar. Then, kick back in an Adirondack chair with your feet in the river. This laid-back spot is excellent for unwinding. Enjoy the natural beauty of Big Sur before heading to your next destination.

      Credit Cards to Help You Get There

      Flights to San Jose

      1. Southwest Credit Cards – Southwest offers both personal and business credit card options with welcome bonuses ranging from 50,000–80,000 points. These points can help cover your flights, and they count toward earning the Companion Pass.
      2. Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve® – These cards frequently offer 60,000–75,000 Chase Ultimate Rewards® points as a welcome bonus. You can transfer these points to Southwest Airlines at a 1:1 ratio to book your flights.
      3. Chase Ink Business Preferred® – A fantastic option for business owners, this card often offers a huge welcome bonus (75,000–100,000 points) after meeting the minimum spend. Those points can transfer to Southwest or Hyatt, making it a versatile choice.

      Stay at Alila Ventana on Points

      1. World of Hyatt Credit Cards – Hyatt offers both personal and business versions of their credit card:
        • Personal: World of Hyatt Credit Card – Typically offers a 30,000–60,000 point welcome bonus.
        • Business: World of Hyatt Business Credit Card – Offers a 60,000+ point welcome bonus and extra perks for business travelers.
      2. Chase Sapphire Preferred® or Chase Sapphire Reserve® – These cards allow you to transfer points to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio, making it easy to book Alila Ventana on points. The welcome bonus (60,000–75,000 points) can be enough for at least one or two free nights.
      3. Chase Ink Business ® Credit Cards – As mentioned earlier, this business card offers a large welcome bonus that can be transferred to Hyatt, helping you cover multiple nights at Alila Ventana.

      Final Thoughts

      With Hyatt points, Southwest Rapid Rewards, and the Companion Pass, you can experience Big Sur and Alila Ventana in luxury without breaking the bank. The scenic drive, world-class accommodations, and unforgettable natural beauty make this trip a bucket-list-worthy adventure.

      Would you book Alila Ventana on points? Let me know in the comments!

    • Lake Tahoe, Nevada

      How to Visit Lake Tahoe on Points & Miles

      Lake Tahoe is a dream destination for outdoor lovers, with its crystal-clear waters, towering pines, and year-round activities. Whether you’re skiing in the winter, hiking in the summer, or just soaking in the breathtaking views, it’s a trip worth making—especially when you can do it for free (or nearly free) using Hyatt points and Southwest Rapid Rewards.

      Getting to Lake Tahoe on Southwest Airlines Points

      The easiest way to get to Lake Tahoe using Southwest Airlines points is by flying into Reno-Tahoe International Airport (RNO). From there, it’s about a 1-hour drive to the Hyatt in Incline Village. Southwest flies into Reno from multiple cities, making it an accessible option for travelers across the Southwest.

      Flight Times to Reno (RNO) on Southwest Airlines

      • Phoenix (PHX): ~2 hours
      • Las Vegas (LAS): ~1.5 hours
      • Los Angeles (LAX/BUR/SNA): ~1.5 hours
      • San Diego (SAN): ~2 hours
      • Denver (DEN): ~2 hours

      Once you land in Reno, you can rent a car and enjoy a scenic drive to Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino in Incline Village.

      Driving to Lake Tahoe from Nearby Cities

      If you’d rather take a road trip, here’s how long the drive takes from major cities in the Southwest:

      • San Francisco, CA: ~4 hours
      • Sacramento, CA: ~2 hours
      • Las Vegas, NV: ~7.5 hours
      • Los Angeles, CA: ~8 hours
      • Phoenix, AZ: ~11 hours

      Where to Stay: Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe

      Located in Incline Village, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe Resort, Spa & Casino is one of the best points-friendly properties in the area. This lakefront resort offers private beach access, a heated pool, a full-service spa, and easy access to skiing at Diamond Peak in the winter.

      • Standard award nights start at 25,000 Hyatt points per night (Category 6)
      • Book with a Hyatt Free Night Certificate (Category 1-7) from the World of Hyatt Credit Card
      • Use points + cash if you’re short on Hyatt points

      Must-Visit Attractions Near Lake Tahoe

      1. Emerald Bay State Park – One of the most iconic views in Tahoe, with turquoise waters and the historic Vikingsholm Castle.
      2. Truckee, CA – A charming mountain town with great restaurants, breweries, and historic sites.
      3. Sand Harbor – One of the best beaches on Lake Tahoe, perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding.
      4. Heavenly Village & Gondola – Take a scenic ride up the mountain for stunning lake views.
      5. Tahoe Rim Trail – A must-do for hikers looking for panoramic lake views.

      The Southwest Companion Pass: The Best Travel Hack

      If you travel with a partner or family member, the Southwest Companion Pass is the ultimate way to save on flights. It allows a companion to fly with you for free (just pay taxes & fees) on every flight.

      The Easiest Way to Earn a Companion Pass

      A quick shortcut to earning the pass is by opening two Southwest credit cards (one personal and one business). If you meet the minimum spending requirements and earn 135,000 points in a calendar year, you’ll get the Companion Pass for the remainder of that year plus the entire next year.

      Best Credit Cards to Earn Points for This Trip

      To Book Your Hyatt Stay

      To Earn Southwest Points for Flights

      Final Thoughts

      Visiting Lake Tahoe can be an expensive trip, but by using Southwest Rapid Rewards points, the Companion Pass, and Hyatt points, you can make it happen for little to no cash out of pocket. Whether you’re flying in and renting a car or making it a road trip, the Hyatt Regency Lake Tahoe is the perfect place to stay on points.

      If you’re planning this trip, now is the time to start earning your points and Companion Pass so you can enjoy the beauty of Lake Tahoe without breaking the bank!

    • Sedona, Arizona

      How to Visit Sedona On Points and Miles

      Sedona is a bucket-list destination known for its stunning red rock formations, vortex sites, and charming artsy town vibe. To visit on a budget, use points and miles. Stay at the Hyatt Residence Club Sedona, Pinon Point. You can get there using Southwest Rapid Rewards points. Here’s how to make it happen!

      Flying (or Driving) into Phoenix and Heading to Sedona

      The easiest way to get to Sedona is by flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX). Southwest Airlines serves this airport. If you have a Southwest Companion Pass, a companion can fly with you for free. You will still need to pay taxes and fees on every flight you take!

      Flight Times to Phoenix from Major Cities in the Southwest Airlines Footprint

      If you’re flying on Southwest Airlines, here are estimated non-stop flight times to Phoenix from major cities:

      • Las Vegas, NV (LAS) – 1 hour
      • Los Angeles, CA (LAX) – 1.5 hours
      • San Diego, CA (SAN) – 1.5 hours
      • Denver, CO (DEN) – 2 hours
      • Dallas, TX (DAL) – 2.5 hours
      • Houston, TX (HOU) – 3 hours
      • Albuquerque, NM (ABQ) – 1.5 hours

      Typical Southwest Points Needed for a Round-Trip Flight

      The number of Rapid Rewards points required for a round-trip flight to Phoenix varies based on demand and time of booking, but here are some general estimates:

      • Short-haul flights (e.g., Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Diego, Albuquerque): 6,000 – 12,000 points round-trip
      • Medium-distance flights (e.g., Denver, Dallas, Houston): 12,000 – 20,000 points round-trip
      • Longer domestic flights (e.g., Chicago, Nashville, St. Louis): 20,000 – 30,000 points round-trip

      Booking early and using the Low Fare Calendar on Southwest’s website can help you find the best redemption rates.

      How to Get to Sedona, Arizona Using Southwest Points

      ✈️ Fly Free with Southwest Rapid Rewards
      The easiest way to reach Sedona is by flying into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX)—a major airport served by Southwest Airlines. From there, it’s about a 2-hour scenic drive to Sedona. If you’ve got Rapid Rewards points, you can often find one-way fares to Phoenix for under 10,000 points. Have the Southwest Companion Pass? Your travel buddy flies free (just pay taxes and fees).

      🏆 Easy Shortcut to Earning the Southwest Companion Pass
      The quickest strategy: open one Southwest personal credit card and one Southwest business credit card, and earn the sign-up bonuses when a high welcome bonus is available. This combo can help you hit the 135,000-point requirement quickly—and once earned, the Companion Pass is valid for the rest of the year and all of the next.

      Drive Time to Sedona from Major Cities

      Once you land in Phoenix, you’ll need a rental car to drive to Sedona. It is about 2 hours (115 miles) north. The drive is absolutely breathtaking, as you’ll transition from the Sonoran Desert’s towering saguaros to Sedona’s red rock landscapes.

      If you’re driving from another southwestern city, here’s what you can expect:

      • Las Vegas, NV – 4.5 hours (280 miles)
      • Los Angeles, CA – 7 hours (450 miles)
      • San Diego, CA – 6.5 hours (400 miles)
      • Tucson, AZ – 3.5 hours (210 miles)
      • Albuquerque, NM – 5.5 hours (340 miles)

      The Stunning Drive from Phoenix to Sedona

      driving to Sedona in the South West

      Once you leave Phoenix, you’ll take I-17 North, a scenic highway that gradually climbs into higher elevations. Some highlights along the way include:

      • Sunset Point Rest Area – A great stop with panoramic desert views.
      • Montezuma Castle National Monument – A well-preserved cliff dwelling worth a quick visit.
      • Mundy Point Overlook – As you approach Sedona, the landscape becomes even more dramatic. Red rocks loom in the distance.

      Staying at Hyatt Residence Club Sedona, Pinon Point

      The Hyatt Residence Club Sedona, Pinon Point is one of the best points redemption options in Sedona. As a Category 4 property in the World of Hyatt program, free nights have varying costs. They typically cost 12,000 points (off-peak), 15,000 points (standard), or 18,000 points (peak) per night. This depends on peak pricing.

      How to Book with Points:

      • Transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points to Hyatt at a 1:1 ratio to book your stay.
      • If you have a Hyatt credit card, you can use points plus cash or free night certificates for extra savings.
      • Plan ahead! Award nights at this property can go quickly, especially in peak seasons.

      Mini-Review of Hyatt Residence Club Sedona, Pinon Point

      Hyatt Pinon Point offers a fantastic location right in the heart of Sedona. This makes it easy to walk to restaurants and shops. Visitors can also easily reach some of the area’s most stunning viewpoints. The resort itself has a charming Southwestern aesthetic. It features well-appointed studios. These include one- or two-bedroom suites with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and private balconies.

      Pros:

      • Unbeatable location with breathtaking red rock views.
      • Spacious and comfortable rooms with home-like amenities.
      • Beautiful outdoor pool and hot tub with scenic vistas.
      • Walking distance to Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village.

      Cons:

      • No full-service restaurant on-site (but plenty of dining options nearby).
      • Can be difficult to book with points due to high demand.
      • Limited housekeeping services since it’s a residence club property.

      If you can snag an award night here, it’s a fantastic place to stay. It’s ideal if you want a relaxing home base. It offers all the comforts of an apartment-style stay.

      How to Earn Hyatt Points

      Hyatt points are some of the most valuable in the game. Here’s how to rack them up:

      💳 Hyatt Credit Card

      🔁 Transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards® to Hyatt

      🏨 Other Ways

      • 5X points per $1 spent at Hyatt hotels
      • Elite members earn up to 30% point bonuses
      • Use Hyatt promos and book experiences to earn more

      Top Attractions in Sedona

      Once you arrive, there’s no shortage of things to do. Some must-see spots include:

      • Cathedral Rock – One of the most iconic hiking and photography spots in Sedona.
      • Devil’s Bridge – A natural rock bridge with incredible views.
      • Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte – Scenic hikes for all levels.
      • Chapel of the Holy Cross – A stunning church built into the red rocks.
      • Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village – A charming area with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants.
      • Sedona’s Vortex Sites – Known for their supposed energy fields, great for meditation and exploration.
      • Jeep Tours – A fun way to experience off-road trails and get up close to the red rocks.

      Final Thoughts

      Visiting Sedona doesn’t have to break the bank when you use points and miles! Book the Hyatt Residence Club Sedona, Pinon Point with Hyatt points. Fly Southwest Airlines using Rapid Rewards points. If you have a Companion Pass, use that too. You can make your dream trip much more affordable. Pair it with the scenic drive from Phoenix. You’ll have an unforgettable experience in one of the most beautiful places in the Southwest!