Maui with youngsters is a dream come true. Gorgeous seashores, rainbow-colored shaved ice, and luaus with fireplace dancers…what’s to not love? From infants to teenagers, there’s one thing for all ages to take pleasure in. Since I’ve visited this Hawaiian trip spot a number of occasions with my youngsters, I’m glad to share a few of my favourite kid-friendly sights on the island, together with different journey specialists’ picks for the very best Maui actions for households. This checklist of the very best issues to do in Maui with youngsters will make you wish to pack your luggage for paradise!
This web site generally receives compensation, hosted journey, or merchandise associated to weblog posts. This text could embody affiliate hyperlinks at no additional price to customers. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn cash from qualifying purchases.
Maui welcomes guests!
Regardless of the tragic fires Maui skilled in August 2023, tourism continues to be the island’s fundamental income. Right this moment, a lot of the Valley Isle is open for enterprise and glad to greet guests. Unaffected areas embody Makena, Kihei, Wailea, Central, North Shore, Upcountry, and Hana. With tourism down about 23% from 2019 ranges, you may count on much less crowding and higher flight offers, making a Maui household trip particularly interesting now.
Some restrictions stay, together with the burn zone in Lahaina. In response to MSN, solely a handful of properties have been rebuilt on this historic and beloved city as of March 2025. Hawaii remains to be rebuilding. To help the folks of Maui and the reconstruction of devastated areas, please textual content the phrase HAWAII to 90999 to make a $10 donation to the Purple Cross for Maui.
1. Play on the seaside.
With 750 miles of shoreline within the state, it could be loopy to go to Hawaii and never spend time on the seaside. In actual fact, it could be virtually unattainable. Whether or not you wish to swim, surf, or just construct sand castles on the shore, the seaside is a should in Maui.
With so many seashores, the place must you start? Erica Gellerman with The Hawaii Trip Information recommends Napili Bay for its “smooth white sand, largely calm water, and nice snorkeling.”
And don’t let the oceanfront lodges at Wailea Seaside intimidate you. Whereas this space is residence to many upscale resorts, together with 4 Seasons Maui, remember the fact that all seashores on Maui are open to the general public.
When you plan to spend so much of your loved ones journey on the seaside, then e book a room at one of many many oceanfront lodges in Maui to maximise your playtime. For extra ideas, check out a number of the greatest seashores on Maui.
2. Watch a dawn or sundown at Haleakala Nationwide Park.
Haleakala Nationwide Park is without doubt one of the most lovely and culturally important locations you may go to in Maui with youngsters of all ages. Haleakala is the third largest volcano within the Hawaiian islands.
Corritta Lewis with Itz a Household Factor advises, “Plan to spend a lot of the day at Haleakala Nationwide Park. Additionally, you’ll want meals and loads of water for the reason that nearest retailer is a minimum of 20 minutes away. Remember to cease on the guests heart to study extra about Hawaiian tradition and the importance of this park. For mountaineering, the Sliding Sands Path is greatest for younger youngsters as a result of you may stroll up a mile or two to see outdated lava. Then flip round when your loved ones will get drained. Kids ages 7 to 12 will get a kick out of the Junior Ranger Program, too.”
Lewis continues, “This nationwide park is called the Home of the Solar for being one of many world’s greatest locations to view attractive sunrises and sunsets. E book a dawn Haleakala tour to see what I imply.
Haleakala can be the right place to stargaze. Since this park is open 24 hours a day, you may arrange a tent and spend the night time having fun with the gorgeous surroundings and contemporary air. Remember to costume in layers for the reason that temperature may be 30 levels cooler on the summit than at sea degree. Don’t overlook your binoculars!”
3. Attend a luau.
Everybody likes a celebration, particularly when that social gathering is a luau. Luaus are feasts that have been as soon as reserved for Hawaiian royalty, however at present, anybody can attend. Many Hawaiian resorts host luaus, such because the spectacular Drums of the Pacific at Hyatt Regency Maui and Maui Nui Luau at Black Rock at Sheraton Maui.
These Hawaiian events sometimes embody dwell music, hips shaking the hula, gasp-inducing fireplace dancing, and Mai Tais for mother and pa. Outgoing youngsters will wish to get on stage for the viewers participation portion of the night to do the Hukilau, a fishing-inspired Hawaiian dance.
Partygoers take pleasure in conventional Hawaiian meals like roasted pulled pork and Lomi salmon made with lemon juice, tomatoes, and onions. These with adventurous style buds should strive conventional poi, a purplish grey paste created from taro root.
4. Tour the historic district of Lahaina.
Though components of Lahaina stay briefly closed for rehabilitation functions as of spring 2025, fortunately some areas have reopened, together with Lahaina Harbor. Sadly, the devastating fires in Lahaina destroyed a lot of this beloved space of Maui. Hawaii Governor Josh Inexperienced assured residents and vacationers that Lahaina can be rebuilt, though, “it would take years of labor and billions of {dollars},” based on MauiNews.com.
This outdated fishing harbor and former capital of Hawaii was famend for glitzy artwork galleries, bay-front bars, and attractive eating places. A centerpiece of Lahaina is its 150-year-old lovely banyan tree. Lahaina’s Banyan Tree was severely broken within the fires. Fortunately, the tree remains to be standing and stays an emblem of hope for the world’s rebuilding course of.
5. Join a Molokini snorkel tour.
Hawaii is a improbable place for snorkeling with youngsters due to its heat, calm waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundance of pleasant marine life. Kevin Wagar of Wandering Wagars says, “Top-of-the-line snorkeling areas in Maui lies only a few miles offshore on the crescent-moon atoll, Molokini. The distinctive form of this small island was attributable to the remnants of an historic volcanic crater that has largely collapsed into the encircling ocean. This distinctive geology has created a wonderland for undersea life.”
A number of firms run snorkel excursions out to Molokini Crater. For households, Wagar recommends reserving with the Pacific Whale Basis, an environmental non-profit group. He explains, “This tour provides the right mixture of excellent meals, instructional programming particularly geared in direction of households, and a good-sized boat that makes the journey there and again secure and cozy.”
Many of the Molokini excursions embody two separate snorkeling experiences. One on the Molokini Crater, and one on the famed Turtle Arches, which is a well-liked place for recognizing sea turtles off the shores of Maui. Each places provide mind-blowing views of coral reefs, unbelievable marine life, and heat waters with few waves.
6. Deal with youngsters to Hawaiian shaved ice.
No go to to Maui with youngsters could be full and not using a colourful serving of Hawaiian shaved ice. Approach higher than your commonplace snow cone, this deal with is made with finely grated ice fairly than lumpy cubes. The snowy texture soaks up the candy syrup and melts in your mouth.
Historically, Hawaiian shaved ice is served over a scoop of ice cream. You’ll be able to even get yours topped with a drizzle of sweetened evaporated milk for an additional splurge.
Kids will take pleasure in watching the ice machine magically make the frozen concoctions. Select from a myriad of flavors. There are tropical favorites like piña colada, mango, and papaya. Or stick to straightforward choices like cherry, grape, and bubblegum.
Hungry but? A number of favourite locations to do this deal with embody Peace Love Shave Ice in Kihei, Island Cream Firm in Lahaina, and Ululani’s at a number of places on the island.
7. Discover ways to surf.
Household journey knowledgeable Claudia Laroye of Claudia Travels says, “There’s no higher time to discover ways to surf than throughout a go to to Maui. In spite of everything, you’re surrounded by ocean waves and the alternatives to study are quite a few. Many family-friendly resorts on the island provide surf classes for households or particular person youngsters. Browsing isn’t as straightforward because it appears, so I like to recommend reserving group or non-public browsing classes. The calm and exquisite seashores of Ka’anapali, Lahaina, and Kihei are perfect for Browsing 101.”
Laroye warns, “Don’t be shocked in case your youngsters begin driving the waves earlier than you do. Kids have the benefit when getting up on a board, as their decrease heart of gravity offers them additional stability on the surfboard.”
Able to catch some waves? Check out this array of surf classes in Maui out there from GetYourGuide!
8. Go below the ocean with Atlantis Submarine.
Sean Lau with LivingOutLau recommends households, “discover the depths of the ocean on a real-life, purposeful submarine!” He says, “Atlantis Submarines takes you over 100 toes under the ocean floor to find Carthaginian, a sunken Nineteenth-century whaling brig. See how the sunken ship has created a man-made coral reef that helps marine life of various sizes, shapes, and colours.”
Situated off Lahaina, these kid-friendly submarine rides in Maui not solely entertain but in addition educate youngsters in regards to the ocean and its inhabitants. Geared up with giant viewing home windows and fashionable comforts akin to air-conditioning, be prepared for an eye-widening underwater journey! (Children should be 36″+ to take part.)
Word: Atlantis Submarines in Maui stays briefly closed as of April 2025 because of fireplace harm. Nevertheless, you can also make reservations for submarine excursions departing from Kona on the Large Island or Waikiki in Oahu.
9. Drive the highway to Hana…and keep awhile.
Stretching 64.4 miles, the winding Hana Freeway connects Kahului in West Maui the place most vacationers keep, with the sleepy jap Maui city of Hana. Plan to spend ALL day driving to Hana and again. Higher but, keep an evening or two on this city of slightly below 1,000 residents. If it’s essential to unplug and reconnect as a household, then Hana is THE place to be.
Though Hana is as laidback as may be, count on some white-knuckle moments as you grip the steering wheel through the journey. You’ll cross one-way bridges and switchbacks whereas locals zoom previous with a smile and a pleasant hang-loose gesture. Convey money to buy contemporary fruit and do-it-yourself banana bread from native stands alongside the way in which.
Hana-Maui Resort (previously Travaasa Hana) gives the last word in rest and luxurious. Wish to study extra? Learn my full Hana-Maui Resort evaluation.
10. Attend a lei-making class.
“Probably the most colourful token of Hawaiian hospitality is the normal garland referred to as a lei,” based on Hawaii knowledgeable Sarah Vanheel with PlacesToStayMaui.com. She continues, “The most well-liked leis are manufactured from orchids, however you’ll find shell or kukui nut leis too. Many household resorts in Maui arrange lei-making lessons for teenagers and oldsters. Making a full lei is perhaps a bit too formidable for little youngsters however they’ll simply as effectively make an ankle or wrist lei. This enjoyable household exercise comes with a bonus since you retain the fresh-flower lei you make. It may be stored cool in your lodge room fridge to be worn at dinner.”
11. Hike with youngsters in Maui.
There are great hikes in Maui on all components of the island. “It’s so a lot enjoyable to get outdoors along with your youngsters and take a stroll alongside the seaside, to a waterfall, or up a mountain for spectacular ocean views,” says Whitney with Designs for Journey.
Undecided the place to go? Whitney advises, “Dad and mom touring with a child or toddler in a stroller ought to select the paved Wailea Seaside Path to absorb scenic views of the attractive Wailea waterfront. One other nice hike for households is the straightforward 1-mile roundtrip alongside a manicured path via tropical foliage to the beautiful Twin Falls waterfalls, simply outdoors of Paia. For top-of-the-line views on the island of Maui, drive to the Thompson Highway Stroll situated in Keokea within the foothills of Haleakala. From right here you may see bicoastal views of Maui, Lanai, Kaho’olawe, and Molokini as you stroll previous Oprah’s spectacular trip residence.”
12. Watch cliff divers at Black Rock.
Exploring Pu’u Keka’a, generally generally known as Black Rock, is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Kaanapali, Maui with youngsters. Jess Dockendorf from I’m Jess Touring, says, “Black Rock is a well-liked place in Maui for cliff diving as a result of calm waters. There are a number of various spots to leap off into the ocean starting from 10 to 25 toes in peak.”
Dockendorf elaborates, “Each night time at sundown a cliff diving ceremony is carried out. It begins with a conch shell blown in all 4 instructions. That’s adopted by a chant and the lighting of tiki torches. Then a courageous diver jumps into the waters under. For a fantastic view of the ceremony, seize a desk at Sheraton Maui’s Cliff Dive Grill for al fresco meals and drinks.
13. Go whale watching.
Whale watching is without doubt one of the most memorable issues to do with youngsters in Maui. Lindsay Nieminem, journey knowledgeable and writer of Step into Jordan says, “Sometimes whale watching season runs from November to Might, however January to March is the very best time to see these majestic creatures. Humpback whales are the most typical whales sighted off the coast of Maui. You may also see false killer whales and different species.”
Nieminem provides, “Whale-watching boats are giant and provides households room to maneuver in regards to the vessel. Meaning youngsters won’t get bored. It’s an incredible expertise to see youngsters’s faces gentle up as they see whales out within the open ocean. For the very best expertise, deliver a number of snacks for your loved ones and a small exercise to maintain younger ones busy on board.”
Able to e book? Check out these whale-watching tour choices!
14. View sea life at Maui Ocean Middle.
Really useful by Dymphe with Dymabroad, “On the Maui Ocean Middle, you will see that an unbelievable aquarium the place your loved ones can find out about marine life in Hawaii. Your youngsters can see every kind of tropical fish, sharks, and different sea creatures right here. What’s superb is which you could stroll via a tunnel beneath one of many aquariums and really feel as in case you are within the ocean your self.”
15. Pet goats and style cheese at Browsing Goat Dairy.
Take a break from the seaside with a day journey to Browsing Goat Dairy in Kula in Upcountry Maui. Enroll upfront for a Every day Informal Tour to feed and milk a goat, study in regards to the cheese-making course of, and pattern the scrumptious creamy cheeses produced on the dairy. For a extra in-depth expertise, e book the Night Chore & Milking Tour. There’s even a Child Goat Interplay for households who go to in early spring. You too can swing by simply to purchase a few of their scrumptious goat cheese.
Do the goats actually surf? No, however you wouldn’t realize it from all the surfboard decorations! You’ll additionally discover a small outside play space for youthful youngsters and shaded picnic tables right here.
16. Go zip-lining.
Hawaii aficionado Marcie Cheung from Hawaii Journey With Children declares, “There are such a lot of enjoyable issues to do on Maui that it’s straightforward to refill your Maui itinerary very quickly. That’s why it’s essential to be certain to go away room for zip-lining in Maui with youngsters. Not solely is it a brilliant cool journey, but in addition the views of Maui are epic.”
Cheung explains, “There are a number of Maui zipline firms to select from relying on age and talents. Maui Zipline can take youngsters as younger as 5 years outdated, which is ideal for inexperienced persons. For households with older youngsters a minimum of 10 years outdated, the Flyin Hawaiian Zipline is the longest, highest, and quickest zip on Maui. Zip-lining on Maui is a Hawaii journey your loved ones will all the time bear in mind!”
17. Splash in a waterfall.
Do you wish to swim in a waterfall in Maui? In fact, you do! The most well-liked waterfalls for swimming in Maui embody the Seven Sacred Swimming pools, Higher Puohokamoa Falls, and Waikamoi Stream. For guided hikes, check out these waterfall excursions for households.
For a extra secluded expertise, Punalau Falls is a hidden pure paradise in northeastern Maui. Alexa Meisler, writer of 52 Good Days says, “This attractive 100-foot waterfall is without doubt one of the lesser-known falls alongside the favored Highway to Hana. It’s a beautiful household tour in Maui as a result of it tends to be a lot much less crowded than lots of the different stops on the favored winding highway.”
Meisler advises, “There’s a quick half-mile hike alongside Punalau Creek to the falls. Not solely will you discover the spectacular falls, but in addition there’s a swimming gap for household enjoyable. Put on water sneakers and don’t overlook towels and sunscreen!”
18. Go to sea turtles at Ho’okipa Seaside.
Ho’okipa Seaside on the north facet of the island is a superb place to take your youngsters to see turtles within the wild. Luke Storey with Wild About BC says, “Every single day, Hawaiian inexperienced sea turtles emerge from the water and crawl onto the sand to lie within the solar for a number of hours on the jap finish of the seaside, proper under Ho’okipa Lookout. Whilst you aren’t allowed to go proper as much as the turtles, watching them from a brief distance is an incredible expertise. That is very true for teenagers who could not be capable to snorkel or swim within the open water.”
After watching the turtles, Storey recommends going to the highest of Ho’okipa Lookout to absorb expansive coastal views and watch surfers hanging ten.
19. Cease to odor the flowers at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm.
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is a working farm on the slopes of Haleakala in Upcountry Maui. It options 25 kinds of lavender. You’ll additionally see and odor succulents, roses, hydrangea, and olive timber amongst different flora. The farm’s historical past originates from the late founder, Ali’i Chan, who began your entire farm from a single lavender plant gifted by a buddy in 2001.
Antoine and Marielle from Offbeat Escapades say, “The farm is without doubt one of the high issues to do in Maui with youngsters for its strolling excursions, craft lessons, and picnics. Ali’i Kula gives a very distinctive and academic expertise in nature, distinct from the standard outside actions. Moreover, there’s a secret backyard scavenger hunt that’s good for teenagers and adults of all ages. The Maui treasure hunt begins on the reward store and takes households via hidden sections of the farm and ends with a prize for youngsters.”
20. Go to a black sand seaside in Wai’anapanapa State Park.
Wai’anapanapa State Park is situated proper off Hana Freeway. One of many fundamental options of the park is Pa’iloa Seaside, also referred to as Wai’anapanapa Seaside.
The Discovery Nut‘s Daria Bachmann says, “That is thought-about by many to be probably the most lovely black sand seaside on Maui. It’s surrounded by sharp lava rocks and the encircling lush tropical vegetation creates a shocking distinction with the cobalt blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Whereas swimming right here is just not all the time doable because of harmful rip currents, it is best to completely take time to discover this 122-acre state park with a digicam in hand. You’ll find many unbelievable lava caves fed by ocean springs and scenic mountaineering trails coated with black lava rocks.”
21. Embark on a family-friendly Jeep tour of Maui.
Nervous about tackling the Highway to Hana? Jason Carlton with Carltonauts Journey Suggestions advises, “Let an area do the driving!” He recommends Hoaloha Jeep Adventures, which provides family-friendly excursions across the island, personalized to your loved ones’s pursuits and tempo. For bigger households, the Jeeps caravan along with the youngsters in a single car and the adults in one other, if desired.
Carlton says, “Find out about Maui’s tradition and historical past whereas exploring with an knowledgeable. Throughout your tour, you may swim close to a waterfall, discover a uncommon black sand seaside, hike on a volcano, or seize a chunk from an area scorching spot. Hoaloha even gives life jackets for youthful youngsters in the event that they wish to swim.”
22. Turn into a mermaid for a day with Hawaii Mermaid Adventures.
“When you’re coming to Maui with youngsters, then you definitely’ll love the Hawaii Mermaid Adventures, says Victoria Heinz from Information Your Journey. “They provide Mermaid Swimming Classes, the place you and your younger youngsters rework yourselves into real-life mermaids.”
Heinz continues, “Children above 50 lbs can be part of the teachings and can have the time of their lives. Or, select Mermaid Meet-and-Greets for individuals who aren’t able to strive it simply but. The most effective information is that skilled pictures is included in each single session. What higher solution to hold these recollections eternally than with a improbable set of photographs to recollect the day! Children will completely like it however swimming like a mermaid can be enjoyable for adults. The entire household will take pleasure in this expertise so make sure you add it to your journey itinerary on your journey to Maui.“
23. Go to botanical gardens alongside the Highway to Hana.
Because of the state’s distinctive local weather, there are many vegetation that develop solely in Hawaii and nowhere else in the US. Tatiana with Household Highway Journey Guru says, “When you love lush greenery and vibrant, lovely flowers of all styles and sizes, then you may be very glad strolling the paths of such fairly gardens as Backyard of Eden or Kula Botanical Backyard. Each are situated alongside the Highway to Hana and make good pit stops for households with their paved stroller-friendly paths. A bonus for hen lovers, Backyard of Eden has a resident peacock and Kula is residence to Nene geese distinctive to Hawaii.”
24. Rappel down waterfalls.
As one of many extra thrilling outside sights in Maui, Rappel Maui provides a novel expertise for households looking for Maui’s lovely waterfalls. “Whether or not households are in Maui for 2 weeks or stopping in on a Hawaii cruise, Rappel Maui is certain to thrill. Those that collect sufficient braveness to rappel down waterfalls won’t overlook this exceptional exercise,” based on Ellie Ewert from Ellie’s Journey Suggestions.
Ewert says, “If security is a priority, don’t fear! Visitors are supplied with all vital tools and directions to soundly rappel down the falls into refreshing pure water swimming pools. Children should be a minimum of 10 years outdated to rappel. However all ages can benefit from the scenic rainforest hike via the Hawaiian jungle as they uncover Maui’s gushing waterfalls.”
25. Swim in a superb Maui lodge pool.
Hawaii is residence to a number of the world’s most unbelievable swimming swimming pools. In actual fact, many households (like mine!) select the place to remain in Maui based mostly on the standard of the lodge pool. Superb waterfalls, splash areas, water slides, rope bridges, lush landscapes, and swim-up pool bars lure vacationers to linger within the pool space at lodges and resorts throughout the island.
Hyatt Regency Maui boasts the world’s first fantasy lodge swimming pools. In the meantime, Sheraton Maui wows pool followers with its meandering, palm-lined lazy river. Need further concepts? Check out the greatest lodge swimming pools in Hawaii for households.
Absorb the spirit of aloha!
Along with these family-friendly actions in Maui, the state’s distinctive spirit of aloha makes it one in all my favourite locations on Earth. The literal which means of aloha is “presence of breath.” This time period symbolizes the nice and cozy, welcoming, and type angle of Hawaii’s residents.
An encounter with an openhearted waitress at Hyatt Regency Maui’s Swan Court docket exemplifies this spirit of aloha. My then 6-year-old beamed as he instructed our waitress, “Do you know one thing? It was my greatest dream to come back to Hawaii. And now I’m right here!”
We watched the swans and geese swimming within the Swan Court docket’s pond whereas we ate our fill of pancakes. Then our waitress returned with a present of chocolate-covered macadamia nuts, which she handed to my son. Accross the highest of the field she had written, “To Leo, hold dwelling your goals!”
She instructed him, “I feel it’s great that you just dreamed of coming to Hawaii. I hope you’ll proceed to dream as a result of you are able to do something you need in life.”
He couldn’t cease grinning as he thanked her and hugged his chocolate prize. Then he stated, “Nobody appears imply right here. Everybody in Hawaii is glad.”
He’s proper. What’s to not be glad about in Maui?
Please assist Maui proceed to be a spot the place happiness is contagious by donating to any of those advisable charitable organizations.
Discover extra of Hawaii.
The 2 hottest resort areas on Maui are Wailea and Kaanapali. Uncover my favourite issues to do in Kaanapali with youngsters.
4 of Hawaii’s 5 lively volcanoes are on the Large Island. Learn my suggestions for exploring Hawaii Volcanoes Nationwide Park with youngsters.
Hawaii’s most populous island, Oahu, is residence to Pearl Harbor, the Polynesian Cultural Middle, and rather more. Uncover why to plan an Oahu trip with youngsters.
Prepared for household adventures in paradise? I like flying to the islands with Hawaiian Airways as a result of they make you’re feeling like your trip begins the minute you board the aircraft. Check out flight costs with Hawaiian Airways now!
Check out my journey planning providers so I can plan your Maui household trip whilst you deal with taking part in in paradise!
Save these Maui household trip suggestions.
For future reference, hold this checklist of the very best issues to do in Maui with youngsters. Merely pin the picture above or under to Pinterest. I hope you’ll comply with Colleen Travels Between on Pinterest whilst you’re at it!
What are your favourite Maui household actions? Do you will have any questions on visiting Maui with youngsters? Share your ideas within the feedback under!
A Word from Colleen: Thanks to Kaanapali Seaside Resort, Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa, and Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa for internet hosting one in all our many Maui holidays.