A family’s fantasy vacation destination is Maui. What’s not to love about gorgeous beaches, rainbow-colored Hawaiian shave ice, and fire dancer luaus? On this Hawaiian island, there is entertainment for all ages, from infants and toddlers to adolescents and adults. I’ve asked travel professionals to provide their recommendations for the top family-friendly things to do in Maui. In addition, Hawaii is one of my favorite locations on Earth, and my family has traveled there several times, so of course I’m sharing some of my favorite family-friendly Maui attractions.
You’ll want to pack your bags for paradise after reading this list of the top family-friendly things to do in Maui!
#1. Play at the Beach
With 750 miles of shoreline, Hawaii is a must-see location. Luxury resorts are located on Wailea Beach, while parents of toddlers and other young children prefer Baby Beach near Lahaina. Erica Gellerman of The Hawaii Vacation Guide recommends Napili Bay for its serene ocean, pure white beach, and fantastic snorkeling. Make a reservation at one of the many Maui oceanfront hotels to maximize your beach time.
Read Also: BEST PLACES TO STAY IN MAUI: Top 10 Places in Maui
#2. Watch a Sunrise or Sunset at Haleakala National Park
One of Maui’s most stunning and culturally significant locations, Haleakala National Park is great for families with children of all ages. The “house of the sun” is a popular destination for spectacular sunrises and sunsets. The Junior Ranger Program is a great way to learn about Hawaiian culture and explore the Sliding Sands Trail. The park is open every day of the year and can be up to 30 degrees colder at the top than it is at sea level. Layer your clothing because it might be up to 30 degrees colder at the top than it is at sea level.
#3. Attend a Luau
Hawaiian feasts called luaus were formerly only presented to the Hawaiian aristocracy. Nowadays, anybody can go and eat traditional dishes like Lomi fish and grilled pulled pork. Try the classic poi if your palate is daring. Children that are outgoing will enjoy participating in the evening’s audience activity by performing the Hukilau, a Hawaiian dance with a fishing theme. Many resorts on Maui also organize luaus, such as Drums of the Pacific at the Hyatt Regency Maui and the Maui Nui Luau at Black Rock at the Sheraton Maui. The Old Lahaina Luau is frequently praised as the most traditional luau on Maui.
#4. Tour the Historic District of Lahaina
The historic fishing harbor and former capital of Hawaii can be explored on foot for free as part of the Lahaina Historic Walking Tour. The Lahaina Lighthouse, the Baldwin Missionary House, the magnificent Lahaina Banyan Tree, and the Masters Reading Room are just a few highlights. In a few hours, families can complete the walking tour and then explore the contemporary waterfront area, stopping along the way for a drink or supper at one of Lahaina’s establishments. Consider taking a Segway tour of Lahaina for a fun way to see the city.
#5. View Sea Life at Maui Ocean Center
A fantastic aquarium where your family can learn about marine life in Hawaii can be found at the Maui Ocean Center. Your children can observe a variety of tropical fish, sharks, and other marine life. It’s incredible that you can enter a tunnel beneath one of the aquariums and experience what it’s like to be in the water firsthand.
#6. Go Zip-lining
On Maui, there are so many enjoyable things to do that it won’t take you long to fill up your calendar. You must be sure to allow space for Maui zip-lining with kids because of this. The vistas of Maui are magnificent, in addition to being an awesome excursion. Given that children as young as five years old can ride the Maui Zipline, it is the perfect activity for beginners. The Flyin’ Hawaiian Zipline is Maui’s longest, tallest, and fastest zipline for families with children older than 10, and it is also the most popular. A family excursion in Hawaii that everyone will never forget is zip-lining in Maui!
#7. Visit a Black Sand Beach in Wai’anapanapa State Park
Near the Hana Highway, there is a state park called Wai’anapanapa. Pa’iloa Beach, also known as Wai’anapanapa Beach, is one of the park’s key attractions. Many people think that this is the most gorgeous black sand beach in Maui. Sharp lava rocks surround it, and the lush tropical foliage that surrounds it makes a dramatic contrast to the Pacific Ocean’s crystal blue seas.
Because of the hazardous rip currents, swimming isn’t always feasible here, but you should still spend some time photographing this 122-acre state park’s attractions. There are several amazing lava caves that are fed by ocean springs, as well as beautiful hiking routes that are lined with black lava rocks.
#8. Become a Mermaid for a Day With Hawai Mermaid Adventure
You and your children will like the Hawaii Mermaid Adventures if you’re visiting Maui with children. They provide mermaid swimming lessons where you and your children can become authentic mermaids. Children that weigh more than 50 pounds are welcome to attend the courses and will have a blast. For those who aren’t quite ready to give it a try yet, there are also mermaid meet-and-greets. The best news is that each session includes high-quality photos. What better way to preserve those memories than with a stunning collection of images from the day?
Even though adults can enjoy themselves while swimming like mermaids, kids will like it. Make sure to include this event in your travel schedule for your vacation to Maui since the whole family will love it.
#9. Rappel Down Waterfalls
Rafting Maui is an exhilarating outdoor activity for families looking to explore Maui’s waterfalls. Rappeling Maui is likely to excite families, whether they are here for two weeks or just passing through while on a Hawaii cruise. Those with the guts to rappel down a waterfall won’t soon forget this amazing experience. Don’t worry if you’re concerned about safety! All the required tools and training are given to visitors so they can safely rappel down the falls into the cool natural pools of water.
To rappel, a child must be at least ten years old. However, people of all ages can take pleasure in the breathtaking journey through the Hawaiian jungle’s rainforest while learning about Maui’s roaring waterfalls.
#10. Stop to Smell the Flowers at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
On the Haleakala mountains in Upcountry Maui, the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is an active farm. It has a variety of plants, including 25 species of lavender, roses, hydrangeas, succulents, and olive trees. With its walking tours, artisan courses, and picnic areas, the farm is one of the best things for families to do in Maui. A treasure hunt in the secret garden leads to a reward for the kids. Visitors receive essential gear and training to safely rappel down waterfalls. All ages can take a gorgeous stroll through the Hawaiian jungle while learning about Maui’s gushing waterfalls; however, children must be at least 10 years old to rappel.
#11. Go Whale Watching
One of the most memorable family activities on Maui is whale watching. The best time to observe whales is from January to March, even though the official whale-watching season is from November to May. The most frequent whales to be seen off the shore of Maui are humpback whales. Other species and fake killer whales are also possible sightings.
Families can roam about the boat easily on large whale-watching boats because of their size. Therefore, youngsters won’t grow bored. It is lovely to watch their faces light up when they spot whales in the wide ocean. Bring some refreshments for your family and a little activity to occupy young ones on the flight for the best experience.
#12. Treat the Kids to Hawaiian Shaved Ice
Upcountry Maui is home to a farm with 25 varieties of plants. It provides artisan classes, walking tours, and picnic spaces. Hawaiian shaved ice is made with finely chopped ice and served over ice cream. The property also provides a rappel down the falls into calm natural water pools and a treasure hunt through the secret garden. Everyone can enjoy the lovely rainforest trek through the Hawaiian jungle as they learn about Maui’s gushing waterfalls; however, children must be at least 10 years old to rappel.
What is Maui Most Famous for?
Maui is famous for being an idyllic island home to several species of fauna, lush woods, and stunning beaches. Additionally, Maui is well known for producing mouthwatering exotic fruits like pineapples. It’s easy to see why Maui is on everyone’s must-visit list because of its excellent outdoor activities, rich culture, and easygoing way of life
Is Maui Really Expensive?
Maui is really the priciest island in Hawaii, with Oahu being the priciest. The average daily fee for hotel rooms on Maui and Oahu, respectively, is $530 and $225, according to a study from the Hawaii Tourism Authority (November 2021). You can see that Maui’s accommodation costs are far greater than those in Oahu.
Why Do People Prefer Maui?
Maui’s stunning beaches are without a doubt one of the island’s primary attractions. Numerous books have been published about the variety of Maui’s beaches. Over 30 miles of breathtaking beaches can be found in Maui, with everything from white to black and red sand, as well as snorkeling, windsurfing, and swimming.