Top 15 Things to Do in Maui with Kids
10 Jun 2024
When planning a family vacation to Maui, it's essential to find activities that cater to the entire family, especially the little ones. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and abundance of outdoor activities, the Island of Maui is the perfect destination for a memorable family getaway.
Brought to you by Maui Resort Rentals, here's our list of the Top 15 Things to do on Maui with Kids. Whether seeking adventure, marine education, or relaxation, Maui offers many activities to keep kids (and parents) entertained and engaged.
1. Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center
Discover the wonders of Hawaii's wildlife at the Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center. This interactive center offers educational exhibits about marine life, native Hawaiian species, and ongoing conservation efforts. Kids will love the hands-on activities and the chance to learn about the island's unique ecosystem. The center also features engaging displays about the delicate balance of Maui's natural environment and the importance of preserving it.
Visit the Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center
2. Ka'anapali Trolley
Photo courtesy Kaanapali Trolley
Hop on the Ka'anapali Trolley for a fun and convenient way to explore the Ka'anapali area. The trolley offers a scenic ride through popular spots, including shopping centers, beaches, and hotels. It's a fun way for kids to see the sights without getting tired of walking. Plus, the trolley's vintage style and open-air seating make the ride itself an exciting adventure. Parents will appreciate the short break while kids enjoy the ride.
Explore with Ka'anapali Trolley
3. Take a Walk at Iao Valley
Immerse your family in the lush beauty of Iao Valley State Monument. This park features easy walking trails that are perfect for kids, leading to stunning viewpoints of the iconic Iao Needle and surrounding greenery. It's an educational and refreshing outdoor experience where kids can learn about Hawaii's natural history and enjoy the serenity of the valley.
Remember to pack a hat, sunscreen, drinking water, and a picnic and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. During the Summer, you can also dip in some of the cold pools. Bring water shoes, and always ensure your children are supervised.
4. Luckey Climbers at Whalers Village
Whaler's Village offers more than amazing oceanfront shopping; it's home to the Luckey Climbers, a super cool climbing structure designed for children. This creative play area will keep kids entertained while parents enjoy some shopping or a relaxing break in the shade. The structure is safe and innovative and encourages physical activity and imaginative play. Kids can climb, explore, and make new friends. There is also a small splash pad right next to the structure for kids to cool off and play in, so have your little ones wear a suit!
Check out the Whaler's Village website to learn more about family-friendly activities throughout the week, such as lei-making, ukulele lessons, and hula dance classes. Head to Our Blog to learn about restaurants in Ka’anapali.
Learn more about Luckey Climbers
5. Maui Ocean Center
Dive into the underwater world at the Maui Ocean Center! This top-rated Maui aquarium features a variety of exhibits showcasing Hawaii's marine life.
Highlights include a walk-through tunnel where kids can feel like walking on the ocean floor and interactive touch pools where they can gently handle starfish and sea cucumbers. The center also offers educational programs and daily presentations that teach visitors about marine life conservation on Maui and throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Stop by the Turtle Lagoon and check out the Humpbacks of Hawaii Exhibit & Sphere. Remember to stop by their gift shop!
6. Visit The Maui Butterfly Farm
The Maui Butterfly Farm offers immersive experiences for adults and children alike to learn about the fascinating life cycle of butterflies and their importance in the ecosystem. This enchanting farm is passionate about saving the declining butterfly population in Hawaii and educating visitors on how they can help create and maintain healthy environments for them. Book one of the farm's guided tours for an educational and interactive experience that allows children to observe butterflies up close, witness their metamorphosis, and even hold them gently.
For those staying in the Kaanapali area, The Maui Butterfly Farm is just a quick 15-minute drive south, in Olowalu. If you're planning a day trip to Maui's west side, the farm can't be missed as it is conveniently located right off the Honoapiilani Highway. It also shares a lot with several delicious food trucks and the Olowaly Farmers Market where you can pick up different Maui-grown and made goods 7 days a week.
Discover The Maui Butterfly Farm
7. Visit the Birds at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort
The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort is home to a wide variety of exotic plants and birds, including colorful parrots, cranes, flamingos, swans, penguins, and ducks, and is the perfect place to bring your little ones to explore. Spend the morning strolling the lush grounds and lagoons and participate in the daily penguin feeding sessions held from 9:30 am to 1 pm.
Visitors can even sign up for a one-hour Wildlife Tour offered by an employee naturalist every Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday at 10 am or 1:30 pm, where they can learn about the fascinating wildlife on the property and their habitats. Kids will enjoy Roger the Blue and Gold Macaw waving her foot and hanging upside down on her perch, or Spike the African Crane playing a game of "call and response."
The best part, you don't need to be a guest at the hotel to participate and each activity is free. We do recommend contacting the front desk at the resort however to reserve your spot and ensure there is space for your family on the tour. Be sure to stop by the resort's large "Aloha" sign on your way out for a cute photo opportunity!
Hyatt Regency Maui Phone: 808.661.1234
8. Cool Down with Shave Ice
No trip to Maui is complete without enjoying shave ice, and more than once!
Treat your kids to this Hawaii delicacy at popular spots like Ululani's, Toby's Shave Ice, Peace Love Shave Ice, and Gus' Shave Ice. With a variety of flavors and toppings, it's the perfect refreshing treat on a warm day or whenever you want!
Each location offers its unique spin on shave ice, with options ranging from classic syrups to exotic fruit flavors, fresh-pressed juices, sweetened condensed milk toppings, gummy bears, sprinkles, fresh fruit toppings, and more!
The Colorful History of Shave Ice
9. Tropical Express Tour
Photo Courtesy Maui Tropical Plantation
Choo, Choooo! Take a ride on the Tropical Express at Maui Tropical Plantation.
This guided tour is fun and educational and travels through lush gardens and tropical fruit plantations. Kids will enjoy learning about the diverse flora and fauna and the plantation's history with an animated guide and some sweet treats on the way.
The tour also includes a stop at a coconut husking demonstration, where kids can see how coconuts are harvested and processed. It's a great way to experience the agricultural side of Maui.
Join the Tropical Express Tour
10. Visit Maui Tide Pools
Ho'okipa pools on Maui's North Shore
Explore fascinating marine life in Maui's tide pools!
These natural pools are perfect for a hands-on adventure where kids can discover small sea creatures like crabs, starfish, and colorful fish.
In West Maui, head to the south end of Napili Bay. The bay is sheltered, so it's mostly calm throughout the year. The best time to explore tidepools is generally in the morning when the ocean is quiet and the tide is low.
On the North Shore, Mama's or Ho'okipa pools are especially recommended during summer mornings when the tide is low. These pools reveal a world of marine life waiting to be explored. It's a fun and educational activity that allows children to learn about the ocean and ecosystem.
And, remember, never touch, step on, or harass Maui's fish, corals, or wildlife. Explore and enjoy, but keep a safe distance.
Learn More about Maui Tide Pools
11. Head to the Upcountry Farmers Market
Experience local farm culture and fresh produce at the Upcountry Farmers Market, arguably the best farmers market on Maui!
This market offers a variety of local foods, fruits and veggies, baked goods, crafts, flowers, plants, and Maui-made products. It's a great place for kids to try new foods and see the local lifestyle. The market is bustling with vendors selling everything from tropical fruits to handmade crafts, often featuring live music and entertainment. It's a perfect Saturday morning outing for the whole family, a great place to load up on local produce for your vacation rental, and fantastic for finding Maui-made gifts for friends and family at home.
After visiting the Upcountry Farmers Market, families can continue to visit Upcountry Maui sites like the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, Surfing Goat Dairy, Kula Country Farms, and more!
Visit the Upcountry Farmers Market & Learn More about Maui’s Farmers Markets on Our Blog
12. Maui Zipline
Photo courtesy Maui Zipline
For a thrilling adventure, take your kids ziplining at Maui Zipline!
This family-friendly activity offers stunning views and a rush of excitement as you soar through the treetops. The zipline tours are designed to be safe for children, with tandem options available for younger kids. It's an exhilarating way to see Maui's natural beauty from a new perspective.
Please note: Children as young as five are welcome to zip, but zippers under ten must have an adult zipping with them. Kids aged 11-18 can zip without an adult companion, but a responsible adult must stay on the property for the duration of the zipline tour.
Book your Maui Zipline Adventure
13. Plan to Do a Kids Art Class
Photo Courtesy Maui Art Lab Facebook
Unleash your child's creativity with a kids' art class on Maui!
Art Lab Maui and Hui No'eau, Visual Arts Center, offer engaging classes where children can explore different art forms and techniques. These classes provide a fun and educational way for kids to express themselves artistically, whether it's through painting, sculpture, or mixed media. The instructors are experienced and create a nurturing environment that encourages artistic exploration. Here's another great idea for a rainy day activity in Maui!
If you plan ahead of time, you can book your children in a series of classes at the Hui. Summer Camp Kalanui offers art series for kids of all ages.
Explore Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center
14. Road to Hana (Kids Version)
Embark on a family-friendly Road to Hana adventure! This version includes kid-approved stops, making the journey enjoyable for the whole family. Pack some snacks, water, and sunscreen, and prepare for scenic views, waterfalls, and exciting stops on the way!
Yes, the Road to Hana is long and winding; it will take a full day, so why not do a shortened version for you and your kids? Head out early in the morning and choose key destinations like Twin Falls, the Garden of Eden, and the Ke'anae Arboretum.
Twin Falls is an excellent spot for a short hike and swim. The Garden of Eden and the Ke'anae Arboretum are where kids (and parents) can stretch their legs and see a variety of native plants and fragrant blooming flowers. Remember, the journey is as exciting as the destination!
Afterward, you can return to Maui's North Shore for a late lunch and shave ice in Paia. Then, you can shop and relax at the beach for the rest of the day.
15. Beach Hopping
Napili Bay pictured from south end of the beach
Hands down, Maui is renowned for its beautiful beaches and incredible ocean activities. But what are the safest beaches for kids in Maui?
In Kihei, visit Kamaole III, which has gentle waves and picnic areas. Check out Ulua and Mokapu Beach in Wailea, which are great for snorkeling and family outings. When in West Maui, head to Launiupoko Beach Park or Napili Bay.
On Maui's North Shore, head to Mama's Beach (in front of Mama's Fish House Restaurant) or Baldwin's Baby Beach, a protected cove with calm waters. These beaches offer gentle waves and plenty of space for kids to play, ensuring a safe and enjoyable beach day.
No matter what, always supervise your children on the beach and near the ocean. No matter what, never turn your back on the ocean! Safety first, and heed all lifeguard warning signs. To check ocean conditions at various Maui beaches, visit Safe Beach Day and Ocean Safety Maui.
As we've learned, Maui offers many family-friendly activities and things to do with kids, making it an ideal destination for your next vacation. Whether you're exploring marine life, enjoying a luau, or just relaxing on a kid-friendly beach, there's something for everyone.
Book your stay with Maui Resort Rentals and create forever memories with your family! We welcome you to this beautiful island that we call home.