Photo by Zahid Lilani

Originally Posted On: https://globalmunchkins.com/destinations/travel-within-the-states/the-ultimate-family-fun-guide-to-maui/

 

My list of the BEST Things to Do in Maui whether you are headed there as a couple, with kids, or on a multi-generational trip. Every fall we head to the Hawaiian Islands for some peace and relaxation. I look forward to the vacation ALL YEAR long. Hawaiian air is magical. I’m NOT kidding. Kids get along with each other, you sleep better, everyone is happy, the weather is perfect… BLISS!!! Maui is my fav island, I was married there as I have mentioned before. To help you love it as much as I do I have put together the Ultimate Maui Family Fun Guide. Full of things to do in Maui with or without kids on your next visit.

The Best Things To Do in Maui- The ULTIMATE Maui Family Fun Guide

Families do best when you take the kids ages and limitations into consideration. I have divided my list by age as a guideline. You know what works best for your family so judge accordingly   If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to leave me a question in the comments below

Best with Older Kids and Teens

Most of the activities on this list are great for kids ages 5+. There are a few that are geared towards more adventurous families and most likely older kids and teens as noted. It is a good idea to check websites for current info before heading out and reservations are always a great choice. Don’t forget to pack water, snacks, sunscreen and mosquito repellent. You don’t need anyone getting hangry on you!

 

• Hike the Lava Fields at La Perouse Bay

  • Pack waters, snacks, sunscreen and sturdy shoes and head to this unique experience. The fields are the result of the last volcanic eruption around 1790 from Mount Haleakala. It is best to go early as it does get very hot and windy as the day continues. The trail is 3 miles (6 round trip) and is a gradual incline through the beach, a forested area and then the top where you are on lava rocks.
  • Cost: FREE
  • Times: Open daily until sunset
  • Location: La Perouse Bay, Maui HI
  • Check out more info here

 

• Snorkel around Molokini

  • There are many different tour companies that will take you out to the Molokini Crater by boat to enjoy some snorkeling. Molokini Crater is a volcanic atoll just off the south coast of Maui. It is known for its snorkeling and diving due to it being a State Marine Life & Bird Conservation District. The crater offers visibility of up to 150 feet and around 250 species of endemic fish and marine life. Due to frequent visits from tour boats, the marine life has become less skittish and more comfortable around people. It’s also known for being an easier place to snorkel since the crater is better protected from swells and currents than the shore.
  • Cost: varies by activity host
  • Times: varies
  • Location: Most tours leave the Lahaina or Wailuku area

 

• Whale Watching Boat Tour

  • If you happen to visit Maui between November and May you MUST go on a whale watching excursion. The Northpacific Humpback Whale travels here every year for their winter migration. You may even get to see one of the calves as the majority of humpback calves are born in Hawaii.
  • Cost: varies by activity host
  • Times: varies
  • Location: varies

Check out my guide to Whale Watching Here!

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• Surf Lessons from Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy

  • Everyone wants to be a surfer… its some sort of idealistic image that we all want to convey. What better place to learn than Maui? I’ve heard that Royal Surf Academy does an amazing job. Kids 9 and up can join a group lesson. They are given a surfboard, long sleeve rash guards, and reef shoes.
  • Cost: $65
  • Times: Open every day, all day
  • Location: Lahaina HI

See our full review of Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy here.

 

• Zipline with Skyline Eco-Adventures

  • Our family LOVES to zip line. Why not experience the #1 Zipline Tour in Hawaii as voted by Hawaii Magazine’s Best of the Best Readers Choice Awards 2015. Also, awarded the TripAdvisor Hall of Fame for 2015. The Ka’anapali , Maui 8 line adventure takes you through the West Maui mountains on eight incredible ziplines. For added fun choose the Zip & Dip option! Book early as they sell out.
  •  Cost: $134.96 for the 8 line Ka’anapali or $125.95 for the 4 line Ka’anapali Zip & Dip when you book online
  • Times: varies
  • Location:12 Kiopaa St, Haleakala National Park, Maui, HI 96768

Check out our full review of Skyline Eco-Tours here.

 

• Road to Hana

  • There are several different options when it comes to Hana. You can hire a tour guide, or download an audio guide. You can stop at every stop along the way or pick a few and spend more time at each location chosen. Everyone will have their owns pros and cons to each.
  • I recommend driving yourself, researching the stops beforehand and choosing a few favorites to stop at on the way up and then staying overnight in Hana. I haven’t done it but I have heard that the sunrise from Haleakala is amazing and its on my bucket list to experience someday.
  • Stop by the black sand beach, it’s about 3 miles past Hana, but it is Amazing

• • Cost: FREE
  • Times: You should start very early especially if you are making a round trip in one day

• Old Lahaina Luau

  • Families will love attending a luau. Not only do you get an amazing show but you also get to learn about the Hawaiian culture and enjoy some native foods. There are many to choose from but, I think the Old Lahaina Luau is the BEST!
  • Cost: $100+ (I know it may seem pricey, but it is totally worth it considering you get dinner, a show, Open Bar, a lei and a parting gift of banana bread)
  • Location: 1251 Front St. Lahaina, HI 96761
  • Times: check website below
  • Tip: There is a free shuttle to Lahaina from the Sheraton or the Westin.

Check out our full review of Old Lahaina Luau here.

 

• Bike Down Mount Haleakala

  • Mark Twain described the sunrise at the summit of Haleakala as “… the sublimest spectacle I ever witnessed.” You can witness it for yourself if you choose to do the sunrise bike tour. You will begin at the summit- 10,023′ high… after watching the sunrise you will be taken to the base of the National Park at 6,500 feet to begin the 23 mile downhill bike tour. Haleakala Bike Co. is said to be the BEST! *They also offer a van only tour for the non-bikers in your family now too!
  • Cost: $67-$120 when you order online depending on which option you choose
  • Location: Haiku Market Place 810 Haiku Rd. #120 Haiku, HI 96708
  • Times: Most tours take off around 9am, earlier for sunrise
  • Tip – Get to bed early because you will have an early morning heading up to Haleakala Crater

 

 

• Hike Waihee Ridge Trail

  • This trail is for the more adventurous of travelers. I would only recommend it for older kids/ active teens. The trail has a steep paved incline in the beginning but the paved road ends and the trail is known for being muddy and slippery. You are wise to grab a walking stick in the beginning if you want to avoid slipping especially on the way down. Make sure to pack good hiking shoes (something with traction preferably), plenty of water and snacks. The trail is about 2.5 miles and takes about 2 hours to complete.
  • Cost: FREE
  • Location: State Hwy 340 Wailuku, HI 96793
  • Times: Start early
  • Tip- Do NOT attempt if there is fog, it will only increase, you will get very wet, the path will be dangerously slippery and the views non existent by the time you reach the top.
  • Check out more info here

 

• Go on a Horseback Ride

  • I absolutely LOVE horses. I’ve ridden my entire life and I think it is a fantastic way to experience a new environment. Most stables offer riding to kids as young as 7-8 years old and from our experience they have always had very tame and spook free horses available for the novice riders. Maui is particularly amazing by horse because the views are absolutely stunning from the higher mountain elevations. You will definitely want to have a camera handy.
  • Cost: $100+ per person
  • Location: varies
  • Times: varies

• Hike the Pipiwai Trail

  • Pipiwai is one of the best hikes on the island. It has it all- waterfalls, bamboo forest, ocean views, gorgeous trees and views of the 7 sacred pools of water. The hike is easy enough to bring younger kids but it is muddy and you will get wet crossing some streams. The trail is 4 miles round trip and will take about 2 hours to complete. There are bathrooms at the beginning of the trail and a nice parking lot.
  • Cost: $15 entrance fee
  • Location: Pipwai Trail, Haleakala National Park Near 42 Mile Marker Maui, HI 96713
  • Tip:  The only downside is it is located at the end of the Road to Hana so you need to plan ample time to get there. And, you will want to arrive at least 3 hours before sundown
  • Check out more info here

• Wai’anapanapa State Park

  • Another stop on the Road to Hana but again its SO worth the stop it deserves it. Picture gorgeous emerald green cliffs meeting black basalt lava coastlines… your jaw will drop! There are several trails that you can hike to view pool caves, lava tubes and the famous blowhole.
  • Cost: FREE
  • Location: Hana Hwy past mile marker 32 Hana HI 96713
  • Check out more info here

 The Ultimate Guide to #Maui with Kids #Kaanapali #Wailea #Kula #FamilyTravelCLICK TO TWEET

Things to do in Maui with Babies and Toddlers

Babies and toddlers bring added thought when it comes to planning as you have to work around nap times and a feeding schedule. But, in my experience little ones do really well in Maui. I think it has something to do with the calming sounds of the ocean waves crashing and the fresh Hawaiian air. Make sure to check websites before heading out for the most up to date information. Always pack plenty of water, snacks, diapers and sunscreen with you too! Here are our favorite activities to enjoy with babies and toddlers in Maui.

• Iao Valley Hike-

  • An easy and short hike that allows you to escape and explore the jungle. The short take takes you to a view point where you can take pics of Kuka‘emoku or most commonly known as “the needle”. After the hike you can also travel through the lower area near the stream. We saw tadpoles and tiny fish which the kids thought was pretty cool. Iao is located just a short drive from Maui’s Wailuku area and the Kahului Airport. There are restroom facilities available.
  • Cost: $5 parking fee for non Hawaiian residents
  • Times: 7am- 7pm
  • Location: ‘Iao Valley Rd Hwy 32 Wailuku, HI 96793
  • Check out more info here

 

• Have a Beach Day at King’s Fishpond and See some SEA TURTLES (Secret Spot)

  • Located in Kihei, is a small beach (Kalepolepo Beach Park) at King Kamehameha’s Fish Pond. This used to be a beat up old beach filled with seaweed. Now, it has been revitalized and is spotless.
  • The beach is perfect for babies and toddlers as the fish pond formed by rocks years ago by King Kamehameha III prevents waves from hitting the shore
  • See Sea Turtles, over the past couple years Sea Turtles have shown up and you can check them out in knee deep water. It is pretty amazing
  • Check out everything to do at this secret turtle town here!

• Maui Ocean Center

  • Aquariums are the perfect spot to escape the heat and relax as a family. Even the littlest ones enjoy looking at the fish, sea turtles and sharks. The center is small and you will probably only spend a few hours maximum. But, your kids will love the tide pool where they can touch starfish as well as the tunnel they can walk through while sharks stingrays and sometimes divers swim overhead. There are snacks available for purchase, a gift shop and bathrooms too.
  • Cost: $18-$26 (check website)
  • Times: 9am-5pm
  • Location: 192 Ma’alaea Rd Wailuku, HI 96793

Check out our full review of Maui Ocean Center here.

 

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• Atlantis Submarine

  • Toddlers 36″ and above or people who don’t like scuba diving (ehem…me) might love to go exploring about underwater while riding in an actual submarine. Think Disney’s Finding Nemo except for this time you are actually diving under to about 100 feet in the ocean. You typically see quite a bit of sealife, the tour guides have some good jokes and they play music. This would not be for people who get claustrophobic and you do have to take a short boat ride to get to the sub but for many it will be a fun adventure.
  • Cost: call for pricing
  • Times: tours depart at different times daily
  • Location: 658 Front St Suite 175 Lahaina, HI 96761

 

• Lahaina Animal Farm

  • Kids love animals and adults love the ocean views so this stop will make everyone happy. Lahaina Animal Farm is a super clean farm that is home to horses, mini horses, goats, rams, sheep, donkeys, chickens, turtles, fish and pigs. They let you feed and pet their animals and they also are very informative making it a great learning experience too.
  • Cost: $25 per person
  • Times: Mon.- Sat. 9:30-11am *you need to make a reservation before visiting.
  • Location: 108 S Lahoe Pl. Lahaina, HI 96761
  • Check out more info here

• Ka’anapali Beach

  • Everyone will love the beach at Ka’anapali. The ocean water is warm so it is fantastic for the little ones, there is plenty of sand to build castles in, shops, restaurants and bathrooms. Some of the resorts offer chairs and umbrellas for a fee and there are also a few activity stands with rentals such as boogie boards, banana boats, snorkel gear etc… Parents might take turns snorkeling the area as you can typically see some pretty good fish and you also might like watching the cliff divers at Black Rock. I personally like to eat at the Hula Bar in Whalers Village above the beach. They have a kids menu, its right on the beach and its always an easy and delicious option for us!
  • Cost: FREE
  • Times: Open Daily
  • Location: 2435 Kaanapali Pkwy Lahaina, HI 96761

• Banyan Tree Park

  • If you get tired of chasing your kids along the ocean head to Lahaina, grab a shaved ice and let them burn some energy at the Banyan Tree Park. The tree is massive in size and pretty impressive. Its limbs grow into tree trunks! While this is a nice stop there is not much to do at the park. Thankfully, it is located near the shops on Front Street so you can head there right after.
  • Cost: FREE
  • Times: Open Daily
  • Location: 649 Wharf St. Lahaina, HI 96767
  • Check out more info here

 

• Maui Mini Golf and Sports Park

  • If you need some easy entertainment Maui Golf and Sports Park has your back. They have mini golf, bumper boats, rock climbing and a big trampoline. It’s nothing amazing but our kids always think its a blast.
  • Cost: depends on the type of ticket (avg. 2 adult, 2 kid family will spend about $50)
  • Times: Open 10am- 6pm, 7 days a week
  • Location: 80 Maalaea Rd Wailuku HI, 96793
  • Check out more info here

• Leilani Farm Sanctuary

  • Another fun animal experience is the Leilani Farm Sanctuary- an 8 acre farm in Haiku that is home to: chickens, cats, goats, rabbits, donkeys, peahens, pigs, deer and ducks. All the animals were rescued and by visiting you are helping to support their care.
  • Cost: $20 per person, $10 for kids
  • Times: Wednesdays at 4pm and Saturdays at 10am
  • Location: 260 E Kuiaha Rd. Haiku, HI 96708
  • Check out more info here

• Visit Surfing Goat Dairy

  • Okay… obviously I love the animal spots with young kids. Here is another. But, this one also involves food. You get to take a tour of the dairy, learn about its history, play with and feed the goats (the baby goats are the cutest) plus try your hand at milking them. You also get to sample some of their cheeses. Make sure to pack some drinks and wear sunscreen. And, don’t miss the truffles made with their goat milk they are delish!
  • Cost: $12.50 for adults and $8 for kids
  • Times: Mon.- Sat. 9am-5pm and Sun. 9am-2pm
  • Location: 3651 Omaopio Rd Kula HI 96790
  • Check out more info here

• Hike Twin Falls

  • Twin Falls in a pretty easy hike. Easy enough that you can strap on an ergo and take a baby or toddler fairly easily. Takes about 20 minutes to get to the water fall. You should wear shoes- not flip flops to avoid jagged rocks. And, pack mosquito repellent. It is part of the Road to Hana tour but it is in the beginning and makes an excellent day trip with little ones. There are restrooms and a cute snack shack at the beginning of the hike with fresh coconut milk. The kids get a kick out of drinking straight from the coconut
  • Cost: FREE
  • Location: 6280 Hana Hwy Haiku, HI 96708
  • Times: Open all day
  • Check out more info here

• Still looking for more awesome things to do with the little ones in Maui? See Trips For Tykes Guide here.

Things to do in Maui for Adults:

• Visit Paia Town

  • Paia is a charming little plantation village with adorable shops and cafes. It is a great place to stop on the Road to Hana. They have the most amazing natural healthy food options. Although, most just pass through this town on their journey to Hana. Paia is really a great town to spend an afternoon in. The people are amazing and the shops and cool and eclectic.
  • Cost: FREE
  • Location: Maui’s Northern Coast just off Hwy 36
  • Times: varies
  • Tip: Check out Mana Foods a low cost natural health food store. They have some amazing treats!! Paia Fish Market is also a popular choice.
  • Check out more info here

• Maui Chocolate Tour

  • Did you know the island of Maui has a winning master Chocolatier? Melanie Boudar and her assistant offer a fun & educational chocolate immersion morning. Learn about the cacao tree and how the fruit is harvested, fermented and dried. Next up roast and hand grind cacao beans to make a delicious ancient Aztec beverage. Continue through a guided chocolate tasting where you will taste 4 unique flavors considered some of the best in the world and 3 Hawaiian grown chocolates. Then you leave with an exquisite chocolate truffle from Sweet Paradise Chocolatier in Wailea.
  • Cost: $59 (Kids under 12 are FREE!)
  • Location: 2505 Kula Hwy Kula, HI
  • Times: Every Tues., Thurs. & Sun. 10-11:30am
  • Check out more info here

• Lunch Tour at O’o Farm

  • Oh, how I love Farm to Table dining and it doesn’t get much better than O’o Farm where you get to tour the farm and help the chef harvest your meal. The farm is located in the gorgeous area of Kula also known as Upcountry Maui. Imagine sitting down to a delcious meal, harvested by yourself and prepared by the chef just for you on the slopes of Haleakala 3,500 feet up while overlooking the gorgeous bi-coastal views of the island. Its magical!!!
  • Cost: $58 (per person)
  • Times: Mon.-Thurs. 10:30am-2pm
  • Location: 651 Waipolo Rd. Kula, HI 96790
  • Check for more info here

 

• Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery

  • An informational tour about the process of making vodka and rum at this gorgeous organic farm and distillery. They go over sustainable farming practices and you get to tour their green manufacturing processes. You will learn about about the local history of sugar cane farming and adults ages 21+ will get todo a taste sampling as well.
  • Cost: $10 per person (ages 12 & older)
  • Times: 9:30am-4pm (every half hour)
  • Location: 4051 Omaopio Rd. Kula, HI 96790
  • Check out more info here

I hope you enjoyed our Ultimate Maui Family Fun Guide.

Have you visited Maui?