Hawaii is a premier family vacation destination, blending natural charm, cultural depth, and activities suitable for all ages. Finding the best Hawaiian island to visit for families and friends can be overwhelming, but it depends on your family’s interests.
Each island offers unique experiences, from romantic atmospheres and scenic drives to scenic hiking trails and açaí bowls, outdoor adventures, quiet vacations, and educational opportunities. Visiting all the main islands together will provide a memorable family vacation.
This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission at no additional cost if you decide to purchase through links.
We have some quick links to help make your trip planning easier. |
|---|
| 1. Save big with this booking site that you can use on every trip 2. Check out the best tours and activities 3. USA Travel Inspiration |
How to choose the best Hawaiian Island to visit with families?
Selecting the ideal Hawaiian island for your family vacation can be daunting, but the decision primarily depends on your family’s interests. Oahu is often touted as the best island for families, considering the main Hawaiian Islands.
Maui is a haven for families who adore the beach. With its breathtaking beaches and activities suitable for children, Maui is a strong choice.
The Big Island is perfect for families seeking adventure and natural wonders—home to four active volcanoes and diverse climates.
Each Hawaiian Island Is Unique
Each Hawaiian island provides a distinctive experience, underlining the importance of understanding each island’s unique offerings. Oahu, often called “The Gathering Place,” combines a cosmopolitan atmosphere with stunning beaches and historic sites like Pearl Harbor. It’s perfect for families with kids who want a mix of adventure and culture.
Maui is known for its beautiful beaches, which’re suitable for honeymoons, families, and friends’ vacations. Its diverse landscapes, from the Haleakalā Crater to the lush Hana Highway, offer endless activities.
The Big Island’s incredible diversity, featuring 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones, provides unique experiences from active volcanoes to snow-capped mountains.
Kauai, celebrated for its natural beauty, offers an authentic Hawaiian experience with breathtaking landscapes like the Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon. Each Hawaii Island has unique characteristics and attractions suitable for families with kind vacations, making it essential to choose the right one for your vacation.
Each Hawaiian Island Has Epic Beaches
Hawaii is famous for its magnificent beaches, each with its unique appeal. Whether you’re looking for calm waters for toddlers to splash in or the best spots for snorkeling and surfing, each Hawaiian island has you covered.
For example, Lanikai Beach on Oahu is frequently recommended as the ideal beach for families in Hawaii because of its tranquil, azure waters and stunning views. Due to these features, Many consider it the best beach for families.
No matter which Hawaiian island you choose, you’ll find beautiful beaches with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Every island offers plenty of sand and surf, from the famous beaches of Waikiki on Oahu to the serene shores of Wailea on Maui. This makes Hawaii travel with kids a perfect beach trip.
Which Is Best For Your Family?
Oahu
Oahu is an excellent option for families in search of both adventure and cultural experiences. Known as “The Gathering Place,” Oahu offers various activities catering to all ages and interests. Some of the top attractions include.
The family has always found Oahu to be budget-friendly compared to other islands, making it an excellent option for a memorable family vacation.
Despite its many attractions, Oahu can be crowded, especially around popular spots like Waikiki Beach. However, the vibrant mix of city life, stunning beaches, and cultural experiences makes it a perfect destination for families.
Family-Friendly Activities on Oahu
Oahu brims with activities suitable for the whole family. One of our top recommendations is visiting Pearl Harbor, where kids can learn about history while exploring the USS Arizona Memorial. The Polynesian Cultural Center offers an immersive experience of Hawaiian culture, complete with traditional performances and interactive exhibits.
In the city or relaxing on the beach, Oahu offers endless adventures for families.
Exploring Oahu with kids can present challenges, mainly due to the island’s heavy traffic and bustling tourist locations. Plan your activities early in the morning or later in the afternoon when crowds are thinner to make your trip smoother.
Things To Do In Oahu With Kids
- Visit Pearl Harbor
- Hike to Diamond Head
- Tour the island and see waterfalls
- Snorkel in Hanauma Bay (one of the best beaches in Hawaii for families)
- Discover island cultures at the Polynesian Cultural Center, which has Hawaiian attractions.
- Visit The Dole Plantation
- Kualoa Ranch Movie Tour
- Horseback Riding At Kualoa Ranch
- Enjoy Famed North Shore Surf Town Haleiwa
- Spend Beach Day in Kailua or Lanikai (one of the best kid-friendly beaches in Hawaii for families)
- Enjoy Waikiki Beach (and watch the fireworks in front of the Hilton on Friday nights)
- Paradise Cove Luau
Best Kid-Friendly Resorts on Oahu
Choosing suitable accommodation is crucial for a successful family vacation, and Oahu boasts some of the finest child-friendly resorts.
The Hilton Hawaiian Village is a top choice, offering a range of activities for kids, from lagoon swimming to lei-making classes. The resort’s central location in Waikiki makes it convenient to explore nearby attractions.
Here are some of the most kids-friendly resorts on Oahu.
- Hilton Hawaiian Village
- Outrigger Waikiki
- A Disney Resort and Spa
- Marriott Ko Olina
- Turtle Bay Resort
These resorts are perfect for families. They offer themed activities, character meet-and-greets, and a water park that kids will love. Both resorts provide a mix of relaxation and adventure, ensuring a memorable stay for the entire family. We recommend these resorts in Hawaii for family vacations, which are the best for kids.
Maui
For beach enthusiasts, Maui is a dream come true. Known for its stunning shorelines and crystal-clear waters, Maui offers many activities on land and at sea. The family has enjoyed everything from snorkeling at Molokini Crater to exploring the scenic Hana Highway. Maui’s diverse landscapes ensure that there’s always something new to discover.
Beyond its beaches, Maui also offers kid-friendly hikes and cultural experiences. The Pipiwai Trail is a family favorite with its bamboo forests and waterfalls. Like the one at Marriott Wailea, Maui’s luaus offer a fun way for kids to learn about Hawaiian culture through dance and music.
Maui is the best Hawaiian island to visit, perfect for family outings. Kaanapali Beach is family-friendly, with plenty of amenities and activities, including snorkeling and paddleboarding. Wailea Beach is another favorite, known for its calm waves and clean sand, making it ideal for younger kids.
Things To Do With Kids On Maui
- Drive the Road To Hana
- Take a Hike in Iao Valley
- Snorkel Day in Kapalua (one of the best Hawaiian beaches for families and a great spot to see occasional sea turtles)
- Take a Snorkel Trip to Molokini Crater
- Learn to Surf
- Visit Haleakalā National Park
- Enjoy Zip Lining at Camp Maui
- Spend a Beach Day in Kaanapali
- Take a lei-making, hula dancing, or ukelele lessson
- Watch the whales (in the winter)
- Attend a Luau
- Take a hike and swim under waterfalls on a guided adventure with Hike Maui
Where to Stay with Kids on Maui?
Selecting suitable family-oriented accommodations can significantly elevate your Maui vacation experience. The Ritz-Carlton Maui is an excellent choice for families, offering spacious accommodations and kid-friendly activities. The resort’s luxurious amenities and attentive service make every family feel pampered.
Another fantastic option is the Fairmont Kea Lani, known for its family-oriented services and stunning beachfront location. The resort offers a range of activities, from water sports to cultural experiences, ensuring that your family has a memorable stay. Both resorts provide a perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities, making them ideal choices for a Hawaiian family vacation.
Exploring Nature and Wildlife on Maui
The varied landscapes of Maui provide limitless possibilities for nature and wildlife exploration. One of the highlights is Haleakala National Park, the only island where families can:
- Hike through volcanic landscapes
- Witness breathtaking sunrises or sunsets from the summit
- Explore the park’s trails, featuring cinder cones and lush vegetation
These activities provide a unique and educational experience for kids.
Another must-do activity on Maui is the scenic drive along the Road to Hana. This journey takes you through lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls and offers numerous spots for family adventures.
Exploring Maui’s tide pools is also a fantastic way to learn about marine life, with opportunities to see sea stars, crabs, and other creatures up close.
Big Island
It’s one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit and is perfect for families with kids. For families drawn to adventure drawn to adventure and intrigued by volcanoes, the Big Island is a haven. Home to four active volcanoes and four major islands, the island offers unique experiences like:
- exploring the Thurston Lava Tube
- hiking around craters
- witnessing volcanic activity up close
- learning about the island’s geological wonders
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must-visit for families looking to experience these volcanic wonders.
In addition to its volcanic attractions, the Big Island boasts diverse climates and landscapes. From black sand beaches to lush rainforests, there’s always something new to explore.
The island is less touristy than Oahu and Maui, offering a more serene and authentic Hawaiian experience. However, remember that long car rides are typical on the Big Island, so plan accordingly to ensure a smooth trip for the kids.
The Big Island promises adventure for families, offering a variety of activities from seaside drives to experiences at high altitudes. One of the best ways to explore the island is through its scenic drives, which offer stunning views and unique landscapes. The coastal roads allow spontaneous stops at hidden beaches and picturesque viewpoints.
For a truly unique experience, families can venture to high-altitude areas near Mauna Kea, where the landscape changes dramatically, and the views are nothing short of spectacular. Some activities to consider on the Big Island include:
Things To Do With Kids On The Big Island
- Spend a Full Day Exploring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Enjoy a hike in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
- Hike Kilauea lki Trail
- Take a Helicopter Tour To See Volcanoes From Above
- Snorkel Boat Tour with Ali’i Tours
- Visit Akaka Falls
- Experience Flumin’ Kohala
- Visit Waipi’o Valley
- Enjoy a Beach Day at Mauna Kea
- Visit Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area for a Beach Day
- Splash in teal water at Kua Bay
- Visit Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Must-Visit Attractions on the Big Island
The Big Island’s attractions are as diverse as its landscapes. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a highlight, offering a chance to see the active Kīlauea Volcano and explore lava tubes. The park’s unique geological features and educational exhibits make it a captivating family destination.
Another must-visit is Mauna Kea, the tallest point in Hawaii. Families can visit the visitor center for stunning views and unique astronomical experiences. The clear night skies offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the world.
For a truly unique beach experience, head to Papakolea Green Sands Beach. The striking green sand and remote location make it a memorable adventure for the whole family.
The Kohala Mountains provide breathtaking views and are perfect for families looking for scenic beauty and adventure. Whether you’re exploring volcanic landscapes or enjoying the serene beaches, the Big Island offers a wide range of activities that cater to adventurous families.
Family-Friendly Accommodations on the Big Island
The Big Island provides numerous child-friendly accommodations tailored to the needs of families on the move. The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is recommended, featuring activities like tide pool exploration and Hawaiian cultural experiences. The resort’s luxurious amenities and attentive service ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for families.
Another excellent option is the Fairmont Orchid, which offers kid-friendly pools and a spa where parents can relax. For families looking for more flexible accommodation options, vacation rentals and budget-friendly hotels provide the convenience of home-like amenities. No matter your preference, the Big Island offers a range of accommodations to suit every family’s needs.
The Big Island offers amazing beaches and endless opportunities for adventure and exploration.
Kauai
The Garden Isle, Kauai, is an idyllic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Its lush landscapes and thrilling outdoor activities make it a top choice for those who love hiking, kayaking, and exploring nature. The family has always enjoyed the variety of adventures Kauai offers, from ziplining through verdant valleys to hiking along the breathtaking NaPali Coast.
Kauai’s natural beauty is unmatched, with stunning sites like Waimea Canyon, often called the ‘Grand Canyon of the Pacific,’ and the Kilauea Lighthouse, a historical landmark with incredible ocean views. Whether camping, snorkeling or simply enjoying the island’s lush jungle atmosphere, Kauai provides an authentic and unforgettable Hawaii experience.
Kayaking on the Wailua River is famous for a more relaxed activity. The family-friendly activity lets you paddle through lush landscapes and explore hidden waterfalls. Visiting Wailua Falls is another must-do, offering a picturesque waterfall experience suitable for families.
Things To Do With Kids In Kaua’i
Kauai’s diverse outdoor activities provide endless opportunities for families to connect with nature and create lasting memories. Some of the activities you can enjoy on the island include:
- Visit Waimea Canyon State Park
- Snorkel at Poipu Beach
- Have a family beach day at Lydgate Beach
- Take a kid-friendly Hike at:
- Iliau Nature Loop Trail
- Kuilau Ridge Trail
- Mahaulepu Heritage Coastal Trail
- Beach Day in Hanalei (one of the best beaches in Hawaii for families)
- Fern Grotto and Kayaking
- Discover the Na Pali Coast By Boat
- Koloa Ziplines
- Captain Andy’s Boat Tour
Kauai is truly a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best Family Resorts on Kauai
Selecting suitable lodging on Kauai can greatly enrich your family vacation. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is a top choice, featuring a lazy river pool and a saltwater lagoon, perfect for families. The resort’s luxurious amenities and beautiful location make it an ideal base for exploring the island.
Another excellent option is Timbers Kauai, which provides spacious accommodations and family-centric amenities. With its stunning views and range of activities, Timbers Kauai ensures families a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Both resorts offer a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, making them ideal choices for a family vacation on Kauai.
Tips for Enjoying Kauai’s Natural Beauty with Kids
Adequate preparation is critical to fully appreciating Kauai’s natural beauty with children. The island’s frequent showers are typically quick-passing rain, so packing rain gear. Additionally, plenty of water and snacks will energize everyone during outdoor adventures.
Wearing sturdy footwear is crucial for hiking on Kauai’s rugged trails. Applying reef-safe sunscreen helps protect. With these tips, your family can make the most of Kauai’s stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Molokai
Lanai for a Quiet Family Getaway
Families searching for a peaceful retreat will find the less frequently visited other Hawaiian islands of Molokai and Lanai provide serene and distinct experiences. Molokai, known for its pristine landscapes and untouched culture, provides an authentic taste of old Hawaii. With about 62% of residents being Native Hawaiians, the island’s rich cultural heritage is palpable.
Lanai offers a blend of luxurious relaxation and rugged nature. Families can enjoy the following:
- Snorkeling
- Relaxing on secluded beaches
- Looking for dolphins
- Going on ATV tours
Both islands offer a serene environment, perfect for families looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in Hawaii’s natural beauty.
Family Activities on Molokai
Molokai serves as a sanctuary for families seeking serene and informative activities. Exploring Kalaupapa National Historical Park offers a glimpse into the island’s history and the story of Father Damien. The Molokai Museum and Cultural Center is another excellent spot to learn about the island’s past and cultural significance.
Families can visit the Halawa Valley for a more active adventure, where hiking, swimming, and cultural tours provide a well-rounded experience. Quiet beaches like Papohaku Beach allow serene seaside activities, perfect for relaxation and family bonding.
Don’t miss visiting Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm, where families can learn about farming and sample fresh nuts. Molokai’s combination of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a unique and enriching family destination.
Where to Stay with Kids on Molokai?
Molokai offers a range of kid-friendly accommodations that cater to families’ needs. Hotel Molokai is famous, featuring amenities like a pool and evening entertainment.
For a more home-like experience, Molokai Shores offers vacation rentals with fully equipped kitchens and ocean views, making it ideal for families.
Lanai: Luxury and Relaxation for Families
Lanai is known for its opulent resorts and premium amenities, making it ideal for a restful family escape. The island’s minimal crowds and serene environment offer a peaceful retreat. The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is a top choice, providing kids-friendly activities and programs catering to parents and children.
In addition to luxury, Lanai offers outdoor adventures like horseback riding and exploring the island’s scenic landscapes. Whether relaxing by the pool or embarking on an ATV tour, Lanai offers a unique blend of luxury and adventure that ensures a memorable family vacation.
Final Thoughts On The Best Hawaiian Island for Families
The decision on the best Hawaiian island to visit with your family vacation would ultimately hinge on your family’s interests, the ages of your children, and the kind of experiences you are after. Each island offers its unique charm and a variety of activities that cater to different tastes.
Here are some recommendations:
- Oahu: Excellent for families with younger children, offering plenty of activities and kids-friendly resorts.
- Maui is also great for families with younger children; it has plenty of activities and beautiful beaches.
- The Big Island: Perfect for adventurous families who want to explore volcanic landscapes and experience unique outdoor activities.
- Kauai is ideal for those who love outdoor activities and lush scenery. There are plenty of hiking trails and beautiful beaches.
Consider these factors when choosing the best Hawaiian island for your family vacation.
No matter your chosen island, Hawaii promises a memorable family vacation filled with cultural experiences and natural beauty. Each island’s unique spirit and aloha will make your trip unforgettable, leaving your family with cherished memories and a longing to return to this paradise.
Summary
Whichever island you choose, your family will indeed have an unforgettable experience. Hawaii offers something for everyone, from exploring historical sites and engaging in cultural activities to relaxing on pristine beaches. Ready to plan your Hawaiian family vacation? The islands are calling, and paradise awaits!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the best Hawaiian island for families with toddlers?
Oahu and Maui are both great options for families with toddlers. They offer plenty of kid-friendly activities and accommodations, and your little ones will have a blast in these safe and fun environments.
What are some must-visit attractions for families on the Big Island?
You should visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea, Papakolea Green Sands Beach, and the Kohala Mountains for a fantastic family experience on the Big Island. Enjoy your trip!
Are there family-friendly resorts on Kauai?
Yes, there are family-friendly resorts on Kauai, such as the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa and Timbers Kauai, which offer a variety of amenities and activities for families.
What activities are available for families on Molokai?
You can explore Kalaupapa National Historical Park, visit the Molokai Museum and Cultural Center, enjoy quiet beaches like Papohaku Beach, hike in the Halawa Valley, and visit Purdy’s Natural Macadamia Nut Farm for a fun-filled family vacation on Molokai.
How can I make the most of my family vacation on Oahu?
Make the most of your family vacation on Oahu by visiting iconic sites like Pearl Harbor, exploring the Polynesian Cultural Center, and enjoying the calm waters of Waikiki and Lanikai beaches. Choose family-friendly resorts like Hilton Hawaiian Village or Aulani to stay.
