37 Bucket list Things to do in maui with kids Guide (2024)

If you’re planning a trip with kids, Maui is the perfect family-friendly destination for those who want to relax and adventure. This post will help you experience all that Maui has to offer and more things to do in Maui with kids that are helpful for parents.

Hawaii has more hidden gems and all-natural wonders, such as beaches and crystal clear waters teeming with marine life, waterfalls, and trails. Maui has endless outdoor adventures for little explorers.

Whether you’re seeking to explore, from whale watching in winter to the largest dormant volcano in the world, Maui is full of adventures and family experiences.

Things to Do in Maui with Kids: Fun for Your Little Ones

Maui has something for everyone. There is plenty to do together in Maui with kids, and here’s The Ultimate Guide for us; whether you’re looking for baby-friendly beaches, toddler-friendly restaurants, or approved activities, Maui has it all.

We’ve got you covered. We’ve put together a list of things to do on Maui with kids. Let this guide inspire you and get your imagination going for an epic Maui vacation.

Maui Family Adventures Guide is for parents who know what their kids are into and what they can handle. We’ve categorized activities by level of excitement, from mild to wild. We recommend exploring options within your child’s age range and those slightly above and below.

That way, you can find the perfect balance of challenge and fun for your little ones. Every child is different. Some may be ready for more advanced experiences, while others prefer gentle activities. Use this guide as a starting point to plan your Maui family itinerary with kids.

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Maui Family Itinerary More to Do

Finish your trip planning with day trips to the island’s hotspots. This guide also has an accommodation section to help you choose the right resort holiday home or vacation rental for parents looking for quick recommendations about where you are in Maui.

Things to do in Maui for free Kids Activities

Maui offers plenty of freebies for visitors and locals. While the island’s natural wonders offer endless outdoor adventures, you’ll also find community events and tourist attractions that are free or budget-friendly.

Maui is magic. Whatever you do, your kids will be happy and have memories to last a lifetime. There’s something for every interest and age, so the whole family will have a great time in this island paradise.

Best Family Beaches in Maui

Maui has 120 miles of coastline and 30 miles of sandy beaches. However, not all beaches are suitable for swimming, even for adults. Take Makena Beach, for example; it’s beautiful but not for swimmers.

Luckily, family-friendly beaches are all over the island. For those with little ones, look for the Baby Beaches. These are sheltered coves surrounded by natural coral reefs or man-made breakwaters, so the water is calm and shallow.

Under normal conditions, you’ll find gentle ripples instead of waves, but windy days or bad weather can change that.

These areas are one to three feet deep, so they’re perfect for kids. As a bonus, Baby Beaches are usually kiawe tree-free, so there’s no thorny debris on the sand.

Baldwin Beach Park

Baldwin Beach Park is a must for families visiting Maui. It offers a safe and fun beach experience. The large sandy beach with calm water is great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The lush greenery around the beach makes for a beautiful setting for a day of sun.

One of the best things about Baldwin Beach Park is the Hawaiian green sea turtles. They swim in the water or bask on the beach and are a delight for all ages. A great opportunity for kids to see these amazing animals in their natural habitat.

Baldwin Beach Park is a must for families because of its natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities that create memories.

Ho’okipa Beach

Ho’okipa Beach is famous for windsurfing and kitesurfing but is also great for families with little ones. It is a big sandy beach with calm water that is great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The natural beauty of the area, with clear blue water and views, makes for a great family day out.

One of the main attractions at Ho’okipa Beach is the Hawaiian green sea turtles. They nest here, and you can see them swimming or basking on the beach. It is a magical experience for kids to see these turtles up close and learn about their importance in the Hawaiian ecosystem.

Ka’anapali Beach

Ka’anapali Beach is a top destination for families visiting Maui. It offers many activities and amenities. The long sandy beach with calm water is great for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The natural beauty of Ka’anapali Beach, with clear water and views, is a perfect setting for a family day out.

One of the main attractions at Ka’anapali Beach is the Hawaiian green sea turtles. These gentle giants nest here, and you can see them swimming or basking in the sun. It is a great experience for kids to see these turtles in their natural habitat.

Family Activities in Maui

Things to Do in Maui with families with kids

Maui is full of families on vacation with their kids. It’s a great destination for those traveling with babies, with lots of scenic walks, shaded beaches, and family-friendly dining options.

Parents enjoy these trips while their infant is still immobile. Once toddlers start walking, vacations get a whole lot more complicated. Take advantage of this short window to soak up the sun, take leisurely strolls with your pushchair, and find cool spots to escape the midday heat.

1. Beaches with Shade

Price: Free

Beaches with shade:

• Kihei: Kamaole III
• Wailea: Ulua and Mokapu Beach
• West Maui: Launipoko Beach Park

2. Tropical Tour

• Time: Tuesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Location: Waikapu in Central Maui (click for directions)

The Maui Lavender Farm is a peaceful spot to stroll with your little one in a stroller; no admission fee is required. For a bit more fun and adventure, join the Tropical Express Tour. charming open-air shuttle (essentially a decorated golf cart) will take you through the lavender fields so you can see the purple views and breathe in the calming scent.

This guided tour will give you insight into lavender farming and all its uses. After the tour, you can browse the gift shop for lavender products or have a picnic on the grounds with island views. It’s a sensory experience that’s gentle for babies and interesting for adults, too.

3. Shopping Centers to Stroll

• Price: Free
• Locations: West and South Maui

Looking for a leisurely activity? Check out the open-air shopping centers of Kaanapali’s Whalers Village and Wailea’s The Shops at Wailea. These lively destinations are more than just shopping; they’re hubs of Hawaiian culture and entertainment.

As you stroll through the various boutiques, restaurants, and Hawaii-centered stores, you’ll find plenty of free activities. Soak up the island vibe with live hula performances, Polynesian shows, coconut husking demonstrations, and ukulele lessons. These malls combine retail therapy and cultural experiences, perfect for a relaxing and educational stroll.

4. Historical Towns to Walk

• Price: Free
• Location: Upcountry Maui

Grab the stroller and take a walk through the historic town of Makawao in upcountry Maui.

In upcountry Maui, Makawao is famous for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) history. But this charming town has more than just its rodeo roots. If you have a sweet tooth, head to two local institutions: The Maui Cookie Lady for gourmet cookies and Komoda Store and Bakery, where the donuts are legendary among locals and visitors.

Beyond the sugar high, Makawao has a great shopping scene. The streets are lined with eclectic boutiques featuring local artists and designers. For a taste of old Hawaii, stop by the general store, where you’ll find all sorts of treasures and trinkets.

To fuel your Makawao adventure, the town doesn’t disappoint with coffee. Several coffee shops in the area are the perfect place to sit and enjoy a cup of Kona coffee and the Upcountry vibe.

There are two short trails on Maui with big views in a small package. First, the ‘Iao Valley State Park loop is

5. Stroller and Ergobaby Friendly Hikes

• Kapalua Coastal Trail: Free

The Kapalua Coastal Trail starts at the southern end of beautiful Kapalua Bay, one of West Maui’s best beaches.

These trails are featured in our guide to accessible Maui hikes, where you can find more information on each. Both of these trails offer a variety of natural wonders to see, including waterfalls, volcanic formations, rivers, and ocean views. The surfaces are paved or packed gravel and are stroller and Ergobaby-friendly.

6. Penguin Feeding

• Price: Free
• Location: Kaanapali at the Hyatt Regency Atrium Lobby

Penguin Pals at the Grand Atrium Every morning at 9:30 AM, the lobby of the Hyatt Regency comes alive as the penguins appear. A group of African black-footed penguins emerges for breakfast, waddling and splashing to the delight of the Keiki.

The penguins are out all day, so you can stop by anytime to see them. And as a bonus, the hotel often has its colorful parrot in the grand atrium as well.

7. Resort Beach Boardwalks

• Price: Free
• Location:  Wailea and Kaanapali

Maui has two main resort areas: Kaanapali and Wailea. Both have beautiful coastal promenades perfect for families on vacation to take a morning or evening stroll.

The paved beach paths are crowded with amblers, fitness enthusiasts, and joggers. Grab a freshly brewed coffee and take a leisurely walk, enjoying the views, sand, and swaying palm trees.

Start your day with a chill visit to an island café. Treat yourself and your keiki to breakfast and enjoy the Hawaiian atmosphere. Sip a cup of Maui-grown coffee and soak up the community vibe.

8. Picnic with a View

For a cooler alternative to the beach areas, head to the upcountry region of Maui, about 3,600 feet above sea level. This is especially nice if you have an infant who might find the beach too warm.

Here, you can pick up provisions for a picnic. They have warm prepared meals and freshly made deli sandwiches, if you prefer, one of Maui’s food trucks for some local flavor.

Once you have your food, head to Keokea Park in the beautiful Kula area. This is the perfect spot for a family picnic with views of the Central Valley and the slopes of Haleakala. As a bonus for families, the park has a small playground for the keiki to run around. Cool mountain air, views, and family-friendly amenities upcountry perfection.

9. Baby Beach on Maui

Price: Free

Location: Baby Beach (click for directions)

Keiki Cove at Paia’s Baldwin Park Located within Baldwin Beach, you’ll find a quiet little cove perfect for the smallest of beachgoers. A natural reef creates a sheltered lagoon with calm, shallow water. This is the spot for parents to introduce their infants to the ocean in a safe and controlled environment. Wade in with your keiki and let them feel the warm Hawaiian water on their tiny toes.

Things to Do in Maui with a Toddler

10. Maui Ocean Center, Hawaii Aquarium

• Location: Maalaea Harbor
• Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

See the underwater world at Maui Ocean Center, Hawaii’s largest aquarium. Both indoor and outdoor exhibits make it a great spot for toddlers.

As the largest coral reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, it has an incredible array of marine life. You’ll see fierce sharks, gentle sea turtles, and many other cool creatures. The center has a play area and hands-on exhibits for the Keiki.

What sets this aquarium apart is its focus on native Hawaiian species. Children can see, touch, and learn about local marine animals up close. After a fun day of exploring, families can relax at the on-site restaurant, which offers a happy hour menu.

If you want to stay longer, the Maalaea Harbor area has several dining options. The nearby shopping center has a few restaurants, including an adorable ice cream shop that serves sweet treats.

11. Maui Tropical Plantation

• Price: Free to enter
• Location: Waikapu in Central Maui

You can enter the tropical gardens and wander around for free. But if you want to enhance your experience, you can get duck food to feed the waterfowl, light refreshments, and snacks to enjoy while you take in the views.

12. Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

• Hours: Friday – Monday, 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Location: Kula in Upcountry Maui

At 4,000 feet elevation on the gentle slopes of Haleakala, the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is a must-see for visitors to Upcountry Maui. This 13.5-acre property has beautiful gardens that are especially lovely when the lavender blooms from June to early October, filling the air with its calming scent.

The farm is a great place for families to roam and relax. Kids can run free in the lavender fields and tropical plant displays. Adults can enjoy the views and floral arrangements. The gift shop is a great place to sit and relax with fresh scones and lavender tea.

If you’re in the Upcountry area of Maui, the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is a must-see, a nice little break from your day.

13. ‘Iao Valley State Park

• Location: Wailuku in Central Maui

Tucked away in the heart of Maui ‘Iao Valley State Park is more than just a short hike. As you drive down Wailuku’s Main Street, you notice that the urban landscape gives way to lush greenery. The road ends, and you’ve arrived at the park.

The park’s main attraction is a short but sweet hike. The observation deck at the top offers stunning views. The hike down brings you closer to nature with a riverside path and waterfalls.

While the official trail is only 0.4 miles, the memories made here are priceless. This little park is a big hitter, and it is great for families who want to experience the interior of Maui.

14. Shave Ice

• Location: across the island

Shave ice is not a snow cone. With its fluffy, snow-like texture, it’s a unique experience. The ice is shaved so fine it melts in your mouth. What really sets it apart is the creative and delicious flavor combinations that go way beyond the standard syrups. When the Maui sun is beating down on you, there’s nothing that hits the spot like a well-made shave of ice.

15. Dole Whip

When in Hawaii, don’t miss the shave ice, but if you’re looking for another family-friendly dessert option, try Dole Whip. Its creamy pineapple soft serve is found at many touristy spots and ABC Stores across the islands.

Kids who love frozen treats will enjoy the smooth texture and tropical flavor of Dole Whip. For an extra special treat, order it as a float or in a hollowed out pineapple. You can find this treat at various locations across the Hawaiian Islands.

16. Maui Animal Farm

• Price: Free 0 – 2 years
• Hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:30 AM to 11:00 AM
• Reservations only
• Location: Lahaina in West Maui

Start your day off right at the Maui Wildlife Sanctuary! This sweet animal farm allows visitors to feed and care for many different animals.

The sanctuary has a variety of animals, from fluffy rabbits and majestic horses to playful goats and other cute critters. Visitors can expect up-close encounters, petting, and photo ops with these sweet animals.

This is a great way to connect with nature and learn about different species in a peaceful island setting. Whether you’re an animal lover or just looking for a unique Maui experience, this sanctuary is fun for all ages.

17. Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center

• Price: Free
• Location: Makawao in Maui Upcountry (click for directions)

Things to Do in Maui With Kids

18. Maui Playgrounds

• Price: Free
• Location: across the island

When the kids need to play it’s time to find some swings and slides! We’ve compiled a list of our favorite playgrounds across Maui that we’ve used. These have clean equipment and fun environments for kids to burn off energy. Below are our top picks for family-friendly play areas on the island.

22. Surfing Goat Dairy

• Price: Free 0 – 2 years
• Hours: Tuesday – Saturday
• Location: Kula in Upcountry Maui

Located on the slopes of Maui’s majestic Haleakala volcano, a sweet goat farm invites visitors to explore its lush pastures. This casual outing gives you a behind the scenes look at an artisanal goat cheese maker. Kids will love the hands on opportunities to feed the friendly goats and see how milk is collected.

19. Maui Alpaca Farm

• Sunday – Friday, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM
• Location: Makawao in Upcountry Maui (click for directions)

20. Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center

• Daily, 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
• Location: Kaanapali in Whalers Village

Located in the heart of Whalers Village in Kaanapali, the Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center is a fun educational experience for families.

This interactive facility takes kids on a journey into marine life, environmental conservation, and Hawaiian ecosystems. Through exhibits and multimedia presentations, the center teaches impactful lessons about ocean habitats and sustainable practices. The space was thoughtfully designed to entertain and educate curious minds.

21. Kula Botanical Gardens

• Free 0 – 5 years
• Daily, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• Location: Kula in Upcountry Maui

At Kula Botanical Gardens your kids can walk a shaded path, see water features, watch koi fish, and discover tiki carvings. This family-owned garden has been lovingly cared for since the late 1960s. Some areas may show their age, but kids will love the native Hawaiian geese (Nene) and the chameleon display.

22. Punakea Palms Coconut Farm

• $40 5 – 12, $55 13+
• Location: Lahaina in West Maui

In the hills above Lahaina is the beautiful Punakea Palms a coconut farm with a coffee kiosk on site. This agricultural experience will take you into the world of plantation agriculture.

You’ll learn hands-on farming techniques and how to husk a coconut. The tour also covers the importance of coconuts in Hawaiian history and customs.

You can choose a few fresh coconuts as a take home gift. The views and education make Punakea Palms a must-see for anyone looking to connect with Hawaii’s land and culture.

23. Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum

• Free 0-5 years
• Location: Puunene in Central Maui

Sugar was grown on Maui for 180 years but ceased in the mid-2010s. But the history and culture of the sugar plantations live on. The Alexander and Baldwin Sugar Museum is a fun experience for kids, where they can interact with old machinery and tractors in the outdoor exhibits.

The indoor exhibits have more informational panels and artifacts, but the outdoor area is hands on. This is a quick educational stop for families headed to Upcountry or Paia to get a taste of Maui’s agricultural history.

24. Maui Historical Society – Hale Ho’ike’ike at the Bailey House

• Free 0 – 4
• Location: Wailuku in Central Maui
• Tuesday and Thursday, 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM

Get to the heart of Maui’s history at the Hale Ho’ike’ike in the historic Bailey House. This cultural treasure has pre Western contact artifacts, archival images, and significant lands. Visit this museum to learn about ancient Hawaiian civilization and enhance your Maui experience.

25. Sea Maui Cocktail Cruise

• Location: Ka’anapali Beach in West Maui

Cruise on a family-friendly boat that’s beach-lover-friendly for all ages. Under 3 years old free! Enjoy drinks and pupus while you relax in the ocean air.

Music nights and special events bring extra magic to the experience. This is a great combo of relaxation and fun for everyone.

26. Outrigger Canoe Tour

• Location: West and South Maui

Go on an adventure and get a taste of Hawaii’s watermen culture. Your kids will learn to ride the waves and be in charge of an outrigger canoe.

This will stick with the kids forever as they learn to navigate the ocean currents. Many tours combine this with other activities like snorkeling the reef, whale watching, or learning about local culture and marine life, such as sea turtles. It is a fun and safe way for families to connect with Hawaii’s maritime history.

27. Maui Sailing Canoe

• Free 2-3 years
• Location: Polo Beach in South Maui

Sail the ocean and experience the thrill of sailing and the romance of traditional Hawaiian canoes. Young explorers will glide across Maui’s waters in a modern sailing canoe inspired by ancient Polynesian designs.

Great for families looking for an ocean experience, this sail and snorkel trip combines cultural learning, nautical fun, and underwater discovery. A great way for kids to connect with Hawaii’s seafaring history and have a day of aquatic adventure.

28. Tour of the Stars

• Free for Hyatt Maui Resort and Spa guests
• Location: West Maui

Hawaii is the best place in the world to see the stars. Families visiting the islands can go on an out of this world adventure by heading to the Hyatt Regency’s 9th floor. There’s a 16-inch reflector telescope waiting to show you the wonders of the night sky.

Tour of the Stars runs nightly at 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. and is open to all ages. By participating, you and your kids will create memories that will last a lifetime and gain a new appreciation for the universe. Hawaii’s clear skies and the hotel’s equipment make it perfect for amateur astronomers and curious beginners.

29. Kula Country Farm Strawberry Picking

• Location: Kula in Upcountry Maui

When you’re in the Upcountry area of Maui make sure to visit the Kula Country Farm. This local favorite lets you pick fresh strawberries and taste other homegrown goodies.

As you stroll through the strawberry fields, you’ll see stunning island views. The big grounds are perfect for kids to run around and play, so it’s a great family-friendly stop on your Maui trip.

30. Molokini Crater Snorkel Tour

• Free for ages 0-1 years
• Location: Tours can depart from Maalaea Harbor in Central Maui or South Maui

The lagoon inside Molokini Crater is a great place to introduce kids to snorkeling. This crescent shaped islet has crystal clear water and many colorful reef fish, moray eels, and octopuses.

If you’re here in the winter, watch for whales as you head to the crater. Lanai has more marine life, but Molokini is more consistent and calm, so it’s a great choice for families looking for a safe and fun snorkel adventure.

31. Hawaii Mermaid Adventures

• Location: Kihei in South Maui

Become a mermaid at Hawaii Mermaid Adventures, where your little one can live life underwater as a mythical sea creature.

Under the watchful eyes of certified aquatic safety experts, kids will wear shimmering single-fin tails and swim through crystal-clear water. This is a mermaid dream come true, and it also teaches kids about the ocean ecosystems they’re swimming in, an underwater experience like no other.

32. Haleakala National Park

• Location: East Maui

Visiting Maui? Bring your kids to see the island’s volcanic landscape. Take a drive up to the summit of Haleakala National Park, once there, you can take a short, easy walk or explore the visitor center at your leisure.

Your pass is valid for 72 hours, so use it to stop by the Kipahulu District on your Road to Hana trip. Here you can hike the Pipiwai trail and see the Pools of ‘Oheo.

This will be fun for your kids and won’t break the bank. It’s an experience that will create lifelong memories for the whole family.

33. Safe Snorkeling Beaches

• Location: South and West Maui

Bring your kids to introduce them to the underwater world of Maui. Find the best beaches for beginner snorkelers and learn the safety tips for snorkeling in Maui’s waters.

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34. Humpback Whale Watching

• varies based on the tour
• Most tours depart from Maalaea Harbor (Central Maui)

Humpback whales come to Maui, the number one destination in Hawaii for whale watching. The Pacific Whale Foundation offers exceptional whale-watching and snorkeling tours, making it a popular choice for families.

From mid-December to mid-April, locals and visitors alike gather along the shore and elevated areas to see these magnificent creatures. When a whale jumps out of the water, your kids will delightfully squeal.

Even seasoned whale watchers are amazed by this. For the best viewing, consider booking a tour on a larger boat like a catamaran. These tours usually have marine biologists on board and offer the chance to hear the whales through hydrophones underwater.

35. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at Ho’okipa Beach Park

• Free
• Location: Paia in North Shore

See wildlife at Ho’okipa Beach on the Hawaiian island of Maui, where Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles soak up the sun. For the best viewing, go to the end of the day.

46. Maui Horseback Riding

• Age 8 and up
• Location: Islandwide

Take a family adventure in the heart of Upcountry Maui with a horseback ride. Let your kids see the island and experience the real paniolo (cowboy) lifestyle.

For the best riding experience, we recommend booking with the wranglers at Triple L Ranch in the beautiful Upcountry. Their open-range, semi-private tours are a more intimate and personalized experience through Maui’s landscapes, which are perfect for a morning or afternoon ride.

37. Maui Pineapple Farm Tour

• Daily with tours from 9:30 AM to 1:45 PM
• Location: Hali’imaile in Upcountry Maui

Take a fun tour through a Maui Gold pineapple plantation. This 90-minute tour is comfortable and includes plenty of time to walk among the pineapple rows.

You’ll spend more than half the tour time outside the bus, walking among the pineapples, tasting fresh pineapples, and learning about how pineapples are grown.

Family-Friendly Maui Resorts

Maui is a paradise for families, offering a variety of family-friendly resorts and restaurants that cater to all ages. Here are some popular options:

Top Maui resorts for families

Maui boasts some of the best Maui resorts for families, providing a range of amenities and activities to keep everyone entertained. Here are a few top picks:

• The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: This luxurious resort offers a kids’ club, water park, and game room, ensuring that children have plenty of fun activities to enjoy. The spacious accommodations and excellent service make it a top choice for families.
• The Fairmont Kea Lani: Located in Wailea, this resort features a kids’ program, water sports, and a game room. The all-suite accommodations provide ample space for families to relax and unwind.
• The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa: Situated in Ka’anapali, this resort offers a kids’ program, water sports, and a game room. The beautiful beachfront location and extensive amenities make it a favorite among families.

These top Maui resorts for families offer a variety of activities and amenities, including kids’ clubs, water parks, and game rooms, ensuring that families have a fun and relaxing vacation. With comfortable accommodations and a range of dining options, these resorts provide everything you need for an unforgettable family getaway.

We Discover exciting family-friendly Things to Do in Maui with Kids! We’re constantly exploring the island and will continue to expand this list of experiences as we uncover more gems in Hawaii.