When I first planned our family vacation to Maui, I hoped for a mix of beach time, gentle adventure, and unforgettable moments we could share with our kids. What I found on this beautiful Hawaiian island far exceeded those expectations. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers or teens, there are endless things to do in Maui with kids—and I’ve rounded up the very best from our own magical trip.
Let me walk you through the 21 activities and experiences that made our family getaway to Maui absolutely unforgettable.
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Why Maui Was a Dream Destination for My Family
I chose Maui because it had that “just right” balance—lush and adventurous like the Big Island, but more relaxed and less crowded than Oahu. It turned out to be the perfect choice. There’s a special kind of magic here that’s tailor-made for families: nature that feels like it’s from a fairytale, warm ocean breezes, and plenty of low-stress activities for kids of all ages.
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Beach Days: Our Favorite Kid-Friendly Shores
Spending a day at the beach in Maui isn’t just relaxing—it’s pure joy when the conditions are right for little ones. I looked for calm surf, easy access, and clean sand. Here are our top picks:
Baby Beach, Lahaina (Pu‘unoa Beach)
This became our go-to. Shallow, calm water made it ideal for toddlers, and I loved how relaxed it felt—almost like a secret spot just for families.
🗺️ Google Map Link
📍 Lahaina, West Maui
🧴 Pro Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen and beach toys.
Napili Bay
Gorgeous, crescent-shaped, and not too crowded. The kids got to see sea turtles while we snorkeled close to shore.
🧊 Nearby: There’s a tiny general store where we grabbed cold coconut water.
Wailea Beach
This one was perfect for a more resort-style beach day. Clean sand, smooth water entry, and plenty of nearby restrooms.
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Exploring the Maui Ocean Center
When we needed a break from the sun, the Maui Ocean Center was a lifesaver. From the huge aquarium tunnel to the 3D humpback whale experience, it kept all of us—especially the kids—totally engaged.
🎟️ Tickets: $44.95 (adults), $34.95 (kids)
🌐 Book here: https://mauioceancenter.com
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The Magical Road to Hana
We booked a guided tour with a small group through Road to Hana Tours, and it was the highlight of our trip. The guides knew exactly where to stop so the kids wouldn’t get restless.
🚌 Company: Temptation Tours or Valley Isle Excursions
🎫 Starting at $169 per adult
🌐 https://www.roadtohanatours.com
Twin Falls
Short hike + swimming hole = kid bliss.
Garden of Eden
The peacocks alone were a hit, but the overlook views sealed the deal.
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Whale Watching: An Epic Ocean Adventure
We timed our trip for whale season (Dec–April) and booked a tour through Pacific Whale Foundation. I’ll never forget the look on my daughter’s face when we spotted a humpback breach just off the bow.
🌐 Booking link: https://www.pacificwhale.org
⏱️ 2-hour tour perfect for kids under 10
🚤 Departed from Ma‘alaea Harbor
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Iao Valley State Monument
This short trail through the lush valley was a gentle adventure with cultural lessons and river play built right in. Ideal for a shaded afternoon stroll.
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Kamaole Beach Parks
We packed a picnic and spent a half day here. There’s a playground, wide lawn, calm swimming, and bathrooms—family paradise.
🧺 Tip: Grab takeout lunch from nearby Kihei Caffe and eat it under a tree!
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Farm Tours & Petting Zoos
Maui surprised me with how many cute animal experiences there were:
Surfing Goat Dairy
The kids loved feeding goats and trying flavored cheeses.
🌐 https://www.surfinggoatdairy.com
🎟️ $10–$20 tours
Leilani Farm Sanctuary
This nonprofit animal sanctuary was peaceful, interactive, and educational. Chickens, pigs, donkeys—they’re all rescued and loved.
🌐 https://www.leilanifarmsanctuary.org
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Snorkeling with Sea Turtles
We joined a guided kid-friendly snorkel tour to Molokini Crater. With float belts and instruction, our youngest felt confident trying something new.
🌐 Booking: https://www.pacificwhale.org/cruises/snorkel-molokini-crater
🐢 Best age: 6 and up
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Shave Ice Heaven
Every day ended with shave ice. Ululani’s was our favorite—soft, colorful, and wildly flavorful.
🍧 Try the coconut-lilikoi combo.
📍 Multiple locations in Lahaina and Kihei
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Luau Night: A Cultural Feast
We attended the Myths of Maui Luau and were blown away. Fire dancers, buffet dinner, and front-row seats for the kids.
🎟️ Booking: https://www.royallahainaresort.com/dining/myths-of-maui-luau
💃 Kid-friendly buffet with hula lessons too!
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Surf Lessons for the Little Ones
Our 8-year-old took a beginner class at Maui Wave Riders in Kihei. The beach was calm, and the instructors were incredibly patient.
🏄♂️ Website: https://www.mauiwaveriders.com
🎒 Equipment included!
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Rainy Day Ideas
We had one drizzly morning and hit the Lahaina Public Library and a small indoor play café in Kahului. You’ll find great options for indoor fun if the weather turns.
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Where We Stayed: Family-Friendly Resorts
We booked Honua Kai Resort and Spa and it checked every box—pool, beach, kitchen, and lots of space.
🌐 Booking: https://www.outrigger.com/hawaii/maui/honua-kai
For a splurge, I would hands-down recommend Grand Wailea:
🌐 https://www.grandwailea.com
🌊 Water slides, kid club, on-site luau
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Final Thoughts: Maui Gave Us Memories for Life
Maui wasn’t just a vacation—it was a bonding experience. The nature, the people, the slow pace—it gave us the chance to enjoy time with our kids without distractions. We laughed, we explored, we ate way too much pineapple. And I can’t wait to go back.
If you’re planning your own trip, trust me: there are more than enough things to do in Maui with kids to fill every single day with joy.
