Are you planning a family trip to Maui? You’re in for an incredible adventure! The Valley Isle offers some of the most spectacular activities for kids in Maui that will create memories lasting a lifetime. From world-class snorkeling adventures to magical sunrise experiences, Maui provides the perfect mixture of relaxation and excitement for families.
This trusted guide covers the 12 Best Things to Do in Maui with Kids, complete with insider tips, age recommendations, and practical advice from local families who know the island best.
Why Maui is Perfect for Family Vacations
Maui is one of the best family destinations in Hawaii. Maui offers a wide range of activities for both adults and children, unlike some tropical destinations that cater only to adults. The island is not very large, which makes it easy to visit a wide range of attractions without spending too much time traveling. The general climate is described as rather peaceful, and the safe beaches provide peace of mind for parents.
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Best time to go Maui with Kids
The best time to do Maui family-friendly activities depends on your priorities:
- The whale watching season is between December and April, and this is an unbelievable way of experiencing humpback whale watching with kids. The ocean is also the smoothest during this time as far as snorkeling is concerned.
- The summer months (May to October) have warmer temperatures and fewer people, so it is best to go to the beach and do other outdoor activities.
12 Best Things to Do in Maui with Kids
1. Snorkeling on Molokini Crater
- Age Suggestion: 5 years and above
- Best time of day: Early morning tours (7-11 AM)
- Price: 89-150 per adult, 59-120 per child
The Molokini Crater is the number one family bucket list item in Maui. This half-submerged volcanic crater has crystal-clear water that is ideal for first-time snorkelers. With more than 250 fish species and 38 corals, the secure marine habitat contains an abundance of animals.
Family Tips:
- Book a family-friendly tour operators such as Trilogy or Pride of Maui
- Carry reef-safe sunscreen (it is the rule of law)
- Below the age of 12 kids are regularly given a discounted rate
- Motion travel sickness solutions that are suitable to sensitive stomachs
2. Road to Hana Adventure
- Age Recommendation: All ages (with proper planning)
- Duration: Full day (10-12 hours)
- Budget: $75-$200 per day (rental car + gas + food)
The legendary Road to Hana presents one of Maui’s most iconic experiences. This 64-mile journey features 620 curves and 59 bridges, leading to breathtaking waterfalls, black sand beaches, and tropical rainforests.
Budget Breakdown:
- Rental car: $40-$80 per day (economy to SUV)
- Gas: $25-$40 for round trip
- Food/snacks: $10-$80 per family (pack lunch vs. restaurant stops)
- Parking fees: $3-$10 at various stops
Budget tip: Pack your own lunch and snacks to save significantly
Family-Friendly Stops:
- Twin Falls: Easy 10-minute hike to beautiful waterfalls
- Waianapanapa State Park: Amazing black sand beach perfect for photos as a unforgettable memories
- Hana Bay: Calm waters ideal for children to splash and play
- Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools): Stunning pools and waterfalls
Essential Tips:
- Start early (6-7 AM) to avoid crowds
- Pack a little bit quatity of snacks and water
- Rent a car with good brakes and handling
- Plan bathroom stops strategically
- Trying to staying overnight in Hana to enjoy the journey
3. Atlantis Submarine Adventure
- Age Recommendation: 3+ years
- Duration: 2 hours total
- Budget: $119-$139 per adult, $79-$99 per child
The Atlantis Submarine offers an unforgettable underwater experience without getting wet. This amazing submarine dives 125 feet below the ocean surface, showing Maui’s marine life through large viewing windows.
Budget Breakdown:
- Adult tickets: $119-$139 (varies by season)
- Child tickets (ages 3-12): $79-$99
- Children under 3: Free with paying adult
- Combo packages: Often available with other attractions
Budget tip: Book online in advance for discounts up to 10%
What Kids Love:
- Placing tropical fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs
- The excitement of submerging in a real submarine
- Educational commentary about marine life
- Air-conditioned comfort during the hot day
Booking Tips:
- Booking in advance, especially during peak season
- Children under 3 ride free when advised by paying adult
- Motion sickness is common, but bring remedies if needed
- Morning tours often have clearer water visibility
4. Iao Valley State Park
- Age Recommendation: All ages
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Budget: $5-$15 per family
Iao Valley, known as the “Valley of the Kings,” offers easy hiking trails and stunning natural beauty. The iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot rock formation, provides incredible photo opportunities.
Budget Breakdown:
- Parking fee: $5 per vehicle (cash only)
- Optional snacks/drinks: $5-$10 per family
- Souvenirs: $5-$20 if desired
Budget tip: This is one of Maui’s most budget-friendly family attractions
Family Activities:
- Iao Needle Lookout: Short, paved walk suitable for strollers
- Ethnobotanical Loop: Learn about native Hawaiian plants
- Stream exploration: Let kids play in the shallow waters
- Visitor center: Interactive exhibits about Hawaiian culture
Practical Information:
- $5 parking fee (cash only)
- Restrooms and picnic areas available
- Can get crowded after 10 AM
- Combine with nearby Maui Tropical Plantation
5. Whale Watching Tours
Age Recommendation: 4+ years
Best time to visit: December through April
Duration: 2-4 hours
Budget: $65-$120 per adult, $45-$85 per child
Maui offers some of the world’s best whale-watching opportunities. Humpback whales immigrate to Hawaiian waters annually, providing amazing shows of breaching, tail slapping, and singing.
Budget Breakdown:
- Standard tours: $65-$85 per adult, $45-$60 per child
- Premium tours: $95-$120 per adult, $70-$85 per child
- Luxury catamarans: $120+ per adult
Budget tip: Morning tours are often less expensive than sunset cruises
Top Tour Companies:
- Pacific Whale Foundation: Educational focus with marine biologists
- Trilogy: Luxury catamarans with family-friendly luxuries
- Maui Ocean Center: Mixture of aquarium and whale watching packages
What to Expect:
- Guaranteed whale sightings (or free return trip)
- Educational commentary about whale behavior
- Possible dolphin and sea turtle encounters
- Better to take some snacks and drinks on most tours
6. Maui Ocean Center Aquarium
Age Recommendation: All ages
Duration: 2-4 hours
Budget: $35-$55 per adult, $25-$35 per child
Hawaii’s premier aquarium shows Pacific marine life through immersive exhibits. The 750,000-gallon Open Ocean show features a 54-foot-long tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
Budget Breakdown:
- Adult general admission: $35-$45 (residents get discount)
- Child admission (3-12): $25-$35
- Children under 3: Free
- Annual passes: $85-$115 (pays for itself in 2-3 visits)
Budget tip: Look for online coupons and combo packages with other attractions
Must-See Exhibits:
- Shark Dive Maui: Watch verified divers feed sharks
- Turtle Lagoon: Meet Hawaiian green sea turtles up close
- Touch Pool: Hands-on experience with sea stars and sea cucumbers
- Humpback Whale Sphere: 3D whale watching experience
Family Benefits:
- Stroller-friendly pathways
- Multiple rest areas and cafes
- Educational programs for children
- Annual passes available for extended stays
7. Surfing Lessons in Lahaina
Age Recommendation: 6+ years
Duration: 1.5-2 hours
Budget: $75-$120 per person
Lahaina’s gentle waves provide perfect conditions for children’s first surfing experience. Professional staff provide safety while making lessons fun and memorable.
Budget Breakdown:
- Group lessons: $75-$95 per person
- Semi-private lessons: $95-$110 per person
- Private lessons: $120-$150 per person
- Family packages: Often available with discounts for 3+ people
Budget tip: Group lessons offer the best value for families
Recommended Surf Schools:
- Goofy Foot Surf School: Specializes in children’s lessons
- Maui Wave Riders: Small group instruction
- Lahaina Surf Company: Family packages available
What’s Included:
- Soft-top surfboards sized for children
- Rash guards and booties
- Professional instruction and safety briefing
- Photos of your child’s first steps
8. Maui Tropical Plantation
Age Recommendation: All ages
Duration: 2-3 hours
Budget: $20-$60 per adult, $15-$30 per child
This working plantation offers educational tours showcasing this amazing agriculture. Children learn about coffee, macadamia nuts, and tropical fruits while enjoying tractor-pulled tram rides.
Budget Breakdown:
- Plantation tour only: $20-$25 per adult, $15-$20 per child
- Tour + zip-lining: $45-$60 per adult, $25-$30 per child
- Dining at Mill House: $15-$35 per person for lunch
Budget tip: The plantation tour alone is very affordable and educational
Activities Include:
- Plantation Tour: 45-minute tram ride through working farm
- Zip-lining: Age-appropriate courses for kids and adults
- Mill House Restaurant: Farm-to-table dining experience
- Gift Shop: Fresh tropical fruits and local products
Educational Value:
- Learn about sustainable farming practices
- Understand Hawaiian agricultural history
- Taste fresh tropical fruits
- Interactive exhibits about plant growth
9. Nakalele Blowhole
Age Recommendation: 8+ years (due to rocky terrain)
Duration: 1-2 hours
Budget: $0-$10 (gas + parking)
The Nakalele Blowhole creates spectacular water spouts when ocean heavy waves hit the coastal lava rock formation. This natural phenomenon can shoot water 100 feet into the air.
Budget Breakdown:
- Admission: Free
- Parking: Free (roadside)
- Gas: $5-$10 for drive to North Shore
- Snacks/drinks: Optional $5-$15
Budget tip: This is one of Maui’s most spectacular free attractions
Safety Considerations:
- Stay well back from the blowhole opening
- Supervise children closely on uneven terrain
- Best viewing during high tide and large swells
- Bring sturdy shoes for rocky surfaces
Photography Tips:
- Visit during afternoon for best lighting
- Bring a zoom lens for safe distance shots
- Water spouts are unpredictable – be patient
- Consider the dramatic coastline for family photos
10. Haleakala National Park
Age Recommendation: 6+ years
Duration: Full day or sunrise/sunset trip
Budget: $30-$80 per family
Haleakala provides two unique experiences: the summit crater and the lush Pipiwai Trail. Each offers distinct ecosystems and stunning vistas.
Budget Breakdown:
- Park entrance fee: $30 per vehicle (valid for 3 days)
- Sunrise reservation: $1.50 per vehicle (advance booking required)
- Gas: $20-$30 for summit drive
- Food/snacks: $15-$25 per family
Budget tip: The 3-day pass allows multiple visits to explore different areas
Summit Experience:
- Sunrise viewing: Arrive by 5:30 AM for spectacular sunrise
- Crater hiking: Various trails from easy to challenging
- Visitor center: Educational exhibits about the volcano
- Stargazing: Some of the world’s clearest night skies
Pipiwai Trail (Haleakala’s Coastal Section):
- Bamboo forest: Walk through long bamboo groves
- Waimoku Falls: 400-foot waterfall at trail’s end
- Easier for families: 4-mile round trip with soft difficulty
Essential Tips:
- Bring warm clothes for summit (can be 30°F cooler)
- Make sunrise reservations in advance
- Pack plenty of water and snacks
- Sunscreen is necessary at high elevation
11. Snorkeling at Turtle Town
Age Recommendation: 8+ years
Duration: Half day
Budget: $15-$120 per person (depending on access method)
Turtle Town, situated on Maui’s southern coastline, provides fantastic snorkeling experiences with great likelihood of swimming alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles.
Budget Breakdown:
- Shore snorkeling: $15-$25 per person (gear rental)
- Kayak tours: $65-$85 per person
- Boat tours: $85-$120 per person
- Own gear: Just gas money ($10-$15)
Budget tip: Shore snorkeling is the most affordable option
What Makes It Special:
- Consistent turtle sightings (respectful distance required)
- Calmer waters than many snorkeling spots
- Beautiful coral formations
- Less crowded than Molokini Crater
Family-Friendly Access:
- Shore snorkeling available at several locations
- Kayak tours combine paddling with snorkeling
- Boat tours include equipment and instruction
- Multiple skill levels accommodated
12. Maui Goat Farm (Surfing Goat Dairy)
- Age Recommendation: All ages
- Duration: 1-2 hours
Budget: $15-$35 per person
This operational goat farm provides educational tours, goat experiences, and cheese sampling. Kids enjoy feeding the affectionate goats and discovering sustainable agriculture.
Budget Breakdown:
- Basic farm tour: $15-$20 per person
- Grand tour with cheese tasting: $25-$35 per person
- Children under 3: Free
- Cheese purchases: $8-$25 per item
Budget tip: The basic tour is very affordable and includes goat interaction
Tour Highlights:
- Meet the goats: Over 100 goats on the property
- Cheese making demonstration: Learn traditional cheese-making
- Farm tour: See sustainable farming practices
- Tasting room: Sample award-winning goat cheeses
Family Benefits:
- Hands-on animal interactions
- Educational about agriculture and sustainability
- Beautiful upcountry Maui setting
- Picnic areas with stunning views
Essential Planning Tips for Families
- Renting a car is essential for exploring Maui with kids. Book early for better rates and vehicle selection.
Family-Friendly Rental Tips:
- Request car seats in advance (limited availability)
- Choose vehicles with good air conditioning
- Consider size for luggage and beach equipment
- GPS navigation is helpful for unfamiliar roads
Safety Considerations
Ocean Safety:
- Always take care of children near water
- Understand rip current recognition
- Use reef-safe sunscreen (required by law)
- Check daily ocean conditions before activities
Sun Protection:
- Hawaii’s sun is deep year-round
- Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours
- Seek shade during midday hours (10 AM – 4 PM)
- Hydrate frequently with clear water , especially during outdoor activities
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Budget Planning
Cost-Saving Tips:
- Book accommodation with kitchenettes for meal preparation
- Take advantage of free activities like beaches and hiking
- Look for family packages and group discounts
- Consider visiting during shoulder seasons for better rates
Daily Budget Estimates for Family of 4:
- Budget conscious: $150-$250 per day (includes 1-2 paid activities)
- Mid-range: $250-$400 per day (includes 2-3 activities plus dining)
- Luxury: $400+ per day (premium tours, fine dining, resort amenities)
Free or Low-Cost Activities:
- Beach days at Wailea, Kaanapali, or Napili Bay
- Hiking trails throughout the island
- Nakalele Blowhole and coastal drives
- Local farmers markets
- Sunset watching from various scenic locations
Where to Stay in Maui with Kids
West Maui (Lahaina/Kaanapali)
Best For: Beach lovers and first-time visitors
Advantages: Calm beaches, easy snorkeling, resort amenities
Recommended Properties:
- Westin Maui Resort & Spa (pools and waterslides)
- Aston Mahana at Kaanapali (condo-style with kitchens)
- Lahaina Shores Beach Resort (beachfront location)
South Maui (Wailea/Kihei)
Best For: Luxury resorts and pristine beaches
Advantages: Consistently sunny weather, upscale amenities
Recommended Properties:
- Grand Wailea Resort (elaborate pool complex)
- Maui Coast Hotel (family-friendly rates)
- Kihei Akahi condos (affordable with kitchens)
Upcountry Maui
Best For: Cooler temperatures and unique experiences
Advantages: Escape heat, closer to Haleakala, local culture
Recommended Properties:
- Lumeria Maui (boutique wellness resort)
- Vacation rental homes with mountain views
Family Packing Checklist
Beach and Water Activities
- Reef-safe sunscreen (zinc oxide or titanium dioxide)
- Rash guards for extended sun exposure
- Water shoes for rocky areas
- Snorkel gear (if you prefer your own)
- Beach umbrella or pop-up shade
- Waterproof phone cases
- Beach toys and boogie boards
Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
- Sturdy hiking shoes for all family members
- Daypack for water and snacks
- First aid kit with bandages and antiseptic
- Insect repellent for tropical areas
- Lightweight rain jackets
- Portable phone chargers
Clothing Essentials
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Warm layers for Haleakala summit
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimwear and cover-ups
- Sun hats with chin straps
- Light sleepwear
Entertainment and Comfort
- Tablets loaded with movies for car rides
- Travel games and books
- Comfort items for younger children
- Reusable water bottles
- Healthy snacks for long excursions
Conclusion
Maui offers an incredible array of things to do in Maui with kids that combine education, adventure, and natural beauty. From the underwater wonders of Molokini Crater to the mystical bamboo forests of Haleakala, every experience contributes to an unforgettable family vacation.
The key to success lies in proper planning, realistic expectations, and flexibility. Remember that children’s interests and energy levels vary, so build rest time into your itinerary. Most importantly, embrace the aloha spirit and create lasting memories exploring this magical island together.
Whether you’re seeking thrilling adventures or peaceful moments connecting with nature, Maui’s diverse landscape and family-friendly attractions ensure every member of your family will find something special to treasure.
Start planning your Maui family adventure today, and get ready to discover why this Hawaiian paradise consistently ranks among the world’s top family destinations!
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