Maui, with its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and rich culture, is a paradise for families seeking adventure and relaxation. Maui is full of amazing activities. Whether you’re diving into the ocean or enjoying the stunning views, your family vacation will be unforgettable! Here’s your ultimate guide to the top 12 things to do in Maui with kids:
1. Snorkel at Molokini Crater
If you’re looking for one of the best things to do in Maui with kids, a Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour with us is a must! Imagine starting your day cruising across the ocean, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, and spotting colorful fish and maybe even a sea turtle or two. Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater, is a marine sanctuary with abundant, vibrant marine life. It’s the perfect spot for families to make unforgettable vacation memories together!
The Morning Molokini Crater Snorkeling Tour visits two snorkeling locations. This trip runs from 7 AM to 12 PM, Monday through Sunday, departing from South Maui’s Maalaea Harbor.
Our 1st stop is the world-famous Molokini Crater, and our 2nd stop takes us to Turtle Town or Coral Gardens. On your way to the amazing snorkeling spots in Maui, keep an eye out! From December to April, you might see the incredible Humpback Whales swimming through the Hawaiian waters. We highly recommend this tour if you want to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles!
The Maui Afternoon Tour is ideal for those who seek a less congested snorkeling experience. If the weather cooperates, you could snorkel at Molokini Crater without the usual crowds. If the weather is too rough for safe snorkeling, you can enjoy a less crowded experience at Coral Gardens or Turtle Town. No trip to Maui is complete without a snorkeling experience! We can’t wait to have you aboard the Lani Kai II!
Note: There is a parking lot at Ma’alaea Harbor, but don’t forget to pay for parking!
2. Visit the Maui Ocean Center
Ready for some family friendly fun? This aquarium offers up-close views of Hawaiian marine life, including sharks, rays, and tropical fish. It’s one of the top things to do in Maui with kids because of the aquarium’s interactive exhibits, and the glass tunnel through the shark tank is particularly fascinating for children!
At the Maui Ocean Center, you can explore the rich history, culture, and unique traditions of early Hawaiian villages. The aquarium also has fun programs where kids can connect with Hawaiian culture and traditions. The aquarium hours are 9 AM—5 PM. For more information, visit the Maui Ocean Center.
Photo Courtesy of Maui Ocean Center
3. Explore Haleakala National Park
One of the best things to do in Maui with kids is to watch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā. It’s like stepping into a dream—the sky lights up in brilliant colors, and the whole family will be in awe! After sunrise, explore the many hiking trails in the park. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for an easy stroll or a bit more adventure. The volcanic landscape feels like another planet, making it a fun and exciting place to explore together.
Haleakalā is also home to some very special wildlife, including endangered species that live only in this part of the world. As you walk through the park, you’ll also discover stories of Hawaiian history and culture, both ancient and modern. This is a meaningful way for families to connect with the spirit of aloha!
Photo Courtesy of National Park Service
4. Attend a Luau
Experience Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau! Enjoy live music, hula dancing, and a feast of local cuisine. It’s not only entertaining but also educational for children, making it one of the top things to do in Maui with kids.
There are many luaus to choose from on the island of Maui. However, the Te Au Moana (the ocean tide) Luau is a great experience for adults and is kid friendly. Located on the grounds of Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui, this luau is a tribute to Polynesian culture. Experience their expert skills of fishing, gathering, gift giving, romance, and tapa making demonstrated at the luau.
Photos courtesy of Te Au Moana
5. Drive the Scenic Road to Hana
Prepare for an unforgettable journey and pack the car for an adventure on the legendary Road to Hana, a highlight among the top things to do in Maui with kids. This iconic route is filled with countless curves and one-lane bridges, making the journey as thrilling as the destination.
Take a break to discover hidden waterfalls in tropical forests. Relax on pristine beaches with soft sand—great for fun or lounging. Enjoy stunning viewpoints—an adventure perfect for the whole family.
Every stop along the Road to Hana is a chance for your family to connect with nature in a fun and exciting way. From lush rainforests to waterfalls and black sand beaches, you’ll get to see Maui’s amazing ecosystems up close. It’s a journey full of wonder, perfect for sparking curiosity in kids and creating unforgettable memories together.
For families planning this trip, there’s a great guide. It covers the must-see sights along the Road to Hana. Check it out here: Road to Hana Sights. Here, you can find a mile-by-mile list of sights, enabling you to create a personalized checklist of places to stop and explore. Additionally, the website offers a map of the route!
6. Hike at Iao Valley State Park
Exploring the Iao Valley State Park is a serene and educational highlight among the things to do in Maui with kids. This beautiful valley has easy walking trails for everyone, and you can enjoy great views of the famous Iao Needle.
The Iao Needle is a towering, emerald-green pinnacle that rises majestically from the valley floor. This natural landmark, shaped by years of erosion, watches over the valley. It’s truly a sight to see.
ʻĪao Valley State Monument is the perfect place for a family picnic surrounded by lush, peaceful beauty. It’s also a great spot to learn about Maui’s rich natural and cultural history. This scenic valley was the site of a historic battle that helped shape the future of Hawaii. As you explore the easy walking trails, you’ll find signs that share fun facts about the island’s plants, geology, and past—making it an educational adventure the whole family can enjoy together!
7. Go Whale Watching (Seasonal)
If you visit between December and April, don’t miss the chance to go on a whale-watching tour with Maui Snorkeling. In these months, the waters around Maui are perfect for watching one of nature’s amazing migrations. Humpback whales travel from the cold Alaskan seas to the warm Hawaiian waters to breed and give birth.
Seeing these amazing creatures up close is something kids will always remember. It’s one of the best things to do in Maui with kids!
Whale watching in Maui is more than just an activity; it’s a fantastic experience. You get a rare chance to see the majestic humpback whales in their natural home. These gentle giants are known for their huge size, playful jumps, and beautiful songs. They create a show that captures the hearts of both adults and kids.
The thrill of seeing a whale jump out of the water or hearing its loud blowhole is pure wonder and excitement.
The Maui Snorkeling Whale Watching Tour leaves from Ma’alaea Harbor. It runs twice a week during peak season, from January to March, between 1 and 3 pm. Kids under 4 are FREE and enjoy a deli lunch while watching the Humpback Whales. Our whale observation decks are higher off the water than most zodiac boats and catamarans.
- First deck: 7 feet off the water and has nearly 100 feet of wrap-around handrail to lean in and take photos.
- Bow: Stadium seating for up to 15 passengers
- Upper deck: 16 feet off the water with a whopping 360° view
8. Take Surfing Lessons
Maui is a great spot for kids to learn to surf because of the warm waters and gentle waves. Plus, there are surf schools for all ages and skill levels. This makes surfing one of the best activities for kids in Maui!
Surfing lessons for kids in Maui are not only fun—they’re also safe and super educational! Whether your child is a total beginner or ready to improve their skills, Maui’s experienced surf instructors are there to guide them every step of the way. Even older kids with little to no experience will feel right at home in these supportive and exciting classes.
Safety always comes first. Lessons begin with an easy-to-understand safety talk that covers ocean awareness, surf conditions, and how to use a surfboard. Most lessons take place in calm, shallow waters where kids can touch the bottom, and instructors are trained in CPR, first aid, and lifeguarding for extra peace of mind.
Surf schools provide everything your young surfer will need—like soft-top boards that are easier and safer for beginners to handle. These gentle boards help kids gain confidence quickly while they learn the basics.
Instructors keep the energy high with games and fun challenges that make learning to surf a blast. It’s a great way for kids to build new skills, grow their confidence, and fall in love with surfing—all while enjoying the beauty of Maui’s ocean!
9. Enjoy Maui’s Shave Ice
Kids love an ice-cold treat, so try out Maui’s shave ice! It’s not just a dessert; it’s an experience embodying the spirit of Hawaiian island life. This icy treat is a must-try for anyone visiting Maui, offering a refreshing respite from the tropical heat.
The delicious local flavors and endless ways to customize your cool creation make shave ice extra special. Tropical favorites like mango, pineapple, coconut, and passion fruit are just the beginning. You’ll also find fun Hawaiian flavors like guava, lychee, and lilikoi (Hawaiian passion fruit) that you won’t want to miss!
To make your shave ice even more delicious, add a scoop of vanilla ice cream at the bottom or try a “snow cap”—a drizzle of sweetened condensed milk poured on top. The fluffy, finely shaved ice soaks up every bit of syrup, turning each bite into a burst of island flavor.
Shave ice is the perfect way to cool off after a day at the beach or to treat the family during your Maui adventure. It’s refreshing, colorful, and totally customizable, making it a hit with kids of all ages. One of the best places to try it is Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, which has locations around the island. You’ll also find plenty of local food trucks serving up this frosty favorite. It’s definitely one of the top things to do in Maui with kids—and a memory that’ll stick long after the ice melts!
One of the best stops is Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, which has locations all over Maui. You won’t be disappointed! Food trucks also offer Hawaiian shave ice. Children love dessert, making this one of the top things to do in Maui with kids!
Photo Courtesy of Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
10. Explore the Maui Butterfly Farm
Another delightful experience among the things to do in Maui with kids is visiting the Maui Butterfly Farm. This enchanting attraction provides a close-up look at various species of butterflies in a lush, garden setting. Kids can learn about how butterflies grow, from egg to caterpillar to butterfly. It’s a great way to learn!
As you step into the butterfly farm, the air fills with the soft fluttering of wings in a kaleidoscope of colors. The farm is home to many butterfly species. Each one has its own unique patterns and colors. Bright blues, deep oranges, soft greens, and yellows can be seen. This diversity amazes visitors and introduces them to Maui’s rich wildlife. It also highlights the need to protect these delicate insects and their homes.
Photo Courtesy of Maui
Butterfly Farm
One of the best parts of the visit is learning about the whole life cycle of butterflies. Educational displays and knowledgeable staff guide visitors through the fascinating journey from egg to caterpillar, caterpillar to chrysalis, and chrysalis to butterfly.
This hands-on learning experience is great for kids. They can see parts of the life cycle up close, like caterpillars eating leaves or a butterfly coming out of its chrysalis.
The Maui Butterfly Farm Tour is Hawaii’s only walk-in butterfly flight house. This tour is 45 minutes long and is perfect for all ages! Kids 2 and under are free!
11. Spend a Day at Kaanapali Beach
One of the best things to do in Maui with kids is to spend a day at Kaanapali Beach. This beach offers stunning views, rich culture, and plenty of fun activities. It’s famous for its clear waters and golden sand. This makes it a great spot for families to swim, relax in the sun, and build sandcastles.
The gentle waves on the shore create a safe and welcoming place for kids of all ages. They can splash around and enjoy the warm Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the daily cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock – a tradition that combines culture with thrilling action.
The daily cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock is a key part of Hawaiian culture. It takes place at the northernmost point of the beach. This tradition comes from a ritual done by Maui’s respected King Kahekili. As the sun sets, a skilled cliff diver lights torches along the cliff. Then, he gracefully leaps off Black Rock into the water below. This act shows bravery and honors the island’s ancestors.
12. Go Ziplining
A ziplining adventure in Maui is an exciting activity for families. It gives kids a fun way to enjoy the island’s stunning views. This activity has won the hearts of adventure lovers and nature fans. It combines exciting speeds with amazing heights and views.
Maui has lush valleys, dramatic coastlines, and stunning views. It’s the perfect place for an amazing ziplining adventure. It’s a perfect adventure for families who want to mix fun with the island’s natural beauty. This experience is a must-do for anyone visiting Maui with kids.
Maui boasts several ziplining locations, each offering a different experience based on the area’s unique topography and vistas. Some of the most popular sites include:
- Haleakalā: You can zipline down the slopes of Haleakalā volcano. This adventure offers amazing views of the crater and the beautiful National Park.
- West Maui Mountains: Zipliners can take in beautiful views and waterfalls here. It’s a great mix of adventure and nature.
- Ka’anapali: This spot is close to the famous Ka’anapali Beach. Here, you can enjoy a zipline adventure. It offers stunning ocean views and lets you explore the beautiful landscapes of West Maui.
Safety is a top priority for zipline operators in Maui. All guests receive helmets, gloves, and harnesses. The guides make sure everyone understands the safety rules before the adventure begins.
In Conclusion: Top 12 Things to Do in Maui with Kids
These activities combine adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making Maui a place that captures the hearts of everyone, especially families. With so many things to do in Maui with kids, your family vacation will be filled with moments of joy, wonder, and adventure. Maui always has something new and exciting to offer. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, every vacation here feels magical.
From the thrill of ziplining through lush tropical forests to the cultural immersion of attending a traditional Hawaiian luau, each experience allows families to create lasting memories together. The island’s diverse landscapes—from its pristine beaches and underwater wonders to its volcanic craters and lush rainforests—offer endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Whether snorkeling with vibrant marine life, hiking through scenic trails, or simply enjoying the warmth of the sun on a golden beach, Maui provides a natural playground for children and adults alike to connect with nature and each other. This makes the island a treasure of experiences, ensuring that the list of things to do in Maui with kids is as rich and varied as the island’s own landscape, promising an adventure that every family member will love.
