Maui is a fantastic family-friendly destination. The island is a paradise for kids and adults, with sun-drenched beaches, memorable activities, and crowd-pleasing restaurants at every turn.
Struggling to figure out the itinerary for your next Maui family getaway? We’ve got the inside scoop on some of the BEST family-friendly activities to book next time you’re on the island.
1. Private Surf Lesson
If your kids just can’t wait to get in the ocean, sign them up for a private surf lesson. They’ll hit the waves at Kalama Park in Kihei or at Ukumehame Beach Park. The shallow bottom and calm, soft waves in these spots are ideal for beginners, young or old. You’ll love surfing in Maui.
When it comes to young children, a private surf lesson is the safest way to go. Unlike group surf lessons, where there might be six students to one instructor, private lessons are one-on-one, and the instructor will ensure your kiddo is always safe in the ocean.
If you want to learn to surf alongside your keiki, opt for a semi-private lesson. You’ll both get personalized attention from your instructor and make unforgettable memories as a family. Try Maui Surfer Girls for some of the best instructors on our island.
2. Molokini Snorkel Tour
Adventurous keiki will love discovering Maui’s underwater world – and the best, safest way to do so is on a snorkel tour to Molokini (hands-down one of the best spots to snorkel in Maui.)
Snorkel tours make the snorkeling process a million times easier when traveling with kids. The staff provides all the gear you need for a successful snorkeling session – including masks, fins, and floatation devices – and the trained crew will make sure your kiddo’s snorkel mask fits just right.
Plus, snorkeling in a group is always safer than snorkeling alone, and you and your keiki will be under the watchful eye of the diligent crew. And of course, the memories of snorkeling side-by-side at Molokini with your kiddo are sure to last a lifetime.
3. Maui Butterfly Farm Tour
Nestled in the small outpost of Olowalu between Lahaina and Maalaea, you’ll find the Maui Butterfly Farm. This one-of-a-kind farm hand raises several butterfly species – and it is a huge hit among keiki.
Tours run 45 minutes, just long enough so your kids stay interested! During the excursion, you’ll learn about the life cycle of butterflies, the different butterflies found on Maui, and the importance of butterfly conservation.
You’ll also get to feed butterflies nectar from your hand and, if you’re lucky, see a butterfly hatch from its chrysalis!
4. Maui Tropical Plantation
This plantation offers a fun and educational experience, with a tram tour through fruit fields and flower gardens. It’s a great way to introduce kids to tropical agriculture and the natural beauty of Maui. Bring a blanket, and you can picnic and feed the ducks at the pond (duck food is available for purchase.)
Located at the Maui Tropical Plantation, Maui Zipline Company is specifically designed for families and children. It offers a safe and exciting way to experience the thrill of ziplining while enjoying the views of Maui’s beautiful landscape.
5. Maui Ocean Center
If you have a kiddo who is too young to snorkel or not quite comfortable in the ocean, they can still experience Maui’s wild underwater landscape.
The Maui Ocean Center ignites wonders in kids of all ages – and adults! The Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea is the largest aquarium in Hawaii, with three acres of exhibits highlighting Hawaii’s diverse marine life.
Kiddos will love the touch tide pool and green sea turtle exhibits, and adults can learn more about Maui’s aquatic life and the unique history of the islands. No matter your age, one of the biggest highlights of the Maui Ocean Center is the deep sea tunnel – a 53-foot-long acrylic tunnel that runs through a tank filled with stingrays, sharks, and giant Trevallies. You’ll come face to face with some of the biggest creatures in the sea!
If you’re traveling with keiki older than three, be sure to stop by the Humpbacks of Hawaii sphere. This planetarium-like theater shows a 3D film of humpbacks filmed in Maui’s waters, and the whales will appear so close it’s almost as if you could reach out and touch them.
We hope to see you livin’ it up on Maui with your whole ohana soon! Still looking for the best deals on condos, hotels, and tours? You’ve come to the right spot. Book your Maui vacation essentials with Ali’i Resorts today, and you’ll be one step closer to making lasting Maui memories.
