9 Family-Friendly Things To Do on Maui

One of the best things to do with kids on Maui is drive the Road to Hana. You’ll likely only want to do about half of the drive, especially if you're traveling with younger kids—the full 64 miles (103 kilometers) can take a toll on even adults. However much of it you see, the Road to Hana has some of Maui’s most family-friendly activities are found along the road, such as the Garden of Eden Arboretum, so you can stretch your legs and explore the island along the drive.

Insider tip: Don’t miss stopping off for Aunty Sandy’s for famous banana bread.

Haleakala is the tallest point on Maui, standing at 10,023 feet (3,055 meters) high. This dormant volcano is sacred to Native Hawaiians and is an incredible spot to catch the sunrise; while it will require an early wake-up call for the whole family, the morning golden glow and pastel-colored clouds are more than worth it. Take the hassle out of early morning logistics by booking a tour with hotel pickup included, and stick around after the sun comes up to check out the multi-colored cinder cones, spot a few rare plants and animals, or even go on a high-altitude hike.

Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped island just 2.5 miles (4 kilometers) off the coast of Maui. It’s also one of the most family-friendly attractions on Maui, as boat tours that sail to this snorkeling gem are often planned with kids in mind—think glass-bottom boats to spot fish below and child-sized snorkel gear on board. Of course, all the marine animals you’ll see while snorkeling—from tropical fish to turtles to octopuses—will be the highlights of everyone’s day.

Situated with the Pacific Ocean on one side and luxury hotels on the other, Kaʻanapali Beach is one of the top family destinations on Maui. You can enjoy just about every beach activity on this strip of shoreline: swim, snorkel, surf, or even take a whale-watching tour. If the kids need a break from the sun and sand, it’s easy enough to head into one of the casual hotel eateries that line the beach for some lunch and AC.

Looking for kid-friendly Maui activities for younger children? Add Surfing Goat Dairy to your itinerary. This working goat dairy offers tours, almost all of which are great for young visitors and let everyone get up close to the goats—depending on the tour you book, you can snuggle, feed and even milk these cuddly creatures. Don’t forget to pop into the gift shop to purchase some souvenirs, such as truffles or some of the dairy's award-winning goat cheese.

Insider tip: It might be tricky to bring goat cheese home with you, so look for goat milk soap or lotion instead.

An important part of visiting Hawaii is learning about the Hawaiian culture that has made the islands the wonderful destination that they are. An easy—but still educational and entertaining—way to do that is with a family outing to the Maui Nui Luau. The experience features lei greetings, a Polynesian dance show, and a chance to see the famed Black Rock cliff divers, plus indulge in a buffet dinner.

Trekking the Waihee Ridge Trail is a fun Maui activity for older kids and more outdoorsy families. It’s 4.2 miles (6.8 kilometers) and has 1,491 feet (585 meters) of elevation gain, so it’s no easy stroll, but it’s a great way to get energy out and take in incredible views. The whole way up, panoramic vistas of the West Maui Mountains and the Pacific Ocean will keep you company.

Insider tip: Proper hiking shoes—as opposed to regular athletic shoes—are recommended for the trail, as it can get quite muddy and slippery.

The icy, fruity treat known as shave ice—not shaved ice—is one of the best desserts in Hawaii for kids and adults alike, and Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice has absolutely mastered the art of shave ice–making. With the soft ice texture and natural fruit syrups, it’s shave ice at its best. Even better, Ululani’s has a handful of locations all across Maui, so you can stop by for a sweet snack, no matter where your Maui itinerary takes you.

While getting to Honokalani Beach might be a little difficult for everyone in the family—it’s nearly 50 miles (80 kilometers) into the Road to Hana—for many it’s worth the trek. After all, it’s Maui’s only black-sand beach. Located within Waiʻanapanapa State Park, here you can stroll along the ethereal, obsidian-colored shoreline and admire natural rock arches along the shoreline.

Insider tip: It is important to note that the ocean conditions at Honokalani Beach are often dangerous for swimming, so it’s best to stick to the land during your visit.