We often get asked, “what can I do with my YOUNG children?” Yes, there’s snorkeling, surf lessons, luaus. But what about the kids that are younger and aren’t at the ability level or attention span needed for fun stuff like that? Here are a few things we like to do with our kids in Maui, Hawaii.
Maui Zipline with Kids
Though kids younger than 5 won’t be zipping, they can still have fun. Many of the lines at the Maui Tropical Plantation are visible from the duck pond, so send your bigger kids zipping while your littler ones enjoy watching and cheering them on with an adult by the pond. Maui Zipline Company specializes in taking all ages through and over this large, tropical property. Call 808.633.2464 to book your tickets. Learn more about the duck pond below.
Maui Ocean Center
We have annual passes for a reason. If it’s raining, too hot out, or we just need to kill some time and get the kids out of the house, the Maui Ocean Center is PERFECT! There are interactive exhibits, outdoor pools where they can touch sea creatures, life-sized replicas of whales, a great restaurant, views of Maalaea Harbor, and a massive shark tank with a glass tunnel. The kids lose their minds.
Swim at Waterfalls
This one should be done with caution. We don’t recommend going anywhere that is known to flash flood or is challenging to get to. Visit falls only after checking weather reports both for the areas at the falls and further up stream. The best spot is in Hana at Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) because they won’t even let you in to swim if it’s dangerous. The water is frigid, which is great for really hot days. Twin Falls has a lot of child friendly hikes with falls all around. Also, don’t let your kids drink the water. Is that enough disclaimers for you?
Beach Time!
Duh. Taking your kids to the beach is a no-brainer. Choose beaches with very little swell activity, preferably with lifeguards. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen both adults and kids rescued at Big Beach (Makena Beach.) It’s a deceptive spot. It looks calm, but the shorebreak snaps necks regularly. Choose a beach with some protective reef or zero swell activity. get there early, find a shady spot, and avoid peak sun burn times.
Maui Events
There’s often something going on for kids on Maui, especially in the summer time. Festivals, outdoor movie nights at the MACC, Craft Fairs, and many more things happen worth bringing the groms. Keep an eye on Maui Events. Below are some photos from the recent Maui Agricultural Festival.
Duck Pond
The Maui Tropical Plantation has more than ziplines and an award winning restaurant. Kids LOVE the duck pond. It’s peaceful, beautiful, and has so much for them to see. Turtles, ducks, chickens, fish, and more live in this pond. They sell duck food at the gift shop in front. Free admission. Incredible views of the Waikapu Valley too. Grab some lunch at the Mill House when you’re done.
Visit Hana with your Kids
This one can be great with kids, depending on your preparation. We suggest staying the night if going to Hana with children. Breaking up the long drive is worth it. Plus, you get more time in Hana Town, which has more to offer than the guidebooks suggest. Here are some kids enjoying the Travaasa Hana and surrounding areas. They have units perfect for families.
Resort Pool Time
Many of the resorts have kid-friendly pools. These photos are from the Sheraton in Ka’anapali, west Maui. Great pools, slides, and fun. The Andaz has a great kid area, and of course, the Grand Wailea has the mother of all kid pools on Maui.
Maui Submarine with Kids
The kids LOVE going on the Maui submarine. We go at least once a year. It’s the ultimate adventure where they can see deep sea creatures, as well as a sunken ship, without getting wet. Last time we saw manta rays, 2 sharks, tons of fish, and even SpongeBob sitting on the side of the sunken ship. It’s educational too.
Maui Helicopter Tours
We didn’t even know we could do helicopter tours for little kids until we visited. No problem. Our older child was in awe. Our baby was cautious. Both seemed to get something out of it. We had a blast, saw a bunch of Maui, and they had something to tell their school friends the next week.
Tide Pools!
You can pretty much find tide pools in most regions of Maui. All kinds of creatures inhabit these areas. Make sure to choose an area that doesn’t have a lot of wave activity. Make sure your children leave any creatures you find where they are.
