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Are you planning a trip to Maui, Hawaii, with kids and want to know the best Maui family resorts, attractions, and cool things to do in Maui with kids? Keep scrolling for all my top Maui tips for families!

This post about Maui with kids was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.

I’ve visited Hawaii more than 40 times, and many of those trips have been to Maui. It’s one of my favorite Hawaiian islands, and I have always loved going to Maui with my kids.

While Maui has the reputation of being a hot spot for honeymoons and babymoons, most of my trips to Maui have included a baby, toddler, or kids of other ages.

I figured I’d gather up my knowledge for this complete guide to Maui with kids!

Want a Hawaii travel guide? I’ve got detailed guides and 7-day itineraries!

Maui with a Baby

So many people go to Maui when they are pregnant for their babymoon, but it can also be the perfect place to go after their baby is born.

Babies are pretty portable, and you can still have a fun Hawaiian vacation.

WHERE TO STAY ON MAUI WITH A BABY

You can really stay anywhere in Maui with a baby. Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Wailea are great areas if you want to spend most of your time relaxing at a resort.

My biggest tip for visiting Maui with a baby is to splurge a bit on your accommodations, especially if this is your first baby.

You will probably be spending more time in your room than you think. Between naps, early bedtimes, nursing or bottle feeding, etc, it can eat up a chunk of your vacation.

So, I suggest finding a place where you can put your baby in a separate area to sleep. That could mean an extra bedroom or living room. Or, you can put your baby to sleep in your room and then enjoy the living space in the evenings.

Another option is to get a hotel room that has a lanai that overlooks something beautiful or where you can walk out to the pool. Then, you can enjoy dinner or drinks on the lanai while your baby sleeps inside.

WHAT TO DO ON MAUI WITH A BABY

If your baby will sleep in the car, use their nap time to drive to other parts of the Hawaiian island. If you are staying in Lahaina, the drive to Iao Needle, Haleakala, or Upcountry is perfect!

I’d also suggest buying a baby pool float. A lot of babies don’t like sand, which can make beach time stressful. If your baby is one of those (like mine), they might prefer the pool.

Or, you can carry them to the water at calm beaches to let them float around in the ocean.

For older babies, consider renting a jumparoo. It’s nice to have a safe place to put your baby while you get ready for the day.

Maui with Toddlers

In my experience, Maui with toddlers is very different than with a baby! They are more energetic and have very strong opinions on everything!

WHERE TO STAY ON MAUI WITH TODDLERS

My favorite area to stay in Maui with a toddler is Kihei. It’s centrally located while still being on the beach. You won’t have to spend too long in the car to get around.

There are a ton of food options and kid-friendly beaches, and it’s just a family-friendly town.

If your toddler won’t nap in the car, you’ll want to follow the advice above about splurging on a nice room. You will be spending a lot of time there.

If you think your toddler can do car naps, then focus on a place with a nice pool area.

Buy some fun pool floats and plan on spending a lot of time swimming. Check to see what kid-friendly restaurants are nearby.

WHAT TO DO ON MAUI WITH TODDLERS

Stock up on snacks! I usually hit up Costco right by the airport to pick up pouches, crackers, and Hawaiian snacks. I also stop at Long’s to get Hawaiian cookies and Asian snacks.

Find out if your accommodation has sand toys you can use during your trip. If not, they are sold at almost every store, including grocery stores.

Or, bring plastic cups or bottles so your toddler can fill them with water at the beach and then dump them out.

When planning your Maui itinerary for kids, don’t overschedule your family. I like to plan an activity for the morning, check moods in the afternoon, and play it by ear.

Thinking about heading to Molokai? Get top Molokai tips here.

Best Maui Resorts for Families

Maui family resorts have become quite the thing lately! We’ve primarily stayed at the Honua Kai in Kaanapali, but we’ve been researching the best Maui hotels for kids for future trips.

One tip: Check Costco for Maui family vacation packages with car rental, hotel, and airfare before you book anything.

Here’s what I came up with for where to stay in Maui with kids:

Kihei

While there aren’t resorts in Kihei, I really want to include some condo options because it’s the best place to stay in Maui for families on a budget and who want to stay in central Maui.

KAMAOLE SANDS

This is my pick for a condo in Kihei. With one-, two-, and three-bedroom condos, it will easily accommodate your whole family. Plus, it’s right across the street from a kid-friendly beach with a large park area.

They have a swimming pool, a wading pool (for kids), a jacuzzi, and an on-site gym. And the units feature kitchens and washers/dryers.

KIHEI AKAHI

This condo is right across the street from an amazing kid-friendly beach, within walking distance to shops and restaurants, plus it has two swimming pools.

Their units have a kitchen and an in-room washer/dryer, which makes it an ideal place for families with young kids to stay in Maui.

KIHEI KAI NANI

This is another condo option that’s pretty affordable. It’s a little further from the beach but only a 5-minute walk away. With the kitchen, you can save money by cooking or heading outside to BBQ.

While the washer/dryer isn’t in the room, you can do laundry on the premises.

Lahaina

If you think you might not rent a car, Lahaina is a really convenient place to stay if you’d like to go on a boat trip or luau.

They have quite a few Maui family hotels that are perfect for kids of all ages.

MARRIOTT’S MAUI OCEAN CLUB

This is one of the best family resorts in Maui. It has one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas that feature full kitchens and washers/dryers. The guest rooms have kitchenettes.

Kids will love their “super pool” complex with waterfalls, water slides, and a grotto.

Parents will appreciate their bathtubs (for kids who refuse showers.) Plus, they have a nice spa! And STARBUCKS.

THE MAUIAN HOTEL ON NAPILI BEACH

This hotel has a nostalgic 1950s vibe. It has a pool and a large grassy lawn, and it’s just steps away from Napili Beach.

Families will enjoy the daily complimentary breakfast. All studios feature a fully equipped kitchen.

There’s also weekly entertainment by the pool.

NAPILI SHORES MAUI BY OUTRIGGER

This is a recently renovated condominium. They have two swimming pools. Napili Shores also has blackout curtains, which is nice if you need to put kids to bed while it’s still light out.

They have studios and one-bedroom rooms, which are great for families with little kids. There’s also an on-site restaurant that serves macadamia nut pancakes!

Ka’anapali

In terms of Maui kid-friendly hotels, Ka’anapali probably has the biggest selection of the best Maui hotels for kids.

It’s kind of a trek from the airport, but it’s one of the best places to stay in Maui with family who want to spend a lot of time relaxing.

Wondering what to do in Ka’anapali? Mostly, I eat at yummy restaurants and hang out by the water.

HONUA KAI RESORT & SPA

We’ve stayed here twice with the kids, and the pool area is amazing! They have five pools, including one with a little water slide! The beach is just a few steps away from the pool area.

There’s a coffee stand, a market with ice cream, and Duke’s restaurant (with a kids’ menu) on site.

It’s probably one of the best family-friendly resorts in Maui.

ASTON MAUI KA’ANAPALI VILLAS

Kids will love the adorable complimentary shuttle trolley that can take families to Whaler’s Village, luaus, golf, and other destinations.

There are two pools (including a children’s wading pool, bridges, and water features.) Families can borrow pool noodles and sand toys from the Beach Activities Center.

They also have free coffee available every morning near the lobby.

ASTON KAANAPALI SHORES

They have spacious hotel rooms as well as 1-2 bedroom suites with full kitchens.

The Aston Kaanapali Shores has a full kids program called Camp Kaanapali. Here’s where your kids can learn hula dancing, string a fresh flower lei, learn to play the ukulele and construct their own kite.

They also just debuted their new garden pool, which looks very relaxing. And they have another pool. Both are heated.

HYATT REGENCY MAUI RESORT & SPA

This is a really nice resort in Maui for families. Gorgeous rooms and suites and several on-site restaurants.

Kids ages 5-12 can participate in Camp Hyatt. And younger kids will love watching the penguins feeding and helping feed koi fish!

They also have an on-site luau, which is convenient for families who want to bring kids straight to their rooms for bedtime.

Plus, Ululani Shave Ice is here! It’s my favorite shave ice spot on Maui!

THE WESTIN MAUI RESORT & SPA

This is another fabulous Maui resort for families. It’s right by Whaler’s Village, which has lots of shops and events.

They have an 87,000-square-foot aquatic playground with five pools, water slides, tropical gardens, waterfalls, plus a cave with a hidden jacuzzi.

They also have an on-site luau.

Wailea

Wailea is probably the most luxurious area in which you can stay. It’s pretty pricey but features great amenities for families.

So, if it’s within your budget, go for Wailea Beach Resort for the best experience.

FAIRMONT KEA LANI

I am a HUGE fan of the Fairmont brand, and this hotel is on my bucket list. There are simply too many family perks to list, so I’m just including some of my favorites.

The Fairmont Kea Lani launched their Keiki Dining Program (kids under 5 eat FREE) and kid-friendly cuisine at Kea Lani Restaurant, AMA Bar & Grill, and Kō.

While every child receives a gift when they check in, the Fairmont Kea Lani also offers complimentary amenity kits for babies and tots, which include no-tears hair wash, cleansing soap, gentle lotion, bubble bath, toothbrush, and toothpaste.

This resort has two family activity pools connected by a 140-foot water slide. Plus, they have a Kids Club (for kids 5-12), a canoe experience, and a Hawaiian Cultural Program. There are also restaurants and shops on site.

And parents will love Willow Stream Spa!

This is one of the best places for families looking for a bit of luxury to stay in Maui!

THE GRAND WAILEA

This is another kid-friendly resort in Maui. While they have Camp Grande (for kids 5-12), they also have an area just for teens.

They have many cultural programs, ocean activities, and an on-site luau. Kids ages 5 and under can enjoy FREE breakfast.

The pool area is insane! Wailea Canyon includes four jungle pools, five intertwining slides, a whitewater rapids slide, a Tarzan pool with rope swing, a sand beach, six waterfalls, caves, three Jacuzzis, an infant pool, the world’s first water elevator, and a swim-up bar. And they just opened their new Lava Tube Slide in their pool area.

ANDAZ MAUI AT WAILEA RESORT

This looks like an incredible resort with gorgeous views and a restaurant featuring the famous Chef Morimoto.

They also offer fabulous cultural activities, such as coconut leaf weaving, coconut husking, hula lessons, ukulele lessons, and an outrigger canoe experience.

If you’re interested in a luau, they have one on-site that features a farm-to-table menu and an eco-friendly spa.

It’s also a pet-friendly hotel if you’re considering bringing one with you.

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT

This is a more budget-friendly place for families to stay in Maui. It’s the first Residence Inn in Maui, and it’s brand new!

There are tons more Maui family-friendly hotels to choose from, but these are my top recommendations!

Best Maui Luaus for Families

I highly recommend families experience a luau on their Hawaiian vacation.

My kids have been HUGE luau fans, even as babies. The colorful costumes, dancing, singing, etc. are completely mesmerizing!

It’s one of the best Maui activities for kids!

OLD LAHAINA LUAU

If you are looking for a kid-friendly luau on Maui, the award-winning Old Lahaina Luau is my top pick. There’s an option where families can sit on mats on the ground. This is perfect for snuggling with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers!

Plus, they have lots of food options and great entertainment. Check the latest rates and availability.

MYTHS OF MAUI

If you are worried your kids won’t eat Hawaiian food, check out Myths of Maui. Their kids’ menu includes chicken nuggets, mac and cheese, hot dogs, and chips.

Instead of fresh flower leis, they give out shell leis. This makes it a great souvenir for kids to take home!

And this luau is right on the ocean! Check the latest rates and availability.

Things to do on Maui with Kids

There are so many Maui family activities! We try to do a few new things each trip, and we never run out of ideas. Here are my top activities for Maui family vacations:

SURFING GOAT DAIRY

This is a really fun activity to do in conjunction with Haleakala or as a stop when driving around Upcountry Maui.

The drive is absolutely beautiful, and it’s a completely different part of Maui from the resort areas.

Families have an opportunity to feed the goats or sign up for an Evening Chores & Milking tour.

They sell goat cheese, chocolate truffles, award-winning cheeses, goat milk soap, and more!

Even though my kids aren’t super into animals, they liked meeting the goats! When we were there last, there was a nice sandbox area for kids to play in

TURTLE TOWN ECO ADVENTURE

Instead of boarding a big boat for a Maui snorkeling tour, you get to paddle kayaks! The main goal is to get to Turtle Town to see lots of sea turtles, but you never know what other sea life you might spot!

This 3-hour excursion is geared for kids ages 5 and older and is one of the top Maui kids’ activities. Check the latest rates and availability.

SNORKELING

On one of our trips to Maui, we went with extended family who wanted to go on a snorkel cruise. Since I had a toddler with me, I did a lot of research to see which ones we could do.

I found the Four Winds Maui, which was awesome for toddlers! They had floats with windows, so my toddler could lay on the board and “snorkel” without getting his face in the water. He LOVED it! And they had a water slide for the older kids!

This Molokini Snorkel Cruise also looks amazing! Molokini is that little crescent-shaped island off the coast of Maui.

We haven’t done this one yet, but that’s the plan in a few years. They focus on finding sea turtles!

I’m also interested in this snorkeling cruise to Lanai. The boat has a little water slide, so when the kids are done snorkeling, they have another cool activity.

MAUI HORSEBACK RIDE

For kids ages 7 and older, this Maui horseback ride takes you to a waterfall and offers stunning ocean views. The guides are happy to take your photo during this two-hour experience.

Plus, you’ll ride through a petting zoo where you can meet all kinds of interesting animals. Check the latest rates and availability.

MAUI OCEAN CENTER

Probably the top activity in Maui for families is the Maui Ocean Center. Here’s where they have one of those tunnel aquariums where it looks like the fish are swimming all around you!

They also have tidepools, traditional aquariums, and indoor and outdoor exhibit areas.

What’s really cool about the Maui Ocean Center is that they offer many Hawaiian cultural programs throughout the day. We participated in one about hula implements (instruments used while dancing), and it was very interesting!

I’ve been twice with my kids, but it’s not their favorite thing to do. They’d rather see sea life while floating in the water.

MAUI SUNSET DINNER CRUISE

Maui sunsets are truly magical! This makes a great date night with (or without) your kids. It’s a plated dinner followed by dancing if you choose to partake.

Many boat rides don’t allow little kids, but this one does, so I included it in this list.

Depending on when you go, you might even get to see some whales!

MAUI HELICOPTER TOUR

One of the top activities in Hawaii is doing a helicopter tour. It’s a great way to see the islands from a whole new perspective.

With this Maui helicopter tour, you’ll see Molokai and Maui, which is pretty cool! This tour accommodates kids of all ages. Children under 2 are free.

Another option is the Maui Circle-Island Helicopter Tour, which focuses solely on Maui. You’ll get to see Haleakala Crater, Iao Valley, and even Hana! Children under 2 are also free.

I’ve never done a helicopter tour (I’m slowly building the courage), but I get asked about it, which is why I included it on this list.

MAUI ATLANTIS SUBMARINE ADVENTURE

Have you done the Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage attraction at Disneyland? This is like the real-life version of that ride!

Your family will spend a couple of hours inside a submarine. During this time, divers will carefully hold sea life to each window.

It’s kind of like snorkeling without getting wet!

We did this when my oldest was two years old, and he was a little scared of the divers.

SURF LESSONS ON MAUI

If you’re looking for a Maui surf lesson for kids (especially ages eight and younger), this private surf lesson looks perfect! The instructors really set kids up for success by doing a lot of the work for them.

Parents can feel good that their child gets one-on-one attention. Plus, if you are traveling with multiple kids, they can surf together while each having their own instructor.

But, if you would like semi-private surf lessons for your family, that’s also an option. They recommend them for kids ages 6-10.

For kids ages six and older who are serious about surfing, this beginner surf lesson is a great place to learn the basics. But, you must also enroll an adult.

FREE HULA SHOWS

As a hula dancer myself, I INSIST you take advantage of some of the free hula shows on Maui!

I suggest picking up a visitor’s brochure like This Week Maui or Maui Gold at the airport. It will list a lot of free hula shows. Here are the ones I found:

• Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
• Kaanapali Beach Hotel
• Lahaina Cannery Mall
• Maui Mall
• Whalers Village
• Queen Ka’ahumanu Center
• The Outlets of Maui
• Napili Kai Beach Resort

MAUI SUGAR CANE TRAIN

If you are visiting Maui during the holidays (Thanksgiving through New Year), climb aboard The Holiday Express! It’s a Hawaiian version of a Santa train, and it would be super fun for toddlers and preschoolers!

They are trying to raise money to open the train year-round, so please buy a ticket and support them!

Road to Hana

A lot of families ask me, “Should I do the Road to Hana with kids?”

It depends so much on your family. If your kids hate their car seat, don’t like being in a car, are sick or teething, or get motion sickness, DO NOT GO! It will be miserable for everyone!

Otherwise, it’s an emphatic YES! It’s one of the most awe-inspiring things to do on Maui with kids.

I went with my toddler, and we had a great time! We explored the gardens, ate yummy banana bread, and played at the beach. He even fell asleep for the whole drive back!

ROAD TO HANA TIPS FOR FAMILIES

• Check the weather. Avoid rainy days, if possible.
• Start early. You won’t want to feel rushed.
• Make frequent stops. My top Road to Hana stops for kids include The Garden of Eden, Lava Tube, Kahanu Garden, Wai’anapanapa State Park, Hana Town, and Seven Sacred Pools.
• Buy banana bread. They sell it in a few places, but I like the Halfway to Hana Stand for the photo op!
• Don’t forget bathroom breaks. You can find restrooms at many of the previously mentioned stops, plus others like Pua’a Kaa State Wayside Park.
• Pack snacks and drinks. While there are some cute places to stop along the way, you might want to bring food and drinks as a backup.

ROAD TO HANA TOURS

If you aren’t renting a car, look into Road to Hana Tours. This Road to Hana Luxury Tour provides breakfast and lunch. They can accommodate infants, toddlers, and kids of all ages.

Plus, they stop at several points along the way to get out and admire the amazing sites!

This Road to Hana tour is another option. They emphasize frequent restroom stops, which we all know is vital when traveling with kids!

I also found this Maui Hana Coast Day Trip. It looks like they give you enough time to swim, depending on the time and weather.

[irp posts=”1730″ name=”10 Tips for Traveling Solo to Maui with a Toddler”]

Taking Kids to Haleakala

I know some families are hesitant to take their kids to Haleakala. It can be a long, windy drive, and the altitude changes.

If your kids are prone to motion sickness, I wouldn’t do this.

However, I took my toddler here, and it was amazing! They have a visitors center where you can learn more about Haleakala. And there are lots of walking trails.

Since it’s so high up, wear a jacket or bring blankets to keep you warm. It can get quite chilly!

This is a state park, so you’ll need to pay for parking if you drive a rental car.

If you don’t rent a car, you’ll probably want to look into Haleakala tours. There’s a Haleakala Sunrise Tour with Breakfast, which accommodates kids of all ages.

Kids ages 12 and older can participate in a Haleakala Downhill Bike Tour, where families get dropped at the summit of the mountain and race down the switchbacks.

While sunrise at Haleakala is the busiest time to visit (mostly for the unbelievable experience!), Haleakala at sunset is also a nice time to go.

This is perfect for families who don’t want to wake up in the middle of the night to drive up to Haleakala in time for sunrise. Plus, you still get an amazing view!

Exploring Iao Needle in Maui

I’m not a fan of hiking, but I LOVE Iao Valley State Park! It’s not super far from the Kahului Airport, so it makes a great first stop in Maui.

It’s the most kid-friendly hike on Maui. The trail is paved, and my 2-year-old was able to climb all the way to the top without help (including a ton of stairs.)

Advance reservations to enter I’ao Valley State Monument are now available online. The parking fee is $10 per vehicle. The additional non-resident entrance fee is $5 per person, and there is no charge for children under three years old.

My biggest tip is to wear bug spray! The first time I went with my toddler, his little legs got so many bug bites.

Best Maui Beaches for Kids

If you are planning on spending time at the beach with your kids, you probably want to know which Maui beaches are the best for kids.

My top kid-friendly beaches on Maui for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers include:

BABY BEACH IN PAIA

I brought my oldest here when he was nine months old, and it was perfect! The water is super calm, so you can dip your baby’s feet in it without getting splashed.

It does involve a bit of walking to get to the beach from your car, but I think it’s worth it!

BABY BEACH IN LAHAINA

This beach is ideal for families staying in Lahaina and Kaanapali. The sand is soft, and there are barely any waves. It’s awesome for toddlers who want to play in the sand and water.

KAMAOLE BEACHES IN KIHEI

When we stayed in Kihei, I loved that we could walk to these three beaches. They were awesome for toddlers! We built a lot of sand castles here. Plus, you can pick up food nearby and have a picnic.

There is lots of parking, and they have restrooms.

KAPALUA BAY

If you are looking for a picture-perfect beach on Maui, Kapalua Bay is it. The beach is adorable, and the water is (usually) calm enough for kids to play in. It’s convenient if you are staying between Lahaina and Kapalua.

We did a family photoshoot here on our last day in Maui, and I wished we had come earlier on the trip so we could have more time to play!

Maui Family Photography

If you’ve read any of my other travel guides to Hawaii, you know I always encourage families to hire a professional photographer to capture family photos during their vacation.

The last time we were in Maui, we used Flytographer, and we loved it! They work with several Maui photographers, and you can find one that fits your style.

Marie was our photographer at Kapalua Bay. She was bubbly and put our whole extended family at ease for some memorable shots!

Save $25 with this link.

Maui with Kids FAQs

Maui with Kids Wrap-Up

I hope you now have a better idea of how to plan your family vacation to Maui! There are so many reasons to visit Maui!

Whether you want to experience the Hawaiian sea life and witness Hawaiian green sea turtles in East Maui, go on a Maui Treasure Hunt in West Maui, or experience the rich Hawaiian culture and history in Central Maui, there’s a place you know you’ll enjoy. It’s such a fun family travel destination!

Hope you enjoyed this post about kid-friendly hotels in Maui and things for kids to do in Maui! Head over to my Hawaii site Hawaii Travel with Kids for more posts about Maui with kids!

More Posts about Maui

How to Choose the Best Luau in Maui
3-Day Itinerary with Kids
7 Reasons Why the Feast at Lele is the Ultimate Maui Date Night
Bring Old Hawaii to Life With Hands-On Activities at Maui Nei Native Expeditions
A Week in Maui: Itinerary for Families with Toddlers
Four Winds Maui Family Snorkel Trip

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