Plan the Perfect Family Getaway in Maui: Complete Itinerary & Travel Tips
If you’re dreaming of turquoise waves, golden beaches, lush rainforests, and unforgettable family memories — Maui is calling. This stunning Hawaiian island is a paradise where kids can play in the sand, parents can unwind with tropical breezes, and the whole family can bond over cultural experiences and outdoor adventures.
Planning a trip to paradise may feel overwhelming, but don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Whether it’s your first time visiting or your fifth, this comprehensive guide will help you plan the perfect family getaway in Maui, with an easy-to-follow 7-day itinerary, travel tips, and kid-friendly recommendations.
And to make your arrival stress-free, we’ll also touch on the convenience of the Maui Airport Greeting Service, which adds a personal touch to your family’s first steps on the island.
Why Maui is the Perfect Destination for Families
Maui strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure, offering:
Calm, family-friendly beaches
Exciting activities like snorkeling, hiking, and whale watching
Unique cultural experiences like hula lessons and lei-making
Excellent dining and resort options for all budgets
A slower pace of life perfect for quality family time
Unlike other Hawaiian islands, Maui isn’t too crowded, nor too remote. It’s “just right” — and it's easy to explore by rental car or tour.
Before You Go: Family Travel Planning Tips
Flights & Arrival
Book flights early for the best rates, especially during school breaks.
Choose flights that land at Kahului Airport (OGG) — the island’s main airport.
Consider arranging a Maui Airport Greeting Service to receive leis and personalized assistance upon arrival. This small gesture adds excitement and warmth to your family’s welcome.
Where to Stay
Skip Lahaina Town due to current restoration efforts and instead choose:
Wailea – Luxurious, quiet, and ideal for families looking for an upscale experience.
Kihei – More budget-friendly, centrally located, and offers easy access to great beaches.
Kaanapali – Known for its resorts, family amenities, and beautiful sunsets.
Choose accommodations with kitchenettes, pools, and family-friendly services.
What to Pack
Sunscreen (reef-safe), hats, and swimwear
Water shoes for rocky beaches and waterfalls
Travel stroller or baby carrier
Snorkel gear or floaties for kids
Light jackets for cool upcountry evenings
7-Day Family-Friendly Maui Itinerary
Day 1: Aloha, Maui! Arrival and Beach Sunset
Arrive at Kahului Airport (OGG)
Consider a Maui Airport Greeting Service to make your arrival feel magical.Pick up your rental car
Check into your accommodation
Head to Kamaole Beach Park in Kihei — calm waters and great for kids
Enjoy a beach picnic or dinner at Café O’Lei Kihei
Watch your first Maui sunset
📝 Tip: Keep day one light. Jet lag is real, especially for kids.
Day 2: Snorkeling & Turtles at Makena Landing
Morning: Head to Makena Landing for easy snorkeling and sea turtle sightings
Pack snacks and spend the morning swimming and exploring tidepools
Afternoon: Visit Maui Ocean Center in Maʻalaea — indoor exhibits are perfect for escaping the midday sun
Dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen (kids’ menu and tropical drinks for adults)
📝 Tip: Bring an underwater camera to capture snorkeling moments!
Day 3: Road to Hana Adventure (Half-Day or Full-Day)
Start early and drive part of the Road to Hana — known for waterfalls, lush rainforests, and ocean views
Stop at:
Twin Falls – family-friendly hike and waterfall swim
Garden of Eden Arboretum – safe trails and incredible views
Lunch at Halfway to Hana Stand (banana bread is a must!)
Return by afternoon to avoid long drives in the dark
📝 Tip: Download the GyPSy Guide app for a narrated tour. Bring snacks and motion sickness remedies.
Day 4: Beach Day & Hawaiian Culture
Morning: Relax at Wailea Beach or Napili Bay
Afternoon: Head to The Shops at Wailea – great for food, shopping, and shaded walking
Attend a family-friendly luau such as Te Au Moana Luau
Features hula dancing, fire shows, and buffet dinner
Kids will love the interactive storytelling
📝 Tip: Book luaus in advance — the best ones sell out quickly!
Day 5: Upcountry Maui & Haleakalā Sights
Drive to Upcountry Maui (cooler climate, rolling hills, local farms)
Visit:
Surfing Goat Dairy – tour the farm and try cheese
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm – great views and relaxing walk
Optional: MauiWine for adults (kids can roam the gardens)
If your kids are older, consider a sunset trip to Haleakalā Crater
📝 Tip: Pack a light jacket — it’s much cooler in upcountry and at higher elevations.
Day 6: Whale Watching & Beach Time
Book a morning whale-watching cruise from Maʻalaea Harbor (Dec–Apr is peak season)
Companies like PacWhale Eco-Adventures offer family-focused tours
Afternoon: Rest and unwind at your favorite beach or pool
Dinner at HumuHumu at Grand Wailea for a memorable end-of-trip meal
📝 Tip: Bring binoculars! You may even spot whales from the shore.
Day 7: Souvenirs & Departure
Morning: Enjoy one last swim or walk on the beach
Shop for local souvenirs at Maui Swap Meet (Saturdays) or small craft markets
Return rental car and head to the airport
Optional: Arrange a Maui Airport Greeting Service for departure — they can assist with luggage and provide a thoughtful goodbye lei for your family
Family-Friendly Activities to Add or Swap
Want to customize your itinerary? Here are extra kid-approved ideas:
Indoor Options (Good for Rainy Days):
Maui Ocean Center
Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center – art classes for kids
Maui Escape Rooms – family bonding challenge
Nature & Wildlife:
Iao Valley State Monument – short hike and river exploring
Honolua Bay – excellent snorkeling for older kids
Kula Country Farms – seasonal berry picking
Cultural Activities:
Lei-making classes
Ukulele lessons
Maui Tropical Plantation – tram ride, gardens, ziplining (age-appropriate)
Where to Eat: Family-Friendly Dining in Maui
Da Kitchen (Kahului): Casual Hawaiian food and big portions
Paia Fish Market (Kihei): Great fish tacos and laid-back vibe
Flatbread Company (Paia): Wood-fired pizzas the whole family will love
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice: Don’t leave without trying Maui’s best shave ice
Many restaurants offer kid’s menus, high chairs, and beachside seating.
Smart Travel Tips for Maui with Kids
Rent a car: Maui is not a walkable island — you’ll need a vehicle to reach beaches, farms, and cultural sites.
Pack snacks and reusable water bottles: Keep kids fueled on long drives.
Schedule downtime: Avoid overbooking your itinerary. Pool time is often the highlight for kids!
Respect nature: Teach kids to protect coral reefs, avoid stepping on lava rocks, and respect marine life.
Download offline maps and guides: Cell service may be spotty in remote areas.
Final Thoughts: Memories to Last a Lifetime
A family vacation in Maui is more than a trip — it’s a chance to slow down, reconnect, and immerse yourselves in natural beauty and Hawaiian culture. Whether you're snorkeling with sea turtles, tasting fresh pineapple, or watching a fire-dancing performance under the stars, every day on this island offers a moment worth cherishing.
By following this flexible 7-day itinerary and travel tips, you’ll be ready to plan the perfect family getaway in Maui — one filled with joy, discovery, and aloha spirit.
And don’t forget — services like the Maui Airport Greeting Service can set the tone for an unforgettable trip, welcoming your family to paradise with warmth and ease.