What to Do in Maui with Family – Vacation Highlights
Maui, the Valley Isle of Hawaii, is a dream destination for families seeking unforgettable memories, sun-drenched days, and cultural connections. Whether you're looking to explore lush rainforests, relax on golden beaches, discover Hawaiian history, or experience a warm lei greeting at the airport, Maui offers something special for every member of the family.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best family-friendly activities in Maui, local tips, and our personal vacation highlights, from sunrise at Haleakalā to snorkeling in Molokini, with plenty of shaved ice stops in between!
Aloha Begins at the Airport- Lei Greeting with Plumeria Lei Greetings
Before diving into the activities, there’s one experience that sets the tone for your entire trip — a traditional Hawaiian lei greeting. Booking a lei greeting through Plumeria Lei Greetings is more than just a welcome; it’s a heartfelt embrace of aloha spirit. Watching your kids’ eyes light up as they're draped with fragrant plumeria or orchid leis is a moment you’ll never forget.
It’s the perfect way to start your vacation with warmth and joy, and it’s especially convenient for families arriving after a long flight.
Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park
One of the most magical experiences in Maui is watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano that stands over 10,000 feet above sea level. Families willing to rise early (really early!) are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the sun breaking through the clouds in an ethereal, otherworldly display.
Pro Tip: Make reservations in advance, sunrise viewing requires a permit. Dress warmly; it’s chilly up there even in summer!
Family Bonus: Kids love feeling like they’re above the clouds, and older children will enjoy learning about Hawaiian legends tied to Haleakalā, such as the story of the demigod Maui lassoing the sun to slow it down.
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
Take your family on a half-day snorkeling adventure to Molokini, a crescent-shaped volcanic atoll off the coast of Maui. The clear waters offer incredible visibility and are teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and maybe even a green sea turtle or two.
Best for: Families with children ages 5 and up who are comfortable in the water.
What to Bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, towels, motion sickness bands (if needed), and an underwater camera.
Tour Tip: Book a catamaran tour with family-friendly amenities like onboard snacks and flotation devices.
Beach Hopping: Best Family-Friendly Beaches
Maui’s beaches are legendary, and many are perfect for families. Here are a few of our favorites:
Baby Beach (Lahaina)
A shallow lagoon protected by a reef, this beach is ideal for toddlers and young kids. Calm waters, soft sand, and easy access make it a top family pick.
Ka’anapali Beach
Lined with resorts and restaurants, Ka’anapali offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, including cliff diving at Black Rock and snorkeling spots near the shore.
Wailea Beach
Great for swimming, boogie boarding, and sunbathing. Nearby amenities and the beautiful walkway connecting resort beaches make it easy for families to explore.
The Road to Hāna – An Unforgettable Day Trip
Driving the Road to Hāna is a full-day adventure your family will remember forever. This winding coastal route is packed with waterfalls, scenic lookouts, black sand beaches, and hidden gems.
Must-See Stops:
Twin Falls: A great first stop with an easy waterfall hike.
Garden of Eden: Botanical gardens showcasing Maui’s flora and sweeping views.
Waiʻānapanapa State Park: Famous for its black sand beach and lava tube.
Hāna Town: A peaceful, historic town with food trucks and local charm.
Tips for Families:
Download an audio tour app to entertain and inform everyone along the way.
Pack snacks, water, and motion sickness remedies.
Be prepared for a long but rewarding day — leave early and plan stops in advance.
Maui Ocean Center – The Aquarium of Hawaii
If your kids are curious about marine life, the Maui Ocean Center in Maʻalaea is a must-visit. This world-class aquarium features interactive exhibits, touch pools, and awe-inspiring displays like the Open Ocean Tunnel and Living Reef.
Highlights:
Learn about Hawaiian ocean mythology and native species.
Watch sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful schools of fish.
Explore the interactive humpback whale exhibit.
This is a great rainy-day activity or a relaxing afternoon option if you want to avoid the sun.
Whale Watching (Seasonal)
If your vacation falls between December and April, you are in for a treat, it’s humpback whale season in Maui! Take a family-friendly boat tour and witness these majestic giants breaching, tail-slapping, and singing in the warm Pacific waters.
Best for: All ages. Some boats even have glass-bottom viewing options.
Booking Tip: Choose a certified eco-tour company that respects the marine environment and offers educational commentary for kids.
Visit a Pineapple Farm
Touring a Maui pineapple plantation is a sweet and educational adventure for the whole family. Kids get to learn how pineapples grow, see the harvesting process, and enjoy the freshest slices straight from the fields.
Our Pick: Maui Gold Pineapple Tour in Haliʻimaile – fun, informative, and includes a pineapple to take home!
Hawaiian Culture Experiences
Immersing your family in Hawaiian culture deepens the vacation experience. These activities are both fun and meaningful:
Attend a Luau
Maui has several family-friendly luaus that feature traditional Hawaiian food, music, and hula dancing. Kids love the fire knife performances, while parents appreciate the buffet of island flavors.
Top Luaus:
Old Lahaina Luau (authentic and cultural)
Feast at Lele (more intimate dining)
Te Au Moana Luau (at Wailea Beach Marriott – great for kids)
Hula Lessons
Many resorts and cultural centers offer free hula lessons for children and families. Learning the art of hula is a joyful way to connect with Hawaiian storytelling and rhythm.
Shaved Ice & Local Treats
No trip to Maui is complete without indulging in shaved ice, especially after a day at the beach.
Top Spots:
Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice – Famous for finely shaved ice and local syrups.
Local Boys Shave Ice – Known for its generous portions and friendly vibes.
Gus’s Hawaiian Shave Ice Truck – A hidden gem in Kihei!
Other Local Favorites:
Malasadas (Portuguese-style donuts)
Spam musubi (a fun, sushi-like snack)
Fresh fruit smoothies from roadside stands
Iao Valley State Park – A Peaceful Half-Day Escape
If you are looking for a serene nature escape, head to ʻĪao Valley State Park in Central Maui. This lush valley is home to the famous ʻĪao Needle, a towering green pinnacle surrounded by rainforest.
Why It’s Great for Families:
Short, paved walking trails
Shaded picnic areas
Educational signage about Hawaiian history and ecology
Bring water shoes if you want to dip your feet in the stream!
Maui Bike Tours & Family Walks
Biking Down Haleakalā (Teens & Up)
Older kids and teens may love the thrill of biking down Haleakalā, starting near the summit and coasting all the way to the base. Tours include guides, gear, and safety tips.
Family-Friendly Walks:
Kapalua Coastal Trail – Easy, scenic, and stroller-friendly
Wailea Beach Path – Beautiful ocean views with resort access
Kealia Pond Boardwalk – A quiet wildlife refuge ideal for birdwatching
Relaxation Days at the Resort
Let’s be honest, some of the best family moments happen poolside or on the lanai with a tropical smoothie in hand.
Many Maui resorts offer:
Kid-friendly pools with slides
Onsite family activities like ukulele classes or lei making
Babysitting services if parents want a date night
Check if your resort offers plumeria lei greetings on arrival, a lovely welcome to paradise.
Capture the Memories: Family Photo Shoots
Maui’s golden hours and scenic backdrops make for stunning family photos. Consider booking a local photographer for a sunset beach shoot or candid shots during your lei greeting with Plumeria Lei Greetings. These images will become cherished souvenirs from your time in paradise.
Final Tips for a Perfect Maui Family Vacation
Pack Light, But Smart: Include reef-safe sunscreen, reusable water bottles, swimsuits, water shoes, and hats.
Book Early: Maui is popular — secure reservations for accommodations, tours, and restaurants in advance.
Respect the Land and Culture: Teach kids the value of mālama ʻāina, caring for the land.
Unplug and Be Present: Maui has a way of slowing you down and inviting you to soak in the moment.
Closing Thoughts
Maui isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. From the moment your family is greeted with a fragrant lei to the last sunset on the beach, every moment is infused with aloha spirit. Whether it’s exploring waterfalls, learning to hula, or simply building sandcastles together, Maui creates the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
And remember, your Hawaiian journey begins the moment you land, let Plumeria Lei Greetings welcome you with the spirit of aloha, setting the tone for a magical family vacation.
Mahalo for joining us — and aloha until we meet again!