Top Family-Friendly Things To Do on Maui with Kids

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While Maui is famous as a romantic honeymoon destination, it’s just as incredible for families.

With world-class beaches, kid-friendly resorts and pools, an agricultural countryside, outdoor adventures, and jaw-dropping views from the top of Haleakala, the island is packed with fun for kids of all ages.

There are over 70 things to do in this post, so I’ve grouped them by activity type because you know best what your kids will enjoy. And even better, many of these experiences are free or low-cost.

So scroll through, find what fits your crew, and get ready for an amazing family vacation on Maui.

1. First Things First: Check Your Resort Activities

One of the first things I always tell families visiting Maui is don’t overlook the awesome stuff happening right at your hotel or resort. Most family-friendly accommodations on Maui provide complimentary daily activities like lei-making, hula dancing, ukulele lessons, or outrigger canoe paddling. Many even have kids’ camps or “keiki clubs” where children can enjoy supervised play while parents relax.

So be sure to check with the front desk or concierge to make the most of what’s available right at your resort.

2. Best Beaches for Young Kids

Maui’s calm, protected beaches are perfect for little ones just getting their toes wet. These spots are favorites for families with small children:

• Baby Beach (Paia)
  True to its name, this lagoon is super calm, thanks to a reef that shelters it from the ocean swell. The sandy bottom and shallow water is perfect for infants and toddlers.

• Kalepolepo Beach (Kihei)
  Shallow tide pool created by an ancient Hawaiian fishpond. Kids will love this little aquarium, full of fish, turtles, and curious sea creatures to watch without any big waves to worry about.

• Launiupoko Beach Park (Lahaina)
  Protected lava-rock pool that keeps the waves out. Plus, there are grassy areas and lots of shady monkeypod trees nearby, perfect place to relax and have a picnic.

🔆 Bonus: Ho’okipa Beach (Haiku) – One of the best spots to see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close (from a safe distance, of course). These gentle giants often rest in clusters along the sandy shore, making it easy for kids to observe them, no snorkel gear required.

Note: Even on calm days, always keep a close eye on kids, especially near the water’s edge. Lifeguards are posted on many popular beaches, but it’s best to stay vigilant.

📖 Related Read: Top 10 Beaches on Maui: Your Ultimate Guide (with tips)

3. Easy Hikes & Boardwalks for Little Legs

If you’re looking to stretch your legs without overexerting the kids, try one of these great options:

• Haleakala National Park
  The drive to the summit might feel long for younger kids, but the sweeping crater views and Mars-like landscapes are worth it. Near the visitor center, you’ll find short, stroller-friendly paths. And even without catching sunrise or sunset, a daytime visit is still a memorable adventure.

• Twin Falls (Road to Hana)
  This is one of the first stops on the famous Road to Hana. It’s short and relatively easy, with multiple waterfalls and natural swimming holes. There’s also a farm stand nearby selling fresh banana bread, coconut water, and fresh fruit.

• Iao Needle State Monument (Wailuku)
  A short, paved path takes you through lush rainforest to the iconic Iao Needle, perfect for little legs. Kids will also love splashing around in the cool stream down below and exploring the nearby gardens.

• Wailea and Kaanapali Beach Walks
  These are flat, paved boardwalks right along the ocean. They’re great for strollers, wagon’s, or just a leisurely family stroll. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of places to stop for ice cream or a quick snack, plus some neat little shops and playgrounds.

• Kapalua Coastal Trail
  This mostly flat trail hugs the coastline, meaning stunning ocean views, chances to spot seabirds, and little tidepools to explore. Try to go early in the morning or at sunset to avoid the midday heat.

• Dragon’s Teeth Trail (Kapalua)
  This short walk leads to unique lava rock formations that look like giant dragon teeth jutting out of the ground. It’s a fun spot for kids to explore, full of nooks and crannies to climb into, and you’re guaranteed to leave with some cool photos.

• Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge (Ma’alaea)
  Peaceful wetland on Maui’s south shore that has a long, stroller-friendly boardwalk perfect for spotting native Hawaiian birds like the Hawaiian stilt and coot.

• Waihe‘e Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge
  This lesser-known coastal trail has wide, mostly flat terrain that’s stroller friendly for the first half mile before it transitions to a dirt path. Expect scenic ocean views, opportunities for birdwatching, and a chance to see archaeological sites along the way.

• Waihou Spring Trail (Upcountry)
  If you want a change from beaches and tropical plants, this quiet, shaded forest trail is filled with tall eucalyptus and pine trees. The air is cooler and it’s a great place for kids to run around and explore.

4. Gardens, Flowers, & Outdoor Beauty

Perfect for a quiet stroll or introducing kids to tropical plants:

• Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm (Upcountry)
  Perched high on the slopes of Haleakala, this farm is a great stop when exploring Upcountry. Kids can explore the large botanical garden, run through the lavender fields (best bloom is from June–September), and enjoy fresh scones or lavender tea from the gift shop, along with sweeping island views.

• Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens (Wailuku)
  Located just before Iao Valley, this free cultural garden celebrates the rich heritage of Hawaii’s immigrant communities, with dedicated areas showcasing Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, and English influences. It’s a popular local hangout, great for picnics and family gatherings, with plenty of grills and tables.

• Sacred Garden of Maliko (Upcountry)
  This peaceful plant nursery is a hidden gem! It’s free to visit and open daily. Walk through tons of beautiful plants, explore two walking labyrinths, and relax in cozy garden nooks. Kids will love spotting fairy statues and gnomes and meeting the resident rescue animals (including parrots, turtles, and a very mellow cat).

• Kula Botanical Gardens (Upcountry)
  This family-run spot has been around since 1971, and while it’s a little rough around the edges these days, it’s still a fun stop. Kids will enjoy the covered bridge, koi ponds, mini waterfalls, and even a peek at a chameleon or native Nene bird.

📖 Related Read: Beyond the Beach: Best Relaxing Activities to Do on Maui

5. Fun Outdoor Adventures for Preteens & Teens

For families with older kids who want a bit more action, Maui offers plenty of thrilling yet safe adventures:

• Road to Hana
  A classic Maui adventure for families with older kids. Enjoy waterfalls, hikes, and scenic stops along this famous drive. It’s a long day, so families with younger kids choose to go halfway or take a guided tour instead. Kids will all the yummy food stops, waterfall swims, and the famous black sand beach.

• Surf Lessons
  Learning to surf on Maui is a rite of passage, and many surf schools cater to young beginners. They’ll teach your kids how to catch their first wave in a safe, supportive environment, usually on calm, sandy-bottom beaches in Kihei or Lahaina.
  Top Surf Schools: Maui WaveRiders, Maui Surfer Girls (not just for girls), & Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy.

• Snorkel Adventures
  Take a boat tour to Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, or Lanai for calm waters, tropical fish, and possible whale sightings in winter. Top tour operators include Trilogy Excursions, Kai Kanani Sailing, and Redline Rafting.
  
  If you want to snorkel from shore, great beginner spots include Napili Bay, Black Rock, Kapalua Bay, Kahekili Beach, Kamaole Beaches, Wailea Beach, and Ulua Beach.

• Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals
  Calm mornings on the ocean are perfect for paddling. Renting kayaks or paddleboards gives kids a chance to burn off some energy and a chance to see Maui’s marine life up close. Also, most rental shops have kid-sized gear and offer safety lessons.

• Ziplining
  Ziplining is a Maui classic for families. Kapalua Ziplines is a long-time favorite, and you can’t go wrong with Skyline Eco Adventures (which has multiple locations). But if you have really young kids, Maui Zipline at the Tropical Plantation is probably best since it’s designed with families in mind and allows kids as young as five to join in the fun.

• Outrigger Canoeing
  There’s something magical about paddling a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe. Many tour companies offer lessons and short paddling trips designed for families, where kids can learn the basics of steering, paddling, and ocean safety.

• Horseback Riding
  Maui’s rolling hills and stunning coastline make for some unforgettable horseback adventures. Upcountry’s Tripe L Ranch and Circle M Ranch in Wailuku are top-rated spots where you can saddle up and take in those amazing views.

• ATV Tours
  Teenagers will have a great time on guided ATV tours through Maui’s rugged backcountry. These tours are supervised and safe, giving older kids a chance to explore hidden trails and scenic spots not accessible by car.

📖 Related Read: Thrill-Seeker’s Guide to Maui: Top Adventurous Activities

6. Educational & Cultural Experiences

In between beach days and hikes, why not dive into some of Maui’s rich history and culture? These spots make learning fun and interactive for kids:

• Maui Ocean Center (Ma’alaea)
  This is a favorite for families. The aquarium showcases sharks, rays, turtles, and a kaleidoscope of reef fish. The touch pools and daily feedings keep kids entertained for hours. And don’t miss the 3D movie about whales, it’s my personal favorite that really brings the ocean to life!

• Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary Visitor Center (Kihei)
  It’s a mouthful of a name and a fun, quick stop if you’re on the south side, especially great during whale season (December to April). This small center has interactive exhibits about humpback whales, their migration, and the surrounding marine environment. Kids love the whale-watching videos and hands-on displays, and the ocean views out back aren’t bad either.

• Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum (Central Maui)
  Maui’s sugar plantation history shaped much of the island’s culture and economy. This small museum has engaging exhibits and life-sized models that make history feel alive. Outside, kids can climb aboard vintage tractors and see how life was on the plantations.

• Bailey House Museum (Wailuku)
  This museum is perfect for introducing kids to Hawaiian culture. Inside, you’ll find traditional tools, artifacts, and stories about early island life. Outside, the gardens and old canoe are fun to explore, and it’s a quick stop that won’t overwhelm younger kids.

• Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center (Whalers Village, Kaanapali)
  A compact, interactive center focused on Maui’s unique wildlife, perfect for curious kids who want to learn about native birds, marine life, and conservation. It’s a quick, educational stop right in the heart of Whalers Village…and after exploring, you can treat them to ice cream from one of the shops nearby.

📖 Related Read: Top Authentic Things to Do on Maui for a Culturally-Rich Vacation

7. Hands-On Cultural & Creative Workshops

📖 Related Read: Best Workshops, Lessons, and Classes on Maui: 22 Hands-On Experiences You’ll Never Forget

Unleash your child’s inner artist or chef:

• Free Cultural Classes at Shopping Centers
  Whalers Village (Ka’anapali), The Shops at Wailea, and Lahaina Cannery Mall often host free daily classes where kids can learn lei-making, hula dancing, or how to weave coconut fronds. And with playgrounds nearby, it’s easy to keep kids entertained for a few hours.

• Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center (Makawao)
  Located in a lovely historical mansion, this arts center is free to visit. Check out the art exhibits, let the kids run around the beautiful property grounds, and sign them up for a class. They can try painting, sculpture, traditional crafts, and much more.

• Welzie Art Studio (Andaz Resort, Wailea)
  A colorful gallery and workshop space where kids can join classes inspired by the ocean. It’s casual, fun, and great for all ages, encouraging everyone to bring their inner artist out.

• Moana Glass (Lahaina)
  This glassblowing studio teaches kids how to make their own glass art, a great souvenir to take home.

• Wonderful World of Aloha (Queen Ka’ahumanu Mall)
  So many options at this cultural activity center—kids can take a dance class (hula, Tahitian, Filipino), a craft workshop (ti leaf braiding, kukui nut bracelets, wood carving), or music lessons (ukulele, Tahitian and Korean drumming).

• La Kahea Community Farm Cooking Class (Wailuku)
  Get hands-on with farm-to-table cooking class where kids can learn to make dishes with fresh local ingredients. The farm tour includes tasting tropical fruits, fresh sugar cane juice, and even banana nice cream (yum!).

• Coconut Information Farm Cooking Class (Haiku)
  This one’s a blast—kids will learn how to husk coconuts and whip up a tasty dish with coconut noodles. Along the way, they’ll sample fresh fruit and learn about sustainable farming in a fun, interactive setting.

📖 Related Read: Maui on a Budget: Free & Low-Cost Things to Do

8. Family-Friendly Farm and Agricultural Tours

For kids who love fresh fruit, and learning about where food comes from, Maui’s farms are the perfect day trip:

• Maui Pineapple Farm Tour (Upcountry)
  Hop on a shuttle through the fields of sweet Maui Gold pineapples and let the kids taste some of the freshest fruit around. Parents can add on a tasting at the nearby distillery, and the whole family can stop by Makai Glass studio to watch artisans at work before grabbing lunch at Haliʻimaile General Store.

• Maui Tropical Plantation (Central Maui)
  So many things to do here. Hop on the tram for a fun ride through tropical crops, wave hello to free-roaming ducks and chickens, and let the kids feed the fish and ducks by the pond (pick up feed at the gift shop). Also, if you have adventurous kiddos, let them try out the kid-friendly zipline (ages 5 and up). And don’t leave without checking out the Kumu Farms Store and enjoying a nice lunch at Café O’Lei, with an amazing view of West Maui Mountains.

• Kula Country Farm (Upcountry)
  This farm is a favorite for families year-round. In spring and early summer, you can pick the sweetest strawberries on the island. In the fall, the pumpkin patch becomes a festive must-do. It’s also a great picnic spot. Grab a table on the back deck and soak in the views. Kids will love the chickens, goats, and little play area while you enjoy some fresh farm goodies.

• Maui Dragon Fruit Farm (Lahaina)
  This farm is way more than dragon fruit. Kids can feed alpacas, try a mini zipline, and roll down hills in giant inflatable balls. If you go during dragon fruit season, you’ll get to see the fruit in full bloom and taste it fresh, along with other tropical fruits like bananas, coconuts, and more.

• Maui Ku’ia Estate Chocolate (Lahaina)
  Chocolate lovers, this one’s for you! Learn how Maui-grown cacao is transformed from bean to bar, then enjoy generous tastings in their breezy upstairs pavilion with ocean views.

• Kupa’a Farm (Upcountry)
  Calling all coffee and chocolate fans! This interactive tour dives into how both are grown and crafted, right on the farm. Expect beautiful views, fun hands-on learning, and plenty of sampling—plus, you get to create your own spiced hot chocolate from scratch.

📖 Related Read: 25 Best Things To Do in Upcountry Maui: A Local’s Guide (+Map)

9. Animal Encounters

Maui is full of interactive experiences that let kids get up close with animals:

• Surfing Goat Dairy (Upcountry)
  This farm on the slopes of Haleakala is full of charm—and cheese! Play with adorable goats, learn to milk one, and snack on some of the best goat cheese you’ve ever tasted.

• Maui Animal Farm (Lahaina)
  If your kids have ever dreamed of stepping into a storybook farm, this is it. Feed pigs, pet donkeys, cuddle rabbits, and get up close with goats, chickens, and more. It’s hands-on, adorable, and pure joy for little ones.

• Maui Butterfly Farm (Olowalu)
  Step into a magical fluttery world where kids can see the entire butterfly life cycle up close. They’ll hold caterpillars, marvel at chrysalises, and gently interact with butterflies, all while learning about these delicate creatures.

• Leilani Farm Sanctuary (Haiku)
  This is not your average petting zoo, it’s a heartfelt animal rescue tucked into tucked into a small town on the north shore. Meet loving cows, talkative pigs, sweet goats, and even gentle tortoises. Each animal has a story, and the passionate caretakers will have you falling in love with every one of them.

• Surf Cat Ranch (Upcountry)
  Calling all cat lovers: this Upcountry sanctuary is home to dozens of friendly rescue cats who roam freely through gardens and fields. Come snuggle, relax, and enjoy a purrfectly peaceful afternoon. Just book ahead, visits are by appointment.

• Maui Alpaca (Upcountry)
  What’s better than hugging an alpaca on a scenic Upcountry farm? Your kids will love the interactive tour where you can feed the alpacas, learn about their super-soft fiber, and even picnic with them in the pasture.

• Maui Bees (Upcountry)
  Get suited up and step into the buzzing world of honeybees! This hands-on experience lets kids and adults safely open a hive with a beekeeper, spot the queen, and taste fresh honey straight from the source. They also have a bee museum, cafe, gift shop, and vegetable garden to explore.

10. Fun Dining Spots Kids Will Love

There’s no shortage of restaurants on Maui, but these options go above and beyond to entertain the kids while you eat:

• Slappy Cakes (Lahaina)
  Kids (and adults!) can make their own pancakes right at the table.

• Cool Cat Café (Lahaina)
  A retro diner with arcade games and famously delicious milkshakes.

• South Maui Gardens Food Trucks (Kihei)
  Open lawn to run around on, outdoor games, live entertainment, and plenty of food options to choose from, even the pickiest eater will find something to love.

📖 Related Read: Top Things to Do in Kihei, Maui: Beaches, Water Sports, and Local Gems

• MauiWine & Ulupalakua Ranch Store (Upcountry)
  Grab farm-fresh burger, sandwhiches, and ice cream at the ranch store, then head across the street to MauiWine for a tasting while the kids play corn hole and explore the gardens.

• Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop (Olowalu)
  Famous for mini pies and located near the Maui Butterfly Farm (see Animal Encounters section above for more info).

• Mulligan’s on the Blue (Wailea)
  This restaurant hosts an affordable weekly magic show with Brenton Keith & His Bag O’Tricks, a fun-filled evening of magic and laughs for the whole family. Plus, kids 5 and under are free.

• Cafe O’Lei at the Maui Tropical Plantation (Central Maui)
  Open-air dining with a kids menu and nearby gardens and ponds for exploration (see Farm Tours section above for more info).

• Ocean Vodka Organic Farm (Upcountry)
  Not just for grown-ups; there’s plenty of open space for kids to run around while you enjoy the cocktails and an amazing view of Maui.

• Coconut’s Fish Cafe (Kihei)
  A laid-back favorite among locals and families, this surf‑shack-style spot has a dedicated keiki (kids) menu, yummy fish tacos, and crispy fries for dipping.

📖 Related Read: Foodie’s Guide to Maui: Farm Tours and Culinary Delights

11. Family-Friendly Events & Seasonal Fun

Maui’s calendar is packed with family-friendly events where kids can explore handmade crafts, local food, music, and more.

Whale Watching (Dec–Apr)
From mid-December to April, humpback whales put on a show just offshore, and kids (and adults) go wild when they see one breach. For a closer look, hop on a family-friendly tour with a marine naturalist. Bigger boats and catamarans offer space to move around and may even include underwater mics so you can hear whale songs.

Luaus with Keiki Activities
Luaus can be a fun and entertaining way to learn about Hawaiian culture through food, music, hula, and storytelling. Many offer kid-friendly pre-show fun like flower crafts, tribal tattoos, and local artisan booths. Some even have photo ops with performers after the show.

A few luaus to consider:

• Old Lahaina Luau (Lahaina): Widely considered the best all-around luau on Maui.
• Te Au Moana (Wailea): Kid-friendly menu and beautiful beachfront setting.
• Maui Nui Luau (Ka’anapali): Not the best luau, but kids 5 and under are free.
• Wailele Luau (Ka’anapali): Special kids buffet at kid height + mocktails!
• The Feast at Mokapu (Wailea): Upscale with a professional family photo session included.
• Keiki Hula Show at Napili Kai (Tuesdays): Smaller, cheaper alternative to a luau with great reviews.

Weekly Local Events & Markets
These ongoing events are great for mingling with locals and trying new foods:

• Upcountry Farmers Market (Saturdays, Kula)
  With over 40 farms participating, you’ll find just about everything you could think of, from tons of fresh produce and sugarcane juice to locally-caught fish, tropical flowers, Maui coffee, vegan eats, hot food, local art and crafts, and so much more.

• Maui Swap Meet (Saturdays, Kahului)
  You’ll find arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, food, flowers, locally grown produce, and much more from dozens of vendors.

• Friday Town Parties
  Rotate weekly in places like Kihei and Wailuku with food trucks, crafts, games, and live music.

• Maui Arts & Cultural Center or MACC (Kahului)
  Check their calendar for year-round family events, including concerts, keiki-friendly performances, movie nights, and Hawaiian cultural showcases.

📖 Related Read: Maui Shopping Guide: Best Souvenirs & Where to Shop Local

🔆 Check the Seasonal Calendar
Maui has so many great annual festivals and cultural events year-round. Whether you’re visiting in winter, spring, summer, or fall, take a took at my blog posts to see what’s happening during your stay. Your kids might love a color festival, slack key guitar concert, or local parade.

📖 Related Read: When is the Best Time to Visit Maui? A Season-by-Season Guide for Your Dream Vacation

12. Unique Experiences Worth Seeking Out

Looking for something a little different? These unique Maui adventures offer a fun twist on the typical island activities:

• Maui Mermaid Swimming School (South Maui)
  If your kid dreams of being Ariel, this is their moment. They’ll slip into a sparkly mermaid tail and monofin and learn to swim like one in a calm cove. It’s safe, fun, and the photos are adorable.

• FootGolf (Ka’anapali)
  What happens when you combine soccer and golf? You get FootGolf—a surprisingly fun game the whole family can enjoy. Kick your way through 9 or 18 holes at the Ka’anapali Golf Course starting at 4 PM.

• Open Skate Nights (Kihei)
  Friday and Saturday nights at Kalama Park turn into a roller-skating party. Bring your own skates or rent a pair. Kalama Park is my favorite park on Maui. There’s ample parking, picnic tables, restrooms, playground, skate park (great for teens), sand volleyball courts, and a paved path along the water that’s perfect for a sunset stroll.

• Maui Paintball (Lahaina)
  This is a great way to let off a little steam with friends and family. The 10-acre property is great for birthdays and you’ll come away with some great memories (and photos to match).

• The Valley Alley (Westin, Ka’anapali)
  This indoor entertainment zone has duckpin bowling, arcade games, Topgolf swing suites, and plenty of air-conditioned fun. It’s family-friendly during the day and 21+ at night. The on-site lounge serves island-style snacks and creative cocktails, and it’s a great place to keep the teens busy while you unwind.

• Car & Coffee Meetup (Kahului)
  Got a kid who’s obsessed with cars? Head to the Home Depot parking lot (next to Akamai Coffee) on the first Sunday of the month for Maui’s biggest car meet. Locals roll in with everything from vintage classics to custom builds. More details on their Facebook page.

• Sleep with the Sharks at Maui Ocean Center (Ma’alaea)
  Traveling with a group or just need a night off from the kids? This overnight adventure is one they’ll never forget. Kids ages 7 and up can spend the night inside the Open Ocean exhibit, literally falling asleep next to sharks, rays, and fish. The experience includes hands-on activities, behind-the-scenes fun, and even a movie night. It’s perfect for birthday parties, family reunions, or just giving parents a well-earned break. Advance reservations required.

📖 Related Read: Most Romantic Things to Do on Maui: 22 Date Ideas for Couples

Mahalo for reading! I hope you and your family enjoy every minute of your Maui vacation!