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20 Awesome Things to Do in Maui with Kids of All Ages

Maui is known for its stunning scenery, diverse activities, and rich culture. It can be described as a paradise for families with kids of all ages. From relaxing on the beach to exploring lush rainforests to attending a traditional luau, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on this magical island.

Whether you’re looking for educational experiences or adventurous thrills, we promise you will not be bored. They offer a variety of activities, ranging from water activities to relaxing trips where you won’t be too tired and you’ll certainly get a taste of the Hawaiian culture. In short, there’s a lot to do and these are just some of the top 20 awesome things to do in Maui.

1. Maui Ocean Centre

The Maui Ocean Centre is a state-of-the-art aquarium that is home to a variety of Hawaiian marine life, including sharks, turtles, and colourful fish. It is a great place to visit with kids of all ages, as there is something for everyone to enjoy. One of the most popular exhibits at the Maui Ocean Centre is the Open Ocean tank. This massive tank is home to various sharks, including hammerhead sharks, whitetip reef sharks, and sandbar sharks. Kids will love watching these amazing creatures swim overhead.

Another popular exhibit is the Turtle Lagoon. This exhibit features a variety of Hawaiian sea turtles, including green sea turtles, hawksbill sea turtles, and leatherback sea turtles. Kids will love learning about these important members of the Hawaiian ecosystem. In addition to the exhibits, the Maui Ocean Centre also offers a variety of educational programmes and activities for kids. These programmes and activities teach kids about the ocean and its inhabitants.

2. Molokini Snorkel Tour

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A Molokini snorkel tour is a great way to experience the underwater world of Maui with kids. Molokini is a sunken volcanic crater that is now a marine sanctuary. It is home to a variety of fish and other marine life, including coral reefs, colourful fish, and sea turtles.

Kids will love snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of Molokini. They can swim among the fish and coral reefs and see sea turtles up close. Most Molokini snorkel tours also include a stop at Turtle Town, a popular spot for seeing sea turtles.

3. Surfing Goat Dairy

The Surfing Goat Dairy is a working dairy farm that offers tours and tastings. It is a unique and fun experience for kids of all ages. On a tour of the Surfing Goat Dairy, kids will learn about the dairy farming process and see how goats are milked. They will also have the opportunity to feed the goats and sample some of the dairy products made at the farm, such as cheese, yoghurt, and ice cream.

4. Luau

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A luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast with food, music, and dancing. It is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture with kids. At a luau, kids will enjoy eating traditional Hawaiian foods, such as kalua pork, poi, and lomi salmon. They will also be entertained by Hawaiian music and dancing. Some luaus even include fire dancing and hula lessons.

5. Surf Lessons

Maui is a great place to learn how to surf, and there are a number of surf schools on the island that offer lessons for kids of all ages. Kids will love learning how to catch a wave and ride it to the shore.

Most surf lessons start with a lesson on the beach, where kids will learn the basics of surfing. Once they have learned the basics, they will head into the water to practise. Surf instructors are always on hand to help kids and ensure they have a fun and safe experience.

6. Haleakala National Park

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Haleakala National Park is a great place to visit for kids of all ages, with its stunning scenery, diverse activities, and educational opportunities. From the summit of Haleakala, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the massive crater and surrounding landscape. Kids will love exploring the otherworldly terrain, which is home to a variety of unique plants and animals.

In addition to hiking, biking, and camping, Haleakala also offers several educational programmes for kids. Ranger talks and guided tours can teach visitors about the park’s geology, history, and culture. Haleakala is also a great place for kids to learn about astronomy and the universe. When you visit, make sure you take a tour of one of the observatories on Haleakala to learn about the stars and planets.

7. Visit the historic district of Lahaina

In the heart of Maui lies the historic district of Lahaina, a charming waterfront town renowned for its vibrant art scene, bustling bars, and delicious restaurants. Despite the devastating 2023 fires that claimed 115 lives and destroyed much of this beloved area, Lahaina remains resilient, with Governor Josh Green pledging to rebuild the town over the coming years.

The iconic 150-year-old banyan tree, a centrepiece of Lahaina, stands tall as a symbol of hope and perseverance, despite its severe damage in the fires. Its long-term survival remains uncertain, but its spirit endures.

8. Eat a colourful serving of Hawaiian shaved ice

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Hawaiian shaved ice is a must-try for kids visiting Maui. Unlike snow cones, which are made with lumpy ice cubes, Hawaiian shaved ice is made with finely grated ice, resulting in a smooth and snowy texture that soaks up the sweet syrup flavours and melts in your mouth.

Kids will love watching the ice machine magically create these frozen concoctions. There are a myriad of flavours to choose from, including tropical favourites like piña colada, mango, and papaya, as well as classic options like cherry, grape, and bubblegum. Traditionally, Hawaiian shaved ice is served over a scoop of ice cream and can be topped with a drizzle of sweetened evaporated milk for an extra special treat.

9. Drive the road to Hana

The Hana Highway is a scenic 64.4-mile road that winds along the eastern coast of Maui and is a must-do for families with kids. Expect some thrilling moments as you navigate the narrow road’s one-way bridges and switchbacks, with locals zooming past with friendly smiles. Be sure to bring cash to buy fresh fruit and homemade banana bread from local stands along the way.

Plan to spend the entire day driving to Hana and back, or even better, stay a night or two in this charming town of just under 1,000 residents. Hana is the perfect place to unplug and reconnect as a family, with its laid-back atmosphere and abundance of natural beauty. From swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Hana Beach Park to hiking to the Pools of Ohe’o (Seven Sacred Pools) and Waimoku Falls, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Hana. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your family adventure on the Hana Highway today!

10. Attend a lei-making class

Leis, the traditional Hawaiian garlands, are the most colourful symbol of Hawaiian hospitality. Leis are typically made of orchids, but they can also be made of shells, kukui nuts, or other materials.

Many family resorts in Maui offer lei-making classes for kids and parents, where they can learn to make their own leis. Making a full lei can be too challenging for young children, but they can easily make an ankle or wrist lei. Lei-making is a fun family activity with a bonus: you get to keep the fresh flower lei you make. You can keep it cool in your hotel room fridge to wear to dinner.

11. Hike with kids in Maui

There are wonderful hikes on Maui in all parts of the island. It’s a great way to get outside with your kids and enjoy the natural beauty of the island. If you’re travelling with a baby or toddler in a stroller, you should choose the paved Wailea Beach Path to take in scenic views of the beautiful Wailea waterfront. This easy 2.5-mile round-trip trail is perfect for families with young children.

Another great hike for families is the easy 1-mile roundtrip along a manicured path through tropical foliage to the lovely Twin Falls waterfalls, just outside of Paia. This is a great place to cool off and take a swim in the refreshing pools at the bottom of the falls. For one of the best views on the island of Maui, drive to the Thompson Road Walk located in Keokea in the foothills of Haleakala. This easy 0.5-mile roundtrip trail offers stunning views of both the east and west coasts of Maui, as well as the islands of Lanai, Kaho’olawe, and Molokini.

12. Watch cliff divers at Black Rock

Exploring Pu’u Keka’a, commonly known as Black Rock, is one of the best things to do in Ka’anapali, Maui. Black Rock is a popular place in Maui for cliff diving due to its calm waters and stunning views. There are a variety of different spots to jump off into the ocean, ranging from 10 to 25 feet in height.

Every night at sunset, a cliff diving ceremony is performed at Black Rock. The ceremony begins with the blowing of a conch shell in all four directions, followed by a chant and the lighting of tiki torches. Then, a brave diver jumps into the waters below.

The cliff diving ceremony is a beautiful and unique cultural experience that is sure to impress visitors of all ages. It is a great way to learn about Hawaiian culture and traditions and to enjoy the stunning scenery at Black Rock.

13. Go zip-lining

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Zip-lining in Maui is a must-do activity for families with kids of all ages. It’s a super cool adventure with epic views of the island. There are several Maui zipline companies to choose from, depending on your family’s age and abilities. Maui Zipline can take kids as young as 5 years old, making it perfect for beginners. For families with older kids at least 10 years old, the Flyin Hawaiian Zipline is the longest, highest, and fastest zip on Maui.

No matter which zipline company you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Zip-lining through the lush rainforests and over the sparkling waters of Maui is an adventure that your family will cherish for years to come. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a first-timer, zip-lining in Maui is a Hawaii adventure that you won’t want to miss.

14. Swim in a waterfall in Maui

Looking for a secluded waterfall to swim in on Maui? Punalau Falls, a hidden natural paradise in northeastern Maui, is the perfect spot. This gorgeous 100-foot waterfall is one of the lesser-known falls along the popular Road to Hana, making it a great choice for families looking for a more secluded experience.

To reach Punalau Falls, follow the Road to Hana until you reach mile marker 44.5. Turn left onto the unmarked dirt road and follow it for about 1/4 mile. The parking area is on the left. From the parking area, it’s a short walk to the waterfall. The trail is well-maintained and easy to follow. Once you reach the waterfall, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and a refreshing swimming hole. The water is crystal clear and the pool is deep enough to jump into from the rocks above. Punalau Falls is a great place to spend an afternoon with your family. Be sure to bring sunscreen, water, and snacks, as there are no facilities at the waterfall.

15. Visit sea turtles at Ho’okipa Beach

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Ho’okipa Beach on the north side of Maui is a great place to take your kids to see sea turtles in the wild. Every day, Hawaiian green sea turtles emerge from the water and crawl onto the sand to bask in the sun at the eastern end of the beach, right below Ho’okipa Lookout.

While you can’t get too close to the turtles, watching them from a short distance is an amazing experience, especially for kids who may not be able to snorkel or swim in the open water. After watching the turtles, head to the top of Ho’okipa Lookout for expansive coastal views and the chance to see surfers hanging ten.

16. See and smell succulent flowers

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is a working lavender farm on the slopes of Haleakala in upcountry Maui. It features 25 varieties of lavender, as well as succulents, roses, hydrangeas, olive trees, and other flora. The farm’s history dates back to 2001, when the late founder, Ali’i Chan, started the entire farm from a single lavender plant gifted by a friend.

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is a popular destination for families with kids, offering walking tours, craft classes, and picnics. It’s a unique and educational experience in nature, distinct from typical outdoor activities. The farm also has a secret garden scavenger hunt that is perfect for kids and adults of all ages. The Maui treasure hunt begins at the gift shop and takes families through hidden sections of the farm, with a prize for children at the end.

17. Visit a black sand beach

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Wai’anapanapa State Park is situated near Hana Highway and houses Pa’iloa Beach, also known as Wai’anapanapa Beach. It is widely regarded as the most stunning black-sand beach on Maui. The beach is surrounded by jagged lava rocks and verdant tropical vegetation, which creates a striking contrast with the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.

While swimming is not always possible due to dangerous rip currents, visitors can explore the park’s 122 acres with a camera in hand. Notable features include lava caves fed by ocean springs and scenic hiking trails covered with black lava rocks.

18.  Rappel down waterfalls 

Rappel Maui is one of the more thrilling outdoor attractions in Maui, offering a unique experience for families in search of the island’s beautiful waterfalls. Whether you’re visiting Maui for two weeks or on a Hawaii cruise, Rappel Maui is sure to thrill. Those who dare to rappel down the falls will never forget this remarkable activity.

Don’t worry about safety! Guests are provided with all the necessary equipment and instructions to safely rappel down the falls into refreshing natural pools. Kids must be at least 10 years old to rappel, but all ages can enjoy the scenic rainforest hike through the Hawaiian jungle as they discover Maui’s gushing waterfalls.

19. Explore the depths of the sea 

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Atlantis Submarines in Maui takes you over 100 feet below the sea surface to explore the sunken 19th-century whaling brig Carthaginian and the artificial coral reef it has created. This kid-friendly submarine ride is both entertaining and educational, teaching kids about the ocean and its inhabitants. With large viewing windows and modern comforts such as air conditioning, this is an eye-opening underwater adventure that kids will never forget. (Kids must be 36 inches or taller to participate.)

Imagine yourself soaring through the crystal-clear waters off Lahaina, marvelling at the vibrant coral reef and the diverse marine life that calls it home. You’ll see colourful fish of all shapes and sizes, graceful sea turtles, and even the occasional shark or manta ray. As you approach the Carthaginian, you’ll be amazed at how well-preserved it is. The ship’s masts, rigging, and even some of its cargo are still visible.

20. Watch a sunrise or sunset at Haleakala National Park

Watching the sunrise or sunset at Haleakala National Park is a truly unforgettable experience. From the summit of Haleakala, visitors can watch the sun rise or set above the clouds, casting a breathtaking glow over the island and surrounding ocean.

To catch the sunrise at Haleakala, visitors should wake up early and drive to the summit. The park gates open at 2:30 a.m., and the sunrise is typically around 6:00 a.m. Visitors should be sure to pack warm clothes, as the temperature at the summit can be chilly in the morning. If you plan to watch the sunset at Haleakala, visitors can arrive later in the day. The park gates close at 4:00 p.m., and the sunset is typically around 6:30 p.m. Visitors should be sure to bring a headlamp or flashlight for the drive back down the mountain in the dark.

No matter what your family’s interests are, you’re sure to find something to love on Maui. From exploring the Road to Hana to swimming with sea turtles at Ho’okipa Beach, there are endless opportunities to create lasting memories in Maui.  So start planning your trip today and experience the magic of Maui with your family!