Discover the Best Family Resorts in Hawaii for an Unforgettable Vacation

With its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, Hawaii is known for being a fantastic vacation spot for families for a reason. Picture your kiddos playing in the sun on pristine beaches, exploring lush tropical forests, and experiencing new activities. From luxury resorts with world-class amenities to charming beachfront havens, Hawaii offers a plethora of family-friendly resorts that promise fun and relaxation. Here’s a guide to the best family resorts in Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, and the Molokai islands.

Choosing Which Island of Hawaii to Visit

From the adventure-filled Big Island and the lush beauty of Kauai to the vibrant energy of Oahu and the tranquil charm of Maui, each island offers unique experiences to help you create unforgettable memories. Here’s a brief overview of each Hawaiian island that welcomes families with a smile.

Oahu

Oahu, known as “The Gathering Place,” offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation that appeals to parents and children. The island’s stunning beaches, such as Waikiki and Lanikai, provide safe swimming spots, ideal for little ones to enjoy the sun and sand.

Beyond the beaches, Oahu is home to exciting attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium, where kids can learn about wildlife in a fun, engaging way. For those seeking adventure, hiking up Diamond Head offers breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment that the whole family can share.

Maui

Maui features stunning beaches, such as Kaanapali and Kapalua, offering gentle waves perfect for little ones to splash and play. The island’s diverse landscapes also provide numerous opportunities for adventure, from exploring the lush Haleakalā National Park to taking scenic drives along the famous Road to Hana.

In addition to its natural beauty, Maui is rich in cultural experiences that can engage and educate children. Visiting the Maui Ocean Center allows kids to learn about marine life while enthralled by the vibrant displays. Furthermore, the island hosts family-friendly activities like snorkeling, whale watching, and even luau nights, ensuring every family member finds something to enjoy.

Big Island

The Big Island of Hawaii is a fantastic option for families with kids, offering diverse activities that cater to all ages. From exploring the stunning Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to enjoying the beautiful beaches, the island provides an abundance of natural wonders that will captivate both adults and children alike.

One of the highlights of the Big Island is the opportunity to witness the powerful forces of nature up close. Kids will be fascinated by the active volcanoes, and educational ranger programs make learning about geology fun and engaging. Additionally, the island’s unique ecosystems provide the chance for family-friendly adventures, such as snorkeling in Kealakekua Bay or stargazing at the Mauna Kea Observatory.

Kauai

Known as the “Garden Isle,” this Hawaiian paradise offers a plethora of family-friendly activities for all ages. Kauai provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable family adventures, from stunning beaches to lush hiking trails.

One of Kauai’s highlights is its breathtaking natural beauty, which includes the iconic Na Pali Coast and Waimea Canyon. Families can explore these magnificent sites through guided tours or a scenic helicopter ride. Additionally, Kauai boasts several beaches with calm waters, ideal for younger children to splash around and enjoy the ocean.

Lanai or Molokai

Both islands offer unique experiences tailored to families but cater to different interests. If your kids enjoy luxury and adventure, Lanai is known for its stunning resorts, beautiful beaches, and opportunities for snorkeling and hiking. The island’s small size makes exploring easy, allowing for a more intimate family experience.

On the other hand, Molokai provides a more authentic Hawaiian experience that is rich in culture and history. Families can engage in eco-tours, visit the Kalaupapa National Historical Park, and experience the island’s laid-back lifestyle. The local community is welcoming, and plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and exploring nature can be enjoyed together.

After a brief overview of each island, let’s visit some of the most popular family-friendly resorts on Oahu, Maui, Big Island, Kauai, Lanai, and Molokai.

Best Family Resorts on Oahu

From kid-friendly pools and exciting activities to beachfront views and convenient amenities, Oahu offers a variety of family resorts designed to make your vacation unforgettable.

Aulani Disney Resort & Spa

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Aulani Disney Resort & Spa is one of the most famous resorts located on the beautiful shores of Ko Olina, Hawaii. This unique resort combines Disney’s magic with the Hawaiian Islands’ rich culture and natural beauty. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities, from relaxing on the pristine beaches to exploring the lush landscapes.

With its luxurious accommodations, family-friendly amenities, and immersive experiences, Aulani offers something for everyone. The resort features a world-class spa (Laniwai Spa), multiple dining options, and exciting entertainment, ensuring a memorable stay for families.

Things Parents Love:

• Pool with lazy rivers, slides, splash zones, and zero-entry pool
• Private snorkeling lagoon (swim with tropical fish)
• Adults-only infinity pool
• Comfortable beds
• Kids’ club
• Character meet-and-greets
• Hawaiian Entertainment
• Disney character breakfast buffet

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• Most entertainment and activities cost money
• Overcrowded; hard to find a spot at the pool or beach
• Expensive food

The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay

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The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay (formerly known as Turtle Bay Resort), is another popular resort among adults and kids. It is located on the North Shore of Oahu, Hawaii. It offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and access to pristine beaches, making it a perfect getaway for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Spanning 1,300 acres of pristine coastline, the resort provides a serene escape from the island’s more crowded areas.

Families can explore over 12 miles of biking and hiking trails, enjoy horseback riding along scenic paths, or participate in guided eco-tours to learn about the local environment. The resort features multiple dining options, a full-service spa, and the Arnold Palmer Golf Course, ensuring visitors have everything they need for an unforgettable stay.

Things Parents Love:

• Beautiful setting
• Great facilities
• Tiered deck
• Kids love the pool area

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• Basic room amenities
• No turndown service
• Pricy food and drink
• No kids club

Best Family Resorts on Maui

With its stunning beaches, kid-friendly activities, and luxurious yet welcoming resorts, Maui offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for an unforgettable family vacation.

Four Seasons Resort

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Four Seasons Resort at Wailea offers a dedicated Kids for All Seasons program, where children can enjoy supervised activities like Hawaiian arts and crafts, storytelling, and outdoor adventures. Families can spend quality time together at the resort’s kid-friendly pools, including a shallow lagoon-style pool perfect for little ones, while older kids and parents can explore exciting water sports like snorkeling and paddleboarding.

The resort also provides complimentary beach toys, games, and even kid-sized robes to ensure a memorable and comfortable stay. Dining is made easy with family-friendly restaurants featuring special menus for children, and babysitting services are available for parents who want a quiet evening.

Things Parents Love:

• Excellent restaurants
• Game room
• Great service
• Courtesy transportation to nearby locations
• Complimentary additions (cabanas, treats, etc.)

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• Price
• Kids’ club is not impressive
• Have to secure cabana early in the morning

Honua Kai Resort & Spa

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Honua Kai Resort & Spa in Maui is a family-friendly destination offering spacious accommodations with kitchens, making it ideal for families with children. The resort features multiple pools, including a children’s pool, and direct access to Ka’anapali Beach for fun-filled days of sand and surf. Families can enjoy the Kids’ Club, which provides activities for children aged 5–12, as well as a variety of family-oriented activities like lei-making and hula lessons. Dining options cater to families, with kid-friendly meals and BBQ grills in some suites.

Things Parents Love:

• Everything you need in one place
• Free standard car rental
• Multiple pools and hot tubs
• Duke’s restaurant on the property
• Grocery store within walking distance

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• No housekeeping unless you pay for it

Best Family Resorts on the Big Island

From sprawling pools and cultural activities to breathtaking views of volcanoes and beaches, the Big Island’s resorts offer something special for every family member.

Hilton Waikoloa Village

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Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island of Hawaii offers a wide range of activities and amenities designed to entertain and accommodate all ages. The resort features expansive, family-friendly rooms and villas with stunning ocean views. Kids will love the resort’s pools, including the water slides and lagoons to swim and explore.

The Dolphin Quest program allows children to interact with and learn about dolphins. At the same time, the resort offers a variety of educational activities, such as hula lessons and Hawaiian cultural experiences. With a kids’ club, multiple dining options, kid-friendly menus, and family-focused events, Hilton Waikoloa Village provides a perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and education for families.

Things Parents Love:

• Dolphin habitat
• Lagoon area with water rentals
• Gorgeous maintained grounds
• Plenty of chairs at the pool

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• No beach access
• Limited food choices
• Quite a walk between the room and the pool/lobby

Four Seasons Resort Hualalai

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Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is a luxurious oceanfront retreat that caters exceptionally well to families with children. The resort offers a variety of kid-friendly amenities, including the Kids For All Seasons program, which provides engaging activities like Hawaiian crafts, tide pool exploration, and storytelling. Families can enjoy multiple swimming areas, including a sandy-bottomed children’s pool and the King’s Pond, a swimmable aquarium filled with tropical fish.

Spacious villas and suites provide ample room for families, while on-site dining includes options tailored to young guests. With its combination of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and thoughtful family-focused services, Four Seasons Resort Hualalai ensures a memorable and stress-free vacation for parents and children alike.

Things Parents Love:

• Great service
• Good proximity to the beach and pools
• Pool for guests 12+
• Good entertainment and activities for kids

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• Easy to hear noise from other rooms

Best Family Resorts on Kauai

Known as the Garden Isle, Kauai offers family-friendly resorts with lush surroundings, exciting outdoor adventures, and plenty of amenities to create a vacation everyone will cherish.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

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Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is a paradise for families seeking a fun and relaxing Hawaiian getaway. Nestled along the sunny shores of Poipu, the resort features an expansive multi-level pool system with a lazy river, a waterslide, and a saltwater lagoon perfect for young swimmers. The Camp Hyatt program offers engaging activities like lei-making, Hawaiian storytelling, and nature walks, ensuring kids stay entertained while parents unwind at the spa or golf course.

Spacious rooms and suites comfortably accommodate families, and diverse on-site dining options cater to all tastes. With its lush tropical setting, abundant family-friendly amenities, and warm Hawaiian hospitality, Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is an ideal destination for creating unforgettable family memories.

Things Parents Love:

• Adult pool, lazy river, and lagoon
• Soundproof rooms
• Never feels crowded
• Great spa

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• High price overall

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu

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Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu offers a perfect blend of luxury and family-friendly comfort on Kauai’s sunny south shore. The resort features one of the island’s largest pools, with waterfalls, waterslides, and a shallow area ideal for young children. Spacious villa-style accommodations with full kitchens and multiple bedrooms make it easy for families to feel at home. At the same time, outdoor BBQ areas and fire pits create opportunities for memorable family gatherings.

Kids can enjoy nearby beaches, snorkeling, and tide pool exploration while parents relax at the spa or take advantage of the resort’s concierge services for family-friendly excursions. With its welcoming atmosphere, top-notch amenities, and pa rime location near Poipu Beach, Koloa Landing Resort is an excellent choice for families seeking adventure and relaxation.

Things Parents Love:

• Spacious pool
• Great service
• Shuttle service
• Close to the beach
• Washer/dryer in room

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• No direct beach access

Best Family Resorts on Lanai or Molokai

These serene islands offer a selection of peaceful resorts where you can enjoy unspoiled landscapes, unique cultural experiences, and quality time with your loved ones.

Four Seasons Resort Lanai

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The Four Seasons Resort Lanai is a luxurious Hawaiian retreat perfect for families, offering a blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Kids can enjoy the Kids For All Seasons program, wildlife encounters, and educational activities like lei-making and hula lessons. Families can explore tide pools, snorkel in Hulopoʻe Bay, or take off-road UTV tours.

The resort provides spacious accommodations, child-friendly amenities, kid-friendly dining options, and a lagoon-style pool with shallow areas. With personalized service and a variety of family-oriented activities, it’s an ideal destination for a memorable, luxury-filled getaway with children.

Things Parents Love:

• Comfortable rooms
• Great food
• Accommodates food restrictions
• Parrots on property

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• Expensive

Hotel Molokai

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Hotel Molokai is a charming, laid-back retreat that offers families an authentic Hawaiian experience with a relaxed island vibe. It provides family-friendly accommodations, including kitchenettes for convenient meal prep. Kids can enjoy the beachfront setting, swim in the pool, and explore tide pools along the shore.

The hotel offers cultural experiences such as Hawaiian music nights, local storytelling, and nearby hiking trails for outdoor adventures. With its peaceful atmosphere, stunning ocean views, and warm hospitality, Hotel Molokai is a great choice for families seeking an off-the-beaten-path Hawaiian getaway.

Things Parents Love:

• Great sunset views
• Good food
• Located right on the water

Things Parents Don’t Love:

• Can easily hear noise from neighboring rooms
• Breakfast not included
• Small pool

What about the Islands of Niihau and Kahoolawe?

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You may wonder why we’ve listed only six out of eight main Hawaiian islands as places to vacation. That’s because the islands of Niihau and Kahoolawe are entirely off-limits to visitors. But why?

• Niihau: This island is privately owned by the Robinson family, and access is strictly controlled. The island is considered a private preserve, and visitors can only go there with permission from the family or through special tours organized by the family. The Robinsons have kept Niihau closed to most outsiders to maintain its privacy and traditional Hawaiian culture.
• Kahoolawe: The U.S. military used this island as a bombing range from World War II until 1994, leaving it heavily contaminated. While it was returned to Hawaii in 1994, access remains restricted due to ongoing efforts to remove unexploded ordnance and rehabilitate the land. Limited visits to Kahoolawe are allowed for cultural, scientific, or educational purposes, but these visits are tightly regulated.

Both islands have strong cultural, environmental, and historical significance, and restrictions are in place to protect them.

Tips for Planning Your Hawaiian Family Trip

Planning a Hawaiian family trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many islands, activities, and experiences to choose from, these tips will help you create a stress-free itinerary and unforgettable memories for the whole family.

• Set a budget ahead of time. You don’t want to show up to your vacation without a budget; otherwise, you may be surprised by how much you (over)spent by the end of it.
• Book your flights early. This gives you more opportunities to secure flight deals. We recommend booking at least 1-3 months in advance.
• Look for family-friendly activities. Depending on your children’s ages and interests, you’ll want to make sure there are attractions and activities nearby that they will be excited to do.
• Rent a car. If your resort doesn’t include a free shuttle service, you may want to rent a car to get around whenever you’d like.
• Think about the seasons. April-June and September-November are the best overall months to visit for pleasant weather and low humidity. December-March and June-August are best for whale watching, but there are more crowds, and prices tend to be higher. November-February is the rainy season, but is great for surfers.
• Respect the culture. All guests, including children should respect Hawaiian culture. Talk to your kiddos about respecting native plants, marine life, and locals. They may think it’s fun to learn what “Aloha” and “Mahalo” mean so they can feel like a local while in Hawaii.
• Create a loose itinerary. Itineraries are great for enjoying your trip to the fullest, but as we all know, plans can change. We recommend making a loose plan and being flexible if things need to change at the last minute.

No matter which Hawaiian island you choose or how you plan your trip, the memories you create with your family will last a lifetime.

Should You Pack Baby Gear or Rent It?

Traveling with a baby or young children means deciding whether to lug all your gear or rent it at your destination. Packing essentials like a stroller, car seat, and crib can provide familiarity and save rental costs, but it also adds bulk to your luggage. Renting baby gear can be a convenient, stress-free option, especially for bulky items. With BabyQuip, parents can rent safe and sanitized gear and have it dropped off at the airport or their resort.

Here are some popular baby gear rentals:

• Wonderfold Wagon – A smooth and comfortable way to transport one or more children across different terrains. It offers ample sun protection and space for your belongings.
• SlumberPod – A portable blackout privacy tent designed to fit over a travel crib, playard, or toddler cot, featuring ventilation panels for optimal airflow.
• UPPAbaby Stroller System – A versatile stroller and car seat combo with generous storage, a sun canopy, and durable wheels for easy maneuverability on various surfaces.
• Soft Play Zone Party Rental – Celebrating in Hawaii? Rent a safe, fun play area designed for young children.
• Toys – A selection of clean, high-quality toys to keep little ones entertained.
• Full-Size Crib – Ideal for babies and toddlers who sleep best in a full-size crib—rent one for added comfort.
• Snoo – A high-tech bassinet with built-in soothing features, white noise, a secure swaddle system, and a sleep-tracking app.
• Bassinet – A lightweight, portable sleeping option that can be set up anywhere.
• Toddler Bed – A cozy inflatable bed with raised edges to keep your little one secure.
• Pack ‘n Play – A classic, portable solution for napping and playtime on the go.

Parents love the option to rent bulky gear at their vacation destinations. Maybe you forgot something at home? No big deal! Also, all items are meticulously cleaned (with non-toxic/organic cleaners) and inspected before each rental.

FAQs: Best Family Resorts in Hawaii

What are the best family resorts in Hawaii?

Some of the top picks include the Four Seasons Resort Maui, known for its luxurious amenities and stunning views, and the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki, which boasts a variety of pools and activities for all ages. The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort is also a favorite due to its expansive family pool and proximity to Maui’s best beaches. Each resort provides unique offerings to ensure that kids and adults have an unforgettable family vacation.

What amenities do family resorts in Hawaii typically offer?

Standard features include multiple pools (some with water slides), children’s clubs, and organized activities incorporating Hawaiian culture. Many luxury resorts also offer spa services, dining options that cater to children, and easy access to beach activities such as snorkeling and kayaking. Resorts like the Disney Resort in Oahu provide immersive experiences for children, making them feel part of the magic.

Which Hawaiian island is best for family vacations?

Maui is famous for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, making it an excellent choice for relaxing and indulging. In contrast, Oahu offers city life and stunning natural attractions, with Waikiki Beach being a hotspot for families. The Big Island provides unique experiences like volcano tours, while Kauai is perfect for families wanting to explore lush landscapes and hiking trails. Each island has its charm, so consider what activities your family enjoys most.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a vacation rental or opt for one of the best hotels, you’ll find that resorts for families in Hawaii cater to everyone’s needs. From the stunning island of Oahu to the captivating charm of Maui, there’s much to do. Hawaii is a popular vacation spot for a reason! Get ready for a fun family adventure that could rival a Disney vacation!