Top Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids: Fun and Family-Friendly Activities

Hawaii is not just a paradise for beach lovers; it’s an adventure-filled playground for families! If you want to create unforgettable memories with your kids, the Aloha State offers a treasure trove of fun and family-friendly things that excite and engage every crew member. Get ready to plan your family vacation!

Family Activities in Maui

Maui is a fantastic destination for families, with kid-friendly attractions like exploring vibrant marine life at the Maui Ocean Center and enjoying a scenic ride on the nostalgic Sugar Cane Train.

Maui Ocean Center

Photo: shakaguide.com

The Maui Ocean Center is a fun place for kids to experience Hawaii’s amazing marine life up close. They’ll love checking out the colorful coral reefs and incredible sea creatures, touching sea stars in the interactive exhibits, and learning why protecting our oceans is important. The shark tunnel is always a hit, allowing kids to see sharks swimming above them. Plus, it’s open 365 days of the year!

Molokini Crater Snorkeling

Photo: paradise-found-in-maui.com

Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic caldera, a marine sanctuary teeming with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish. The calm, clear waters make it an ideal spot for beginners, including young snorkelers. Many tour operators offer family-friendly trips with equipment and guidance, ensuring a safe and enjoyable adventure.

Family Fun Things in Oahu with Kids

The island of Oahu is a paradise for families, offering kid-friendly attractions like discovering marine life at the Waikiki Aquarium and meeting exotic animals at the Honolulu Zoo.

Waikiki Aquarium

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The Waikiki Aquarium is just steps from beautiful Waikiki Beach and is a terrific spot for kids to check out the fantastic marine life. They’ll love seeing colorful coral reefs, cute sea otters, and the impressive Hawaiian monk seals. With hands-on activities where they can touch and learn about sea creatures, it’s the perfect mix of fun and learning!

Honolulu Zoo

Photo: honoluluzoo.org

The Honolulu Zoo has amazing animals, such as colorful birds, playful monkeys, and majestic elephants. Kids will love wandering through the exhibits and looking at their favorite creatures. Fun experiences like feeding sessions and educational talks make it a great spot for a day of adventure and learning!

Popular Things to Do in Kauai That the Family Will Enjoy

Kauai offers endless family-friendly adventures, from enjoying cultural entertainment at the Smith Family Garden Luau to exploring the lush landscapes and playful sculptures at Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park

Photo: naainakai.org

The Na ‘Aina Kai Botanical Gardens & Sculpture Park is an excellent place for kids and adults to explore and enjoy nature. With its sculptures and colorful plants, it’s full of surprises at every turn. Kids can wander through the themed gardens, learn about different ecosystems, and enjoy the interactive children’s garden.

Smith Family Garden Luau

Photo: hawaiitours.com

One of the best family experiences in Kauai is held at the Smith Family Garden Luau. Kids can dive into activities like face painting, hula dancing, and fun games that let them get creative. The lively atmosphere is filled with the delicious smells of Hawaiian food, perfect for everyone to dig into and enjoy. As the day winds down, the fire dance performances light up the evening, keeping kids amazed and excited!

Activities for Kids on the Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island is packed with family-friendly adventures, from exploring lava tubes and volcanic craters at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park to discovering exotic animals at the unique Panaewa Rainforest Zoo and Gardens.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

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Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park is an incredible place for kids to explore amazing landscapes shaped by volcanoes. They can learn about geology and nature at the Kīlauea Visitor Center, with cool exhibits showing off the park’s unique ecosystems. Families can also hit the trails, like the Devastation Trail, to see how past eruptions shaped the land up close. It’s an unforgettable adventure full of discovery!

Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens

Photo: parks.hawaiicounty.gov

The Panaewa Rainforest Zoo & Gardens is a fun mix of adventure and learning. Set in the heart of a Hawaiian rainforest, this zoo lets kids see animals like the rare Hawaiian Nene goose and colorful tropical birds. With interactive exhibits and hands-on displays, it’s more than just a zoo visit—it’s a fun, educational experience for everyone!

Best Kid-Friendly Things to Do in Molokai

Molokai allows families to connect with nature and history, offering kid-friendly experiences like taking in the breathtaking views at Kalaupapa National Historical Park and exploring the lush landscapes and waterfalls of Halawa Valley.

Kalaupapa National Historical Park

Photo: nps.gov

Kalaupapa National Historical Park is a hidden gem where kids can learn about the history of the former leprosy settlement and its people’s incredible resilience. The park’s stunning cliffs and ocean views offer a breathtaking setting for exploration. Its natural beauty makes it the perfect spot for families to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and wildlife watching, making it a memorable place to visit.

Halawa Valley

Photo: tripadvisor.com

Halawa Valley is a fantastic spot for a family adventure. Kids will love the vibrant greenery and beautiful waterfalls scattered throughout the valley. As you explore, you can share the rich Hawaiian culture with them and teach them the importance of protecting nature. Be sure to dip in the natural pools for fun swimming—it’s the perfect place to enjoy laughter and splashes together!

Unique Experiences for Kids in Lanai

Lanai offers families a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty. Kid-friendly attractions include exploring the fascinating wreckage at Shipwreck Beach and marveling at the otherworldly rock formations of the Garden of the Gods.

Shipwreck Beach

Photo: discovermagazine.com

Shipwreck Beach is a thrilling spot for families, with its stunning turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs. The beach is famous for its iconic shipwreck, one of the most fun attractions. Kids can explore the sandy shore, climb on the wreck, and splash in the waves!

Garden of the Gods (Keahiakawelo)

Photo: hawaiianislands.com

Garden of the Gods, or Keahiakawelo, is known for its unusual rock formations and vibrant colors. This makes the area feel like another world, sparking curiosity and imagination. As you explore, kids can join in on scavenger hunts, looking for rocks of all shapes and sizes while learning about geology. This is one of the best free things to check out that’s suitable for kids.

FAQs: Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids

What are the best things to do in Hawaii with kids?

When visiting Hawaii with kids, there are numerous family-friendly activities. Some of the best places to visit are the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu, where kids can learn about Hawaiian culture through interactive activities. Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is another popular choice, as families can explore vibrant sea life and even spot sea turtles.

Are there any kid-friendly resorts in Hawaii?

Absolutely! Many resorts in Hawaii cater to families. For instance, the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Honolulu offers a variety of kid-friendly amenities, including pools and kids’ clubs. The Grand Wailea on Maui is known for its amazing pools and water slides, making it a family favorite.

Conclusion

From exploring lush jungles and cascading waterfalls to snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, Hawaii is a fantastic destination for adventuring and learning. Whether your little ones are thrill-seekers or nature enthusiasts, there’s plenty to do in Hawaii with kids. Now, it’s time to book your Hawaiian resort!