Colorful surfboards lined up against a wooden shed with a blue sky and tropical trees in the background.

17 Things to Do in Maui with Kids

Looking for the best things to do in Maui with kids? We’ve rounded up 23 parent-recommended Maui activities that showcase the island’s stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and laid-back aloha spirit. From outdoor adventures to relaxed family fun in the sun, there’s something for everyone.

Review and rate your favorites, and add your own must-do Maui activities to help other families plan their trip.


 
    Photo by: Kristy Pepping

    Twin Falls Waterfall at Wailele Farm

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    Twin Falls Waterfall at Wailele Farm is dedicated to providing well managed access to the Twin Falls area, part of Ho’olawa Valley, for the use and enjoyment of residents and visitors alike.


    Kristy Pepping said:  Another "must do" on Maui is seeing a luscious waterfall! There are several waterfalls on the road to Hana some hidden and some right off the road. If you have little kids or family who gets car sick, you may not want to go too far to Hana. So one of the first waterfalls that is easily accessible by the highway is Twin Falls. There is a fairly large parking lot and large walkways down to the falls. Plus at the front of the property is a large farm stand (Wailele Farm) with some tasty treats! And for an added bonus, go swimming in the falls! It is very cold, but also shallow enough to just dip your toes in if you want.

    Haiku, HI
    leilanifarmsanctuary.org

    Leilani Farm Sanctuary

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    Explore an island paradise where cats and rescued farm animals live in sheltered harmony. Take a personal guided tour and hear their stories. Cuddle a chicken, feed guinea pigs and frolic with goats. A visit to Leilani Farm Sanctuary changes lives and hearts—yours and theirs.

    Haiku, HI
    nps.gov

    Haleakalā National Park

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    This special place vibrates with stories of ancient and modern Hawaiian culture and protects the bond between the land and its people. The park also cares for endangered species, some of which exist nowhere else. Come visit this special place - renew your spirit amid stark volcanic landscapes and sub-tropical rain forest with an unforgettable hike through the backcountry.

    Kristy Pepping said:  A trip to Maui would not be complete without a visit to Haleakala National Park. Here you will see a large crater left over from a former volcano, now dormant. There are also many animal species and plant varieties that are only found here; nowhere else in the world. There are several hiking and driving opportunities, including a spectacular sunrise or sunset view. Afterall, Haleakala means House of the Sun!

    Kula, HI
    Photo by: Kristy Pepping

    Maui Pineapple Tours

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    Experience the best of Maui’s upcountry with a guided tour of this working pineapple farm. Learn about the growing cycle and cultivation techniques of Maui Gold Pineapple. Best of all, you get a FREE PINEAPPLE with every tour!

    Kristy Pepping said:  Maui is a great place for some fresh pineapple and enjoying this tour is one of the best things to do in Maui with kids! It is our goal when we go on vacation to explore what each destination we visit is known for. So I highly recommend Maui Pineapple Tours at the Maui Gold Pineapple Fields when you are on the island. You will get to see how pineapples are grown in the fields, processed in the factory and of course sample this flavorful fruit! The tours last around 90 minutes and you get a free pineapple as a souvenir. Add on a special lunch or distillery tour, too.

    Makawao, HI
    surfinggoatdairy.com

    Surfing Goat Dairy

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    Surfing Goat Dairy is nestled on the slopes of Haleakala in Maui’s Upcountry. Maui’s largest commercial dairy is evolving into a culinary and ag-tourism haven where visitors can experience the magic of cheese-making from interactive goat experiences to working in the dairy, or alongside their chocolatier creating amazing chocolate truffles from their goat milk.

    Kula, HI
    hawaiimermaidadventures.com

    Hawaii Mermaid Adventures

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    Hawaii Mermaid Adventures offers unique, eco-friendly experiences where guests can learn to swim like a mermaid in the beautiful waters of Maui. The tours combine ocean safety, marine education, and fun storytelling, making them perfect for families and ocean lovers. With professional instructors and vibrant mermaid tails, participants explore Hawaii's marine life while creating unforgettable memories.

    Kristy Pepping said:  I wish I had known about this place when we were visiting Maui with kids! If we go again, this will be on our agenda for sure because my three girls love mermaids! When you are on Maui, check out Hawaii Mermaid Adventures. Your child can choose a mermaid tale and learn to swim like a mermaid in their pool or in the ocean. Plus, they get a photo shoot to commemorate the moment! There is also an option for non-swimmers to sit on the sand and meet a mermaid, too.

    Kihei, HI
    grandwailea.com

    Grand Wailea

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    The Grand Wailea Maui is a luxury resort located on the scenic Wailea Beach in South Maui, known for its lush tropical grounds and stunning ocean views. It features world-class amenities, including a massive pool complex, a top-rated spa, and fine dining restaurants. Popular with both families and honeymooners, the resort offers easy access to nearby golf courses, snorkeling spots, and upscale shopping.

    Kelly R said:  This Waldorf Astoria property is more than just a place to lay your head while you explore Maui...the beautiful beach, on-site luau and epic resort water park make it a total family destination! A six-level aquatic activity area has nine river-connected pools, a Tarzan rope swing, a water elevator, and multiple slides. Thrill-seekers love the lava tube slide with a 3-story drop.

    Kihei, HI
    mauioceancenter.com

    Maui Ocean Center

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    Maui Ocean Center is a premier aquarium located in Wailuku, Hawaii, showcasing the diverse marine life of the Hawaiian Islands. It features exhibits like the Open Ocean tunnel, living coral reefs, and interactive displays about Hawaiian culture and ocean conservation. The center emphasizes education and sustainability, offering a unique glimpse into the underwater world of the Pacific.

    Kristy Pepping said:  When we arrived in Maui, it was raining. We asked the activity desk what there was to do on Maui when it rained and the answer was the Maui Ocean Center! This place is Maui's indoor aquarium and it is a great place to visit with kids. You will find a large collection of living coral, Pacific Ocean marine life within some amazing exhibits. And if you have a scuba certified 12-year-old or older child, they can even dive in the shark tank with the instructors!

    Wailuku, HI
    Photo by: Kristy Pepping

    PacWhale Eco-Adventures - Whale Watching

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    PacWhale Eco-Adventures offers a highly rated whale watch experience on Maui, led by Certified Marine Naturalists. Supported by nearly 45 years of whale research and ocean conservation, the tours are designed to be both educational and engaging. The company provides the most daily whale watch departures on the island.

    Kristy Pepping said:  Whale Watching is a must if you are coming during the whale migration season. After doing some research online, we chose this company. Although they cannot guarantee you see whales, we saw a ton and the kids loved it! The boat was a large catamaran with bathrooms. They served buffet lunch with plenty of drinks for kids and adults. Before we boarded, they loaned out binoculars for a small fee. We opted out of these, but still saw plenty of whales up close!

    Wailuku, HI

    Slappy Cakes

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    Slappy Cakes is a local Maui breakfast spot where families can make their own pancakes right at the table.

    Lahaina, HI
    mauichocolatetour.com

    Maui Chocolate Tour

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    Come explore the largest chocolate factory in the state of Hawaii and learn how they produce their award-winning chocolate! From farm to bar, they’ll guide you through the chocolate process, complete with a Maui chocolate tasting in their custom hale.

    Lahaina, HI

    Maui Surf Clinics

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    Maui Surf Clinics specializes in providing high-quality surf lessons tailored for individuals of all ages and skill levels. Their expert instructors, with over 30 years of experience, are committed to enhancing your surfing skills while you enjoy the stunning beaches of Lahaina.

    Lahaina, HI
    atlantisadventures.com/maui

    Atlantis Submarines Maui

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    Climb aboard Maui’s hi-tech battery powered 48-passenger submarine. Marvel at Maui’s unique underwater paradise while descending over 100 feet below the surface to see coral reefs, vibrant fish, and other fascinating marine wonders. A highlight of this submarine adventure is the opportunity to see a sunken ship known as The Carthaginian, which is a replica of a 19th-century supply vessel that now serves as a self-sustaining marine life habitat. The Carthaginian has now evolved into a world-famous scuba diving site.

    Lahaina, HI
    Photo by: Kristy Pepping

    Whalers Village

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    Whalers Village is a popular oceanfront shopping and dining complex located in Kāʻanapali, Maui, Hawaii. It features a variety of boutiques, restaurants, and cultural attractions, including a whaling museum that highlights the region's maritime history. With its beachfront setting and lively atmosphere, it's a favorite spot for both tourists and locals to relax and explore.

    Kristy Pepping said:  Whalers Village is an outdoor shopping center that includes several quick-service and sit-down restaurants, and shopping. We came to this mall because it was raining one day and even though it is outdoors, there are plenty of nice shops and a fun climbing structure for kids, and special events.

    Lahaina, HI
    Photo by: Kristy Pepping

    Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa

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    Discover a 40-oceanfront-acre escape at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, nestled on the peaceful, serene end of Kāʻanapali Beach. Experience award-winning beachfront accommodations and endless Maui activities. Splash into a lagoon pool with a 150-foot waterslide and interactive children’s splashpad, enjoy African penguin presentations, Hawaiian cultural activities such as lei making and Maui’s most exciting lu‘au. 

    Kristy Pepping said:  We went to Maui for spring break, so we knew we needed a hotel that was kid-friendly. This Hyatt fit that perfectly! There are a couple of pools and one is zero-depth for non-swimmers. They also have a fun waterslide for older kids. It is right on the beach, has stargazing on the roof, a nightly luau on the grounds, shaved ice stand and my daughter's favorite...penguins in the lobby! Oh and the hotel offers free sitting fees for family photos on the grounds. There are also several family-friendly restaurants onsite that are great for both adults and kids.

    Lahaina, HI

Primary photo:   Abigail Lynn on Unsplash

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