Things to Do in Maui with Kids - Family Adventures | Outrigger

Maui keeps most family attractions within 30-45 minutes of the main resort areas, a crucial detail for parents planning vacations with kids. From the calm, protected waters of Kapalua Bay (perfect for ages 4-8) to the cultural experiences at the Maui Ocean Center, the Valley Isle offers diverse adventures that work for every age and energy level.

Understanding what's actually worth your time helps create a vacation everyone will enjoy. Maui offers many unique attractions, including snorkeling trips for adventurous teens, gentle beach experiences for toddlers and cultural programs that educate while entertaining. We've compiled recommendations for activities with kids of all ages, noting specific details like parking challenges, age restrictions and optimal visiting times.

Best beaches for families with kids

Kaanapali Beach stands out as Maui's most family-friendly world-famous shoreline, offering something for every age group. Stretching nearly 3 miles along West Maui, this golden-sand beach provides calm waters, gentle slopes and multiple access points near OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort. Kids can safely wade in the first 50 feet of water, which rarely exceeds 3-4 feet deep during calm seasons, perfect for children learning to swim or play.

While Kaanapali offers incredible accessibility, it is best to arrive early. Parking usually fills by 9:30am, especially during summer and holiday periods. The beach features lifeguards at designated stations, restroom facilities and multiple beach equipment rental shops within walking distance. Families with children ages 5-12 will appreciate the gradual sandy bottom and minimal rocky areas, making it safer than many of Maui's more rugged beaches. Pro tip: The area near Black Rock offers excellent snorkeling for kids 8+ who are confident swimmers, with guided tours available that provide kid-sized equipment.

For families staying at OUTRIGGER properties, Kaanapali Beach provides an ideal home base. Most OUTRIGGER resorts are within a 5-10 minute walk from prime beach access points, allowing easy back-and-forth for snacks, sunscreen or mid-day rest. Water temperatures hover around 75-80 degrees year-round, meaning comfortable swimming conditions for most children. Budget approximately $15-25 for daily beach equipment rentals like chairs, umbrellas and snorkel sets, which is a worthwhile investment for a stress-free family beach day.

Ocean activities for different age groups

Snorkeling remains Maui's most popular ocean activity, but age and swimming ability determine which spots work best. Kapalua Bay suits beginners with its sandy entry, clear visibility and depths of 10-20 feet. Kids as young as 5-6 can try snorkeling here with kid-sized gear available at nearby Snorkel Bob's ($15/week for children's sets).

For stronger swimmers ages 8+, Molokini Crater snorkel tours offer an unforgettable experience. The 45-minute boat ride can trigger seasickness, so morning departures (7am) with calmer seas may be best for those susceptible. Trilogy and Pacific Whale Foundation run family-friendly tours ($125 adults, $85 kids) with flotation devices and crew assistance. Most operators require children to demonstrate swimming ability.

Outrigger canoe paddling introduces families to Hawaiian ocean culture without requiring strong swimming skills. Several West Maui beaches offer family canoe experiences where everyone paddles together in traditional six-person canoes. Sessions run 45-60 minutes and typically cost $65 per person, with kids 5+ welcome. The crew provides life jackets and handles steering, you just paddle and enjoy.

Stand-up paddleboarding works best for kids 10+ with decent balance. The calmest conditions occur before 10am at Kalama Park in Kihei or Launiupoko Beach Park near Lahaina. Rental shops offer kids' boards (shorter and more stable) for $40-50 for 2 hours. Many include a brief shore lesson.

Cultural experiences that engage kids

Hawaiian cultural activities offer educational value disguised as fun. Many Maui resorts and cultural centers run daily programs specifically designed to engage young visitors while teaching authentic Hawaiian traditions.

Lei making classes work for all ages, with instructors adapting complexity to match abilities. Kids 4+ can handle simple ti leaf leis, while older children may create intricate flower patterns. Classes typically run 30-45 minutes and cost $15-25 per person. The Maui Arts & Cultural Center offers free lei making on Tuesdays at 10am.

Hula lessons get kids moving while learning basic Hawaiian words and stories. Many hotels offer complimentary lessons 2-3 times weekly. For a more immersive experience, the Hula O Na Keiki (Children's Hula) program combines dance instruction with Hawaiian language basics and cultural storytelling. Sessions accommodate ages 5-12 and include making simple instruments.

Traditional navigation lessons fascinate older kids interested in science and adventure. The Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Association offers 90-minute wayfinding workshops where kids learn how ancient Polynesians crossed thousands of miles of open ocean using only stars, currents and bird flight patterns. Hands-on activities include knot tying and reading wave patterns. Best for ages 10+.

Where to eat with kids in Maui

When dining out with kids in Maui, families discover a delightful range of restaurants that balance delicious cuisine with kid-friendly experiences. At OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort, Maui Brewing Co. offers a spacious, casual environment perfect for families. Their outdoor seating allows kids to move around, while the menu features kid-approved options like fish and chips or smaller portion plates. Parents can enjoy craft beers while children explore the relaxed atmosphere, making it a win for everyone.

Duke's Beach House, located within the OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa, remains a legendary family dining destination. The famous hula pie is a must-try dessert that delights kids of all ages, featuring a chocolate cookie crust, macadamia nut ice cream and rich chocolate fudge topping. Kids' menu options range $8-12, with child-sized portions of Hawaiian favorites. The beachfront location means children can explore the adjacent shoreline between courses, transforming mealtime into a mini-adventure. Pro tip: arrive before 6pm to secure the best family tables and catch the golden sunset lighting.

For families seeking variety, Coconut's Fish Cafe provides a casual dining experience where sandy feet are welcome. Their open counter allows kids to watch chefs assemble fish tacos, turning meal preparation into entertainment. Most children's meals hover around $10-14, with generous portions that satisfy hungry young travelers. The relaxed environment means parents can enjoy fresh, locally sourced seafood while kids remain engaged by the vibrant, interactive setting.

Parents looking for a more refined dining experience should consider Mama's Fish House, which genuinely welcomes children despite its upscale reputation. Request a lawn table where kids can explore between courses, and enjoy their keiki menu featuring smaller portions of adult favorites. Prices range $15-18 for children's meals, with early dinner reservations around 5:30pm working best for families with younger children. Each of these Maui restaurants offers something unique, ensuring delicious meals that satisfy both parents and kids while capturing the island's welcoming spirit.

Pool days and water features

Sometimes the best beach alternative is a great pool, especially for families with young children who need breaks from sand and salt water. Maui's resort pools range from simple rectangles to more elaborate options, like OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa's 3 acres of aquatic playground.

Public pools offer budget-friendly alternatives. Kihei Aquatic Center features an Olympic-sized pool, children's pool and two water slides. Entry costs just $5 for adults and $2 for kids. The facility includes shaded areas and a snack bar. Swim lessons for ages 6 months and up run throughout the week.

Hotel pools typically restrict access to guests, but some properties offer day passes. The Grand Wailea sells limited pool passes ($150 per person) granting access to their water elevator, rapids, slides and rope swing. While pricey, it provides a full day's entertainment for water-loving kids.

Rainy day activities and indoor options

Maui's weather occasionally delivers rain, particularly on the windward sides. Having backup plans prevents vacation stalls when beach days get cancelled. The Maui Ocean Center Aquarium tops the list for rainy day activities, with most exhibits indoors or covered. The 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit alone can mesmerize kids for a substantial amount of time.

Bounce houses and trampolines burn energy when outdoor play isn't possible. Ultimate Air Trampoline Park in Lahaina offers toddler time (ages 6 and under) weekday mornings from 10am-noon for $10. Older kids can flip and jump during open sessions ($20/hour). Socks are required and sold on-site.

The Maui Tropical Plantation runs covered tram tours through their grounds even in light rain. The 40-minute narrated tour teaches kids about coffee, pineapple and sugarcane cultivation. The gift shop and restaurant provide additional indoor time. Tram tours cost $25 for adults and $15 for kids.