What’s the Best Hawaiian Island for Kids & Families to Visit in Hawaii? (2024)

When planning your Hawaiian family vacation, the big question is: What’s The Best Hawaiian Island For Kids & Families To Visit In Hawaii? As the host of the Hawaii’s Best Podcast, I believe Oahu is the top choice.

With its perfect mix of family-friendly attractions like the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and the historical Pearl Harbor, Oahu has everything to keep both kids and adults entertained.

While the other islands, like Maui’s stunning beaches or Kauai’s lush landscapes, are fantastic in their own right, my top recommendation for families is Oahu.

But there’s more you need to know before you book your trip—don’t miss out on key tips that could make or break your vacation. Read on to discover why Oahu stands out and how the other islands stack up!

I’m the founder of Hawaii’s Best and a certified Hawaii destination expert recognized by the Hawaii Visitors Bureau. My deep understanding of local culture and sustainability influences my approach, showcased in my top-30 U.S. podcast, Hawaii’s Best Travel. In this guide, I’ll help you discover the Best Hawaiian Island For Kids and families, carefully selected based on their unique attractions, family-friendly accommodations, and overall appeal for a memorable vacation.

What’s the Best Hawaiian Island for Kids?

The best Hawaiian island for kids and families to visit is Oahu. Oahu is the best option, because it has lots of fun things to do, like the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Pearl Harbor. Oahu is also great for families on a budget with many family-friendly resorts.

If your family loves the beach, Maui has beautiful beaches and snorkeling. For adventure and nature, the Big Island offers real volcanoes and stargazing.

If your family enjoys hiking, Kauai has lush forests and amazing waterfalls. Each island is special, so pick the one that matches your family’s interests!

Oahu: Best for a Hawaii Family Vacation on a Budget

Oahu is a great place for families to have fun. Kids can see cool animals at the zoo and learn about sea life at the aquarium.

Highlights: Exploring Zoos, Aquariums, and Historical Marvels

I love showing families the fun side of Oahu. This island has so much to offer kids and adults alike. Here’s a list of my top picks for family-friendly attractions:

• Honolulu Zoo: Home to over 900 animals from tropical ecosystems. Kids can see elephants, tigers, and colorful birds up close.
• Waikiki Aquarium: Showcases Hawaii’s marine life. The touch pools let kids feel sea stars and urchins.
• Pearl Harbor National Memorial: A must-visit for history buffs. The USS Arizona Memorial is moving and educational.
• Iolani Palace: The only royal palace in the U.S. Kids can learn about Hawaiian monarchy and culture.
• Bishop Museum: Packed with Hawaiian artifacts and natural history exhibits. The planetarium is a hit with space-loving kids.
• Polynesian Cultural Center: Offers hands-on activities from six Pacific cultures. The evening luau and show are crowd-pleasers.
• Dole Plantation: Features a giant maze and train ride. Kids love the pineapple ice cream.
• Wet’n’Wild Hawaii: A water park with slides and pools for all ages. Perfect for hot days.
• Sea Life Park: Lets kids swim with dolphins and see sea lion shows. The park also helps injured sea turtles.
• Kualoa Ranch: Offers movie site tours, ATV rides, and horseback riding. It’s great for active families.

Family-friendly Accommodations: Discovering Disney Aulani Resort

I stayed at Disney’s Aulani Resort on Oahu, and it’s a dream for families. This place has it all – a huge pool area, lazy river, and water slides. Kids love the Disney characters walking around.

The rooms are comfy and have great views. There’s even a kids’ club where parents can drop off their little ones for fun activities.

The resort sits right on a beach in Ko Olina. It’s perfect for swimming and building sand castles. Nearby, you’ll find the Ko Olina Golf Club for parents who like to golf. The food options are great too, with choices for picky eaters and fancy dinners.

Aulani makes a Hawaii trip easy and fun for the whole family.

A Paradise for Families: Hilton Hawaiian Village

The Hilton Hawaiian Village in Oahu is a fantastic spot for families to enjoy a memorable vacation. Located on Waikiki Beach, this expansive resort offers everything you need for fun and relaxation, all in one place.

Highlights: A World of Activities and Relaxation

I love recommending the Hilton Hawaiian Village to families because it has something for everyone, from toddlers to teens. Here are my top picks for family-friendly experiences at the resort:

• Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon: A beautiful, safe lagoon where kids can swim, paddleboard, or simply play in the calm waters. It’s perfect for little ones who want to enjoy the beach without waves.
• Pools Galore: The resort features five swimming pools, including the Paradise Pool, which has slides and waterfalls that kids love. There’s also a separate Keiki (kids’) Pool for the younger guests.
• Waikiki Starlight Luau: Experience an authentic Hawaiian luau right at the resort, complete with traditional food, music, and hula dancing. It’s a fun and cultural experience the whole family can enjoy.
• Camp Penguin: A kids’ club where children can participate in educational and cultural activities, giving parents a chance to relax while knowing their kids are having a great time.
• Wildlife Tours: The resort offers guided tours where kids can learn about the wildlife that inhabits the village, including turtles, birds, and koi fish.
• Shopping and Dining: With over 90 shops and 20 restaurants on-site, there’s plenty to explore. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs, a quick bite, or a sit-down dinner, you’ll find it all without leaving the resort.

Places to Stay on Oahu

Maui: Ultimate Beach Destination for Families

Maui is a dream for families who love the beach. Kids can splash in calm waters and spot sea turtles while parents relax on soft sand.

Highlights: Encounter Sea Turtles and Enjoy Family Water Sports

Maui offers amazing chances to see sea turtles and try fun water sports. I’ve found some great spots for families to enjoy these activities:

1. Turtle Town: This area near Maluaka Beach is perfect for snorkeling with sea turtles. The clear waters make it easy to spot these gentle creatures.
2. Kaanapali Beach: Here, you can take surf lessons as a family. The calm waves are great for beginners of all ages.
3. Molokini Crater: This crescent-shaped island is a top spot for snorkeling and diving. You might see colorful fish and even dolphins.
4. Wailea Beach: This beach is great for paddleboarding. The calm waters make it safe for kids to try this fun sport.
5. Makena Landing: You can often see sea turtles right from the shore here. It’s a good spot for younger kids who might not want to snorkel.
6. Napili Bay: This bay has gentle waves, making it ideal for boogie boarding. It’s a fun activity for the whole family.
7. Honolua Bay: This is a top snorkeling spot. The waters are usually calm, and you might see lots of sea life.
8. Kapalua Bay: This beach is great for kayaking. You can rent kayaks right on the beach and explore the bay.
9. Maui Ocean Center: While not in the ocean, this aquarium lets you see sea turtles up close. It’s a good option for rainy days.

Family-friendly Accommodations: Experience Luxury at The Ritz-Carlton Maui

I love The Ritz-Carlton Maui for families. It’s a top spot with amazing perks. You get a $100 hotel credit to use during your stay. The kids can splash in the pools while you relax on the beach.

The rooms are comfy and spacious – perfect for the whole gang.

The resort has great food options too. From casual cafes to fancy dinners, there’s something for every taste. Don’t miss the cultural activities. They’re fun and teach about Hawaiian life.

It’s luxury with a family-friendly twist that makes for an unforgettable Maui trip.

Family Fun and Relaxation at The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas

The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas is a fantastic choice for families seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure on Maui. Located on the beautiful Ka’anapali Beach, this resort offers a wide range of activities that cater to both kids and parents.

• Spacious Villas: The resort features spacious villa-style accommodations, complete with kitchenettes or full kitchens, making it easy to prepare meals for the whole family. The villas also come with washers and dryers, which are perfect for extended stays.

• Ka’anapali Beach: Just steps from your room, the pristine Ka’anapali Beach is ideal for family fun. The calm waters are great for kids, whether they want to swim, snorkel, or build sandcastles.

• Multiple Pools: The resort has several pools, including a kids’ pool with a pirate ship water slide that little ones will love. The main pool features a waterfall and a separate area for relaxation.

• Cultural Activities: The resort offers a variety of cultural activities that the whole family can enjoy, such as lei-making, hula dancing lessons, and Hawaiian language classes.

• Kid’s Club: The Westin Family Kids Club offers daily activities, from arts and crafts to beach exploration, ensuring that kids are entertained while parents enjoy some downtime.

• On-site Dining: With several on-site dining options, including family-friendly restaurants and a convenient market, there’s something for everyone. The resort’s restaurants offer everything from casual beachside bites to fine dining, ensuring that even the pickiest eaters are satisfied.

• Water Sports and Activities: The resort provides easy access to water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, and snorkeling. You can also book excursions, such as whale watching tours, directly through the resort.

Places to Stay on Maui

Big Island of Hawaii: Adventure Playground for Young Explorers

The Big Island is a dream for kids who love nature and adventure. Here, they can see real volcanoes and stargaze at night, making it a perfect place for young explorers.

Highlights: Discover Volcanoes National Park and Stargazing Opportunities

I love sharing the wonders of the Big Island with families. Kids and adults alike can explore amazing sights and learn about nature here.

Volcanoes National Park: This park is a must-see for all ages. You can:

• Walk through Thurston Lava Tube, a cave formed by lava flows
• Watch steam rise from active volcanic vents
• Hike around Kilauea, one of the world’s most active volcanoes
• Join ranger-led talks to learn about Hawaii’s unique geology

Stargazing: The Big Island offers some of the best night skies for star viewing. You can:

• Visit Mauna Kea Visitor Center for free nightly stargazing programs
• See planets, galaxies, and star clusters through powerful telescopes
• Learn about Hawaiian celestial navigation from local experts
• Spot constellations you can’t see from the Continental US

Manta Ray Night Swim: Older kids will love this unique experience. You can:

• Float in the ocean at night with gentle manta rays
• Watch these huge creatures glide gracefully beneath you
• Learn about manta ray conservation efforts
• Create lasting family memories in a safe, guided setting

Black Sand Beach: Punalu’u Beach is perfect for a family day out. You can:

• Feel the unique texture of black sand between your toes
• Spot sea turtles basking on the shore
• Swim in calm waters (always check conditions first)
• Have a picnic surrounded by coconut palms

Waipio Valley Lookout: This scenic spot offers breathtaking views. You can:

• See the “Valley of the Kings” from a safe vantage point
• Take family photos with lush green cliffs as your backdrop
• Learn about the valley’s rich history and cultural importance
• Enjoy the cool mountain air and peaceful atmosphere

Family-friendly Accommodations: Stay at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel

I love the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel for families. It sits on a beautiful beach with calm waters, perfect for kids to splash and play. The hotel offers fun activities like lei-making and hula lessons that teach Hawaiian culture.

Rooms are spacious and comfy, giving families plenty of space to relax after a day of sun and sand.

This hotel goes above and beyond for little ones. They have a kids’ club with cool games and crafts. Parents can enjoy some quiet time while kids make new friends. The pools are great too, with shallow areas for tots and slides for bigger kids.

At night, we can all watch the manta rays swim by from the special viewing area. It’s a magical end to each day.

Places to Stay on the Big Island

Kauai: The Best Island for Kids and Families That Love the Outdoors & Hiking

Kauai is a paradise for families who love nature. Kids can explore lush forests, swim in clear waters, and see amazing waterfalls.

Highlights: Venture Through Hiking Trails and Chase Waterfalls

Kauai is a hiker’s dream come true. I love exploring its lush trails and chasing stunning waterfalls.

• Waimea Canyon State Park: This park is a must-visit. Its trails offer views that’ll take your breath away. The canyon is huge, stretching 14 miles long and over 3,000 feet deep.
• Kalalau Trail: This famous trail runs along the Napali Coast. It’s tough but worth it. The views of the coast are amazing.
• Wailua Falls: These twin falls are easy to see. You can drive right up to a lookout point. The falls drop about 80 feet into a pool below.
• Napali Coast boat rides: Not a hike, but a great way to see waterfalls. Many tours take you close to falls that drop right into the ocean.
• Hidden waterfall hikes: Kauai has many secret falls. Some are hard to find, but that’s part of the fun. Always hike safely and respect private property.
• Family-friendly trails: Kauai has hikes for all skill levels. Even kids can enjoy short walks to pretty falls.
• Guided hike options: If you’re not sure where to start, join a guided hike. Local guides know the best spots and can share cool facts about the island.

Family-friendly Accommodations: Relax at Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

I love the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa for families. This place has it all – pools, slides, and a lazy river that kids go crazy for. The beach is right there too, perfect for building sandcastles or splashing in the waves.

Best of all, they offer a $100 hotel credit. That means extra treats or fun activities for the whole family. The rooms are comfy and spacious, giving everyone room to spread out after a day of island fun.

Places to Stay on Kauai

Comparison of Islands

Each Hawaiian island offers a unique mix of fun for families. I’ll break down the key differences to help you pick the perfect spot for your crew.

Activities for Kids: Comparing Beaches, Hikes, and Cultural Sites

As a Hawaii expert, I’ve explored countless family-friendly activities across the islands. Each destination offers unique experiences for kids and adults alike. Let’s compare the beaches, hikes, and cultural sites on different Hawaiian islands.

I’ve found that Oahu’s beaches, like Waikiki, are busy but calm in summer. They’re great for kids learning to swim or surf.

Maui’s Kaanapali Beach is a favorite for families, with its golden sand and clear waters. The Big Island surprises with its variety of beaches, from white sand to unique black sand spots.

For hikes, Kauai’s lush trails are less crowded and offer amazing views. The Waimea Canyon Trail is a must-see. On the Big Island, the Kilauea Iki Trail lets kids walk through an actual volcanic crater – an unforgettable experience.

Cultural sites abound on all islands. Oahu’s Pearl Harbor teaches important history, while the Polynesian Cultural Center offers hands-on learning. On Maui, a sunrise at Haleakala National Park combines natural beauty with cultural significance.

Each island has its strengths. Your choice depends on your family’s interests and the age of your kids. No matter which you pick, you’ll find plenty to keep everyone engaged and excited.

Ease of Travel: Assessing Accessibility and Transportation Options

I’ve traveled to Hawaii countless times, and I can tell you that getting around the islands is easier than you might think. Let’s look at how accessible each island is and what transportation options you’ll find.

Oahu stands out as the easiest island to reach and explore. Its main airport in Honolulu welcomes most flights from the mainland U.S. Once there, you’ll find a range of transport choices.

The public bus system covers much of the island, making it simple to get around without a car.

Maui comes in second for ease of travel. It has direct flights from some mainland cities, though fewer than Oahu. You’ll want to rent a car here, as public transit is limited. The good news? Maui’s two main resort areas sit on the drier side of the island, so you won’t need to drive far for beach time.

The Big Island poses more of a challenge. Its size means longer drives between sights. You’ll definitely need a rental car here. But the payoff is worth it – you’ll see everything from black sand beaches to active volcanoes.

Kauai is the most remote of the four main islands. It has fewer direct flights from the mainland, so you might need to connect through Honolulu. Like Maui and the Big Island, a rental car is your best bet for getting around.

No matter which island you pick, you’ll find ways to get where you want to go. Just plan ahead, and you’ll have a great time exploring Hawaii!

Educational Things to Do for Families

The Hawaiian Islands offer diverse educational opportunities, especially for families interested in historical and cultural sites. Here’s a comparison of the major islands—Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai—highlighting their unique offerings and how they cater to different age groups.

• Oahu: Focus on historical education through Pearl Harbor and cultural immersion at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
• Maui: Marine education at the Maui Ocean Center and cultural experiences through hula performances.
• Big Island: Geological exploration at Volcanoes National Park, ideal for adventurous families.
• Kauai: A mix of cultural history at the Kaua’i Museum and outdoor learning through nature activities.

Oahu

Historical Significance: Pearl Harbor

Oahu is home to Pearl Harbor, a pivotal site in American history. The Pearl Harbor Visitor Center provides an engaging educational experience with exhibits detailing the events of December 7, 1941. Families can watch a documentary about the attack, explore museums, and visit the USS Arizona Memorial, which honors the 1,177 sailors and marines who lost their lives. This site is particularly suitable for older children and teens, as it offers profound insights into World War II and its impact on the United States.

Cultural Learning: Polynesian Cultural Center

Another notable attraction is the Polynesian Cultural Center, where families can immerse themselves in the rich cultures of Polynesia. The center features authentic villages, cultural demonstrations, and performances that cater to all ages, including interactive activities for younger children. The educational programs here are designed to foster an understanding of the diverse traditions and histories of the Pacific Islands.

Maui

Marine Education: Maui Ocean Center

Maui offers the Maui Ocean Center, an award-winning aquarium that showcases Hawaii’s marine life. The center features interactive exhibits where children can learn about coral reefs, sea turtles, and humpback whales. This venue is ideal for younger children and families, as it combines fun and education in a captivating environment. The center also offers educational programs that can engage kids of various ages.

Cultural Experiences: Keiki Hula Shows

Maui also hosts cultural performances, such as the Keiki Hula Show, where children perform traditional Hawaiian dances. This event is particularly engaging for toddlers and preschoolers, providing them with a chance to connect with Hawaiian culture through music and dance.

Big Island

Geological Exploration: Volcanoes National Park

The Big Island is renowned for Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, where families can explore active volcanoes and learn about geology firsthand. The park offers trails suitable for all ages, making it an exciting destination for children and teens interested in science and nature. Educational programs and ranger-led tours provide insights into volcanic activity and the unique ecosystems of the island, catering to a wide range of age groups.

Kauai

Cultural and Natural Education: Kaua’i Museum and Outdoor Activities

Kauai, known as the “Garden Isle,” offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural education. The Kaua’i Museum in Līhuʻe showcases native Hawaiian artifacts and historical photos, making it a great stop for families interested in local history.Additionally, outdoor activities such as hiking in Waimea Canyon and kayaking on the Wailua River provide hands-on learning experiences about Hawaii’s ecosystems. These activities can engage children of all ages, from toddlers enjoying nature to teens exploring more challenging trails.

Wildlife Encounters: Kilauea Point National Wildlife RefugeKauai also features the Kilauea Point National Wildlife Refuge, where families can observe seabirds and learn about Hawaii’s unique wildlife. This site is particularly appealing to children and teens interested in biology and conservation.

Enjoyed this Post About the Best Hawaiian Island for Kids? (Pin it to save it!)

FAQs for the Best Hawaiian Island for Your Family in Hawaii