Maui is known as the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands.
Known as a tropical paradise with some of the best beaches in the Hawaiian Isles, Maui offers diverse attractions where families can spend their vacations. Whether intending to splurge or on a tight budget, Maui features a variety of family-friendly destinations, from sports and recreation spots to exotic wildlife shows and exhibits.
Immersing Kids with Hawaiian Culture
Immersing kids with authentic Hawaiian culture is a fun and educational experience for them during their visit to Hawaii. Maui features a great selection of the traditional Hawaiian celebration called the luau where children can enjoy captivating entertainment provided by hula dancers, fire dancers and musicians. Trying out traditional luau food is also a great way for children to taste dishes like poi, haupia, chicken luau and Hawaiian sweet potatoes. Many hotels and dining establishments around Maui offer these treats and most of them are free.
Enjoying Kid-Friendly Beaches
It is easy to find safe, kid-friendly beaches around Maui. Two of the most popular ones include Baby Beach in north Lahaina and Launiupoko Beach Park situated just off Honoapiilani Highway along Mile 18, which is also near Lahaina. Baby Beach offers calmer waters primarily because of its offshore breakwater features that block big waves from reaching the shore. This allows small children to more safely play in the waters. Meanwhile, Launiupoko Beach Park offers a large, man-made and wave-protected wading pool especially made for children.
Exploring Kid-Friendly Sports, Recreation and Adventure Attractions
Families can ride bumper boats, try out miniature golf and enjoy the trampoline at the Maui Golf and Sports Park, which is conveniently located at the island's central valley. Children old enough to go snorkeling can also explore many sites around Maui beaches, as long as there is adult supervision. They can also do whale watching at the Scenic Lookout along Honoapilani Highway and the Honolua Bay cliffs.
Visiting Museums, Exhibits and Nature Centers
Maui has countless options of museums, exhibits and nature centers for children. The Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea, the south end of Maui's central valley, features a large aquarium that takes about two hours to tour. The Whaling Center of the Pacific showcases the state's largest collection of whaling artifacts. The Hawaii Nature Center features a modern interactive science museum filled with Hawaiian flora and fauna. Other popular indoor and outdoor attractions in Maui include Shapers Surf Museum, Haleakala National Park, the Hana Cultural Center, the Bailey House Museum, the Alexander and Baldwin Sugar Museum, Maui Raceway Park and the Keiki Zoo.
Tags: around Maui, Baby Beach, Beach Park, central valley, Launiupoko Beach