There are many islands in the Hawaii archipelago including the eight major volcanic islands, which one should you visit with family? Wildtravelblog is here to help You make that choice with THE best one island for your family.
If you love travelling with your kids, we are here to help you out with answers to questions of which island is right for your family.
Each island has its own special magic, but some are definitely better suited for families than others. Don’t worry though, I have got your back! After exploring these beautiful islands, I’m here to help you find the perfect vacation island for your crew.
Why Hawaii is Perfect for Family Vacations
Before we dive into which island deserves the top spot, let us talk about why Hawaii is an amazing choice for families. First off, you don’t need a passport if you are traveling from the United States, this means no international hassle.
The weather is great year-round, the locals are friendly, and there are a lot of adventure and relaxation that works for both kids and parents who need a break.
I will be sharing some things to do and resources your family can use for each island.
Best Hawaiian Island to Visit for Families
1. Maui
I will be starting off with Maui, the second most visited and second largest Hawaiian island. After comparing all the major Hawaiian islands, I can confidently say that Maui is the best island to visit Hawaii with family.
Think of Maui as the Goldilocks of Hawaiian islands, not too wild, not too quiet, but just right for families with children of all ages.
Why Maui Takes the Crown
Maui is perfect for kids that lover to play in the water since there are lots of resorts with some pretty epic pools. There is always something for everyone like snorkeling, exploring sea life at the beach, and even shopping.
You are sure to find plenty of family-friendly restaurants, hotels, and activities. The beaches on Maui are absolutely perfect for kids since the waves aren’t too crazy, the sand is soft, and the water is that same blue color you see in postcards.
Top Family Activities in Maui
Beach Time in Wailea and Kihei
The South Maui beaches are the top go to destinations for families. Wailea Beach is a resort area known for luxury hotels, perfect for little ones who are still learning to swim. You will also find the longest water slide in Hawaii at the Wailea Beach resort.
Kamaole Beach Parks (there are three of them!) have lifeguards, playgrounds, and gentle waves. Also perfect for kids and teens.
The Road to Hana Adventure
The Road to Hana is another Maui adventure driving through rainforests and waterfalls around every corner. Stop at the Garden of Eden, let the kids stretch their legs at the black sand beach, and grab some banana bread from a roadside stand.
Pro tip: make sure to start early and pack snacks.
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is your go to place for snorkeling with the kids. The volcanic crater is home to hundreds of colorful fish and sea turtles.
Aside from snorkeling, you can take boat tours which are designed for families. Don’t worry, there are flotation devices and patient guides who help nervous swimmers.
Haleakala National Park
How about watching the sunrise from the top of Haleakala volcano with your family? Though, you might have to get up early enough to witness the sunrise.
If your family can handle early mornings, the experience is unforgettable. The crater looks like another planet, and your kids will feel like astronauts exploring Mars.
Haleakala National Park is also home to some endangered species like the Hawaiian geese and crested honeycreeper. These animals can only be seen in some parts of Hawaii like Maui.
You can find more details about Maui’s beaches and activities on the official Hawaii tourism website
Best Places to Stay in Maui for Families
When looking for the best hotels on Maui for families, there are a lot of options. The Wailea and Kihei areas are perfect because they’re close to beaches and restaurants.
Many resorts here have kids’ clubs, multiple pools, and family suites with kitchenettes for that family bonding and home cooked delicacy.
The Napili area is another gem, with calmer beaches and a more laid-back vibe. It is perfect if you want to avoid the resort scene and feel more like a local. You also get kitchen facilities with no extra resort fees.
2. Oahu
If Maui is the relaxed older sibling, think of Oahu as the energetic younger one. This island is home to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, making it one of the best Hawaii island to visit for families who want more action and urban conveniences mixed with their beach time.
Oahu is ideal for kids who love to engage with activities and also learn about the Hawaiian culture at the museum.
What Makes Oahu Great for Families
Oahu has a lot of options and this is something that no other island can match. You have got city life, beaches, historical sites, and nature all packed onto one island.
There are a lot of learning opportunities especially at pearl harbour where kids get to learn about the world war II pilots and planes which are still on display.
Must-Do Family Activities in Oahu
Waikiki Beach
Though crowded, Waikiki Beach is one of six beaches in the district perfect for families. The beach is protected by a reef, making the waves gentle enough for kids.
You and the family can visit tons of restaurants within walking distance or rent surfboards or take family surf lessons.
Just so you know, there are lifeguards everywhere. Plus, kids love watching the street performers in the evening.
Pearl Harbor
As I have mentioned before Pearl Harbor is a family friendly activity especially for older kids who are learning about World War II in school.
At Pearl Harbour, there are many historical things to see and take part in, and the museums are great even for adults.
Just remember to make sure kids are quiet as possible and respectful here, since it is an important historical site.
Sea Life Park and Honolulu Zoo
Kids will love these attractions like seeing dolphins, sea lions, and penguins up close at Sea Life Park. Sea Life Park focuses on marine life with interactive experiences like swimming with dolphins, feeding sea lions, or snorkeling.
The Honolulu Zoo is not as big as mainland zoos, but it still houses over 900 animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, reptiles, and native Hawaiian birds.
Honolulu Zoo also has a Keiki zoo that is perfect for kids.
Hiking Diamond Head
Hiking at Diamond Head is doable for families with kids over six or seven. It takes about an hour to reach the top, and the views are worth the climb.
No strollers are not allowed up there and reservations are needed if you’re planning to go. Remember to pack water and go early before it gets too hot.
Where to Stay in Oahu with Kids
Waikiki is the obvious choice because everything is walkable, but it can be pricey and busy. Hilton Hawaiian Village is you pick, since it is located in Waikiki and has easy access to beach, food, shops.
Hilton can feel crowded at times and resort fee can add up, depending on the length of your stay.
Ko Olina, on the west side, offers a more relaxed resort experience with lagoons that are perfect for small children. Disney Aulani Resort & Spa should be your go to kid focused resort.
Disney Aulani is located in Ko Olina, and it has lots of fun activities for kids to enjoy. It is a bit further away from some of the major city attractions compared to staying in Waikiki, but your kids will definitely love it here.
The North Shore is beautiful and ideal for families who want to experience Oahu at a slower pace.
Pro tip for families: Get a rental car probably from the Honolulu Airport Rental Car Center. It is easier to explore places while keeping the family together.
3. Kauai
Kauai is the best family friendly island in Hawaii for families with older kids who want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with each other.
This island is older than the others, which means a feel of that ancient untouched landscapes and waterfalls.
Why Families Love Kauai
Kauai moves at a slower pace, which can be exactly what stressed-out families need. There are no big cities here, and some places do not even have cell phone service. So like I said before, perfect for disconnecting with technology for a while.
There are so many places to visit and things to do in Kauai.
Family Adventures in Kauai
Na Pali Coast Boat Tours
The Na Pali Coast is one of the most beautiful places on Earth. You get to see some towering green cliffs drop straight into the ocean, which gives that Jurassic Park feel.
Fun fact, bet you didn’t know parts of the movie were actually filmed here!
Family-friendly boat tours let you see this coastline while spotting dolphins, sea turtles, and even whales during whale season.
Some tours even stop for snorkeling and provide gears, but you might need to pack some towels, jackets for the cold, mineral based sunscreen, and swim suit already on.
Wailua River Kayaking
You can not miss the opportunity to paddle up the Wailua River to Secret Falls with your kids. It is not too difficult, even younger kids can handle it with some help.
You get to experience some great views of the jungle with your family.
Poipu Beach
This protected beach on the south shore is ideal for families. There’s usually a lifeguard on duty, the waves are gentle in the protected area, and you will almost certainly see Hawaiian monk seals lounging on the sand.
At the entrance, there is a map that shows different areas of the beach for snorkeling, so be sure to check it out.
Kilauea Lighthouse
Kilauea Lighthouse is a great stop where kids can burn energy running around, and the lighthouse itself is pretty cool.
The entrance fee for children under 16 is free, so that’s a good thing for parents with little kids.
4. The Big Island
Finally we have got the Big Island also called Hawaii Island. This island is bigger than all other Hawaiian islands combined.
It is best suited for families with older kids or adventurous spirits. You get to see manta rays, visit the volcano and learn about the history.
What Makes the Big Island Special
The Big Island has active volcanoes, black sand beaches, snow-capped mountains, and great climates all on one island.
Where else can you play in snow and swim in the ocean on the same day?
Family Highlights on the Big Island
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
Seeing one of the world’s most active volcano is a wonderful experience your kids will be amazed watching lava glow at night or exploring lava tubes.
You will find two active Volcanoes on the park, Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
The visitor centers are educational and the rangers are great with kids. Just remember that this involves some hiking and the volcanic fumes might bother sensitive little kids.
Check the National Park Service website for current volcanic activity and trail conditions.
Beaches
The Big Island, has some really cool and unique beaches that makes it stand out from other islands. Some have black sand, some have green sand, and some are white.
Each view feels like unlocking a secret treasure. Like the Pololu Valley Beach and Hapuna Beach.
Stargazing on Mauna Kea
The summit of Mauna Kea has some of the clearest skies on Earth. I will advise that young children should not go to the very top because of the altitude but there are opportunities to stargaze from lower elevations and still see an incredible blanket of stars.
Making Your Final Decision
So, which is truly the best island to visit Hawaii with family? Here’s my honest advice:
Choose Maui if
You want the best overall balance of beaches, activities, convenience, and beauty. It is the safest bet for first-time visitors to Hawaii and works for kids of all ages.
Choose Oahu if
Your family prefers having lots of activity options, you want easy access to restaurants and shopping, or you are interested in historical sites alongside beaches.
Choose Kauai if
Your family loves nature and adventure, you prefer a slower pace, and your kids are okay without big resort pools and constant entertainment.
Choose the Big Island if
You have older kids who would appreciate seeing volcanoes and cool landscapes, and you don’t mind driving longer distances.
Practical Tips for Your Hawaii Family Vacation
No matter which island you choose, here are some tips that will make your trip smoother:
Book Early
Hawaii is expensive, and prices only go up closer to your travel dates. Booking flights and accommodations months in advance can save you serious money.
Rent a Car
Public transportation is limited on all islands. A rental car gives you freedom to explore at your own pace and store all those beach toys and snacks.
Pack Smart
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards for sun protection, water shoes for rocky beaches, and plenty of snacks.
Hawaii is expensive, so bringing snacks from home can save money.
Time Zone Warning
Hawaii is 2-6 hours behind the mainland US, depending on where you’re coming from.
Kids might wake up super early for the first few days, use this to your advantage and hit the beach at sunrise.
Embrace Downtime
You don’t need to fill every minute with activities. Sometimes the best family moments happen when you are just relaxing on the beach together.
Conclusion
Making that choice for the best island in Hawaii for family vacation really comes down to what your family values most. Maui wins the overall title for most families because it perfectly balances adventure, relaxation, beautiful beaches, and family-friendly activities.
But honestly? You can not really go wrong with any Hawaiian island. Each one offers that special aloha spirit, natural beauty, and the chance to make unforgettable memories with your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cheapest Hawaiian island to visit with a family?
Oahu is generally the most budget-friendly option for families. Because it is the most developed island with the most tourists, there’s more competition among hotels and restaurants, which keeps prices lower.
You will also find more free or low-cost activities like public beaches, parks, and hiking trails. Grocery stores are easy to find too, so you can save money by preparing some meals yourself.
Flights to Honolulu are often cheaper than to other islands since it is the main hub.
Which Hawaiian island has the calmest beaches for young children?
Maui has some of the calmest, most family-friendly beaches in Hawaii. The south shore beaches in Wailea and Kihei are protected and have gentle waves perfect for toddlers and young swimmers.
Oahu’s Waikiki Beach is also very calm because it is protected by a reef. On Kauai, Poipu Beach has a protected area that is like a natural kiddie pool.
Always check with lifeguards about current conditions, as ocean conditions can change daily.
How many days should we spend on a Hawaiian island with kids?
I recommend at least 5-7 days on one island for families. This gives you time to adjust to the time difference, relax without rushing, and move around without exhausting everyone.
If you are traveling with young children, staying on one island is much easier than island-hopping. Older kids might enjoy visiting two islands if you have 10+ days, but remember that travel days with kids can be stressful and cut into your vacation time.
What’s the best time of year to visit Hawaii with kids?
The weather in Hawaii is beautiful year-round, but April through May and September through mid-December are ideal for families.
You will avoid peak summer and winter crowds, prices are lower, and the weather is still fantastic. If your kids are school-age and you must travel during summer or holidays, book as early as possible since these are the busiest (and most expensive) times.
Winter (December-March) brings bigger waves and whale watching, while summer (June-August) has calmer ocean conditions on south-facing beaches.
Hi, I’m Louis Ojibe, and I grew up around wildlife in Africa. I have always been fascinated by animals and nature across the world.
As a child, my parents used to take me to see wild animals like lions, elephants, gorillas, tortoises, and many others at our local zoo.
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