Things To Do in Hawaii With Kids: The Ultimate Island Adventure for Families

From lava tubes to lazy rivers, Hawaii is overflowing with family friendly activities that’ll have your crew grinning from ear to ear (and not just because of the shaved ice). Planning a trip to Hawaii with kids doesn’t have to be overwhelming—if you know which islands offer what, you’re already halfway to paradise.

Each of the Hawaiian Islands brings its own flavor of family fun, from waterfall hikes to pineapple plantations. Whether your little ones are history buffs, future marine biologists, or just really into turtles, there’s something here for every age and interest.

We’re talking manta rays, waterfalls, submarines, and storytelling luaus. And yes, there are calm beaches for sandcastle architects and scenic hikes for stroller-pushing parents. This guide is your go-to for things to do in Hawaii with kids, packed with family activities in Hawaii that go way beyond just pool time. Let’s dive in — with reef-safe sunscreen, of course.

The Big Island: Lava, Legends, and Lagoon Days

Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park

If your kids are the kind who narrate their hikes like they’re in a National Geographic special, this is their moment. Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park is a wild mashup of science class and sci-fi adventure, where you can walk through the Thurston Lava Tube (a tunnel formed by molten rock) and literally feel the heat at the steam vents.

Families with older kids ages 8+ can conquer the Kīlauea Iki Trail, a 4-mile loop into a volcanic crater with terrain that looks like the moon. At the Visitor Center, grab a Junior Ranger booklet, because nothing motivates kids like earning a badge for learning cool stuff.

Stick around after dark at the Kīlauea Overlook, where the crater glows red like the Earth’s nightlight (and yes, it’s as magical as it sounds).

Manta Ray Night Snorkel

This isn’t just a snorkel, it’s basically an underwater Cirque du Soleil starring manta rays. If your kids are strong swimmers and love marine life (age 10+ is typical), they’ll float above giant rays doing slow-motion somersaults right under their noses.

Most operators like Sea Paradise and Manta Ray Night Snorkel provide everything from wetsuits to flotation belts, so you’re not packing a mini dive shop in your suitcase. Just don’t forget to bring towels or cover-ups and light jackets for after you’re out of the water.

It’s safe, surreal, and best enjoyed by kids who won’t freak out when the ocean gets a little dark and mysterious. For land-based viewing, head to the Sheraton Kona’s viewing area—bring binoculars and a bedtime snack.

Hapuna Beach & Kikaua Point Park

Hapuna is the beach from your daydreams: wide, sandy, and with waves gentle enough for boogie boards but exciting enough to keep older kids entertained. Kikaua Point Park, just up the coast, is toddler paradise with its calm, lagoon-like cove and soft, shallow entry, like a hotel pool made of lava rock.

There are real bathrooms (not the terrifying kind), shaded picnic spots, and tidepools for hands-on exploring. Just don’t forget, reef shoes = a parent’s best friend, especially when your kid insists on jumping on everything sharp and slippery. Spencer Beach Park is another nearby gem if you want a break from the crowds and a solid lunch picnic spot.

Petroglyph Trails

The Malama Trail near Waikoloa is like an open-air museum your kids can actually run around in. The short, flat walk through lava fields leads to over 1,200 ancient petroglyphs, stick figures, turtles, and mysterious symbols that look suspiciously like early emoji.

It’s suitable for older kids (not exactly stroller-friendly due to its natural, unpaved trail) and offers a side of culture that doesn’t feel like homework. Bring water, closed-toe shoes, and some imagination, your kids will turn into mini archaeologists real fast. Early morning or late afternoon is best to avoid the full “lava field sauna” effect.

Whale Watching (Seasonal)

During whale season (December to May), your boat ride becomes a front-row seat to the greatest show in the Pacific. Humpback whales migrate to these warm waters to mate and give birth, and they love a good splashy entrance, tail slaps, breaches, the works.

One great option is the Waikoloa Whale Watching Cruise, a 90-minute adventure departing from Anaehoʻomalu Bay. Morning tours use the Holona, a speedy open powerboat (expect sea spray and close-up action), while afternoon rides aboard the Spirit of Aloha catamaran offer more shade and a smoother cruise.

The tour includes complimentary drinks (soda, juice, water) and barefoot beach loading, so wear shoes you can kick off easily. Whale sightings are highly likely during peak season, and playful dolphins often join the party too. Dress in layers—it’s breezy—and prepare for your child to ask 300 questions about whale anatomy.

Bonus: spotting dolphins on the way out feels like getting dessert before dinner.

Kauai: Nature’s Playground for the Chill Crew

Kauai Coffee Company

Turns out, the largest coffee farm in the U.S. is surprisingly kid-approved. While grown-ups caffeinate, kids can follow a self-guided path past quirky signs, massive roasters, and rows of plants they’ll swear are just regular bushes.

There are plenty of places to stretch tiny legs, and the gift shop is packed with snacks, juice, and fun souvenirs (yes, they’ll want the coffee-scented soap). It’s a great mid-morning stop between beach sessions, especially when you need to pair a little learning with your latte.

Bonus: It’s stroller-friendly and has clean restrooms—bless.

Waimea Canyon Lookouts

You don’t have to hike to feel like an explorer here—just drive and roll down the windows. Nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific, Waimea Canyon has several easy-access lookout points like Waimea Canyon Lookout, Puʻu Hinahina Lookout, and Iliau Nature Loop where even toddlers can safely take in the views.

Think vibrant red cliffs, waterfalls cascading down crevices, and occasional rainbows if you time it right (which your Instagram will thank you for). If you want a more dramatic view of the Na Pali Coast at the end of your drive, go to the Kalalau Lookout and Pu’u Kila Lookout.

Pack snacks, motion sickness bands, and a few car games for the winding drive up. Bring binoculars—it turns “I’m bored” into “I spy a helicopter!”

Na Pali Coast Boat Tours

If you’re gonna go big on Kauai, make it Na Pali Coast by boat big. The Deluxe Na Pali Coast Morning Snorkel Tour aboard the Lucky Lady is part adventure cruise, part floating buffet, and 100% memory maker.

This 5.5-hour catamaran ride serves up jaw-dropping cliffs, sea caves, and waterfalls, with a side of dolphin acrobatics and (if it’s winter) some humpback drama. Kids 3 and up can gear up with provided snorkel sets to hunt for sea turtles and neon-colored fish—if the weather plays nice, that is.

And if snorkeling’s a no-go, no stress, the captain’s got a Plan B that still slaps. Breakfast snacks start you off, and lunch? A DIY sandwich bar, pasta salad, cookies, chips, and unlimited juice or soda for the kids—plus wine, beer, and Mai Tais for the grown-ups who made it all happen. Did we mention there’s a waterslide?

Poipu Beach Park

Poipu is like nature’s answer to a resort pool—except with monk seals. There’s a baby beach area with calm water for littles, lifeguards on duty, and enough sand real estate to build a full castle empire.

Older kids can snorkel the reef and look for turtles while you plan the ultimate lunch break just a few minutes away in Koloa Town. Think: crispy Spam musubi from The Musubi Truck, next-level burgers and tots from Kickshaws, or saucy street tacos from Taco Libre—all food truck gems that are easy to grab and bring right back to your beach towel.

It’s a full-day, zero-meltdown kind of spot—just remember to give monk seals plenty of space (and their own paparazzi-free nap zone).

Wailua River Kayaking

Ready to feel like the family from a jungle adventure movie? Kayaking the Wailua River gets you off the grid (but not too far) and into some seriously lush scenery.

The Wailua River Kayak Tour & Waterfall Hike with Lunch is a full-day, guided experience that starts with a scenic two-mile paddle past sacred Hawaiian landmarks, tropical flora, and enough postcard views to max out your camera roll.

After beaching the kayaks, you’ll hike over three miles roundtrip through rainforest trails (read: expect mud, puddles, and gleeful squeals) to reach Secret Falls—a 120-foot waterfall straight out of your desktop screensaver.

There’s time to swim, picnic, and take that “we did it” group photo before paddling back. Lunch is included and kid-approved: turkey, ham, or veggie sandwiches, chips, pineapple slices, and bottled water, because no one explores well on an empty stomach. Just wear real shoes (not flip-flops), pack your bug spray, and bring your patience, it’s part splash zone, part nature doc, all worth it.

Maui: Where Resort Days Meet Volcano Sunrises

Maui Ocean Center

This isn’t your average aquarium; it’s a full-on immersive crash course in Hawaiian marine life, minus the sunburn. You’ll wander through glowing jellyfish rooms, walk under sharks in a 3D tunnel, and let your kids pet sea cucumbers in the touch pool.

It’s entirely indoors (air-conditioning, hallelujah) and stroller-friendly, making it ideal for a midweek rest day. The exhibits tie in Hawaiian myths and conservation stories, so it’s fun and educational without feeling like a school field trip. Bonus: the gift shop is sneaky good.

Ka Moana Luau

This isn’t just dinner—it’s a full-blown culture fest with a buffet and a fire show. The Ka Moana Luau at Aloha Tower in Honolulu delivers an epic evening of island vibes, featuring everything from hula and ukulele lessons to coconut-headband weaving and temporary tattoos for the kids.

The buffet lineup is no joke: kalua pork, Lomi Lomi salmon, macadamia nut mahi mahi, poi, rice, fresh-baked rolls with guava butter, basically a crash course in Hawaiian comfort food. After dinner, the award-winning production lights up the night with traditional Polynesian dances and a literal fire finale that’ll have your kids wide-eyed and fully hooked.

It’s family-style seating, photo ops galore, and an unforgettable night under the stars—just be ready to join in the hula circle if the moment strikes.

Haleakalā Crater

Yes, it requires a 3 a.m. wake-up and layering like you’re dressing for Everest, but sunrise over Haleakalā is like watching the planet wake up.

You’re 10,000 feet up, above the clouds, and kids (especially older ones) will feel like they’re on top of the world. There are short walks at the summit and a Junior Ranger program that gives the outing some purpose beyond photos. Bring snacks, a thermos of something hot, and prep for a slow drive down with epic scenery. It’s Type 2 fun—tough in the moment, legendary in the memories, perfect for your bucket list.

Road to Hana

This iconic drive has more than 600 curves and 50+ bridges. Sound intense? It is, but also totally worth it if your family loves waterfalls, beaches, and nature stops.

Pack snacks, start early, and stop often. If you’re doing the drive yourself, make sure your car rental includes roadside assistance—you’ll be deep in the jungle. Don’t try to see it all—choose 3–5 highlights like Twin Falls or Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach. Families visiting from the East Coast should plan for jet lag and give kids a buffer day before tackling this full-day adventure.

Oahu: Culture, Castles, and Coastline

Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa

This is not your average hotel—it’s Disney magic dipped in Hawaiian culture, and your kids will lose their minds. The lazy river, splash zones, and beach lagoon are perfect for littles, while the Aunty’s Beach House kids club lets parents sneak in a mai tai or nap (or both).

Expect character meet-and-greets with Moana and Stitch, and nightly storytelling under the stars. It’s a splurge, yes, but everything is designed with families in mind, from the room layouts to the poolside shave ice.

Plus: safe, shallow water makes beach days feel less like lifeguard duty.

Pearl Harbor Historic Sites

Visiting the USS Arizona Memorial and Pearl Harbor is a powerful experience, especially for older kids and teens. It’s quiet, respectful, and educational—bring tissues and prepare to answer questions. Make a reservation in advance, as spots can fill up.

It also makes a meaningful day trip when paired with a stop at the nearby Bishop Museum or Iolani Palace. The visitor center also has exhibits geared toward younger audiences. Consider breaking the visit into shorter chunks.

You’ll want to prep the kids a little beforehand; this isn’t a run-wild kind of site. Still, the impact is powerful and makes for great follow-up conversations.

Polynesian Cultural Center

Let your kids become island-hoppers for the day at the sprawling Polynesian Cultural Center on Oahu’s North Shore. With villages representing Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, and more, each spot has hands-on activities, from fire-starting demos to coconut cracking.

Plan to stay the whole day and catch the spectacular evening show, “Hā: Breath of Life,” which is basically Broadway with fire knives. The entire experience is immersive without being overwhelming, ideal for curious tweens and teens. Bonus: canoe rides through the center = instant win with younger ones.

Honolulu Zoo & Waikiki Aquarium

For a low-effort, high-reward day, pair a visit to the zoo with the nearby aquarium. The Honolulu Zoo has everything from elephants to playful primates, with shaded paths and open spaces for runaround time.

Right next door, the Waikiki Aquarium is a small-but-mighty gem where kids can get nose-to-glass with seahorses, jellyfish, and reef sharks. Both are stroller-friendly and steps from the beach, so you can wrap the day with a sunset stroll.

Both are also walkable from most Waikiki hotels like the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. Afterward, wind down with a sunset stroll along Waikiki Beach—the perfect end to a kid-friendly day. Great for the final day of your trip when energy is low.

Ala Moana Beach Park

Ala Moana is the low-drama beach day of your dreams: calm water, clean sand, and room to breathe. Its man-made lagoon is perfect for toddlers and first-time paddleboarders alike.

There are grassy areas for picnic lunches, clean restrooms (we repeat: CLEAN), and nearby food trucks for backup snacks. With lifeguards on duty and fewer crowds than Waikiki, it’s a peaceful place to decompress at the end of your trip. Bring sand toys and let the kids go wild—you’ve earned the break.

From Hula to Humpbacks: Wrap-Up With Aloha

Traveling to Hawaii with kids isn’t just doable—it’s delightful. Each island offers its own brand of magic, from the Big Island’s volcanoes to exploring Oahu with kids along its story-filled shores.

Whether you’re snorkeling calm coves, kayaking jungle rivers, or soaking in a fiery luau show, there are endless things to do in Hawaii with kids. If you’re wondering what to do in Hawaii with kids, the answer is a whole lot—from scenic hikes to informative cultural experiences. You just need the right mix of adventure, downtime, and sunscreen.

From top Hawaii kids activities to hidden gems, Tripster’s got you covered with the best family packages, attractions, deals, and hotel steals across the islands.

And if you’re visiting during the holidays, celebrating New Year’s in Hawaii with kids is a memory-maker—expect fireworks over the ocean, family-friendly luaus, and beachside countdowns.

We highly recommend balancing beach time with volcano exploration to really make the most of the island with kids. Make those memories, dodge the meltdowns, and leave with sand in your shoes and aloha in your heart.

Hawaii with Kids FAQs