Maui, with its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and diverse attractions, offers a plethora of exciting activities for families with kids. From beach adventures and wildlife encounters to cultural experiences and thrilling outdoor pursuits, Maui presents an array of options to keep kids entertained and create unforgettable family memories. Here are some of the best Maui activities to do with kids:
1. Snorkeling Adventure:
Calypso Molokini snorkeling tours are an excellent choice for kids looking to explore Maui’s underwater wonders in a safe and exciting environment. With its spacious catamaran and experienced crew, Calypso offers a comfortable and family-friendly snorkeling experience. The tour to Molokini Crater, a renowned marine sanctuary, provides kids with the opportunity to snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with colorful fish, coral reefs, and marine life. The calm and protected conditions at Molokini make it ideal for young snorkelers, allowing them to marvel at the underwater beauty and encounter fascinating sea creatures. Calypso’s knowledgeable guides prioritize the safety and enjoyment of children throughout the tour. The Calypso boat is large and stable, mitigating sea sickness tendencies. It also has multiple staircases across the back of the boat for super easy water entry and exit. Plus, kids love the glass bottom and 2 slides!
2. Maui Ocean Center:
Dive into the fascinating world of marine life at the Maui Ocean Center, Hawaii’s premier aquarium. Kids can marvel at sharks, stingrays, tropical fish, and interactive exhibits showcasing Maui’s diverse marine ecosystems. The aquarium’s educational programs and hands-on experiences, such as touching tide pools and watching daily feedings, offer a captivating and educational experience for young explorers.
3. Ziplining Tours:
For families seeking adventure, Maui offers ziplining tours and adventure parks that provide thrilling experiences for kids and adults alike. These zip line courses are designed with safety in mind, featuring trained guides, secure harnesses, and rigorous safety protocols to ensure a fun yet secure experience for young adventurers. Adventurous kids will love the chance to fly through lush forests with Jungle Zipline. This is the best value for those with kids, as every kid zipping with a paying adult gets a half price ticket! If you aren’t sure that your keiki will love ziplining, North Shore Zipline has the perfect offering. Their “scaredy cat clause” allows anyone who decides they want to back out after the 1st or 2nd line to get a full refund.
4. Luau Cultural Experience:
Immerse your family in Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau experience. Luaus feature authentic Hawaiian cuisine, live music, hula dancing, and cultural performances that showcase Polynesian traditions and storytelling. Kid-friendly luaus like, Marriott Wailea’s Te Au Moana, often include activities like lei-making, hula lessons, crafts, and fire dancing demonstrations.
5. Surf Lessons:
Give your kids the gift of surf stoke by taking them out for surf lessons! Professional instructors provide guidance and safety tips, allowing kids to learn surfing fundamentals or enjoy paddling in calm waters. Maui’s beginner-friendly surf spots like Kihei Cove and Launiupoko Beach Park are ideal for family surfing adventures. Call or text us to book the best Maui surf lessons for your frothing groms.
Tips for Enjoying Maui Activities with Kids:
Plan Ahead: Research activities and attractions suitable for kids’ ages and interests, and make reservations or bookings in advance, especially for popular tours and experiences.
Stay Safe: Practice water safety at beaches and during water activities, use sunscreen and protective gear, and follow guidelines for hiking and outdoor adventures.
Stay Hydrated and Snack Smart: Keep kids hydrated, pack snacks, and plan breaks during activities to ensure everyone stays energized and comfortable.
Educational Opportunities: Take advantage of educational opportunities at attractions like aquariums, botanical gardens, and cultural centers to engage kids and enhance their learning experiences.
Have Fun and Make Memories: Encourage kids to embrace new experiences, participate in activities, and create lasting memories of their Maui adventures with the family.
In conclusion, Maui offers an abundance of engaging and enriching activities for kids. This makes it an ideal destination for family vacations. Kids can choose from exploring pristine beaches and snorkeling in clear waters to discovering marine life at the Maui Ocean Center and experiencing Hawaiian culture through luaus and cultural attractions. The island’s natural beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural heritage provide endless opportunities for kids to learn, explore, and create unforgettable memories with their families. Whether embarking on outdoor adventures, delving into marine ecosystems, or immersing in Hawaiian traditions, Maui’s kid-friendly activities ensure a rewarding and memorable vacation experience for families seeking fun, education, and bonding moments in paradise.
About
Auntie Snorkel
Auntie Snorkel shop has been serving Maui’s fun seekers since 1985. We're the original South Maui Snorkel Shop. When I bought the shop 10 years ago from Auntie, we decided to keep the name. The name "Auntie" is a term of respect here in Hawaii. I'm living my dream. I get to meet awesome people from all over the world and share with them my love and knowledge of this magical island that I get to call home. We know all the spots. I have lived here since 2001. We're the true definition of a family owned and operated shop. I answer the phones and work the shop along with my family. When you shop with us you're supporting my ohana and for that I thank you!! Why go anywhere else? We're the friendliest, fastest, cheapest and our location is the most epic! Mahalo and Aloha”. ~Mark Noble (Owner & Maui Fun Expert)
Spent a week on Maui using the snorkel gear that Kyle helped us pick out. It was quality gear. Kyle also gave great recommendations for snorkeling beaches around the island, which were all amazing. We would definitely use Auntie’s Snorkel again!
Samuel G.
The guys at both locations worked great for our family [mark and burton] they allowed us to get a rain check on our surfboards and boogie boards for later in the week. They even seamlessly allowed us to switch store locations since the store in Lahaina was much closer. I highly recommend this company. The first employee I think his name was mark even loaded our surfboards and strapped them to two of our cars! May you remember that Jesus alone saves.
M F.
Very easy process. Staff was super knowledgeable and easy to work with. Burton was great upon returning gear.
Kevin Johnson D.
Dave was awesome! Thank yall for making a great time even greater.
Lisa P.
Cali was awesome helping us get the gear we needed- we will be back again next time! Mahalo!