Things to Do in Maui with Kids

The second largest island in the Hawaiian Island chain, Maui provides the ideal setting for families who love to explore the great outdoors. With 120 miles of coastline, the Valley Isle presents some of the most appealing beaches in the entire state, because of their sand bottoms, protected bays and easy parking and access. With its abundant sunshine, jewel-tone waters and fascinating geographical diversity, Maui offers the entire family a cherished destination in paradise not soon forgotten.

Go to the Beach

With more than 81 easily accessible beaches island-wide, Maui offers every type of water attraction imaginable, from surfing and windsurfing to snorkeling, parasailing, kayaking and swimming. Many of Maui's beautiful sand beaches are perfect for children and toddlers, among them are Kaanapali Beach to the west and Makena Bay on the island's south side. Public facilities are located at nearly half of Maui's beaches, so check with your hotel concierge before hitting the road with the kids in tow.

Ride a Submarine

Atlantis Submarines Maui takes passengers far below the water's surface, unveiling an underwater paradise of colorful tropical fish, turtles, manta rays and if you are lucky, spinner dolphins that frolic in and frequent Hawaiian waters. Kids enjoy peering out the portholes or exploring the interior of the submarine. Voyages depart daily from Lahaina.

658 Front St # 175
Lahaina, Hawaii 96761-1269
(808) 667-2224
atlantisadventures.com

Ride a Train

Take your child on a journey through Maui's old sugar cane country on board the Sugar Cane Train. The tour encompasses a 6-mile journey that traverses a 325-foot wooden trestle featuring panoramic mountain views in West Maui.

975 Limahana Place
Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
(808) 667-6851
sugarcanetrain.com

Go Tidepooling

Full-moon tide pool explorations are hosted by Pacific Whale Foundation during the summer months at a premier tide pool located in South Maui. Children will marvel at the plethora of marine life, including brittle stars, urchins, sea cucumbers and octopuses. Make sure your child is wearing reef walkers, as rocks can be slippery.

Pacific Whale Foundation
300 Maalaea Road, Suite 211
Wailuku , Hawaii 96793
(808) 249-8811
pacificwhale.org

Snorkel Molokini

The crescent-shaped islet of Molokini offers the ideal snorkeling destination for families. Located 2 1/2 miles off Maui's coast and rising 156 feet above sea level, this protected Marine Conservation District provides a safe sanctuary from waves and currents. Along with abundant sea life, the islet itself is also a bird sanctuary.

Article Written By Karen Sprinkles

Karen Sprinkles has been a freelance writer since 1988. She's currently the managing editor of a luxury home magazine and has written for regional newspapers and magazines. Sprinkles received the Award of Excellence from the Hawaii Book Publishers Association for "The Hawaii Home Book," which reached No. 1 on the Hawaii bestsellers list. She earned a bachelor's degree in English from the University of California.

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