By Melissa Lewis
Things to Do With Kids in Hawaii
A Hawaii vacation is a once in a lifetime experience for many families. While on vacation, members of the whole family can enjoy traditional Hawaiian activities such as hiking to waterfalls, mini golfing, and a plethora of
beach and water activities. Fortunately, there are also some unique activities that kids can do while on vacation in Hawaii.
Atlantis Submarines
Get the kids and go 100 feet under the ocean to see coral reefs, fish and other marine life, all from the comfort of the air-conditioned submarine. Go from December through May and you may also see a whale on your journey. Atlantis Submarine tours depart every hour from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. daily. Call for reservations.
Atlantis Submarines
658 Front Street # 175
Wharf Cinema Center
Lahaina, Hawaii 96761
800-548-6262
http://www.atlantisadventures.com/hawaii/maui/maui-activities.cfm
Hana Lava Tubes
Kids will love exploring the caves (lava tubes) in Maui, especially since they'll be using real flashlights. Walk around, holding onto handrails, and marvel at the stalactite and stalagmite formations. You must have good vision and physically fit to walk on rough terrain. In addition to the lava tubes, kids may enjoy garden maze located on the same premises. No reservations necessary; just show up Monday through Saturday 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. and dress appropriately for 60 degree temperatures.
Hana Lava Tubes
205 Ulaino Road
Hana, Hawaii 96713
808-248-7308
http://www.mauicave.com
Dole Pineapple Plantation
Kids can wind and twist their way through the world's largest maze, a two-acre labyrinth shaped like a pineapple, at the Dole Pineapple Plantation. Be one of the top five finishers and your name will be recorded on a sign at the maze's entrance. In addition to the maze, kids can explore a garden and enjoy a narrated Pineapple Express, which is a 20-minute tour of the plantation where passengers learn about the history of the pineapple and how James Drummond Dole started the pineapple empire. Dole Pineapple Plantation is open everyday, except Christmas, from 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Dole Pineapple Plantation
64-1550 Kamehameha Highway
Wahiawa, Hawaii 96786
808-621-8408
http://www.dole-plantation.com
Polynesian Cultural Center
At the Polynesian Cultural Center, families can explore eight island village replicas and exhibits, all the while participating in hands on activities. Examples include climbing a tree to get a real coconut and throwing spears. While there, you can pay more to attend a traditional Polynesian luau held each evening. The Polynesian Cultural Center is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Polynesian Cultural Center
55-370 Kamehameha Highway
Laie, Hawaii 96762
808-293-3333
http://www.polynesia.com
About the Author:
Melissa Lewis is a former elementary classroom teacher and media specialist. She has also written for various online publications. Lewis holds a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County.
Photo Credits:
www.sxc.hu/photo/941379
