Things to Do With Kids in Maui

If your child would like to learn to snorkel or is already an avid snorkeler, Maui offers some calm areas that provide great snorkeling. Kapalua Bay provides calm waters and a good place for your child to learn to snorkel. The rocks on the left side of the beach provide some great opportunities to see colorful fish and turtles. Because there is limited parking at this popular beach, be sure arrive early. Once your child is comfortable snorkeling, go to Black Rock in front of the Sheraton at Ka'anapali. If your kids are eager for more snorkeling, take them on a snorkel cruise to the Molokini Crater. Trilogy Excursions also offers a special kids cruise during the summer months that includes both fun and educational activities.

Drive to the top of the 10,000-foot dormant volcano to see a unique landscape and amazing views of Maui. For a memorable experience, head to the crater to catch the sunrise over Maui. Children over 12 years of age can take a downhill bike ride with you from the Haleakala summit. Note that the temperature is much colder on top of Haleakala, so be sure to bring jackets. If you have a National Park Pass, admission to the park is free.

If your child is not interested in snorkeling, you can still see colorful fish on the Reef Dancer boat. Head to the underwater cabin and watch the marine life from one of the 38 windows. You can also take your kids on a submarine ride on the Atlantis Submarine. If you are visiting during whale season, be sure to go on a whale-watching trip. Though you can sometimes see whales from shore, a boat trip provides a more up-close experience.

Be sure to take your kids to a luau while you are on Maui. Luaus are a great way to expose your kids to Hawaiian culture and food. The Old Lahaiani Luau is a family favorite because of the unique story and the delicious food. If your kids enjoy magic shows, take them to one of the several excellent shows on Maui. Warren & Annabelle's in Lahaina offers a dinner and magic show combination. This show gets excellent reviews from both kids and adults. Another popular option is the Kapanaha Magic Show in Ka'anapali.

One of the favorite activities on Maui for kids is to head to the beach. Pu'unoa Beach near Lahaina is a favorite for kids because of the calm water. Be advised that there is some coral in this area. Another family favorite is Kapalua Bay. This beach offers facilities, calm water and some shade trees at the back of the beach. The Grand Wailea Public Beach also receives high marks from families. This beach has shallow water and a wide beach to make sand castles. The beach access is located just past the Grand Wailea hotel. Kids are also fascinated by the black sand and lava tunnels at the Wai'anapanapa State Park near Hana; note that this beach is not recommended for swimming.