Hawaii with Kids | Family Travel Guide to Oahu, Big Island, Maui

There are vacations… and then there’s Hawaii.

Whether you’re snorkeling alongside colorful tropical fish, watching sea turtles bask on the beach, hiking through volcanic landscapes, or relaxing beneath swaying palm trees, Hawaii has a way of slowing life down and bringing families together.

Each Hawaiian island offers something completely different. Some are known for adventure, others for luxury, and some for quiet escapes surrounded by untouched nature. No matter which island you choose, you’ll find breathtaking scenery, incredible wildlife, and countless opportunities to create lifelong memories.

We’ve already explored Maui years ago and are excited to return to Hawaii for new adventures on the Big Island and Oahu, where we’ll be documenting everything from snorkeling with manta rays to staying at Disney’s Aulani Resort.

Browse our island guides below and start planning your own Hawaiian adventure.

Big Island (Hawaiʻi Island)

Where We’re Staying

We’ll be staying at the beautiful Fairmont Orchid, one of the Big Island’s premier oceanfront family resorts. We’ll be sharing everything about our stay—including the beach, pools, restaurants, activities, and whether it’s worth the splurge for families.

Oahu

Hawaii’s Most Popular Island

If it’s your first trip to Hawaii, Oahu offers the perfect mix of adventure, beaches, history, shopping, and family fun.

Home to Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, Oahu is Hawaii’s most visited island, offering activities for every age and travel style.

Whether you’re surfing on the North Shore, exploring Pearl Harbor, relaxing at a luxury resort, or enjoying shave ice after a beach day, it’s easy to see why families return year after year.

Highlights Include

• Waikiki Beach
• Honolulu
• North Shore
• Pearl Harbor
• Hanauma Bay
• Kualoa Ranch
• Amazing snorkeling
• Family-friendly beaches

Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort

Another popular family-friendly option on Oahu is the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort in Waikiki.

This large beachfront resort is especially popular with families because there is plenty to do without even leaving the property. It has multiple pools, restaurants, shops, beach access, and beautiful views of the Pacific.

One of the fun extras to look for when planning your stay is the resort’s Friday night fireworks, a popular Waikiki tradition that makes for a memorable way to end the evening.

If you’re traveling with kids, staying at a resort like this can be convenient because you can easily spend a day enjoying the beach and resort amenities without having to schedule another excursion.

Family Tip: If the Friday fireworks are something your family wants to see, check the current fireworks schedule when booking your trip, as entertainment schedules can change.

We’re especially excited because this fall we’ll be exploring Oahu as a family and sharing everything we learn along the way.

Featured Oahu Adventures

Maui

Scenic Drives, Waterfalls & Island Beauty

Maui has long been considered one of Hawaii’s most beautiful islands.

Although my visit was many years ago, it’s still one of the places that left a lasting impression.

The island is famous for its lush rainforests, incredible coastline, and the unforgettable Road to Hang, one of the world’s most scenic drives.

Things Families Love

• Road to Hang
• Waterfalls
• Black sand beaches
• Whale watching (seasonal)
• Snorkeling
• Haleakalā National Park
• Tropical gardens

Lahaina’s Story

For generations, Lahaina served as Maui’s historic waterfront town filled with restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

In 2023, devastating wildfires destroyed much of the town.

While Lahaina continues rebuilding, one powerful symbol of hope remains—the historic Lahaina Banyan Tree.

Originally planted in 1873, the massive tree suffered damage during the fires but survived. Thanks to ongoing care and restoration efforts, it continues to grow and represents the resilience of the Maui community.

It’s a reminder that while places can change, their spirit often remains.

More Hawaiian Islands to Explore

Even though we haven’t visited every Hawaiian island yet, each offers something unique for families looking to experience paradise.

Kauai

Often called The Garden Isle, Kauai is known for dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, waterfalls, and some of Hawaii’s most breathtaking scenery. It’s perfect for families who love hiking, nature, and slower-paced adventures.

Molokai

One of Hawaii’s least developed islands, Molokai offers a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian culture and untouched landscapes. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful escape.

Lanai

Known as Hawaii’s smallest inhabited public island, Lanai combines luxury resorts with rugged off-road adventures, beautiful beaches, and quiet hiking trails.

Niihau

Often called The Forbidden Island, Niihau is privately owned and generally closed to public tourism, making it one of Hawaii’s most mysterious islands.

Tips for Visiting Hawaii with Kids

Rent a Car

Especially on the Big Island and Maui, many of the best attractions are spread out.

Stop at Costco or Target First

One of the first things we recommend after picking up your rental car is stopping at Costco or Target.

You’ll save a surprising amount of money on:

• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Bottled water
• Snacks
• Breakfast items
• Beach toys
• Drinks
• Baby supplies
• Pool essentials

Many of these same items can cost two or three times as much at resort gift shops.

Leave Nature Behind

Avoid taking lava rocks, coral, sand, shells, or other natural items home. Hawaii works hard to preserve its fragile ecosystems.

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Hawaii requires many visitors to use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect its fragile coral reefs.

If you forget to pack it, you’ll likely pay resort prices, so buying it before heading to the beach (or bringing it from home) can save quite a bit of money.

Make Reservations Early

Some of Hawaii’s most popular attractions require reservations weeks—or even months—in advance.

If they’re on your bucket list, don’t wait until you arrive.

Popular reservations include:

• Pearl Harbor tours (Oahu)
• Diamond Head Summit hike (Oahu)
• Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Oahu)
• Kualoa Ranch tours (Oahu)
• Manta Ray Night Snorkeling (Big Island)
• Popular luaus
• Highly rated restaurants
• Specialty excursions

The earlier you book, the better your chances of getting the date and time you want.

Why Hawaii Belongs on Every Family’s Bucket List

Every Hawaiian island tells a different story.

Some are shaped by volcanoes. Others by waterfalls, beaches, or centuries of Hawaiian culture. Together, they create one of the most incredible family destinations in the world.

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls on Maui, swimming with manta rays on the Big Island, building sandcastles on Oahu, or discovering hidden gems on islands you’ve never heard of before, Hawaii offers adventures your family will remember for a lifetime.

We’re excited to continue exploring these beautiful islands and sharing our experiences to help you plan your own unforgettable Hawaiian vacation.

Aloha, and happy adventuring! 🌴🌺