Hawaii is a great place to vacation with kids! There are plenty of activities and attractions that will keep them entertained, and the beaches and natural scenery are sure to impress.
In this article, we will discuss the best places to vacation in Hawaii with kids.
So if you’re planning a trip to the Aloha State, read on for the information you need to know!
1. Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world. Located on the island of Oahu in Hawaii, Waikiki is a man-made beach that was created by dredging sand from the ocean floor and using it to fill in an area that was once a wetland.
Today, Waikiki is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The beach is home to many hotels and resorts, as well as a variety of shops and restaurants.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as swimming, sunbathing, surfing, and windsurfing. Waikiki is also a popular spot for fishing, both from the shore and from boats.
In addition to its natural beauty, Waikiki is also known for its rich history. For centuries, the area was used as a ceremonial site by Native Hawaiians.
Today, visitors can learn about Hawaiian culture at several museums and cultural centers located near the beach.
Waikiki is truly a beach for everyone, offering something for everyone to enjoy.
2. Volcanoes National Park
Volcanoes National Park is one of the best places to vacation in Hawaii. The park is home to two active volcanoes, Mauna Loa and Kilauea, which offer visitors the opportunity to see firsthand the power of nature.
There are also plenty of hiking trails and other outdoor activities to keep everyone in the family entertained.
Hiking and camping are popular activities in the park, and several trails wind through the lava fields.
Visitors can also take a boat tour to see the lava flows up close, or go on a helicopter ride for a bird’s-eye view of the volcanoes.
Volcanoes National Park is also a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii.
The park has several museums and educational programs that explain the formation of the Hawaiian Islands and the unique geology of the area.
With its dramatic scenery and rich cultural history, Volcanoes National Park is an excellent choice for a vacation in Hawaii.
3. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a stunning location on the island of Oahu, and it is one of the best places to vacation in Hawaii. The bay is formed by a volcanic crater that has been partially eroded over time by the ocean.
As a result, the bay has a crescent shape and is surrounded by cliffs. The water in the bay is crystal clear and incredibly calm, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving.
There is also a beautiful sandy beach where visitors can sunbathe or relax in the shade. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is home to a diversity of marine life, including turtles, fish, and reef sharks.
The preserve also has a Visitor Center where you can learn about the history of the area and the importance of preserving its natural beauty.
Whether you’re looking for a place to swim, snorkel, dive, or simply relax on the beach, Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is the perfect vacation destination.
4. Kauai Island
Kauai is the oldest and northernmost major island in the Hawaiian chain. With an area of 562 square miles, it is also the fourth largest of the main islands.
Kauai is known for its lush tropical vegetation, dramatic cliffs, and pristine beaches. Kauai is often referred to as “The Garden Isle.”
There are numerous reasons why Kauai is the best place to vacation in Hawaii. First, Kauai boasts some of the most beautiful scenery in the world.
From the Waimea Canyon to the Napali Coast, there is something to feast your eyes on at every turn. Second, Kauai offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, or simply lounging on the beach, you’ll find plenty to keep you occupied on Kauai. Finally, Kauai is home to several excellent restaurants and hotels.
No matter what your budget, you’ll be able to find accommodations that suit your needs on this island.
So if you’re looking for a tropical paradise that has it all, look no further than Kauai Island. You won’t be disappointed!
5. Maui Island
Maui is an island in the Central Pacific, part of the Hawaiian archipelago. Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands at 727.2 square miles (1,883 km2) and is the 17th largest island in the United States.
Maui is two volcanoes, one dormant (West Maui) and the other active (East Maui), connected by an isthmus. The highest point on Maui is Haleakalā, which rises 10,023 feet (3,055 m) above sea level.
The island has many popular tourist destinations, including Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Kapalua. In 2017, Maui received a record number of visitors with over 3 million people vacationing on the island.
Maui offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, from hiking and biking to snorkeling and surfing.
There are also numerous golf courses and tennis courts available for those who want to stay active on their vacation.
For those who prefer to relax, there are plenty of beaches and resorts to choose from. No matter what your preferences are, Maui is sure to have something for you.
6. Oahu Island
Oahu, also known as “The Gathering Place,” is the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands and home to nearly three-quarters of the state’s population.
Situated in the central Pacific Ocean, Oahu is famous for its beautiful beaches, stunning views, and diverse culture.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Oahu has something for everyone.
Located in Honolulu, Waikiki is home to some of the best hotels and restaurants on the island.
If you’re looking for a more active vacation, you can try your hand at surfing, stand-up paddleboarding, or hiking one of the many trails through Hawaii’s lush rainforests.
Or you can simply relax on one of Oahu’s many sandy beaches and enjoy the breathtaking views.
No matter what you’re looking for in a vacation, Oahu Island is sure to have something for you. From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, Oahu is truly a place like no other.
7. Hawaii Island
There’s just something about Hawaii Island that keeps visitors coming back for more. Maybe it’s the island’s diverse landscape, which ranges from lush rainforests to active volcanoes.
Or perhaps it’s the island’s laid-back lifestyle, which is a refreshing change of pace from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Whatever the reason, there’s no doubt that Hawaii Island is the best place to vacation in Hawaii.
One of the island’s most popular attractions is Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, which is home to two of the world’s most active volcanoes, Kilauea and Mauna Loa.
Visitors can see firsthand the power of these volcanoes by taking a hike through lava fields or exploring one of the park’s many lava tubes.
For those looking for a more relaxing experience, Hawaii Island also offers stunning beaches, including Hapuna Beach State Park, which has been named one of the best beaches in America.
And no trip to Hawaii Island would be complete without a visit to historic Kailua-Kona Village, where you can enjoy fresh seafood, browse unique boutique shops, and learn about the island’s rich history.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Hawaii Island has something for everyone.
8. Molokai Island
Molokai Island is less developed than other Hawaiian islands, which means that it has retained its natural beauty.
The island is covered in lush jungles, pristine beaches, and towering waterfalls. It’s also home to Hawaii’s tallest sea cliffs, which offer breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
In addition to its natural wonders, Molokai Island also has a rich cultural heritage. The island was once home to a leper colony, and today it is home to the Kalaupapa National Historical Park.
Visitors can take a mule ride down a cliff to reach the colony, or take a boat tour around the island’s rugged coastline.
Molokai Island also has several excellent restaurants and shops, as well as several golf courses and tennis courts.
With so much to offer, it’s no wonder that Molokai Island is the best place to vacation in Hawaii.
9. Lanai Island
Lanai is one of the most beautiful and secluded islands in Hawaii. It is known for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches, and lush forest.
There are no stoplights on the island and only 30 miles of paved roads. This makes it the perfect place to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and relax in nature.
The island is also home to several luxury resorts, golf courses, and spas.
Whether you are looking for an active or relaxing vacation, Lanai has something to offer.
Here are some of the best things to do on Lanai Island:
Visit Hulopoe Beach: This white sand beach is one of Lanai’s most popular attractions. It is located on the south coast of the island and is known for its clear turquoise waters and calm waves. Hulopoe Beach is also a great place to spot turtles, dolphins, and whales.
Take a hike: There are several hiking trails on Lanai that offer stunning views of the coastline and nearby islands.
One of the most popular trails is the Munro Trail, which leads to the top of Lanaihale, the island’s highest point.
Visit the Garden of the Gods: This unique geological formation is located in the central part of Lanai.
The “garden” is a field of red lava rocks that have been eroded over time into strange and beautiful shapes.
Explore the town of Lanai City: Lanai City is the only town on the island and is home to several shops, restaurants, and galleries.
Be sure to visit Dole Park, which is the center of town and has a playground, picnic tables, and a gazebo.
Visit Keahiakawelo (Garden of the Gods): This otherworldly landscape is located on the northern coast of Lanai.
Keahiakawelo is a field of black lava rocks that have been eroded by wind and rain into strange shapes. The best time to visit is at sunset when the rocks take on a reddish hue.
10. Niihau Island
Niihau Island often referred to as “The Forbidden Island”, is one of the most exclusive vacation spots in the world.
Located just off the coast of Kauai, Niihau is a privately owned island that is only accessible by helicopter or boat.
Despite its remote location, Niihau is home to several luxury resorts and restaurants, making it the perfect destination for those looking for a truly unique Hawaii experience.
There are only two ways to get to Niihau Island: by helicopter or by boat. The island is completely cut off from the outside world, making it the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
There are no roads on the island, and there is no cell phone service or internet access.
However, there are plenty of activities to keep guests entertained, including swimming, snorkeling, hiking, and horseback riding.
Niihau Island is also home to some of the best beaches in Hawaii. The beaches here are protected from strong currents and waves, making them ideal for swimming and sunbathing.
The island’s clear blue waters are also perfect for snorkeling and diving, offering visitors a chance to see a variety of colorful fish and coral.
11. Kahoolawe Island
Kahoolawe Island is the best place to vacation in Hawaii for several reasons. First of all, it is the smallest of the Hawaiian Islands, and as such, it is much less crowded than places like Oahu or Maui.
Located just south of Maui, Kahoolawe is the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii. It’s best known for its role in World War II when it was used as a target practice site by the US military.
Kahoolawe is uninhabited and off-limits to the public (except Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners).
However, its pristine beaches and dramatic cliffs make it a popular destination for scuba diving and snorkeling.
This means that you can enjoy all the beauty of the island without having to deal with large crowds of tourists.
Secondly, Kahoolawe is home to some of the most pristine beaches in Hawaii. The waters are crystal clear and the sand is white and powdery.
Kahoolawe is a great place for snorkeling and diving. There are many coral reefs nearby, and the visibility underwater is excellent.
Kahoolawe is a great place to get away from it all. There are no roads on the island and very few buildings. This makes it the perfect place to relax and unwind.
If you are looking for a truly unique Hawaiian vacation experience, then Kahoolawe Island is the place for you.
12. Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument
Hawaii is a world-renowned vacation destination, and for good reason. The islands offer something for everyone, from pristine beaches and turquoise waters to volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests.
However, one of the most unique and beautiful places in Hawaii is the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument.
Located northwest of Kauai, the monument encompasses more than 140,000 square miles of land and sea, making it one of the largest conservation areas in the world.
The monument is home to an incredible diversity of plant and animal life, including over 7,000 species of fish, coral, and other marine life.
In addition, a monument is a sacred place for Native Hawaiians, who have inhabited the islands for centuries.
Visitors to the monument can enjoy snorkeling and diving in some of the most beautiful waters in the world, hiking through native forests, and exploring cultural sites.
With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the Papahanaumokuakea Marine National Monument is truly a place like no other.
13. Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is located on the west coast of Hawaii’s Big Island and is widely considered to be one of the best places to vacation in Hawaii.
The bay is famous for its clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches, as well as its abundance of marine life.
Visitors to Kealakekua Bay can enjoy snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding. Several hiking trails offer stunning views of the bay.
In addition to its natural beauty, Kealakekua Bay is also home to several historical and cultural sites.
The most popular attraction is the Captain Cook Monument, which commemorates the death of Captain James Cook in 1779.
Kealakekua Bay is an ideal destination for those who want to enjoy all that Hawaii has to offer.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an adventure-filled holiday, Kealakekua Bay is the perfect place for you.
14. Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is home to the Haleakala volcano, which is the tallest mountain in Hawaii.
The volcano offers breathtaking views of the surrounding islands, and it is also a popular spot for hiking and camping. The park also has several beautiful beaches, including Kaanapali Beach, which is one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii.
In addition, the park is home to several interesting historical sites, such as the Haleakala Ranch, which was once one of the largest cattle ranches in Hawaii.
Today, the ranch is a popular tourist destination, and it offers visitors a chance to learn about the history of Hawaii.
Overall, Haleakala National Park is a great place to vacation in Hawaii. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy, and the park is full of beautiful scenery.
15. Wailua River State Park
Wailua River State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including hiking, biking, picnicking, and camping.
Visitors can also enjoy scenic views of the river and its surroundings. In addition, the park provides opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and kayaking.
Wailua River State Park is located on the island of Kauai, and it is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.
The park is situated near some of Kauai’s most popular attractions, including Waimea Canyon State Park and Kokee State Park.
Wailua River State Park is also home to several different species of birds, including the endangered Hawaiian goose. Visitors to the park can view these birds up close by taking a guided tour.
If you are looking for an unforgettable vacation experience, look no further than Wailua River State Park.
With its beautiful scenery and plethora of activities, the park has something to offer everyone. You will not be disappointed if you choose to vacation here.
16. Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
For the ultimate Hawaiian vacation experience, look no further than the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel on the Big Island.
The hotel is situated on one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii, Kauna’oa Bay. The bay is known for its clear turquoise waters and white sand beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.
In addition, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel offers world-class amenities, including championship golf courses, tennis courts, and multiple pools. There is also an on-site spa and a variety of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a family-friendly vacation spot, the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel is sure to exceed your expectations.
Closing Thoughts | Best Places To Vacation In Hawaii
The Hawaiian Islands are a dream destination for any traveler looking for an amazing beach vacation.
Whether you’re looking for lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, world-class surfing, or just some of the best beaches in the world, Hawaii has it all.
With so many islands to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is right for you.
We hope this guide has helped you narrow down your choices and given you a few ideas of amazing places to visit on your next trip to Hawaii.
FAQs | The Best Places To Vacation In Hawaii With Kids
Q: What are the best places to vacation in Hawaii with kids?
A: The best places to vacation in Hawaii with kids include Honolulu, Waikiki Beach, Maui, and Kauai.
Q: What are some things to do in Hawaii with kids?
A: Some things to do in Hawaii with kids include going to the beach, hiking, biking, and snorkelling.
Q: What are some places to eat in Hawaii with kids?
A: Some places to eat in Hawaii with kids include Monkeypod Kitchen, Duke’s Waikiki, and Rainbow Drive-In.
Q: What are some places to stay in Hawaii with kids?
A: Some places to stay in Hawaii with kids include the Sheraton Waikiki, Hilton Hawaiian Village, and Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Hawaii with kids?
A: The best time of year to visit Hawaii with kids is during the summer months. June, July, and August are the busiest months for tourism in Hawaii.
However, if you want to avoid the crowds, September and October are also good times to visit.
Q: What should I pack for Hawaii with the kids?
A: When packing for Hawaii with kids, be sure to bring sunscreen, hats, swimsuits, and comfortable walking shoes. Also, don’t forget to pack some Hawaiian snacks for the kids!
Q: Are there any safety concerns I should know about when traveling to Hawaii with kids?
A: There are always safety concerns when traveling with kids, no matter where your destination is.
However, Hawaii is generally a very safe place to visit. Be sure to take the same precautions you would take when traveling anywhere else with your children.