Family Vacation GuideMaui

Protected from the wind by the mountains, this player-friendly course offers a new view of the island at every hole.

Golfing in a Lord of the Rings-like setting, this challenging PGA course is par 73 at 7,400 yards.

Sister to The Plantation Course, Bay is another challenging gem with its signature hole no. 5 that plays over the ocean.

These 3 world-class courses cater to all types. From the tough Robert Trent, Gold Course to the family-friendly Emerald, and player-friendly Blue.

Not overly long at 6,570 yards, it's a course for shot makers, with smallish greens, dog legs, and elevation changes. Oh and with their Aloha Friday deal you can play for $49, all day.

You could come for just the clubhouse. But if you come for golf, you'll be rewarded with a "pure golf experience" – nothing but nature in all directions.

This cool local grocery is a great place to get sandwiches and snacks after a day of snorkeling at Olowalu Beach.

A gently sloping entrance and sandy bottom means you won't step on coral as you go in. Underwater, you'll find butterflyfish and cool multi-colored sea slugs.

Turtles are everywhere here. It's their safe hideaway with ample resting spots and plenty of green algae to chomp on.

Centuries-old coral colonies grow to a whopping 25-feet in diameter on lava rocks to create a vibrant reef.

For sun worshipers and snorkelers alike, this crescent bay will satisfy everyone in your family.

In Maui's rugged north, you'll find sea turtles, white-spotted puffers, octopuses, unicorn fish, and maybe even a giant manta ray.

On Ka'anapali Beach, this open air shopping pavilion is filled with restaurants, shops, and a whale museum.

Built on the site of Maui's last ruling chief, this museum houses native tools, paintings, and photography that give you a glimpse into the lives of Maui's former Royal Family.

Their succulent rotisserie chicken is roasted over a wood-burning fire with kiawe and guava wood. It's a great place to grab lunch by the Maui Ocean Center.

It's the largest salt-water tropical aquarium in the US. There are walk-through tunnels, jellyfish exhibits, and an interactive tidepool area.

Lahaina has 40 art galleries with works from Picasso, Rembrandt, Any Warhol, and whole host of local artists inspired by the beauty of the island.

It's a smaller theater showing 3 movies near the wharf in downtown Lahaina.

This mammoth movie complex features 12 screens and the biggest one on the island.

Located at Queen Ka'ahumanu Shopping Center you have 6 movies to choose from.

Home to top brands and a regular farmers market, it's Maui's biggest mall. This gorgeous building is covered by an open-air roof, shaped like a ship's sail.

They have fresh produce, meats, seafood, wine, and beer, plus a great prepared foods section with sushi, sandwiches, and baked goods.

A huge supporter of local business, Mana foods offers produce from local farms, pre-made meals, and lots of vegan and specialty items.

They offer a loyalty card that's great if you're staying for over a week. You can earn points redeemable for discounts and airline miles.

They offer a loyalty card that's great if you're staying for over a week. You can earn points redeemable for discounts and airline miles.

They offer a loyalty card that's great if you're staying for over a week. You can earn points redeemable for discounts and airline miles.

They stock lots of locally-grown organic produce and an extensive hot and cold salad bar.

The leading supermarket in Hawaii, they have everything you'd expect to find at Safeway, but with a local style and products that you can only get on Maui.

The leading supermarket in Hawaii, they have everything you'd expect to find at Safeway, but with a local style and products that you can only get here.

If you're visiting Mt. Haleakala, this is a great place to stop by for ready-made food and local snacks.

Skip a trip to the market altogether and order everything to your residence.

With sweeping views of the island and a warm fireplace, this is a cozy place to relax and dine after a long day exploring Haleakala Volcano.

In the cool air of the Upcountry, Kula Bistro is a great place to stop for lunch and snacks on your way up Haleakala Volcano.

Every ship is like a "floating classroom" where you get the inside scoop on Maui's whales from highly trained naturalists. Your ticket also helps fund conservation.

Every ship is like a "floating classroom" where you get the inside scoop on Maui's whales from highly trained naturalists. Your ticket also helps fund conservation.

Walk along Ka'anapali beach for brunch at this restaurant. Get the Cinnamon French Toast for breakfast, or fish tacos for lunch.

Right above the beach, you can watch the sunset over the ocean. Come at 3-7 pm or 9-11 pm for happy hour specials, or brunch for their "pour your own champagne" mimosa station.

Enjoy macadamia nut pancakes, eggs benedict, and other brunch favorites with a view of surfers in the distance. It's Maui's most famous brunch spot for good reason.

This is where you'd come to propose in grand style. Set in a tropical garden with gorgeous views of the Island, Capische? serves delicious Italian food with a local twist.

It's hard to be closer to the ocean without being in it. Sea House is known for its extensive happy hour menu and views of Napili Bay.

If you drive by here and blink you might miss it. But if you can find it, this calm, uncrowded beach is really special.

Dine on pork cooked in an underground oven, while the sun sets over the ocean to traditional Hawaiian music and dance. It's an intimate venue great for families.

Relax in the cedar wood sauna, eucalyptus steam room, or get a Lomi Lomi massage. Then cool off in bamboo rainfall showers that run with water from the peaks above.

Pineapple scrub gently exfoliates and the Lomi Lomi and Swedish massage loosen tension. This large spa has 16 individual treatment rooms and 3 private couples rooms.

You can hear the soothing sound of the ocean from the cliffs above Napili Bay, as a delicate Lomi Lomi massage releases tension under the moonlight.

They're known for their hot stone treatments and soothing Himalayan Salt Room. They also have special massages for the mother-to-be.

Lie-down in a shaded beach cabana, and let the masseur to the rest. Then hop in the steam room to finish off.

The manager at Maui Hill resort puts on a weekly Mai Tai party with live music and free drinks. Seriously, Dennis is the the man!

Right on Ka'anapali Beach, you can hear the waves as you dine. Try their seasonal specialty cocktail at happy hour, which runs from 3-5 pm everyday and includes live music.

Tucked away in a nice family resort, this place is great for a drink and bite to eat by the pool.

These coveted donuts come with exotic tropical fillings, like guava jam. Located in Upcountry, it's a great place to pick up a treat as reward for summiting Haleakala.

When you're a kid, a small bag of Maui-style potato chips goes fast. Stop by the Maui Potato Chip Factory to see where they're made.

Their battered, fried Mahi-Mahi taco is one of the tastiest on the island. Bet you can't eat just one!

Ululani's is one of the best spots to grab shave ice on Maui. Get it with ice cream on the bottom and sweetened condensed milk drizzled on top!

It's a tiny little beach in Kihei and an ideal launch for beginner stand up paddlers.

Frequented by tourists and locals alike, this beach park is a great spot for a picnic, and its calm waters makes it ideal for stand up paddle.

One of three great beach parks, you have a BBQ area with picnic benches. It's a also a great spot for stand up paddle.

This highly-rated ocean tour company offers many amazing excursions and lessons for exploring the warm waters off Maui's coast.

Call them up to rent stand up paddle boards for $45/day or GoPros for $35/day. They'll deliver to your door!

Maui surf board rentals are $25-35/day, stand up paddle board rentals range from $45-55/day.

Great place to rent surfboards and stand up paddle boards in South Maui. They give surf lessons and stand up paddle lessons too.

Come here for surf rentals and stand up paddle board rentals in Kihei. They also offer lessons.

If you're looking for a challenging stand up paddle ride, check out Maui's most popular beach park.

With gentle and abundant waves, it's a great place for beginner surfers. Experienced stand up paddlers will also enjoy paddling in the break.

It's a quiet, 5-mile beach (longest on Maui!) on an undeveloped part of the coast. The shore is a little small, but it's a great starting point for a 3-mile SUP ride to Kihei.

The pizza is excellent – thin and crispy crust with fresh toppings. It's a great stop if you're visiting the North Shore or on your way to Hana.

Delicious crepes, and Mediterranean and Indian flavors combine in this quaint cafe on the North Shore.

It's highly recommended that you get a full tank of gas before you head further towards Hana.

Far out there on the rugged Keanae peninsula, is this little treasure. Grab some banana bread or a full lunch and stretch. You're halfway to Hana!

Just before mile marker 29, this tiny food stand makes some of the best coconut candy on the Road to Hana.

The sole survivor of the tsunami of 1948, this old stone church still holds services in a tiny village on the rugged Ke'anae Peninsula.

Walk the ancient footpath to a black sand beach with breathtaking scenery.

There's a famous song about this place, which has provided snacks and supplies to weary travelers for over 100 years.

This black sand cove is a great place to swim and float among the waves. There are also benches where you can enjoy a family picnic.

This highly-rated tour company shows you Maui's whales with an onboard naturalist. They even give you hydrophones to list to whale song.

This highly-rated tour company shows you Maui's whales with an onboard naturalist. They even give you hydrophones to list to whale song.

Unlike other whale watching tours you depart right from Ka'anapali beach.

The huge glass bottomed catamaran is a huge draw for young kids. Tours run from December 15 to the end of March.

Sounds of the ocean set the mood on this romantic cruise. Enjoy a 3-course meal prepared by Chef Bailey.

Bring the kids along to celebrate the family you built together with a gorgeous sunset in the background.

You might not expect it, but Pacific Whale Foundation has their own sunset cruise. Dine aboard a double-decker catamaran with live music.

This cruise ups the romance by boarding directly from Ka'anapali Beach.

It's a small mall with a few good shops, but the real draw here is the free Hula show. Come at 1 pm on weekends to get a taste of Hula before committing to a $100 luau.

This is where you'll find a truly authentic souvenir. Browse through homemade crafts, clothing, and jewelry from local artists.

No big scary waves, just calm wind and soft sand. This is a great place for the little ones to swim about in a warm ocean. Come here on a day exploring the North Shore.

Soft sands, small waves for boogie boarding, and breathtaking views make this one of Maui's top-rated beaches. There's also snorkeling at the rocky outcroppings and an inviting beachwalk.

With no resorts in sight, you're free from the crowds. This hidden gem is excellent for boogie boarding and a peaceful beach day in South Maui.

There's a large seaside park with plenty of shade and space for a relaxing picnic at the beach.

Maui's most popular beach, Ka'anapali is one mile of perfect sand. It's got snorkeling at Black Rock, dining and shopping at Whalers Village, and tons of fun energy.

It's the best place for snorkeling on Ka'anapali. If you come at sunset you can watch the cliff diving ceremony off a 30-foot rock.

Maui Chef, Mark Ellman makes some seriously tasty fish. Best of all you can watch boats go in and out of Lahaina Harbor as you dine.

It's a casual, family BBQ joint with slow-cooked brisket and smoked ribs. They also have takeout for when you just want to eat back at your place.

Kids will love the delicious homemade pies and treats. They also make great specialty sandwiches, perfect for a quick lunch.

Indulge in seared ahi and foie gras or try their daily opakapaka fish special. This is one of the fanciest restaurants in Lahaina.

It's half fish market where you can buy the daily catch to grill or cook at home, and half deli serving ahi sandwiches slathered in secret sauce.

Perched on cliffs above the Pacific, this elegant open-air restaurant serves top grade sushi rolls and sashimi.

In the heart of Whalers Village, it's a great place to dine with the family on the beach. Try the ceviche marinated in coconut sauce!

It's Lahaina's tasty lunch for under $10. Treat the family to Maui favorites such as Korean tacos, chicken katsu, or fries drenched in delicious sauce.

This place is a local legend! They serve simple, perfectly cooked fish in a casual picnic table setting. Their fish burgers are legendary.

It's Maui's answer to In-N-Out Burger and the best spot on the island to grab a tasty burger and fries.

It's a favorite spot among locals for their decadent Katsu Moco with delicious gravy. For something light, try their Chinese Chicken Salad.

Try the Ahi Benedict or Goat Cheese Pancakes for breakfast, and the Spice Rubbed Fish or Poke Tacos for lunch.

Several kids can split the classic Hawaiian "Mixed Plate," which comes with slow cooked pork, rice, and macaroni salad. Or take it all on yourself!

Mouth-watering Pork Adobo is marinated to perfection at this local hole in the wall.

Near the Lahaina Harbor, it's a great place to fuel up before your ocean adventure. Get the Lox and Bagel Benedict!

Poke, or raw cubed, marinated fish is a centuries-old Hawaiian specialty. This food truck serves it straight up or fried.

Pick up a burrito, taco, or enchilada at one of their three locations on Maui.

Pick up a burrito, taco, or enchilada at one of their three locations in Maui.

Pick up a burrito, taco, or enchilada at one of their three locations in Maui.

A 30-minute ferry ride takes you to one of Hawaii's smallest inhabited island. Check out the beach at Manale, a playground for spinner dolphins.

It's the "Old Faithful of the Pacific." Watch a plume of sea water shoot 100 feet in the air out of an ancient lava tube. Don't get too close (trust me on this one)!

Dive 100 feet below the surface and explore an underwater world inaccessible to snorkelers and scuba divers.

A finger of lava hangs out into the sea, about halfway down the Road to Hana. Stop by for fresh banana bread, a small arboretum, and an old stone church.

Grab a picnic lunch at Paia Fish Market and head to the beach to watch some of the best windsurfers fly off the waves. Expect wind.

Long, forgiving surf break and warm water make Maui an ideal place to learn to surf. Betcha someone in your family will catch a wave. It'll be sweet, brah.

Is pineapple wine any good? Head to Ulupalakua Vineyards for free tastings and find out. Worst case, you get to see a vineyard on a volcano.

The mall here hosts free Ukulele and hula lessons. Learn how to play "Somewhere Over The Rainbow," and then act it out in smooth rhythmic dance moves.

Give back to the island by helping keep its shorelines, forests, and beaches clean.

Every night from Black Rock Beach, you can watch a torch lighting ceremony that ends with a 30-foot plunge into the ocean.

Luaus can be pricey, but this hula show is free from 6-8 pm, every night at the Ka'anapali Beach Hotel.

The Sharwil avocado is so good, it's been banned on the mainland. But you can get it here. You can also pick up local juices, jams, and fresh baked goods.

There's a wide variety of local fruits, veggies, and confectionaries at this Saturday morning market.

Cool off in the shade of the banyan tree and see work from local artists. There's also a face painting booth and kid's crafts for the little ones.

On the last Thursday of the month, The Baldwin Home Museum puts on a free outdoor concert with local musicians from 6-7:30 pm.

This isn't your typical luau music. It's a celebration of authentic Hawaiian folk music, epitomized by the distinct sound of the slack-key guitar.

With the "wow" factor of Cirque du Soleil, this powerful retelling of Hawaiian history is a blend of dance, music, and acrobatics.

Like something out of the Partridge Family, this family troupe, puts on a magic dinner show infused with family-friendly comedy.

Every Friday from 6-9 pm, the galleries of Lahaina host a free "Art Walk" with featured artists and refreshments.

Maui's capital knows how to party! Join on first Fridays for a street party with craft vendors, food stands, and a beer garden serving local brews.

All the galleries light up until 10 pm and Front Street buzzes with music, food, family activities, and performers from Ulalena.

Maui's cowboy town puts on a street party with locally farmed food, classical Hawaiian music, dancing, and a fire show.

The Keiki/Youth Zone has lots for the little ones, and parents can browse booths set up by local shops.

There's live music here everyday. Bring the family for lunch at this Whalers Village restaurant on Ka'anapali Beach.

The decor is funky, really funky. See for yourself! They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner with live jazz. Say hi to Farzad, the super friendly owner.

Grab some local kula greens, Hawaiian avocados and fresh fish at Fish Market Maui, next door.

Grab local fruits and veggies with views of the ocean and mountains in the background.

It's a smaller luau, where you'll get your own individual table. The show takes place against the colorful backdrop of sunset over Ka'anapali Beach.

Five dancers toss flaming knives across the stage and acrobats pull a number of stunts. This luau is less crowded and about 1/2 the size of other luaus.

The perfect romantic date, it's a beautifully choreographed show with some of the "most fabulous cooking on Maui."

Even teenagers would have a hard time texting through the show. This spectacle blends hula and exciting Samoan fire knife dancing.

One of Maui's most affordable Luau's, you get one free ticket for kids 6-11, and all kids under 5 get in free.

It's like the Paia Fish Market of South Maui. If you're in Kihei, stop by for lunch to take to the beach or up to the top of Haleakala.

If you're staying on West Maui, this is a great restaurant to grab snacks before venturing out to Hana. Grab their signature Hana Lunch Box (everything you need for $12).

Located in the Shops at Wailea, choose between hot and cold prepared foods and pre-made deli sandwiches.

Lunch bentos, sandwiches, salads, and other Hawaiian specialties make up the menu. Try the fresh made Malasada donuts.

This mom n' pop lunch spot serves local favorites to go. Set in Maui's central valley it's a great place to stop if you're visiting the Ioa Valley.

This hidden gem, is basically in the middle of nowhere. But those who make the trek out to Hali'imaile in the highlands, will be rewarded with some of the island's best cooking.

With an emphasis on local food, you get a real sense of what the island has to offer. Highlights include the Abalone Risotto with Kampachi Bacon and the Surfing Goat Cheesecake for dessert.

It's Hawaiian fusion food done right. This chain may dot the state of Florida, nearly 5,000 miles away, but it still holds its own on Maui.

Now for the holy combination of steak and seafood. That's the specialty here at this open-air, Four Seasons restaurant.

With postcard-worthy views and Instagram-worthy dishes, this romantic Kapalua restaurant serves delicious rack of lamb and tasty snapper.

It lives up to the hype! Dine on fish caught that day and cooked to perfection in the light of flickering tiki torches over a secluded cove.

Think Jiro Dreams of Sushi. This exclusive 15-seat sushi bar serves some of the best raw fish outside of Tokyo. Be sure to make reservations well in advance!

Amid the excitement of Ka'anapali Beach this peaceful park is a great place to relax. If you're not staying at a resort on the beach you can park here and still enjoy it.

Affectionately dubbed, 'turtle town' this beach is teaming with green sea turtles who feed and hide from predators among the rocky ocean floor and sea caves.

This spectacular beach on Lana'i is a great place to swim, snorkel, or snap a photo in front of the heart-shaped Pu'u Pehe rock.

Though the current makes swimming here highly unadvisable, it's a gorgeous little treasure of a beach that you'll likely have to yourself.

Home to many sunken ships, you can see the skeleton of an old oil tanker from the 1940s still jutting out on a distant rock. It's a great place to relax and comb the beach.

For 21 years this highly reputable surf school has offered private and group lessons for those learning to surf or improve their skills. SUP Lessons are also available.

Specializing in lessons for women, this surf school also invites boyfriends, fathers, and brothers to join.