Family Vacation GuideMaui

Soar across tree tops in the lush mountains of West Maui. Skyline Eco Adventures offers 5 zipline adventures for ages 10+.

Kids will love watching silly goats with hilarious old-man beards and grown ups get to sample fresh cheese. Stop by casually or book a hands-on milking tour.

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.

2,500 species of plants and trees line a landscape of lava rocks, natural streams, and koi ponds. These gardens give you a sense of Hawaii's stunning biodiversity.

Take an easy 2-mile hike to a scenic ridge with panoramic views of central Maui. Ioa Valley was also the site of an epic battle and served as a burial ground in ancient Hawaiian history.

It feels like an alien world in the cinder cone gardens of Mt. Haleakala. Come for the view at sunrise or sunset, heck, come anytime, it's out of this world!

Like something out of a Tim Burton movie, the Maui Banyan Tree drapes its vines through a shaded park in front of the courthouse in downtown Lahaina. It's a great spot for a picnic!

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.

Serene wetlands in Maui's central valley make for a great place to watch dozens of exotic bird species. Come in the mornings when the sun is out and wind is less.

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

If you're a proud astronomy geek and want to meet other proud astronomy geeks, join this Maui astronomy group and find you're posse.

Once you spot one whale, you'll start seeing them everywhere. There are so many whales out there that during the winter, you can watch them for free on the beach.

Last time Haleakala erupted, 400-500 years ago, it made this surreal lava field in Makena State Park.

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.

Mama's Fish House might not be free, but the tide pools around it are. It's a great place for kids to see (and try to pronounce) anemones and baby crabs.

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.

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

In the highlands is a forest created by a botanist using trees from around the world. You can hike, mountain bike, or even zipline through it.

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.

Purple fields of fragrant lavender cover this magical farm in the Maui highlands.

For something even fresher than a farmers market, stop by this local farm in Maui's Upcountry.

Before booking it to the summit, you can stop by this forest grove for a picnic and quick walk around.

When summiting a volcano, don't be afraid to ask directions. Here, you'll find park rangers ready to answer your questions, as well as a bathroom, and gift shop.

This spectacular overlook is a great place to snap a photo of Maui's lush greenery fading into red and black lava rock.

Catch a final glimpse of the cinder cones on your way down Mt. Haleakala (you won't be able to turn left here on your way up).

You're on top of the world! You can see the rainforests of Hana, the Big Island in the distance, and maybe even your resort, far below.

This 1/4-mile trail delivers maximum breathtaking views at minimum effort. It's a good option for families with young kids who still want to see Haleakala.

Hike down into moon-like valleys of dormant cinder cones. You can take on this entire 11-mile odyssey or turn back at any point for a hike of any length.

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.

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.

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.

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

Keep your eyes peeled at mile marker 7. On the left side you'll see a painted forest of eucalyptus trees with multi-colored bark.

The sublime beauty of this rainforest village is the reason why so many people make the drive through seamingly endless winding roads.

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

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

It's a short hike to these two waterfalls at the beginning of the Road to Hana. If you're not feeling up to the full journey, you can always call it a day here.

It's an Ideal spot to snap a quintessential photo of the winding road. Kids will be delighted by the wild chickens roaming around here.

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.

They give you flashlights to explore this 1,000-year-old lava flow. It's great for all ages, but if you're afraid of the dark, you can always stay in the car.

Located right next to the Hana Lava Tube, it's a beautiful maze made of cool red plants. It's a fun activity for kids who might be too scared to do the lava tube.

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

It's something out of a movie: walk through fragrant bamboo forests paved with fresh guava (eat one!) and cool off in stunning natural pools fed by waterfalls.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Short, but oh so sweet, this quick out-and-back hike provides sweeping views of Maui's central valley, the ocean, and the dramatic ridges of the West Maui Mountains.

This rugged trail snakes through an environment that seems brutally barren in contrast with the lush rainforests just a few miles away. It traverses a path above the ocean, past windmills, a...

It's a great stop if you're driving through Northwest Maui. This trail offers fantastic ocean views overlooking the channel most frequented by humpback whales.

The trail meanders through lush bamboo forests, streambeds, waterfalls, and swimming holes. It can be as hard as you'd like depending on your penchant for adventure.

The waterfalls keep on getting bigger on this epic hike through the jungles of Hana. At the end you're rewarded with a view of the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

It seems like something out of the Pacific Northwest. This foggy forest of redwood trees sits along an extensive trail system in the highlands of Haleakala volcano.

This towering 200-foot waterfall is often missed by most Hana-bound travelers. It's a short 5-minute hike to a great lookout point where you can spot the falls.

Unlike most falls, you can access this one from a trail that runs directly above it. You get a great view of the stream and the pool below.

A few miles past Hana, you'd be hard pressed not to see this waterfall. It towers at 80 feet high and flows under a one lane bridge. Park on the ocean side of the road to snap a few photos.

One of the many falls along the Pipiwai trail, this one's claim to fame is the gorgeous rainforest scenery that surrounds it.

At over 400 feet tall, it's the highest accessible waterfall in Maui. Found at the end of the Pipiwai Trail it makes for the perfect reward after a decent hike.

Past Hana in Kipahulu, this waterfall lies at the end of a 10-minute trail. Not frequented by many tourists, you'll likely have it's beauty and natural swimming pool all to yourself.

Quite possibly the tallest fall in Maui, this world wonder is set deep within an inaccessible valley. You'll only be able to see it on a helicopter tour.

While you'll find most waterfalls along the road to Hana, this is one of the few accessible in West Maui. As you hike along the Waihe'e Ridge you'll be able to spot the 270-foot falls from a...

Set in Maui's Upcountry, this zipline flies through eucalyptus forests and down the side of a mountain. It's part of many activities including horseback riding and hiking tours at historic P...

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.

Helicopter rides will show you 1,000-ft waterfalls in hidden rainforest valleys, a volcano from above, and the dramatic oceanside cliffs of Molokai island.

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.

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.

Easier than going all the way to Hana, this alternative loops around West Maui. Instead of waterfalls, it offers secluded beaches with amazing snorkeling, ocean geysers, and dramatic ridgeli...

Once home to two thriving Hawaiian villages this nature preserve snakes along Maui's windswept central coast. There's a two-mile hike and every Friday morning you're invited to help particip...