Top 5 Things to Do in Maui with Kids
Maui is a fantastic destination for families. With its mix of golden sand beaches, gentle waves, lush nature and rich culture, there is something for kids of all ages. In this post you’ll discover five excellent daytime activities suited to families and we’ll cap it with a memorable evening event: the beachfront luau at Te Au Moana, where kids aged five and under attend free and children aged six to twelve receive special pricing.
By choosing a few of these daytime ideas and reserving the evening luau, you’ll create a relaxed, memorable Maui trip for the whole family.
Day Activity #1: A Kid-Friendly Beach Day
A beach day remains a top pick for families on Maui. In the South Maui / Wailea area you’ll find beaches with gentle slopes, convenient amenities and clear water. For example the guide to the best beaches for families recommends both Ulua Beach and Wailea Beach for their accessibility and suitability for kids.
Tips for families:
- Arrive early to secure parking and a spot.
- Bring shade (umbrella or pop-up tent), rash guards, plenty of water and snacks.
- Choose a beach that has restrooms and showers nearby so transitions are easier.
- If younger children are with you, plan for a shorter stint in the water and allow for sand play, tide-pool exploring or a picnic break.
Day Activity #2: Nature or Easy Exploration for Kids
Getting out into nature helps the kids burn energy and adds variety beyond beach time. Select a light activity such as a scenic walk, tide-pool exploration or easy snorkel spot that remains family friendly.
Things to consider:
- Choose a trail or beach entry with minimal incline and clear path.
- Bring shoes suitable for tide pools or rocky edges (for exploring).
- For older kids consider a beginner snorkel session in safe water; for younger children allow them to explore at the water’s edge while you watch.
- Allow time for rest or shade breaks so the day’s not too tiring.
Day Activity #3: Cultural or Interactive Experience for Kids
Beach time and nature are stars in Maui, but kids also benefit from experiences that engage them more deeply. A cultural craft, kids friendly farm visit or a simple interactive activity can be excellent.
- Visit a plantation or farm where kids can see pineapples or other local produce.
- Attend a short lei‐making workshop or craft session in a resort or cultural centre.
- Let kids join a guided nature or marine life talk (for example at the aquarium or visitor centre) to add a learning element.
Day Activity #4: Low-Key / Rain-Proof Option
Even in paradise the weather can shift or kids may need a down day from intense activity. Providing a “plan B” keeps the day stress-free. Family guides suggest indoor or sheltered activities like aquariums, museums or covered resort spaces.
- Visit an aquarium or indoor marine-life exhibit (great for all ages and especially when weather isn’t beach-friendly).
- Choose a resort pool day or indoor crafts session for younger kids.
- Emphasis that having the evening set (see below) means the daytime schedule can stay flexible and relaxed.
Evening Highlight: Te Au Moana Luau
The beachfront luau at the Wailea Beach Resort provides a vivid, family‐friendly evening experience that can serve as the special event for the trip. At Te Au Moana, kids under six attend free and children ages six to twelve have discounted pricing.
What makes it great for families:
- The open‐air beachfront setting gives kids space and scenic views.
- Pre-show cultural activities like lei-making, hula lessons and ukulele introductions help children engage before dinner.
Family-friendly tips: - Choose standard or premium seating depending on how close you want to be to the stage; premium seats offer closer views but cost more.
- Arrive a little early so kids can do pre-show activities and get comfortable.
- Bring a light jacket, evenings by the ocean can get breezy after sunset. Here is a guide on what to wear for a luau.
- Consider how younger children will handle the show length; plan for bathroom or small break before the performance starts.
- Treat the luau as your “capstone evening” which frees the daytime schedule to be more relaxed with kids.
Conclusion
Maui offers a superb mix of beach, nature and culture making it perfect for a family holiday with kids. By blending a kid-friendly beach day, nature or interactive experiences, a flexible weather-proof option and then ending the day with the memorable Te Au Moana luau, you’ll build a vacation that everyone in the family remembers.
Book early for the luau (especially during peak times) and stay in the Wailea/South Maui area to keep logistics simple. With the right mix you’ll leave Maui and your kids saying: “That was the best day ever.”