Beyond beaches and palm trees, Hawaii can be recognized for its numerous other natural wonders, ranging from volcanoes and forests to natural parks and trails. This sun-soaked state is also included in a previous list of ‘Dream Travel Locations’, specifically for families looking to make the most out of their vacation days. Parents and their children alike can encounter and learn from Hawaii’s diverse cultures while also creating new memories from one island to the next.
However, the fact that Hawaii has so much to offer can be overwhelming for first-time travelers trying to plan their itineraries. So, we’ve narrowed down the best family vacation ideas for each island to ensure you don’t miss out on a single thing.
Explore the trails and farms in Kauai
Verdant and lush, Kauai is known for its green mountains, valleys, and cliffside views. If everyone in the family is able, the best way to take advantage of its vast stretch of scenery is to hike along its numerous trails. The Nualolo Trail provides sweeping views of the Napali Coast, while the Cliff and Canyon Trail gives you an incredible angle of the Waimea Canyon—just remember to keep kids away from the edge! But the scenic views don’t stop there, as you can take the whole family for a guided farm tour at Common Ground Kauai. This sustainable and regenerative agro-forest has a lot to teach you and the kids about local foods, culture, and history, allowing you to experience local island life tucked away from the usual tourist attractions.
Take a road trip in Oahu
Driving a rental car can make all the difference in Oahu. Not only do you experience comfort and convenience despite traveling with kids, but you also get to maximize your stay since the island’s the right size for driving around in a single day. While parking may be a concern among some visitors, the good news is there are tons of free or cheap parking in Waikiki, where road trip routes usually start. There’s free all-day parking at Ala Moana Drive if you plan to surf the waves at Waikiki Beach, while parking meters at Honolulu Zoo start at $1/hour if you’d rather spend the day meeting Hawaii’s indigenous species. After Waikiki, check out the rest of Oahu by coasting along Hanauma Bay on the East Side, then driving up the epic North Shore.
Go snorkeling in Maui
While Maui is also famous for road trips — Road to Hana, anyone? — there may be steep slopes and rugged roads better experienced by families without young kids. That said, a more family-friendly activity is to go snorkeling, wherein you can encounter diverse marine life up close & personal. Among the various snorkeling spots in Maui, the kids will surely enjoy seeing the beloved green sea turtles in action at the aptly-named Turtle Town. If you’re a little concerned about health and safety, make sure that the guided tour you’ve booked allows you to rent out properly sanitized professional gear, such as wetsuits, masks, and lifejackets.
Visit the volcanoes on Big Island
One can never forget the majestic Big Island, Hawaii’s second-oldest island and home to active volcanoes. As such, a visit to the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see the Kilauea and Mauna Loa is a must. Even if there are no active lava flows visible when you visit, you can still take a scenic drive to the lava rock formations of Holei Sea Arch or be more adventurous and hike to the Keanakakoi Crater.
Overall, Hawaii is ideal for families to visit, as there are unique and fun-filled activities waiting for you at every corner. Throughout the trip, remember to encourage your kids to try local foods and learn about the state’s rich culture and history from the locals themselves!
Jordan Savage is a freelance writer whose content is focused on travel, lifestyle, and family wellness. When she’s not writing, she busies herself with gardening and shopping at thrift stores.