When you visit us here in Maui, what’s your ideal vacation? Lounging on the beach, basking in the sun, perhaps an adult beverage in hand. It does sound nice, but was your immediate thought, what do we do with the kids?
Maui is an amazing place to bring your family. Not only will you have fun, but you will also make unforgettable memories. But with so many resorts on Maui, it’s important to know which ones are the best for families. The right family-friendly resort will offer spacious accommodations and kid-focused activities to entertain them and give you some well-deserved relaxation.
We want to open up our home to you and your family. You don’t need to stay in a 5-star resort to have an amazing Maui experience (although luxury certainly doesn’t hurt). Here is our list of the top family-friendly resorts on Maui perfect for giving you that unforgettable Hawaiian experience.
What to Consider With Maui Family Resorts
Not all family-friendly resorts are the same and many offer a variety of different options. You know your family best, so consider these factors when booking your dream resort stay.
Location
Different areas offer different vibes. The location you choose will depend on what activities you and your family want to do, and how much access to Maui’s attractions you want to have. Kāʻanapali is bustling with shops and lūʻaus, while Wailea is more luxurious and secluded. Activities you may consider are snorkeling, visiting Haleakalā National Park or Kahanu Garden, or exploring one of Maui’s secret beaches. And because we know how much everyone hates traffic, a more central location to as many activities as possible is all around your best option.
Family Age and Interests
Age plays a big role in the type of resort you stay at. For families with kids five-years old and younger, you’ll likely seek a resort with shallow pools and toddler-friendly activities. In-room amenities, like high chairs and cribs, are also a nice convenience.
If you’re a family with kids ages five to 12, your need for entertainment expands. Think waterslides, adventure parks, watersports, and other age-appropriate activities. And for teens, resorts with game rooms, lounges, and more independent activities either on property or nearby—like shopping and local attractions—might be more appealing.
Budget
Deciding how much to spend and what matters most will set a clear foundation for your family vacation. Consider luxury versus value, and all-inclusive resorts versus à la carte options. All-inclusive packages may be more convenient and budget-friendly. Budgeting isn’t a perfect science when on vacation, but we want you to have the most amount of fun possible without breaking the bank.
Best Hotels in Maui for Families
We’ve pulled together this list of amazing family-friendly resorts to hopefully alleviate unwanted headaches during your Hawaiian vacation planning.
Fairmont Kea Lani
*Image courtesy of Fairmont Kea Lani
Location: Wailea-Mākena (South Maui)
Star Rating: 4-star
Fairmont Kea Lani offers luxury and convenience with an all-suite and villa beachfront resort steps from Polo Beach. Located right on Wailea’s coast, “all-suite” means larger rooms, separate spaces, and better amenities, great for families or groups looking for some privacy. You can experience their award-winning spa, taste their authentic Hawaiian cuisine, or take a dip in one of their multiple pools, including a 140-foot water slide. The Fairmont has tons of kid-friendly activities for families of all ages.
Learn more about the Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui here.
OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort
*Image courtesy of OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort
Location: Lāhainā (West Maui)*
Star Rating: 3-star
This beachfront paradise offers daily cultural activities for all ages, from lei making and ukulele lessons, to hula dancing and Hawaiian language classes. The resort boasts a whale-shaped pool perfect for kids to splash around, while parents can relax poolside. On-site dining options like Maui Brewing Co. and Pau Hana Pool Shack offer delicious food and drinks for the whole family. Plus, there’s access to off-resort activities as well.
Learn more about the OUTRIGGER Kāʻanapali Beach Resort here.
OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa
*Image courtesy of OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa
Location: Lāhainā (West Maui)*
Star Rating: 4-star
Families seeking a luxurious Maui escape with tons of entertainment should look at OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa on Kāʻanapali Beach. This beachfront paradise offers spacious rooms, a 3-acre aquatic playground with water slides and a children’s area, plus activities like surf lessons and submarine dives. We also can’t forget the delicious dining options and convenient beach valet service.
Learn more about the OUTRIGGER Honua Kai Resort & Spa here.
The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas
*Image courtesy of The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas
Location: Lāhainā (West Maui)*
Star Rating: 4-star
The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas offers an award-winning resort with spacious villas great for families looking to spread out and relax. Just steps from your villa, you’ll find sparkling pools with waterfalls and delicious restaurants serving fresh local flavors. What the Westin does really well is tailor events for families. There are a variety of cultural activities and events that include cooking demonstrations and craft fairs geared towards kids of all ages.
Learn more about The Westin Kāʻanapali Ocean Resort Villas here.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
*Image courtesy of Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Location: Lāhainā (West Maui)*
Star Rating: 4-star
The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is located right on world-famous Kāʻanapali Beach. This oceanfront resort is a paradise for families that offers endless fun for all ages. You can explore the resort’s 40 spectacular acres with exciting activities like rooftop stargazing, delicious on-site dining, and even a traditional lūʻau. You’re also just a short stroll from Whaler’s Village for shopping and more local cuisine.
Learn more about the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa here.
Grand Wailea
*Image courtesy of Grand Wailea
Location: Wailea-Mākena (South Maui)
Star Rating: 5-star
This luxurious 5-star resort in Wailea offers stunning beachfront views and a nice blend of modern amenities with classic Hawaiian charm. Perfect for families, Grand Wailea has multiple pools, a refreshing spa, and plenty of outdoor activities. There’s on-site shopping, but also easy access to places outside the resort so you get a mix of resort relaxation and off-site exploration.
Learn more about the Grand Wailea here.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
*Image courtesy of Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Location: Wailea-Mākena (South Maui)
Star Rating: 5-star
This beachfront resort offers stunning oceanfront suites, perfect for families seeking space and unbelievable views. While it is pricey, the resort includes multiple infinity pools, a world-class spa with treatments for both adults and teens, and a supervised teen program. It’s also close to Haleakalā National Park and the beautiful Wailea Beach, making this resort a top spot for a luxury family vacation.
Learn more about the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea here.
*In August 2023, significant portions of Maui were impacted by severe wildfires. This catastrophic event was not only fatal, but has left Maui and its residents rebuilding. Much of the damage was done to Lāhainā.
Visiting Maui not only allows you to share in our culture and the ‘ohana spirit, but your financial impact continues to help Lāhainā and other areas affected rebuild. We at Maui Ocean Center have continued to stand with those affected by the devastation and hope for the day when we are fully rebuilt and thriving as the strong Hawaiian community we are. We are Maui Strong.
As you plan your trip to Maui, please visit the County of Maui’s website for up-to-date information.
Don’t Forget Us!
We know your Hawaiian vacation isn’t complete without visiting us at Maui Ocean Center. Explore the underwater world of Maui all from the comfort of land and immerse yourself in our coral reefs and fascinating marine life. Committed to conservation, our center offers educational tours and partnerships focused on protecting Hawai’i’s precious ocean environment.
Even if you’re only on Maui for a day, come visit us anyway! There’s no aquarium ticket required for our Seascape Restaurant or Ocean Treasures gift shop.
Reserve your tickets for Maui Ocean Center today!
When traveling to Maui there will never be a shortage of things and places to see. Make sure you’re always abiding by local and cultural laws when exploring the natural beauty of Maui and most importantly, relax! That’s what you came to do after all.
