Hawaii with Kids: Tips for Planning A Family Vacation
Hawaii isn’t just for newlyweds and honeymooners—it’s one of the best destinations in the world for family travel. From volcanoes and waterfalls to calm beaches and world-class resorts, a Hawaiian family vacation offers something for every age and travel style.
If you’re wondering how to plan a Hawaiian family vacation that balances relaxation, adventure, and logistics, here’s what you need to know before you book.
Choosing the Best Hawaiian Island for Your Family
Hawaii is made up of eight main islands, each with its own personality, scenery, and pace. Choosing the right island (or combination of islands) is one of the most important steps when planning a family trip to Hawaii.
The most popular islands for families include:
Oahu – A great choice for first-time visitors. Oahu offers a mix of city life and beaches, with family-friendly attractions like Waikiki Beach, Diamond Head, and Pearl Harbor.
Maui – Ideal for families who want a more relaxed pace and natural beauty. Maui is known for calm beaches, scenic drives, and excellent resort options.
Hawaii Island – Perfect for adventurous families. Here you can explore lava fields, see active volcanoes, and experience diverse landscapes all on one island.
PRO TIP: See more of Hawaii by island hopping. Inter-island flights don’t cost a fortune and this will give you an opportunity to experience more of what this tropical paradise has to offer.
How to Handle the Long Flight to Hawaii With Kids
We can’t deny that traveling to Hawaii from any East Coast city is a loooooong trip. But, I can promise that the 9+ hour flight is well worth every agonizing minute after you arrive.
PRO Tip: Break up the trip by spending 2-3 nights in Los Angeles. Take a day or two there and explore the City of Angels, maybe even spend a day at Disneyland.
Best Family-Friendly Resorts in Hawaii
Accommodations in Hawaii range from condos and villas to full-service resorts. When planning a Hawaiian family vacation, choosing the right resort can make all the difference—especially if you want built-in activities and kid-friendly amenities.
Two standout resorts for families include:
The Grand Wailea in Maui has recently opened a brand-new, 20,000 sq. ft. kids facility, the Rock, that is a resort in a resort, just for kids. They offer everything from lei making classes to video games, even a Lego wall.
Disney’s Aulani Resort & Spa on Oahu is situated along the private beaches of Ko Olina and away from the bustling Waikiki area. The kids club at Aulani is included and offers exceptional programming & amenities for kids of all ages. When you combine this with Disney’s legendary service, your family will be treated to a memorable vacation.
PRO Tip: There are NO all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii. Budget for daily food spending.
What are some of the things to see/do/experience?
Hawaii is best known as the land of beautiful beaches, surfing, volcanoes, pineapples, the people, & its iconic place in history. There’s something for every member of the family to enjoy on a Hawaiian vacation. A few of our top must dos are visit Pearl Harbor, see the lava flow at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, take a surf lesson, & experience an authentic luau.
PRO Tip: If you’re visiting Oahu, you don’t want to miss the Polynesian Cultural Center. Hands down one of the most authentic luaus on all the islands!
How many nights should we travel for?
If you’re making the haul half way across the globe (or at least what seems to be), you’ll want to stay 6-nights minimum, this would be touring at a much faster pace. Spending 9-nights would be ideal for enjoying the trip at a more leisurely pace.
Final Thoughts on Planning a Hawaiian Family Vacation
These are just a few general tips to kick-start the planning for a family-friendly Hawaiian vacation. Contact us and we’ll customize the perfect itinerary that matches your family’s style, preferences and budget.
A Hawaiian family vacation can be as adventurous or relaxing as you want—but the key is thoughtful planning. Choosing the right island, pacing the travel days, and selecting family-friendly accommodations ensures your trip feels effortless rather than overwhelming.
If you’re ready to plan a Hawaiian family vacation tailored to your family’s travel style, timeline, and priorities, working with a travel advisor can help you avoid costly mistakes and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime destination.
