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Family Travel to Hawai‘i

There’s a reason why so many Texas families head to Hawai‘i for the summer. The miles of beaches, adventurous outings, and perfect tropical weather can’t be found anywhere else on the planet. Here’s an insider’s guide to some of the best family-friendly activities across the islands.

BIG ISLAND-HAWAI‘I ISLAND

The Big Island is famously known as the home of Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes on earth. At the Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, kids can get a hands-on course in volcanology by witnessing steam vents, walking across black lava fields, and stepping inside the gigantic Thurston lava tube. The park also offers special program for children ages 7-12 called The Junior Ranger Program. Visit the Kīlauea Visitor Information Center to obtain more information about this program. If you happen to be on the Big Island in May, May 17th marks the third annual Na Mea Hula Kahiko Performance. Watch as traditional hula and Hawaiian chants are performed overlooking the Kīlauea crater.

If your family likes cowboy culture, make a beeline for Parker Ranch, one of the largest cattle ranches in the nation. Take a horseback ride through its stunning 150,000 acres and learn about the rich history of paniolos (Hawaiian cowboys) and how their traditions have helped keep native Hawaiian heritage alive. The Parker Ranch now offers a Petting Zoo program for children, which includes pony rides. The ranch also has animals such as rabbits, sheep, goats and ponies that children can feed and pet. July 4th will mark the annual Parker Ranch Rodeo tradition which will include rodeo activities, delicious food and activities for the children.

O‘AHU

Whether you crave city excitement or are seeking a quiet country atmosphere, O‘ahu reigns as the island that possesses both. Kid-friendly activities spot the island, but Waikīkī Beach lends new meaning to the hassle-free family vacation. Its warm waters are known as an ideal learn-how-to-surf location, the streets are lined with restaurants, and the Honolulu Zoo and Waikīkī Aquarium are only a short walk from one another.

In November 2007, the Honolulu Zoo opened the new tiger enclosure which houses three adult tigers. Be sure to also check out the Orangutan also housed at the zoo. If you would like to make a day of it, the zoo allows food and coolers on the grounds, so that you and your family can sit down and have a picnic.

The Waikīkī Aquarium houses over 2,500 animals representing 420 different species. At the Aquarium be sure to visit the Hawaiian Monk Seal Exhibit. Only found in the Hawaiian Islands, the Hawaiian Monk Seal is a critically endangered species.

About 35 minutes west of Waikīkī in Kapolei is the Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park, which offers waterslides for all ages. Be sure to check out the Keiki Kove which is an interactive children’s playground. If your family likes miniature golf, the park just opened the Island Adventure Golf attraction which includes an 18 hole miniature golf course. The course is divided into four main tropical themes, each depicting a different environment that is found in the island of Hawai‘i.

If you head up to the North Shore, be sure to stop at the Dole Plantation. Here, kids can wander through the Pineapple Garden Maze, one of the world’s largest mazes, made of 14,000 plants and covering and impressive two acres. Once you reach the North Shore, don’t forget to visit the town of Hale‘iwa. As you stroll through the small beach town, be sure to try shave ice at Matsumoto’s Shave Ice, a famous local shave ice stand. People from all over the world come to this local landmark to try the different flavors of shave ice such as azuki bean or POG (passion orange guava). The North Shore is also famous for its shrimp trucks which are scattered throughout the town of Hale‘iwa and beyond.

MAUI

Diverse landscapes, endless outdoor activities, and miles of pristine beaches make Maui the ideal vacation spot for families. If you’re looking for a heart-pounding type of thrill, Kapalua Resort’s newly opened Mountain Outpost has 38-foot climbing towers, a high ropes challenge course, and one of the largest zipline courses in North America. The Kapalua Adventure Center at the resort also can arrange hiking tours or kayaking tours for the entire family. For a more laid-back outing, the Maui Ocean Center offers an up-close view of Hawaiian green sea turtles, hammerhead sharks, spotted eagle rays, and a colorful array of coral reel fish. Plus, scuba certified divers ages 15 and older can test their courage by diving into the center’s 750,000 gallon Open Ocean exhibit. The 20-foot-deep tank is filled with everything from giant fish and stingrays to blacktip and whitetip reef sharks.

If you happen be on Maui between May 18-31, the International Festivals of Canoes will be taking place in Lahaina. Carvers from all over the world gather here to create canoes from scratch right off the famous Front Street in Lahaina. Activities such as art demonstrations, lessons and performances all center around this festival. The closing weekend always includes a ceremony which displays all the completed canoes as well as plenty of island food and music.

Haleakala known as the “House of the Rising Sun” is famous for its spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Families from all over the world take the long drive to its summit to see it for themselves. Once at the summit of Haleakala, visit the visitor’s center where you can get information on nearby hiking trails and activities. Be sure to check the weather reports before heading to Haleakala as sometimes weather conditions make visibility difficult.

KAUA‘I

With its jagged green mountains, remote beaches, and slow-paced way of life, Kaua‘i possesses a magical fairy-tale character that’s hard to beat. A great way to witness this beauty is to take the family on a privately guided hike with Kaua‘i Eco-Tours. The outfitter’s trail options range from strenuous switchback treks and uphill climbs to more laid-back excursions through shaded canopy-covered forests.

For another unforgettable outdoor adventure, hop on an all-terrain vehicle with Kaua‘i ATV Tours. The property’s old sugarcane plantation roads lead to a dramatic waterfall, breathtaking mountain vistas, and locations for movies such as Jurassic Park and Indiana Jones. Be sure to wear old clothes as often times the whole family gets muddy.

Kayak Kaua‘i, known as Hawai‘i’s adventure company offers day trips and adventure tours. Families can book activities from surfing lessons to paddling and hiking adventures on the Na Pali coast. The Blue Lagoons tour includes a three hour guided paddling and snorkeling tour down the Hanalei River and Barrier Reef.

If you happen to be on Kaua‘i at the end of July, be sure to take part in the 24th annual Koloa Plantation Days Celebration. This festival remembers the history and heritage of Kaua‘i’s sugar heritage. Hotels and activity venues through the island host a variety of activities and tournaments such as sport events, historic walks, and craft fairs. Be sure to visit the website to get an updated schedule of events and times as the festival gets closer.

Before you leave Kaua‘i, be sure to bring home some goodies made in Kaua‘i such as jewelry, or unique food items. Visit the Made With Aloha website for a list of the variety of products to choose from.

MOLOKA‘I AND LANA‘I

Moloka‘i and Lāna‘i are the least developed and least populated of the Hawaiian Islands, making them the perfect playground for outdoor family activities.

If you want adventure, Moloka‘i Fish and Dive offers everything from ocean kayaking to deep-sea fishing and whale watching. Located in the sleepy town of Kaunakakai, Moloka‘i Fish and Dive will arrange activities ranging from whale watching to fishing to mountain biking. An activity popular for families is the Lei Making and Plumeria Farm Tour.

Children and parents alike will learn how leis are made as well as learn about the Plumeria plant. You’ll even be able to assist demonstrators in making leis.

On Lāna‘i, the tide pools of Hulopo‘e Bay make for an ideal beginner’s snorkeling spot, while its adjacent blue waters are a favorite among veteran scuba divers. Because Lāna‘i has remained mostly undeveloped, Hulupo‘e Bay is often known as one of the best beaches in Hawai‘i. Snorkelers will often see several different types of fish and corals. If you and your family prefer an activity outside of the water, families can rent a four-wheel drive and explore the famous Munro Trial, a red-dirt path that winds through pine forests and up through mountainous terrain.

WE WELCOME YOU

We welcome you, come and visit the islands of Hawai‘i. Each island boasts a unique quality, and will satisfy any island vacation for the family. For more information, or tips on planning your next vacation to Hawai‘i, visit the official Hawaii tourism website.