Going on a trip to Hawaii with your loved ones is a dream that can be transformed into memories that last a lifetime. The Hawaiian Islands, surrounded by the vast Pacific Ocean, beckon families with their mix of sun-soaked beaches, cultural experiences, and resorts that welcome kids of all ages. The trick is to find the best family resorts in Hawaii, where the needs of both kids and adults are met with equal enthusiasm and care.
In this guide, you’ll discover a curated selection of all-inclusive resorts that offer the perfect balance of relaxation and excitement. From the enchanting island of Maui to the historical wonders of Oahu, each destination offers unique charms and facilities designed to cater to families. We’ll explore the luxurious havens on Lanai, the adventure-filled retreats on the Big Island, and the nature-embraced sanctuaries of Kauai, all while providing practical tips for planning your ultimate family vacation.
Best Hawaii Resorts for Families on Maui Island
Maui Island serves as a premier destination for families, having resorts with amenities like rollaway beds and merit badge programs, all set against the backdrop of Hawaii’s stunning natural beauty. Here are some of their best resorts for families:
Grand Wailea – A Waldorf Astoria Resort
The Grand Wailea stands as a prime example of family-friendly luxury in Maui. Its 20,000-square-foot kid’s camp is a paradise for young guests, featuring a movie theater, a video arcade, and an array of games like ping pong and foosball. The resort’s waterpark, complete with a rope swing and a lazy river that meanders through a faux volcano, promises endless fun for kids of all ages.
Thoughtfully designed with families in mind, the Grand Wailea’s standard rooms are spacious, offering the convenience of connecting rooms for larger parties. Dining options range from casual to gourmet, ensuring that every meal is a delight for both children and adults. With its comprehensive blend of family-oriented amenities and elegant accommodations, the Grand Wailea encapsulates the essence of a perfect family resort.
Montage Kapalua Bay – Where Elegance Meets Family Fun
Montage Kapalua Bay, situated on the rugged northwestern coast of Maui, perfectly balances elegance with family fun. While the resort’s pools offer tranquil relaxation, the Paintbox day camp and “Children’s Night Out” programs ensure that activities for kids are abundant and engaging. From crafts to adventures down to the tide pools, Montage Kapalua Bay ensures that every child’s stay is filled with discovery and joy.
The residential-style accommodations at Montage Kapalua Bay are exceptionally spacious, with the most basic 1-bedroom suites offering an expansive 1,250 sq ft of space. Each suite features a full gourmet kitchen, washer and dryer, and separate living and dining areas, providing families with the comforts of home in a setting of unparalleled luxury. Additionally, the resort’s proximity to traditional Hawaiian cultural experiences enriches every stay with a sense of place and history.
Best Hawaii Resorts for Families on Oahu Island
On Oahu Island, families can stay in resorts offering various activities and experiences that cater to every age and interest. Some famous family resorts on this island are:
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
At Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, families can enjoy a variety of activities, from character meet-and-greets to Hawaiian cultural classes. Indulge in the flavors of Mickey waffles for breakfast, or dive into a saltwater lagoon teeming with marine life.
Kids can splash around in an interactive splash zone while parents relax by the adult-only pools. The resort’s standard rooms offer a comfortable retreat after a day filled with surf lessons or exploring the nearby Ko Olina Lagoons. Aulani’s game room and kids’ clubs provide even more family-friendly entertainment, ensuring that every moment is packed with joy and wonder.
Turtle Bay Resort – The North Shore’s Family Haven
Turtle Bay Resort is a paradise for families seeking a mix of relaxation and adventure. With oceanfront bungalows offering direct views of the sea, your family can wake up to the sound of waves each morning. The resort’s swimming pools are a haven for water enthusiasts, and the pool deck is the perfect spot to soak up the Hawaiian sun.
Experience unforgettable hula lessons, or spot sea turtles while snorkeling in the clear waters. Horseback riding along scenic trails offers a unique way to explore the surroundings, and the opportunity to create wonderful memories that will last a lifetime. Whether it’s lounging by the pool or engaging in exciting activities, Turtle Bay Resort caters to the desires of every family member.
Best Hawaii Resorts for Families on the Big Island
The Island of Hawaii, also known as the Big Island, offers an array of resorts that cater to families seeking sun, fun, and a touch of luxury. Let’s look at some options:
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai – Excellence in Family Hospitality
At Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, families are greeted with a blend of luxury and a welcoming atmosphere that attracts families from all over. Situated on the Kona Coast, Hualalai’s sandy beaches and calm waters create an idyllic setting for a family getaway. The resort’s kids program caters to younger guests, offering arts and crafts, ukulele lessons, and a myriad of activities that keep tweens and teens engaged and entertained.
Hualalai’s seven pools provide a variety of aquatic experiences, from quiet relaxation to family fun. Dive into the world of marine biology with expert-led programs that offer a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the island. At Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, attracting families means providing an unforgettable experience where luxury meets the spirit of Hawaiian adventure.
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort – Sun, Surf, and Serenity
The Westin Hapuna Beach Resort is a sanctuary where families can experience both excitement and tranquility. With the Keiki Club offering a range of activities for children, parents can relax knowing their little ones are engaged in fun and educational experiences. The resort’s prime location above one of the Big Island’s most beautiful beaches allows for easy days spent in the surf and sand.
From shell searching to treasure hunts, the Westin Hapuna Beach Resort offers a varied itinerary that caters to the curious nature of children. The emphasis on family-friendly amenities ensures that every member of the family, no matter their age, can find something enjoyable to do, making it a top choice for those seeking a harmonious blend of sun, surf, and serenity.
Best Hawaii Resorts for Families on Kauai Island
Kauai Island is home to resorts that promise a memorable family vacation. Here, the emphasis is on spacious accommodations, extensive amenities, and activities that allow families to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and relaxed spirit of the island. Some of its best resorts for families include:
Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa – A Complete Family Package
The Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa stands as a beacon of family-friendly luxury on Kauai Island. With its massive pool complex, complete with a 150-foot water slide, kids and adults alike will find endless enjoyment. The resort’s on-site restaurants cater to a variety of tastes, ensuring that every meal is a delightful experience. Plus, the weekly traditional luau offers a taste of Hawaiian culture through music and hula dancing.
A stay at the Grand Hyatt Kauai also means access to Camp Hyatt, where children can engage in fun activities while parents unwind with indulgent spa treatments. The resort’s gorgeous property, adorned with sprawling gardens, sets the stage for a vacation filled with exploration and relaxation. A stay here is truly a complete family package, offering something for every guest.
Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu – Spacious and Scenic
At Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu, families can enjoy the spacious luxury of the largest accommodations in the area, alongside a 350,000-gallon main pool adorned with water slides and cascades. The resort’s location on the sunny south shore of Kauai positions it perfectly for days spent basking in the Hawaiian sun and enjoying the island’s natural splendor.
The family-oriented property doesn’t skimp on amenities, offering a putting green for aspiring golfers, a volleyball court, and a soccer field for those who prefer their fun on dry land. With so many options for play and relaxation, Koloa Landing Resort is a scenic destination that promises space and enjoyment for families looking to make the most of their Hawaiian holiday.
Best Hawaii Resorts for Families on Lanai Island
Lanai Island offers a peaceful island retreat for families seeking a more secluded vacation experience. The luxury accommodations on this island cater to guests of all ages, with cultural centers that provide a deeper connection to the island’s heritage. In these resorts, families can find the perfect balance of privacy, pampering, and cultural engagement.
Four Seasons Resort Lanai: Ultimate Privacy and Pampering
Four Seasons Resort Lanai is a cliffside paradise, providing families with both secluded relaxation and engaging activities for all ages. With family pools and the Kids For All Seasons program, children will find endless entertainment, while parents can steal away for moments of tranquility at the spa or a gourmet meal at the on-site restaurant.
Each detail at Four Seasons Resort Lanai is crafted to ensure an exclusive and pampered stay, from the plush accommodations to the attentive service.
Planning Your Family’s Hawaiian Holiday
When planning for a family trip in Hawaii, there are several tips to consider to make your vacation one of the best.
Tip 1: Select the Ideal Resort for Your Family
Finding the perfect home base for your Hawaiian adventure starts with identifying the best family resorts in Hawaii that cater to your family’s needs. Consider the variety of activities offered, the types of accommodations, and the proximity to attractions. Whether your family prefers a resort with a bustling kids’ club or a tranquil beachfront oasis, the key is to choose a place that will make every member of your family smile.
Look for resorts that provide the amenities and services that will enhance your stay, from spacious suites for larger families to cultural experiences that enrich your understanding of Hawaii. The Fairmont Kea Lani, for example, offers a harmonious blend of luxury, comfort, and cultural immersion, making it an exemplary choice for families wanting to experience the best of Hawaii. With careful consideration, your family’s Hawaiian holiday can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you desire.
Tip 2: Plan Family-Oriented Activities
When selecting activities for your Hawaiian vacation, look for those that will delight every member of the family. Beach days are a given, but spice up your itinerary with interactive experiences like hula dancing lessons or a family surf school. Many of the best family resorts in Hawaii offer on-site activities tailored to kids, such as treasure hunts and nature excursions, so take advantage of these unique opportunities to create unforgettable memories together.
Also, consider scheduling a few adventures that are educational as well as fun. Visits to the Maui Ocean Center or the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park can provide a fascinating glimpse into Hawaii’s natural wonders, while also keeping the kids engaged with interactive exhibits and ranger-led programs. With a little planning, you can ensure your family’s days are packed with fun and enriching experiences.
Tip 3: Engage With Hawaii’s Rich Heritage
Hawaii’s history and culture are as vibrant as its landscapes, and immersing your family in this heritage can be both rewarding and enlightening. Many resorts offer cultural activities, such as lei-making workshops and storytelling sessions, which can provide a deeper understanding of the local traditions. Make time to attend a luau, where you’ll not only enjoy a feast of Hawaiian delicacies but also witness the mesmerizing art of Polynesian dance and music.
Outside the resort, visit historic sites like the Iolani Palace on Oahu or Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island to give your family a tangible connection to Hawaii’s past. Engaging with the local community through farmer’s markets and town festivals can also be a meaningful way to appreciate the Aloha spirit and the people who embody it.
Tip 4: Jump on Seasonal Deals and Family Packages
Hawaii can be a year-round destination, but savvy families know that timing is everything for snagging the best deals. Travel during shoulder seasons—fall and spring—when resorts often offer discounted rates and special family packages. Keep an eye out for promotions that include free meals for kids, resort credits, or complimentary activity passes, all of which can add value to your stay at the best family resorts in Hawaii.
Many resorts also feature seasonal events and kids’ clubs with unique programs that take advantage of Hawaii’s festive seasons. Sign up for newsletters and follow your favorite resorts on social media to stay informed about upcoming deals and packages. By booking early or during less crowded times, you can enjoy the luxury of Hawaii’s top family resorts without breaking the bank.
Tip 5: Enjoy Hawaii on a Budget
Believe it or not, a Hawaiian vacation doesn’t have to drain your savings. Start by choosing accommodations that offer kitchenettes or full kitchens; this way, you can save money by preparing some meals yourself. Resorts often have grilling areas where you can cook up a family feast with local produce from the market. Also, explore the island’s natural beauty with low-cost activities like hiking in state parks or snorkeling off public beaches.
Take advantage of free cultural experiences, such as watching the sunset from a beach, enjoying street performances, or visiting historical landmarks. Many community events and festivals offer a glimpse into Hawaii’s culture without an admission fee. With smart planning and a focus on the abundance of natural and free resources Hawaii has to offer, your family can enjoy an enriching and affordable Hawaiian holiday.
Final Thoughts on the Best Hawaii Resorts for Families
Choosing the right Hawaiian resort means creating an unforgettable vacation experience for your family. The islands offer a diverse range of accommodations, culturally rich activities, and privacy for families. Hawaii’s resorts stand ready to welcome you with warm aloha spirit and family-friendly amenities. So, as you plan your Hawaiian holiday, remember to seek out resorts that not only provide luxurious comfort but also engage your family with the island’s rich heritage and natural beauty.