Planning a family vacation to Hawaii? Maui is often hailed as the top Hawaiian island for families, and for good reason. With stunning beaches, fantastic snorkeling spots, and engaging farm tours, Maui offers a plethora of activities to delight every member of your family. Crucially, Maui also boasts a diverse selection of accommodations perfectly tailored to family travelers. To simplify your planning process, we’ve curated a list of the 10 best Maui resorts for families, providing essential details to help you pinpoint the ideal hotel for your family’s dream vacation.
Quick Picks: Top 5 Family-Favorite Maui Resorts
- For Thrilling Water Slides: Wailea Beach Resort – Dive into fun with Hawaii’s longest waterslide!
- For Unbeatable Beach Access: Westin Ka’anapali – Step right onto the sands of Ka’anapali Beach.
- For Spacious Family Stays: The Fairmont Kea Lani – Enjoy suite and villa accommodations for ultimate family comfort.
- For Large Family Groups: Honua Kai Resort – Discover spacious suites perfect for extended families.
- For Relaxed Island Vibes: Napili Kai Beach Resort – Experience a laid-back, low-rise resort atmosphere.
Finding the Perfect Family-Friendly Resort in Maui
Why is Maui Ideal for Families?
Maui stands out as an exceptionally family-friendly vacation destination. Its calm coves and bays are perfect for swimming, beginner-friendly snorkeling is abundant, dining options are diverse and cater to all tastes, and the weather is consistently beautiful. Notably, nearly every resort on the island welcomes families with open arms.
If you’re still considering which Hawaiian island best suits your family’s vacation style, our guide on choosing the right Hawaiian island for families offers valuable insights.
For comprehensive assistance in planning your Maui adventure, explore our Maui Trip Planning Guide for Happy Travelers.
Is a Maui Vacation Right for Your Family?
Absolutely! Maui is brimming with fantastic kid-friendly activities, making it an amazing choice for a family getaway. Our family cherishes experiences like farm tours and snorkeling excursions – just a few examples of the many adventures awaiting you.
Which Area of Maui is Best for Families to Stay?
Families typically gravitate towards two primary resort areas in Maui: Wailea and Ka’anapali. Both enjoy excellent weather, fantastic snorkeling opportunities, and beautiful beaches. The best area for your family hinges on budget, desired activity proximity, and overall atmosphere.
Choose Ka’anapali for a vibrant, lively setting with numerous kid-friendly restaurants and a broader range of three- and four-star resort choices. Opt for Wailea if you prefer a more tranquil ambiance, luxurious resorts with spectacular pools, and five-star accommodations.
Still undecided between these locations? Our detailed comparison of Ka’anapali vs Wailea provides an in-depth analysis to help you choose.
Family Activities Abound in Maui
Maui is packed with exciting activities for families. Embark on a memorable whale watching tour, explore the best beaches, discover scenic easy hikes, or dive into incredible snorkeling spots. For a comprehensive list of Maui activities for kids categorized by age, we have you covered.
Need Space? Best Maui Resorts for Large Families
Several resorts on our list feature multi-bedroom suites, perfect for larger families. However, if you require even more space, explore our recommendations for the best Maui vacation rentals for large groups.
Resort or Vacation Rental: Which is Best for Families in Maui?
Let’s address the cost factor upfront: resort stays in Maui can be pricey for families. In 2023, hotel costs were approximately 18% higher than vacation rentals.
The average nightly hotel rate in November 2023 was around $497, while vacation rentals averaged $360 per night. Keep in mind that many resorts also add daily resort fees, ranging from $30 to $70, and dining out at resorts can significantly increase your expenses.
Despite the cost, resorts remain a popular choice for Maui visitors. Hawaii Tourism Authority data from November 2019 indicates that 44% of visitors stayed exclusively in hotels, and 13% exclusively in vacation rentals.
To explore our top accommodation picks, be sure to visit our Where to Stay section, featuring reviews of our favorite hotels and vacation rentals across the islands. We’ve diligently researched and vetted the best options for you!
The Allure of Maui Resorts for Families
Why do so many families choose resorts in Maui? Depending on the resort, the amenities for both children and adults can be truly exceptional. Think water slides, lazy rivers, engaging hula lessons, stargazing programs, and enticing kids-eat-free deals. Added conveniences like daily housekeeping and dedicated kids’ clubs can transform a vacation into a relaxing experience for parents as well as children. Given the investment in a resort stay, selecting the perfect resort for your family is crucial.
Top Family-Friendly Maui Resorts: Video Overview
For a visual preview of these fantastic Maui Family Resorts, watch our video highlighting the best options for various family types and preferences.
Top 10 Maui Resorts for Families: Detailed Guide
While virtually every resort in Maui could be considered family-friendly, we applied specific criteria to narrow down our list to the 10 best. Our selection prioritizes location, kid-focused amenities (such as kids’ clubs and activities), pool features, and overall resort atmosphere.
1. Fairmont Kea Lani: Best Maui Family Resort for Space
For families tired of cramped hotel rooms, the Fairmont Kea Lani is a breath of fresh air. This oceanfront luxury resort exclusively offers one-bedroom suites and spacious two- to three-bedroom villas. Enjoy ample space, separate bedrooms, and freedom from tripping over luggage and each other.
Located at the southern end of Wailea on Polo Beach, the Fairmont exudes a more relaxed ambiance compared to busier resorts in the area. Polo Beach is beautiful and offers excellent snorkeling when conditions are calm.
Take a virtual tour of the Fairmont Kea Lani in our video review, including a detailed room walkthrough!
Watch our video review of Fairmont Kea Lani to see if it’s the right fit for your family seeking space.
While a luxury and higher-priced option, the Fairmont delivers exceptional value for families by providing suite and villa accommodations. Family-oriented activities are plentiful. One minor drawback for families with young children is that the on-site dinner restaurants may be less geared towards them.
However, the Fairmont’s calmer, less crowded atmosphere truly sets it apart from other family-friendly resorts on Maui. Its location at the edge of Wailea provides a sense of spaciousness and tranquility, allowing for more relaxed exploration.
Fairmont Kea Lani Family Features:
- Activities: Koi feeding, nightly torch lighting ceremony, croquet, cornhole, Mermaid University, Ninja Zone obstacle course.
- Kids’ Club: Yes, the Keiki Lani Kids Club for children aged 5-12. The cost is included in the resort fee.
- Dining: Kids under 5 eat free from the kids’ menu at Ko Kea Lani Restaurant and AMA Bar & Grill. Children aged 5-12 can order from the kids’ menu at full price or the regular menu at 50% off.
- Pools: Two family-friendly pools with a 140-foot waterslide and basketball hoop. A separate pool for toddlers and readily available pool toys. Cabana rentals offer sun protection, and complimentary sunscreen is provided poolside.
- Nearby: Polo Beach
Read our comprehensive review of our stay at the Fairmont Kea Lani here.
Book your stay at the Fairmont Kea Lani
The whale-shaped pool and spacious lawn area at Kaanapali Beach Hotel, a family-friendly Maui resort.
Traveling to Maui in winter? Don’t miss whale watching season!
Explore our guides to whale watching in Maui:
The Ultimate Guide to Whale Watching on Maui: Best Tips
The Best Hawaiian Island For Whale Watching
The 7 Best Whale Watching Tours on Maui: Exclusive Discounts
2. Ka’anapali Beach Hotel: Best Value Maui Family Resort
Stepping into the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel feels like a nostalgic trip back to 1960s Ka’anapali. Its retro charm is evident in the décor, building design, and expansive open spaces. While updates are minimal, this mid-range hotel prioritizes location and value.
Luxury amenities like waterslides, poolside bars, and plush linens are not the focus here. However, if you seek the best value for a prime beachfront location for your family, this is an excellent choice.
The Ka’anapali Beach Hotel enjoys a fantastic spot along Ka’anapali Beach, nestled between Whaler’s Village and Black Rock. The resort grounds are sprawling, providing ample room for kids to play, and the service is known for its warmth and friendliness.
The absence of a kids’ club or elaborate pool complex (no waterslides or lazy rivers) might be a drawback for some families. But if these features aren’t essential for your vacation, the price point is exceptionally appealing for this sought-after location.
Ka’anapali Beach Hotel Family Features:
- Activities: Rich cultural activities including hula, Hawaiian language lessons, lei making, and ukulele lessons. View the complete cultural activities schedule. Ocean activities are also available through their ocean activity center.
- Kids’ Club: No.
- Dining: Maui Brew Co. is conveniently located on-site, offering a fun dining option.
- Pool: Yes, but it’s small and simple.
- Nearby: Direct access to Ka’anapali Beach and close proximity to Whalers Village.
Reserve your room at the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel
3. Grand Wailea: Best Maui Family Resort for an Incredible Pool Experience
If pools are a top priority for your family, the Grand Wailea is unparalleled. It boasts the most elaborate pool complex on Maui: nine pools, four thrilling waterslides, a rope swing, and a relaxing lazy river.
The expansive grounds are equally impressive, with lush gardens, cascading waterfalls, and serene koi ponds at every turn. Children will be endlessly entertained exploring the resort. However, the vastness can sometimes feel crowded, making it perhaps more of a luxury hotel geared towards children’s enjoyment than adult tranquility.
The Grand Wailea also features an impressive kids’ club complete with a video arcade and movie theater. However, this luxury kids’ club comes at an additional cost: $65 for a half-day and $125 for a full day.
Watch our video showcasing our staycation at the Grand Wailea and get a glimpse of their amazing pool area.
Grand Wailea Family Features:
- Activities: Scuba training program (for ages 12+), kayaking, paddleboarding, aqua glider tours and rentals (through an external vendor), gaming lounge, sunrise chant, botanical tours, sunset torch lighting, lei making, hula lessons, and a Lego wall.
- Kids’ Club: Camp Grande caters to children aged 5-12, with half-day and full-day options available for an additional fee ($65 – $125).
- Dining: Dedicated kids’ menus are available. Children aged 5 and under enjoy complimentary breakfast in the Grand Dining Room and free dinner at Humuhumu restaurant.
- Pools: An extensive pool paradise featuring four pools, five intertwining waterslides, a whitewater rapids slide, Tarzan pool and rope swing, waterfalls, caves, jacuzzis, a water elevator, and a swim-up bar. Cabana rentals are available.
- Nearby: Wailea Beach
Book your family getaway at the Grand Wailea
Families enjoying the pool at Wailea Beach Resort, a top Maui resort known for its waterslides.
4. Wailea Beach Resort: Best Maui Family Resort for Water Slides
This premier Marriott property in South Maui shines with the longest waterslide in Hawaii. While it may not have the same breadth of kid-focused amenities as some other resorts on this list, the Wailea Beach Resort compensates with this thrilling attraction. The pool area is nearly as impressive as the Grand Wailea’s, yet the hotel is often priced more affordably than its luxury neighbor.
Additional family perks include a game room and a movie theater showing children’s films in the evenings, complete with complimentary lemonade and popcorn.
A potential downside is the seasonal operation of the kids’ club, so availability isn’t guaranteed. While oceanfront, beach access requires a short walk down a path, making it slightly less direct than some other Wailea resorts.
Wailea Beach Resort Family Features:
- Activities: Life-size chess and Connect Four on the oceanfront lawns, a movie room, and an escape room (likely better suited for older children/teens).
- Kids’ Club: Keiki Kamp is open seasonally, with full-day and half-day options available for a fee ($125 and $75 respectively).
- Dining: Restaurants and casual food truck options are available.
- Pools: Three pools, including the Nalu Adventure Pool complex featuring Hawaii’s longest waterslide.
- Nearby: Wailea Beach
Read our comprehensive review (and watch our video) of the Wailea Beach Resort.
Reserve your family fun at Wailea Beach Resort
5. Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas: Best Maui Family Resort for Beach Access
The Westin Ka’anapali consistently ranks as a favorite in Ka’anapali. Its location adjacent to Whaler’s Village is convenient, yet surprisingly, the Westin maintains a serene atmosphere despite the bustling surroundings.
The pool layout likely contributes to this tranquility. Five distinct pools cascade across different levels overlooking the beach, creating a massive 87,000 square feet of pool space for splashing and play. These pools rival the Grand Wailea’s in appeal and, during our visits, have not felt overly crowded. Despite having 770 rooms (the same as the Grand Wailea), the Westin manages to feel more intimate.
Exceptional beach access is a major highlight. The Westin fronts a wide stretch of golden sand on Ka’anapali Beach, one of Maui’s finest beaches, and is a short stroll from both Black Rock and its expansive beach area.
A significant bonus for parents is the Westin Kids Club evening program. The “Night Camp” operates from 5:30 PM to 9:30 PM for $60 (dinner included), allowing parents to enjoy an evening out while children are entertained at the resort.
Westin Ka’anapali Family Features:
- Activities: On-site luau and the Waterman Program.
- Dining: A “Kid’s Eat Well Menu” offers nutritious and appealing options for children.
- Pools: Five pools encompassing 87,000 square feet, including a waterslide and waterfalls.
- Nearby: Whaler’s Village and Ka’anapali Beach
Read our full review of the Westin Maui Resort & Spa at Ka’anapali.
Book your family beach vacation at the Westin Ka’anapali
Hyatt Regency Ka'anapali's pool area, a popular Maui family resort with many kid-friendly activities.
6. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa: Best Maui Family Resort for Kid-Focused Activities
Located on the southern end of Ka’anapali Beach, the Hyatt Regency delivers a fantastic family resort experience. The pool complex is a major draw, featuring six pools, a thrilling 150-foot waterslide, a rope bridge, and more. Beyond the pools, the Hyatt offers a variety of activities to entertain the entire family.
Kid-friendly highlights include:
- Penguin Presentation: Learn about the resort’s resident penguins and watch their feeding – an educational and fun experience.
- Stargazing: Join the rooftop stargazing program, offered multiple times per week.
- Mermaid Swim Academy: Weekly sessions where kids can meet a mermaid and participate in a poolside swimming class.
- On-site Luau: Experience a traditional Hawaiian luau without leaving the resort with the Drums of the Pacific luau.
With 880 rooms, the Hyatt provides ample on-site dining options. A particularly family-friendly feature is the breakfast buffet pricing, which is tiered by age (e.g., a five-year-old pays $5 for the buffet).
The beach directly in front of the Hyatt is smaller and has experienced erosion. However, a short walk along the Ka’anapali Beach Boardwalk reveals wider stretches of sand.
Hyatt Regency Ka’anapali Family Features:
- Activities: Penguin feedings, stargazing, and mermaid swim lessons are signature experiences.
- Kids’ Club: No dedicated kids’ club.
- Pools: Six pools, a rope bridge, waterslide, and more ensure aquatic fun.
- Dining: Four restaurants, a poolside bar, Ululani’s shave ice, Honolulu Coffee, and more offer diverse dining choices.
- Nearby: Ka’anapali Beach
Book your family fun at the Hyatt Regency Maui
Explore more of Maui’s rich culture:
The 6 Best Luaus on Maui by Location
9 Ways to Have an Authentic Hawaiian Experience
The 16 BEST Maui Farm Tours You Don’t Want to Miss
7. Honua Kai Resort & Spa: Best Maui Family Resort for Large Families and Home-Like Comforts
Seeking resort amenities combined with the space of a vacation rental? Honua Kai is a vacation rental complex just north of Ka’anapali offering one- to three-bedroom suites alongside luxury resort features like a beautiful pool area, easy beach access, and attentive staff. Three-bedroom suites exceed 2,000 square feet, providing ample space for large families or groups.
On-site dining options include Duke’s Maui, and other restaurants are a short drive away. The 3-acre pool area boasts a waterslide, five hot tubs, waterfalls, and a children’s fountain play area. Honua Kai is decidedly family-friendly, with a predominantly family-oriented guest profile, which can lead to a lively and sometimes noisy atmosphere (a plus if your family is also energetic!).
While offering a resort feel and amenities, each unit is individually owned. Therefore, carefully review unit details and guest reviews when booking to ensure it meets your family’s specific needs.
Reserve your condo at Honua Kai Resort
The Four Seasons Resort Maui, a luxurious option for families seeking high-end accommodations and service.
8. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Best Maui Family Resort for Luxury Travel
The Four Seasons Maui seamlessly blends features appealing to both parents and children.
Spacious rooms are a major advantage for families, providing room to spread out. A wide array of activities keeps everyone entertained throughout the day and evening. Exceptional service is a hallmark, as expected at a luxury hotel – and reflected in the higher price point.
Three pools are available, and while perhaps not as splashy as some nearby resorts, they offer a significant perk: complimentary cabanas. Enjoy shaded relaxation for napping children without incurring a daily rental fee.
The complimentary kids’ club, “Kids For All Seasons,” is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Adding to the value, there is no resort fee. The included amenities and unparalleled service justify its position as the most expensive hotel on this list and underscore its status as an incredible Maui destination.
Four Seasons Maui Family Features:
- Activities: Beyond a daily activities schedule, enjoy access to a game room, croquet, bocce ball, and a putting green.
- Kids’ Club: The “Kids For All Seasons” club is complimentary for children aged 5-12 (children under 5 are welcome with an accompanying adult). Activities include gecko hunts, hula lessons, lei making, sandcastle building, Hawaiian bowling, and more.
- Dining: Complimentary meals for children aged five and under at Ferraro’s and DUO restaurants.
- Pools: Three pools, including an adult serenity pool and a waterfall family pool with a slide. Pool attendants offer Evian spritzes and frozen cherries for poolside refreshment.
- Nearby: Wailea Beach
Book your luxurious family escape at the Four Seasons Maui
9. Napili Kai Beach Resort: Best Maui Family Resort for a Relaxed, Low-Key Experience
For a departure from large resorts and a beachfront setting, Napili Kai is an excellent family resort choice. Nestled on Napili Bay, no building exceeds the height of a palm tree, creating a relaxed, low-rise atmosphere in contrast to sprawling high-rise resorts. Napili Kai embodies a laid-back island vibe.
Napili Kai offers a seasonal kids’ club program and a kids-eat-free program (for children 12 and under). While lacking large waterslides, it features four pools and a stunning beachfront location. Napili Bay is recognized as one of Maui’s best beaches and a top snorkeling spot.
The on-site restaurant, The Sea House, is perfect for breakfast, lunch, happy hour, or dinner. Alternatively, stroll to the other end of the bay for breakfast at the renowned Gazebo restaurant.
Napili Kai Family Features:
- Activities: Cultural morning presentations with coffee.
- Kids’ Club: Seasonal kids’ club program.
- Dining: Kids aged 12 and under eat free from the keiki menu at The Sea House with a paying adult.
- Pools: Four pools.
- Nearby: Napili Bay
Reserve your relaxed beachfront stay at Napili Kai Resort
Montage Kapalua Bay, a top-tier Maui family resort known for its exceptional kids' club and luxurious villas.
10. Montage Kapalua Bay: Best Maui Family Resort for Exceptional Kids’ Club Programs
While perhaps the most luxurious resort on Maui, the Montage Kapalua Bay excels at catering to families. This exceptional hotel boasts sprawling grounds, a location near Kapalua Bay yet removed from busier resort areas, and luxurious villas and pools.
Accommodations consist of spacious one- to four-bedroom villas, each featuring a full kitchen, living room, and dining room – ideal for family comfort. Three pools are thoughtfully spread across varying levels, creating a serene and uncrowded feel.
The standout feature is the Paintbox Children’s Program. Daily activities are thoughtfully planned around themes, incorporating both indoor and outdoor experiences. For example, “Wildlife Wednesday” involves exploring the Kapalua Coastal Trail and a bird refuge, teaching children about Maui’s diverse birdlife. “Children’s Night Out” offers dinner, arts and crafts, a pajama party, and a movie. These programs are offered for an additional fee but are more comprehensive and enriching than typical kids’ club offerings.
Montage Kapalua Bay Family Features:
- Activities: “Montage Merit Badges” encourage kids to try new vacation activities (whale spotting, surfing, etc.).
- Kids’ Club: The Paintbox Children’s Club provides daily activities for children aged 5-12, with half-day, full-day, and evening options.
- Dining: Multiple restaurants are available, including the family-friendly The Hideaway. 24-hour in-room dining is also offered.
- Pools: Three pools on different levels.
- Nearby: Kapalua Bay
Book your unforgettable family vacation at Montage Kapalua Bay
Continue Planning Your Maui Family Trip
With your resort selection complete, it’s time to finalize your Maui vacation plans. Our pre-designed Maui itineraries are ready to assist you. These detailed daily plans guide you to the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, hiking trails, and must-see sights, ensuring you maximize your precious vacation time.
“Just wanted to thank you for the awesome itinerary you have put together. We just got back from our 10 day Maui trip & it was such a great help to my family. We saw and experienced so much. Thank you for putting all of this fantastic travel information out there! For this travel research nerd, I sure do appreciate it!”
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Our step-by-step itinerary will guide you to the best beaches, snorkeling locations, restaurants, and attractions Maui has to offer. You’ll receive six carefully crafted excursion days to help you experience the must-see spots, regardless of your trip length.
Learn more about our itinerary and download it for a memorable and effortlessly planned Maui vacation.
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