I’m not sure that there is a bad time to visit Hawaii. What I do know is that early December is a beautiful time to go. We spent 10 days on our first trip to Hawaii; we stayed on the island of Maui. The town was called Lahaina and was a great family spot. That may seen like a long time, but I assure it’s a long flight and you are going to want to give yourself time to adjust to the time change as well. It was a 4 hour difference for us, which meant that JDub wanted to crash out by 3 in the afternoon and was ready f or the day about 2 am! It took a few days for us to adjust and get on a different schedule.
We spent the majority of the time as a family and found some great activites that everyone could enjoy together. Here are 5 great family friendly activities in Maui you are going to want to check out!
This is a traditional hula and feast. You will watch as the men uncover the meal that has been cooking all day in a tradition manner. The meal is server buffet style and table service is provided for drinks. You can sit at a traditional table near the stage (seated on pad on the ground) or on an upper level at a table and chairs. The entire event is oceanside and you will enjoy beautiful live music, hula lessons, hula performances and the story of the first missionaries to the islands. You will want to make these reservations as early as possible, tables right in front of the stage fill early.
#2 Maui Ocean Center
The Hawaiian Aquarium was a great adventure for the little one, but we all enjoyed it too. Beautiful sea life were viewed from full length glass walls. A touch and learn area was available for visitors to be able to see first hand what some sea creatures looked like up close and to hold them as well. We dinned at a lovely outdoor restuarant with views on the ocean in front of us and the shark tanks behind us!
#3 Drive the Road to Hana
This scenic drive will take you around a beautiful section of the north west side of the island. Packed full of winding road often times one lane, you will see upward of 19 amazing waterfalls. Be prepared for a little off roading at times (rental cars beware), its best to not attempt these areas after dark.
#4 Banyan Tree Park and Shopping
This amazing park is made up of one massive tree. We first visited during their annual tree lighting for the holidays. It is magnificent during the day or covered in lights. The area surrounding the park is packed with shops and restuarants. Great places like Fleetwood’s on Front Street and Honolulu Cookie Company are a few I would recommend checking out.
#5 The BEACH and Watersports
The beach access at our hotel was amazing! There was only 1 day during our stay that the winds were strong and the water a little rough. Otherwise we spent our mornings and evenings on the beach. JDub loved sitting in the sand and playing with his beach toys that we brought with us. We rented a paddleboard and took turns trying it out. Everyone loved it and I’m sure we will be doing it again soon. We did not think to bring our life jacket for the little one, but were able to purchase a simple inflattable jacket in the hotel gift shop.
I loved Maui. We have been a few times, not with kids though. The Road to Hana is well worth the long day! And that Banyan tree is awesome…I can only imagine how cool it must be with lights! We’ve never been to the Ocean center…that sounds interesting as well. If we ever go back, I’ll be keeping that in mind!
Oh so fun! Living in New England the trip over to Hawaii is quite daunting but it is on my bucket list to make it there one day!
Thanks for this! We are midway though planning our summer trip to Maui! Will be checking these out for sure!
I loved Maui, but we haven’t braved the flight with the kids yet. And December is the start of whale watching season too! So much fun. Road to Hana will be one of my favorite memories, and while my husband complains to this day about the drive (one way cliffside roads!), we had so much fun, it was definitely one of the highlights. You guys look like you had a fabulous time.
I so wish I could go there right now~I bet your kids loved it! Thanks for sharing on our Throwback Thursday link party last week and I can’t wait to see what you have for us this Thursday!
Mollie
Looks like you had such a lovely time with your family. Hawaii is definitely on our list of places to visit, and I’ll be referring to your posts and tips when we finally go. Thanks so much for sharing this on #shinebloghop last week!