Are you looking for a kid-friendly adventure in Hawaii? Here is a list of some of the top-rated things to do while you are here. With or without kids, let our latest blog help you plan some fun adventures! We have created a list of some of the most well-known features in Hawaii, ranging from the towering Hilo Waterfalls to the explosive volcanoes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. All of these attractions can be visited and enjoyed by people of all ages.
Top 10 Things to do in Hawaii with Kids
Top 10 Things to do in Hawaii With Kids
1. Horseback Riding Waipio Valley
Waipio Valley is a must-see when on Hawaii Island, and what better way to see the valley than on horseback? You and your family can enjoy the experience of a lifetime while riding through the Valley. Located at the back of Waipio Valley is Hiilawe Falls. Hiilawe Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Hawaii. The total height of the falls is about 1,450 feet (442m) with the highest direct drop of 1,201 feet (366m). There is also a mile-long stretch of black sand beach at the front of Waipio Valley, where you can often find locals surfing. This is an activity everyone will love.
Please note that you cannot go to the back of Waipio Valley unless on a guided tour. It is private property.
2. The City of Refuge (PU‘UHONUA O HÖNAUNAU NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK)
The City of Refuge is a sacred place to the Native Hawaiians. It has a deep history and portrays true Hawaiian culture. To get there, would be a race against death, for the Native Hawaiians of the past. The Native Hawaiians who had committed a crime would be forced to travel to the city seeking Refuge, after they had reached the city only then could they be saved from the punishment of death. You can explore the grounds with your kids and learn more about the long journeys they made and learn the history of the royal grounds!
3. Zipline Tours
One way to have fun with your family is to go on a zipline tour. While on a zipline tour you will be able to see the beauty of the island from a new perspective. While on the tour you will experience flying through the jungles of Hawaii and see some of the best views of your trip. There are multiple different zipline locations found on the Big Island of Hawaii. The different tours you can pick from allow you to have a variety of views while seemingly flying through the island of Hawaii.
4. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
The Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is on the southeast side of the Big Island, closer to Hilo. This means it’s about a 2-hour drive from the Kona side, but the drive is definitely worth it. Kilauea Volcano is currently active and at night the lava casts a beautiful red glow that makes for a beautiful backdrop for a family picture. On a clear night, you may even catch a glimpse of the lava as it bubbles within the caldera.
5. Hapuna Beach State Park
Hapuna Beach State Park has been rated in the Top 10 Beaches in Hawaii. It offers some of the best conditions for swimming, boogie boarding, bodyboarding, snorkeling, and sunbathing. This is one of our favorite beaches here on the Big Island.
This beach is great for young kids and their families, this beach doesn’t offer much shade, so if you want some relief from Hawaii’s rays, you might want to go early and head for the rocks or bring a beach umbrella.
One thing to check out there is a cave, located on the far left side of the beach when facing the water. You are able to walk around the rocks and into a cave when the tide is low. Another amazing thing about Hapuna Beach is that during the right season you are able to see whales in the distance. You will always see families having a great time here.
6. Thurston Lava Tubes
One of our favorite activities to do when we’re with the family is exploring the Thurston Lava Tubes. The beginning of the hike takes you through a lush volcanic jungle. When you reach the tubes, you will walk down into what seems to be a cave. The tubes are lit from within, allowing you to walk all the way through, this is a great little hike for kids or someone looking for something unique.
7. Liliuokalani Park and Gardens
Liliuokalani is a nice park where you and your family can walk around and explore the Japanese garden. While you are there, you will be able to see Coconut Island, and you can even go across the bridge and explore the little island. You and your kids could make a day out of it, playing in the water and exploring the garden.
8. Hilo Waterfalls
There are many waterfalls on the Hilo side. One of our favorites is Akaka Falls State Park. It’s only a .5 mile walk down a paved path, which is great for kids. You will walk down into the lush forest that ends at a lookout point with a view of the amazing waterfall.
Please note that you can’t actually get to the waterfall. There is no swimming allowed here. It is, however, a gorgeous walking path with lots of beautiful tropical plants!
9. Polynesian Cultural ATV Adventure
Aloha Adventure Farms is a uniquely fun experience that everyone should do while on their trip to Hawaii! While at Aloha Adventure Farms, you are able to drive an ATV through the jungles of Kona on a guided tour or take a ride in one of our tour guide-operated UTVs. While on the tour, you will visit four stops themed for four of the Polynesian Islands, with each stop you will get to experience an activity from each of the islands! You must be 16 or older to drive an ATV, if not you will be in the UTV with a tour guide. 5 and up are allowed to go but have to be in a UTV. You don’t want to miss this Big Island ATV tour so make sure to book!
10. Tiki Carving Adventure
Aloha Adventure Farms also offers a Polynesian wood carving tour with an amazing guide, Mani, who is a fourth-generation woodcarver. You will be able to sit and talk with him and learn about his upbringing in Tonga to his life here in Hawaii. Mani will teach you how to carve your very own tiki, at the end of the tour you are able to take your carving home! You will have a souvenir unlike anything else! For this tour, kids must be 8 or older to be able to come and carve. You’ll want to make room in your Hawaiian itinerary for this experience!
Want more information about the best things to do in Hawaii with kids?
The Big Island of Hawaii is a great place for a family vacation because of the experiences and activities you are able to do with your family and the memories you will take home. We hope to see you here at Aloha Adventure Farms soon!
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