Planning a trip to the Big Island with kids and want to find the best kid-friendly attractions, activities, restaurants, and more? Scroll to check out this mega list of the best things to do on the Big Island with kids!
This guide on the best things to do on the Big Island with kids was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Are you planning a family vacation to the Big Island?
You might be wondering what to do on the Big Island of Hawaii with kids. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Keep scrolling to find out the best things to do on the Big Island with kids.
In this post, I’ll share the best kid-friendly restaurants, activities, attractions, beaches and so much more. By the end of this post, you’ll have tons of ideas to help you plan your Big Island itinerary.
The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the most beautiful places on earth. It’s home to active volcanoes, lush rainforests, and miles and miles of white-sand beaches. There are so many things to do with kids in Hawaii that I can’t even fit them all into this post!
You can explore lava tubes, swim with dolphins, or go snorkeling at night with Manta Rays.
And don’t forget about the food – there are tons of kid-friendly restaurants on the island where you can try everything from fresh fish tacos to local Hawaiian fares like kalua pork and poi (a purple paste made from taro root).
If you want an unforgettable experience for your whole family, then look no further than Hawaii!
Let me show you how easy it is for your whole family to enjoy a trip together without fighting over what to do!
This list will save your sanity when planning your next Hawaiian getaway and give them something exciting and new that they’ve never done before! So let’s get started… shall we? 🙂
Find out the 10 things you NEED to know before planning a Big Island vacation!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of Hawaii blog posts and reviews? Here are some of our top picks for visiting the Big Island with kids.
Best Kid-Friendly Big Island Tours/Activities
- Swim with Dolphins (this is a unique experience for kids of all ages)
- Private Surf Lessons for Kids (this is the BEST way for your kids to learn how to surf in Hawaii)
- Kona Submarine Tour (my kids love seeing sunken shipwrecks)
- Legends of Hawaii Luau (the is the most popular luau for families)
- Waterfall Ziplining (this is the top kid-friendly zipline on the Big Island for families)
- Kona ATV Tour (we love this one because they also do cultural activities)
Best Kid-Friendly Big Island Resorts
- Hilton Waikoloa Village (this is a mega kid-friendly resort where you can swim with dolphins or just enjoy their massive pool area)
- Courtyard by Marriott’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel (this is a moderately-priced Kona hotel right on a little lagoon)
- Fairmont Orchid (this is a swanky resort with incredible kids’ programming and an awesome pool area)
Want to Rent a Car in Hawaii?
One of the best places to rent a car in Hawaii is Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they get the best rates from top national companies like Alamo, Dollar, Thrifty, Avis, Enterprise, Budget, and Payless.
Want to skip all the planning and just access my detailed Big Island Itinerary, complete with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and travel hacks? Click the button below.
75 Best Things to do on the Big Island with Kids
Big Island with Kids: Best Big Island Beaches
1. Kamakahonu Beach (King Kam Beach)
Kamakahonu Beach (commonly called King Kam Beach) is one of the best kid-friendly beaches in Kona. It’s situated right by the King Kamehameha Hotel on the popular Ali’i Drive.
This is a great place for kids to learn how to snorkel or just play in the sand. It’s a pretty small beach, so it’s a nice place to spend an hour before heading somewhere else.
2. Hapuna Beach
Another awesome beach on the Big Island for kids is Hapuna Beach in the South Kohala area. It’s the longest white sand beach on the Island of Hawaii, and perfect for your Big Island family vacation.
A few of the perks here include a year-round professional lifeguard, tons of shade, proximity to the Ala Kahakai coastal trail, and there are places to buy food, drinks, and even rent beach gear.
It is one of the best beaches and Hawaii Big Island things to do with young kids.
3. Spencer Beach Park
Families love Spencer Beach Park, which is just North of Hapuna Beach, because of the calm water and on-site amenities.
Here, you’ll find a covered pavilion, lifeguards, restrooms, picnic tables, showers, and more. It’s a great place for families with little kids who want to play in the water or build sandcastles on the beach.
Get my full Hawaii beach packing list for babies!
4. Anaehoʻomalu Bay (A Bay)
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly beach in Waikoloa, Anaeho’omalu Bay (commonly called A Bay) is where you’ll want to go.
This is a white sand beach that also has ancient Hawaiian fish ponds, a hiking trail, tide pools, petroglyphs, and more. Plus, it’s a great place for snorkeling, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. There are so many fun things to do here; it’s another one of the top Big Island kid activities the entire family will love.
5. Old Kona Airport State Park
One of the best secret beaches on the Big Island is Old Kona Airport State Park. Like the name implies, it used to be an airport landing strip. Today, it’s a kid-friendly beach with tide pools filled with little sea creatures.
There are picnic tables and showers. Plus, it’s a great place for snorkeling, surfing, or just hanging out at the beach.
We actually did a photo shoot here because the beach is gorgeous!
6. La’aloa Beach Park(Magic Sands)
A great Big Island beach for swimming is La’aloa Beach Park on Ali’i Drive in Kailua-Kona. The water is smooth, and it’s a great place for kids to learn how to body surf or boogie board.
There are lifeguards, showers, restrooms, and a picnic area. Plus, it’s only a mile from Da Poke Shack, one of the best places for poke on the Big Island.
It’s nickname is Magic Sands because in the winter, the tides shift, and the sand disappears overnight.
7. Onekahakaha Beach Park
The best kid-friendly Hilo beach is Onekahakaha Beach Park. Here, you’ll find a picnic pavilion, restrooms, and showers. And the water is protected by a lava rock seawall.
There are lifeguards and shallow water, making it great for kids to go swimming or learn how to snorkel. Plus, it’s a great spot for seeing Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles!
Big Island with Kids: Best Big Island Attractions
8. Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
One of the coolest national parks in Hawaii is the Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park. It’s commonly called the Place of Refuge in Hawaii.
This is a great place to learn about Hawaiian history and culture. The Place of Refuge was a safe haven for people escaping the death penalty after breaking a strict Hawaiian law (called a kapu).
Here, you’ll be able to walk along a path to see Hawaiian tiki statues and replica structures that show what life in Old Hawaii was like.
If you love learning about the Hawaiian islands and their culture, this is another incredible thing to do on the Big Island with family!
Read my full guide to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park HERE
9. Kaloko-Honokahou National Historical Park
If you’re looking for a fun thing to do in Kona near the airport, head over to Kaloko-Honokahou National Historical Park. This celebrates the ancient Hawaiian style of fishing.
Here, you can explore Hawaiian fishponds, see a replica canoe house, and even look for ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs.
It’s another top family activities in Kona, Hawaii, that we love to do!
Read my full guide to Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park HERE
10. Seahorse Farm
One of the most unique things to do on the Big Island with kids is to visit the seahorse farm. Here, you can learn all about these incredible sea creatures, and there’s even an opportunity to hold them!
11. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If you’re heading on a Big Island vacation, you’ll definitely want to visit Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It’s an easy day trip from Hilo or Kona, and it’s always a hit with kids.
Here, you’ll be able to walk through lava tubes, go on hiking trails with lava rocks, and even get to see the glow (when Kilauea is an active volcano). There are tons of volcano tours that are totally worth it.
You can’t go visiting Hawaii without heading to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park! It’s one of the top things to do Big Island Hawaii has to offer!
Read my full guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park HERE.
12. Waipio Valley
One of the most beautiful places on the Big Island is the Waipio Valley. It’s really tricky to get to (you can’t take your rental car), so your best bet is using the Waipio Valley Shuttle. You can read my full Waipio Valley Shuttle tour review HERE.
They will take you into the valley and show you a view of the top sights while being respectful to the people who live in the valley. The views are epic, and you’ll probably see a few wild horses! Check the latest rates and more information.
13. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
If you’re looking to see one of the black sand beaches in Hawaii, head down South to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. It’s pretty accessible, which makes it a great stop with kids.
But, what’s even cooler is that it’s also one of the best places to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles on the Big Island! They like to sunbathe in the sand here. It’s a great Big Island Instagram spot and one of the best activities on the Big Island!
14. Papakolea Green Sand Beach
One of the most unique places in Hawaii is Papakolea Green Sand Beach in Ka’u. Here, you’ll find sand that’s a mixture of green crystals, white coral, and black lava rock. It’s absolutely breathtaking!
However, it will take some effort to get here. You’ll either need to hike for 5 miles (roundtrip) or pay a local to drive you in their truck.
15. Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo
If you’re looking for a zoo in Hawaii Island, you’ll definitely want to check out Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo in Hilo. It’s a pretty small zoo, and it’s perfect for families with babies, toddlers, and preschoolers.
In addition to animals like tigers and primates, they also have a pretty awesome play area for kids. It’s a top thing to do in Hilo Hawaii for families.
16. Hawai‘i Tropical Bioreserve & Garden
One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Hawaii is the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve and Garden near Hilo.
There’s a nice paved walking path that will take you through gardens where you’ll see a waterfall, tiki statue, wishing well, reflecting pond, and more. It’s one of the most beautiful places on the Big Island.
It is another one of the bestthings to do in Hilo, Hawaii, with kids! Check out our full guide HERE.
17. Hawaii Keiki Museum
One of the best things to do on the Big Island when it rains is play at the Hawaii Keiki Museum in Kona.
It’s a hands-on science museum that incorporates aspects of Hawaiian culture. Kids will love playing here for a few hours and they won’t even realize that they are learning!
It’s another family things to do in Kona kids will absolutely love during your Hawaiian vacation.
18. Coconut Island
If you’re heading to Hilo on a cruise ship, you can’t miss Coconut Island. It’s a cute area in Hilo Bay with calm water, perfect for kids to swim in.
There are also picnic tables and a grassy field, so it makes a great lunch spot as you tour the Big Island.
If you are spending time in Hilo with kids, this is a must!
19. Kaumana Caves Park
One of the coolest hikes near Hilo is Kaumana Caves Park. Here, you’ll be able to hike down to see a lava tube. It’s a pretty short hike to get to the cave.
It helps to bring flashlights or headlamps to explore the mouth of the cave. The rest of the cave is actually on private property, so it’s best not to venture too far in.
20. Mauna Loa Visitors Center
One of the most famous macadamia nut factories in Hawaii is Mauna Loa, which is located in Hilo, Hawaii.
The visitor’s center has reopened and is a great place to learn about the process it takes to dry the macadamia nuts and get them ready to sell. Plus, they have free macadamia nut tasting.
21. Kanaloa Octopus Farm
If you want to learn more about Hawaii sea animals, head to Kanaloa Octopus Farm in Kailua-Kona. They offer one-hour tours where you can meet the octopuses and learn about what we can do to help them thrive.
Plus, it’s super close to the airport so it makes a great last stop before flying home from Kona.
Big Island with Kids: Best Big Island Luaus
22. Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at the Royal Kona Resort
One of the best Big Island luaus is the Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at the Royal Kona Resort. They have dancing from all across the Polynesian islands.
They also have some of the BEST luau food I’ve ever had. Plus, they do the show oceanfront with a great view of the sunset. And kids ages 5 and under are FREE.
I think it is the best luau on Big Island and one of the top things to do in Kona at night too.
Read my full Voyagers of the Pacific Luau review HERE.
23. Legends of Hawaii Luau at Hilton Waikoloa Village
If you’re staying at the Hilton Waikoloa Village (or anywhere in Waikoloa), this is a great Hawaii luau for kids. It’s also located right in front of the ocean with beautiful sunset views.
The food is great, and there are activities for kids before the show. And grown-ups will appreciate the unlimited drinks. And kids ages 4 and younger are FREE.
It is another one of the best luau in Big Island and out of all the Hawaiian islands.
24. Island Breeze Kona Luau at King Kamehameha Hotel
Another great Big Island luau is the Island Breeze Kona Luau at the King Kamehameha Hotel on Ali’i Drive on the Kailua Kona Coast.
They do a really cool royal court presentation since it takes place on the location where King Kamehameha lived. And you can even see a replica of his home right on the bay. Kids ages 3 and younger are FREE.
25. Hawaii Loa Kohala Luau at the Fairmont Orchid Hotel
Another luau on the Big Island for kids is the Hawaii Loa Kohala Luau at the Fairmont Orchid Hotel. It’s a beautiful show with fantastic food and unlimited drinks. And kids ages 5 and under are free!
Big Island with Kids: Best Big Island Activities
26. Kona Swimming with Dolphins
A lot of kids have listed swimming with dolphins in Hawaii on their bucket list. Kids of all ages (and even adults) can do this with Dolphin Quest at the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island.
Not only can you swim with the dolphins, but you’ll learn a lot about them as well as hand signals so you can communicate with them. This is one of the top things to do on the Big Island with kids.
Read my full guide to swimming with dolphins in Kona HERE.
27. Aloha Adventure Farms ATV Tour
One of the newest Big Island adventures is the Aloha Adventure Farms ATV tour through the jungle near Kona. Here, you’ll drive up trails and stop at 4 Polynesian villages to participate in hands-on cultural activities.
People ages 16+ can ride their own ATVs, while kids ages 5-15 (and adults who are too nervous for the ATV) can hop in the UTV driven by the tour guide.
This is hands-down one of the coolest Big Island tours for families who want a mix of adventure and culture.
This is definitely one of the best Big Island adventure tours to try out!
Read my full Aloha Adventure Farms ATV tour review HERE.
28. Kona Atlantis Submarine
If your family would like to explore underwater without actually getting wet, the Kona Atlantis Submarine is a great Kona activity.
It’s located at the Courtyard by Marriott’s King Kamehameha Beach Hotel. You’ll spend about 50 minutes underwater in a real submarine. There are tons of coral and tropical fish, and you never know what you might find.
There are also a few shipwrecks that are cool to see! It is one of the family activities in Kona Hawaii that everyone will enjoy!
Read my full Kona Atlantis Submarine review HERE.
29. Kayaking on the Big Island
There are lots of cool places to kayak on the Big Island. A popular Big Island kayaking spot is at Captain Cook. There’s actually a neat snorkeling and kayaking tour you can take there and see the famous Captain Cook monument.
Kayaking is another one of the cool Hawaii Big Island activities.
30. Enjoy a Glass Bottom Boat Ride
If you’re traveling to the Big Island with kids who are too young to snorkel, you might consider a glass-bottom boat ride in Kona.
This Kona boat ride is really affordable, and kids ages 2 and younger are only $5. It is one of the awesome Hawaii family activities you will love!
31. Big Island Helicopter Ride
If you have a limited amount of time on the Big Island, you might consider going on a Big Island helicopter ride. It’s the fastest way to see gorgeous waterfalls, volcanoes, and other top Big Island attractions.
This is one of the best activities in Big Island Hawaii if you want to explore and see the Big Island’s best beaches and beauty.
32. Go Horseback Riding
The Big Island is famous for its ranches and paniolos (Hawaiian cowboys). So, it’s only fitting to go horseback riding there.
This is an awesome horseback riding tour through the Waipio Valley, where you’ll get to see waterfalls. Kids as young as 7 years old can ride, making it one of the perfect activities for kids in Hawaii!
33. Take a Hike
There are tons of places to go hiking on the Big Island of Hawaii. A few kid-friendly hikes include Akaka Falls, the Thurston Lava Tube at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, and walking around the Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden. Plus, there are plenty of Big Island waterfall hikes.
34. Go Snorkeling with Manta Rays
One of the coolest Big Island snorkeling tours happens at night, where you’ll swim with Manta Rays in Kona. This is the best Manta Ray tour for families because it’s for all ages (plus kids ages 2 and younger are FREE). Check out our Big Island Manta Ray snorkel tour tips.
Being with the Manta Rays is one of the best activities to do in Kona Hawaii and one of the only Hawaiian islands to do this too!
35. Go Parasailing
Another fun Kona adventure is going parasailing. Kids as young as 5 years old can participate, making this an awesome thing to do in Kona for families. It is located in the Kailua Kona area, making it easily accessible for everyone.
36. Surfing Lessons for Kids
One of the most iconic things to do in Hawaii is learn how to surf. And there’s no better way than a private surfing lesson. Kids as young as 3 years old can try surfing for the first time!
It’s another one of the top Kona Hawaii activities you will want to try!
37. Go Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is another one of the popular things to do on Hawaii island.
If you have teens who are interested in learning how to scuba dive, this Hilo scuba diving introductory lesson is worth checking out. It’s perfect for people who aren’t certified but still want a scuba diving experience.
38. Big Island Chocolate Tour
The Big Island is famous for its local chocolate. And many of the Big Island chocolate farms have tours and tastings available.
We really like the Lavaloha Chocolate Farm Tour in Hilo. You can ride an electric mini-bus and learn all about growing cacao, meet farm animals, and even see a secret waterfall!
It’s another one of the best things to do in Hilo with kids!
Read my review of the Lavaloha Chocolate Farm in Hilo HERE.
39. Visit a Honey Bee Farm
Did you know the Big Island is also home to a few honey bee farms? One of the most popular is Big Island Bees in Captain Cook.
You can learn a lot about the honey-making process as well as enjoy some honey tastings.
It is another one of the best family activities Big Island Hawaii has to offer!
40. Visit a Coffee Farm
Kona is the best place to taste authentic Hawaiian coffee. There are tons of coffee farms all over the Big Island so you won’t have any trouble stopping by at least one of them.
Greenwell Farms is a popular Kona coffee farm worth a visit. They have free guided tours where you can learn exactly how to make coffee and why Kona coffee is so special. Check out the best Kona coffee farms and tours worth booking.
41. Go Camping
If you want to really experience the outdoors or enjoy adventurous vacations, you might consider going camping on the Big Island. Many of the parks offer legal campsites. Plus, it’s one of the best things to do at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Camping together on the Hawaiian islands is one of the fun Hawaii Big Island activities for families to enjoy.
42. Try Stand Up Paddling
While surfing has always been popular in Hawaii, stand-up paddling is quickly becoming one of the premier water sports.
This is a cool stand up paddling lesson in Waikoloa for kids ages 5 years old and up. It’s a fun way to get on the water with and without kids.
It’s one of the fun things to do in Waikoloa for your family vacation.
43. Do a Big Island Photo Shoot
One of our favorite things to do in Hawaii is professional photoshoots with our family. It’s the best Hawaiian souvenir that we’ll treasure for years to come.
It’s an easy way to get our family Christmas card photos, plus I like to print them and hang them on our walls at home to remind me of our trip. Check out the latest prices and more details.
There are several Big Island photographers to choose from. We like to use Flytographer because it’s easy to find an affordable Big Island vacation photographer who is available during our trip.
It is another one of those things to do on the Big Island with family that you will definitely want to add to your itinerary.
Read my top Big Island family photography tips HERE.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel to Hawaii, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy, affordable, AND it guarantees that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code HAWAIITRAVEL.
44. Go Ziplining
There are tons of places to go ziplining in Hawaii, and the Big Island has several zipline tour companies. This Hawaii Zipline Tour was voted the best in Hawaii, and it takes place at a waterfall. Kids as young as 10 years old can participate.
If you have older kids, you will definitely want to have ziplining be a part of our family activities on the Big Island!
45. Take a Snorkeling Boat Tour
You’ll probably want to go snorkeling in Hawaii at least once. While you can snorkel at some of the beaches, it’s really best to do a Big Island snorkel tour like this one at Kealakekua Bay. You’ll even get to explore sea caves along the Kona coast. Kids as young as 5 years old can participate.
Combine these two things to do in Hawaii Big Island and explore underwater colorful fish, and the sea floor.
46. Look for Dolphins
Did you know there are spinner dolphins in Hawaii? Your best chance of seeing them is on a dolphin boat tour like this Kona kayak adventure. Kids as young as 5 years old can keep their eyes peeled and row right next to spinner dolphins!
Seeing dolphins when you visit Hawaii is one of the coolest things to do in Big Island, especially for your first trip.
47. Do a Sunset Cruise
Hawaii has some of the best sunsets in the world, and one of the coolest places to see it is from a boat.
While there are several Big Island sunset cocktail cruises, I think this dinner cruise is a good option for families since they serve a full Hawaiian dinner. Plus, kids ages 5 and younger are FREE.
48. Go Fishing
Another fun Big Island boat ride is to go on a fishing charter. The Big Island is a popular place to go fishing in Hawaii. This is a great Kona fishing tour where you have a good chance at catching Mahi Mahi and Marlin.
49. Do a Circle Island Tour
The Big Island is HUGE, so it may feel daunting to do a Kona road trip. However, there are tons of cool things to see on the Big Island outside of Kona.
I really like Shaka Guide audio tours. You just download it to your phone and it will give you turn by turn directions to see some of the coolest Big Island attractions. Plus, there’s an interesting narration about the history of the island and Hawaiian culture.
It definitely helps you find all the things to do on Big Island with kids!
50. Try a Segway Tour of Kona
Remember when Segways were really popular, and people thought it was going to be mainstream? Well, while their popularity might have fizzled, it’s an awesome way to explore a town without walking. This is a fun Segway tour of Kona for kids as young as 14 years old.
I think it would be one of the fun Big Island activities for families with teens!
51. Private Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Tour
There are tons of amazing volcano tours on the Big Island, but one of the best is this private tour with the Friends of Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
You’ll get to spend a few hours with an expert who will show you all the best places to explore at Kilauea and give you tons of tips for what to do in the area. It was the highlight of our last trip to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park with kids.
52. Visit Parker Ranch
One of the best places to see what real Hawaiian cowboy life is like is at Parker Ranch in Waimea. You can do a self-guided tour to check out the historic homes on the ranch.
53. See Hulihee Palace
Have you ever wanted to see a royal palace in Hawaii? Hulihee Palace is located right in Kona, and it was the home of King Kamehameha the Great.
They have decent-guided tours where you can learn more about the Hawaiian monarchy and this historic Big Island attraction.
54. Tour the Imiloa Astronomy Center
Is your family interested in astronomy? You’ll want to stop at the Imiloa Astronomy Center in Hilo, Hawaii. They have a really awesome planetarium, and your kids will love learning about the ancient Polynesian art of wayfinding (just like Moana!)
It is another one of the great things to do in Hilo, Hawaii with kids!
55. Check Out The Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary
One of the most unique Hawaii botanical gardens is the Kona Cloud Forest Sanctuary.
This is an awesome place for kids to learn about ecosystems and experience a real cloud forest. It is another one of the interesting things to do in Hawaii Island.
56. Go Bird Watching
The Big Island is home to lots of unique wildlife, including birds. This tour is for kids ages 8 and older who want a quiet activity in a wildlife refuge.
57. Try Some Malasadas
One of the best things to order at a Hawaii bakery is fresh malasadas. Tex Drive-In is pretty famous for its square-shaped malasadas.
Hawaiian Malasadas
Punalu’u Bake Shop is another great place to try malasadas on the South end of the Big Island.
Trying malasadas is definitely one of the Big Island Hawaii kids activities you will love!
Learn how to make your own malasadas HERE.
58. Try Some Shave Ice
One of the best places to get shave ice in Kona is One Aloha. Their space is HUGE, and there’s plenty of seating indoors to beat the heat.
One Aloha Shave Ice in Kona Hawaii. Photo credit: Marcie Cheung
They have a pretty extensive menu, including ice cream at the bottom and even getting it snowcapped (drizzled in condensed milk).
If you’re staying near Ali’i Drive, Gecko Girlz Shave Ice is pretty convenient. All their syrups are made in Hawaii with real cane sugar. And they have a ton of toppings, including mochi balls, popping boba, and even macadamia nuts.
Big Island with Kids: Free Things to do on the Big Island
59. Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory Tour
One of the best things to do in Hawaii with kids is to tour the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory up on the North Shore of the Big Island.
Here, you’ll get to taste all the best flavors of macadamia nuts, watch an informative video, and even see the whole process through their showroom windows.
And if you’re ready for a sweet treat, they have locally-made ice cream! It is another one of the best Big Island free activities!
Read my full guide to the Hamakua Macadamia Nut Factory Tour HERE.
60. Visit the Painted Church
One of the most beautiful churches in Hawaii is St. Benedict’s Church (commonly called the Painted Church).
It’s located in Honaunau near Captain Cook, and it makes a great stop on a scenic drive from Kona to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
It’s free to enter, although there are places to donate if you feel moved. It’s one of the most beautiful Hawaiian churches and definitely worth a peek.
Read my full guide to the Painted Church in Hawaii HERE.
61. Explore Waimea Town
If you want to explore a part of the Big Island where most tourists don’t go, head to historic Waimea Town. It’s up in the mountains, so the temperature is a bit cooler (so it’s a great place to go on a hot day to beat the heat).
Here, you’ll find lovely shops and restaurants worth a stop. And you’ll definitely want to hang out at their big playground if you have little kids.
62. See a Big Island Waterfall
The Big Island has some of the most spectacular waterfalls, especially near Hilo. Several of them are really easy to get to.
The best kid-friendly waterfalls on the Big Island include Akaka Falls, Rainbow Falls, and Onomea Waterfalls.
Visiting waterfalls is another one of the top free things to do on Big Island with kids.
63. Go Cliff Diving in South Point
If you’re visiting the Big Island with teens who want a real adventure, head to South Point. This is the most popular place to go cliff diving on the Big Island. Be sure to ask the locals whether or not the conditions are safe before you jump.
64. Walk Around Hawi
While you are driving around the Big Island, be sure to stop in Hawi. This is a little town on the North part of the island that is known for its artsy vibe. It’s part of the Kohala coast, and it’s a great spot to walk around to shop and dine.
65. Look for Petroglyphs
Another cool thing to do on the Big Island with kids is to look for ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs. These are rock carvings made hundreds of years ago.
A few top spots to see these include Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Kaloko-Honokohau National Park, and the Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve.
66. Visit a State Park
It’s easy to check out a state park on the Big Island. There’s Wailuku River State Park, Akaka Falls State Park, and Hapuna Beach State Recreational Area, which are easy stops.
67. See Historic Hilo Town
If you have some time, park your car and walk around the historic Hilo shopping district. Here, you’ll find lots of unique shops and businesses.
Plus, it’s an interesting place to step back in time and get a feel for Old Hawaii.
There are so many fun things here, you will never wonder what to do in Hilo with kids again!
68. Free Hula Shows
If you want to see Hawaiian dancing but don’t want to splurge on a luau, head to one of the free hula shows on the Big Island. You can find free hula shows in Waikoloa at the Kings’ Shops and Queen’s Marketplace.
These are just one of the best stuff to do in Waikoloa!
69. Go to a Playground
Parents of toddlers and preschoolers will appreciate the array of playgrounds all over the Big Island. A few of our favorites include the free play area at the Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo in Hilo, Kamakana Playground near Kona, and Waimea Community Park.
70. Browse Art Galleries
It’s easy to come across a few art galleries on your trip to the Big Island with kids. There’s the Volcano Art Center at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Isaacs Art Center Museum and Gallery in Waimea, and Extreme Exposure Fine Art Gallery in Hilo.
71. Visit an Ancient Hawaiian Heiau
The people of Old Hawaii used to build impressive buildings and altars out of lava rock. Today, you can visit the ruins of these historic monuments. A few popular heiaus on the Big Island include Pu’ukoholā Heiau, Mo’okini Heiau, and Hapaiali’i and Ke’eku Heiau.
72. Explore Tide Pools
Because of the abundance of lava rocks on the Big Island, many of the beaches also have tide pools where you can spot little sea animals like crabs and urchins.
We really liked the tide pools at Old Kona Airport.
73. Look for Rainbows
I had to include this on the list because Hawaii has some of the most beautiful rainbows in the world. It’s easy to spot them in Hilo since that’s the rainy side of the island.
74. See a Big Island Sunrise
Because Hilo is situated on the East shore of the island, you can see some pretty amazing sunrises over the ocean. Hilo Bay is one of the best places to watch a Big Island sunrise.
Despite it being on the West side of the island, we actually saw some pretty amazing sunrises from over the mountains in Kona.
75. See a Big Island Sunset
Since it’s located on the West side, Kona is the best place to enjoy an epic Big Island sunset. You can get the ultimate view from anywhere along Ali’i Drive.
Where to Stay on the Big Island with Kids
Royal Kona Resort
One of the best places to stay in Kona with kids is the Royal Kona Resort. It’s right on the popular Ali’i Drive, so it’s easy to walk to many Kona shops, restaurants, and attractions. Plus, they have an on-site luau and even a private lagoon. Check the latest rates and availability.
Read my full Royal Kona Resort review HERE
Volcano House Hotel
One of the most unique places to stay on the Big Island is the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Hotel Volcano House. This historic Hawaii hotel sits on the rim of a crater where you can see the volcanic glow when it’s erupting!
Read my full Volcano House review HERE
Doubletree Grand Naniloa Resort
Our favorite place to stay in Hilo is the Doubletree Grand Naniloa Resort. The entire place is decked out with Kim Taylor Reece hula photography, and they even play the Merrie Monarch videos in the lobby. Plus, there are free cookies! Check the latest rates and more information.
Things to Do in the Big Island with Kids FAQs
Maui is more of a resort and luxurious island than the other islands with many major resorts there, but the Big Island also has great resorts for young kids to enjoy too. Either island would be great for a Hawaii family vacation!
Oahu is typically the top choice for families, but you can find plenty of kid activities on all the Hawaiian islands!
I would say you want at least a week if possible. 7 days gives you enough time to try out all these family activities on the Big Island and relax to fully enjoy your vacation too!
Best Things to Do on the Big Island with Kids Wrap Up
These are just some of the best things to do on the Big island with kids! Take a night swim with giant manta rays, visit a black sand beach, go on some kid-friendly hikes, and so much more on Hawaii’s Big Island.
Check out my other Big Island Travel Resources like whether to stay in Kona or Hilo, how to explore the Big Island on a budget, and my guide to island hopping in Hawaii.
P.S. Join our Hawaii Travel with Kids Facebook group to get connected with other families planning a trip to Hawaii!