Are you trying to decide between visiting Maui vs Big Island on your next family vacation? We’ve compared the two so you can make an informed decision about the best Hawaiian island for kids. Scroll to see the results!
This post about Maui vs Big Island 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.
Trying to pick between Maui and Big Island for your family’s Hawaii trip?
I totally get it. These two islands couldn’t be more different, and honestly, the “right” choice really depends on what kind of vacation vibe you’re after.
I’ve spent years exploring both islands with my family, and here’s the truth: Maui is your go-to for a resort vacation with a few adventures mixed in. Big Island is perfect if you want to pack your days with activities and exploration.
Think of it this way. On Maui, we’re poolside by 3pm with virgin lava flows in hand (my kids’ favorite drink to order at resorts).
On Big Island, we’re running through lava tubes with headlamps at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, even in the rain.
Both islands are incredible for families. Let me walk you through what makes each one special so you can figure out which is calling your name.
Big Island: The Adventure Seeker’s Paradise
The Big Island is massive. Like, drive-for-hours-and-still-not-see-everything massive.
It’s twice the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined, which means you’ll probably want to do a split stay if you’re visiting for more than a few days.
The star attraction here is Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Even when the volcanoes aren’t actively erupting, it’s such a cool experience.
My kids never get tired of racing through the Nahuku lava tube with their headlamps on. There’s something about being inside an actual lava tube that just feels magical, rain or shine.
Best Big Island Activities for Families
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers more than 500 square miles and features two volcanoes: Mauna Loa and Kilauea.
Right now, Kilauea has been experiencing episodic eruptions since December 2024, which means there’s a chance you might see actual lava activity.
The park is open 24/7, though the visitor center is being renovated until summer 2026. You can still explore the trails, drive Chain of Craters Road, and walk through the lava tube.
The Junior Ranger program here is fantastic if you have kids. Download the National Park Service app before you go so you can learn about the park as you explore.
Snorkeling with Manta Rays
One of the most unique things you can do on Big Island is snorkel with manta rays at night. These gentle giants have wingspans up to 15 feet, and watching them glide through the water while you float above is absolutely breathtaking.
Most tours depart from Kona and include all the gear you need. Check out manta ray tours on Viator.
Exploring Waterfalls on the Hilo Side
The Hilo side of the island is lush and green with incredible waterfalls. Akaka Falls is perfect for families because it’s a short, paved trail with bridges and stairs that lead to a stunning 442-foot waterfall.
The Hawaii Tropical Bioreserve & Garden is another favorite. It’s a beautiful meander past waterfalls, tikis, and incredible tropical flowers.
Kona Atlantis Submarine
If you have kids who are too young to snorkel or just want something different, the Atlantis Submarine in Kona is fantastic.
You take a boat ride out, then climb into a real submarine that descends 100 feet below the surface. You’ll see shipwrecks, coral reefs, and tons of tropical fish. Book your submarine tour here.
Farm Tours
Big Island has amazing farm tours. The Lavaloha Chocolate Farm in Hilo lets you see the cacao growing process and taste incredible Hawaiian chocolate.
There are also tons of Kona coffee farms offering free tours and tastings.
Best Big Island Beaches
For an easy beach in Kona, King Kam Beach (right in front of the Courtyard by Marriott) is perfect for little ones.
Hapuna Beach is gorgeous but there’s a $10 parking fee. On the Hilo side, Onekahakaha Beach Park has shallow water that’s ideal for beginning snorkelers.
Where to Stay on Big Island
Hilton Waikoloa Village
This is the most popular family resort on Big Island. It’s huge, with trams and boats to get around the property, a massive pool complex, multiple restaurants, and Dolphin Quest.
The dolphin encounter programs are pricey but incredible if it fits your budget. Note that Palace Tower is currently under construction, so ask for a room in a different tower if you’re sensitive to construction noise.
Royal Kona Resort
This is a great mid-range option right on Ali’i Drive in Kona. The location is unbeatable for walking to restaurants and shops, and they have their own private lagoon plus an excellent luau. Check rates on Expedia.
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha’s Kona Beach Hotel
Another convenient Kona option with a kid-friendly beach right out front. You can walk to the Kona Atlantis Submarine dock and grab Ululani’s Shave Ice nearby.
Best Big Island Luau
The Voyagers of the Pacific Luau at Royal Kona Resort is my top pick. The food is outstanding (seriously, I almost licked my plate), the oceanfront setting is gorgeous, and the show is captivating. Book your luau on Viator.
Want more Big Island planning help? Grab my Big Island Travel Guide for Families or sign up for my free 7-day Big Island email course.
Maui: The Ultimate Resort Island
Maui is our ultimate resort island. It’s smaller than Big Island, which means you can base yourself in one spot and easily day trip around the island. My kids are big fans of spending afternoons by the pool ordering virgin lava flows.
The island has three main resort areas: Wailea (luxury and upscale), Ka’anapali (classic Hawaiian resort vibes), and Kihei (more budget-friendly vacation rentals). Each has its own personality, so pick based on your budget and style.
A quick note about West Maui: The historic town of Lahaina was devastated by wildfires in August 2023.
While Lahaina town itself remains closed for reconstruction, the resort areas of Ka’anapali, Kapalua, and Napili are fully open and welcoming visitors. Supporting Maui’s tourism industry helps the entire community recover.
Best Maui Activities for Families
Road to Hana
This twisty, turny highway is one of Maui’s most famous adventures. It’s not about getting to Hana (which is tiny), but about all the incredible stops along the way.
You’ll find waterfalls, black sand beaches, hiking trails, and fruit stands. Pack snacks, leave early, and plan on a full day for this one.
Haleakala Sunrise
Watching sunrise from Haleakala’s summit at 10,023 feet is absolutely magical. You’ll need to book a reservation up to 60 days in advance (they’re released at 7am HST and cost $1.50 per vehicle).
Or join a guided Haleakala sunrise tour that handles the logistics for you.
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is a partially submerged volcanic crater that’s one of Maui’s best snorkel spots. The boat ride out is half the fun, and you’ll likely see sea turtles and tons of tropical fish.
Many tours include water slides and kid-friendly flotation devices. Book a Molokini snorkel tour on Get Your Guide.
Maui Ocean Center
This is hands-down the best aquarium in Hawaii. You walk through a tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish. They have incredible touch pools and Hawaiian cultural programs throughout the day.
Perfect for a break from the sun, especially with toddlers and preschoolers. Get tickets on Hawaii Tours.
Ziplining
Maui has some of the best ziplining in Hawaii. The Camp Maui zipline tour is great for families because kids as young as 5 can participate.
You get gorgeous views of the island plus fun obstacles and a museum to explore. Check availability on Viator.
I’ao Needle
This is probably the easiest hike on Maui and one of my personal favorites. It’s only half a mile long and mostly paved or stairs.
I’ve done it solo with a toddler who walked the whole thing himself. The views of the towering green peaks are incredible. There’s a $5 parking fee. Learn more here.
Maui Pineapple Tour
Maui has one of the last working pineapple plantations in Hawaii, and touring it is such a unique experience. You’ll learn about pineapple cultivation and taste the famous Maui Gold pineapples.
Kids as young as 2 can join, and everyone takes home an “airport-ready” pineapple. Book your pineapple tour here.
Best Maui Beaches
Baby Beach in Paia has a protected lagoon that’s perfect for little ones. Kapalua Bay is gorgeous for snorkeling with calm, clear water. Makena has a lifeguard on duty and less crowds than some of the resort beaches.
Need help packing? Here’s my complete Hawaii beach packing list.
Where to Stay on Maui
Outrigger Honua Kai Resort & Spa
This is where my family usually stays on Maui. The condo-style rooms with full kitchens are perfect for families, Duke’s Restaurant is fantastic, and the pool area is incredible. You’re steps from Ka’anapali Beach and can walk to restaurants and shops.
Hyatt Regency Maui
This is one of the top-rated family resorts on the island. They have a water park, five restaurants, a full-service spa, and one of the best kids clubs in Hawaii. Located in Ka’anapali with a gorgeous beach right out front.
Marriott Maui Ocean Club
Another Ka’anapali favorite with an amazing pool area, kitchenettes, free laundry, and regular kids activities. Check availability on Expedia.
Best Maui Luau
The Old Lahaina Luau is consistently rated the best luau in Hawaii. It reopened in March 2024 after the fires, and attending supports the local community.
The oceanfront setting is beautiful, the food is excellent, and the show is the most authentic you’ll find. Book as far in advance as possible because it sells out quickly. Reserve your spots on Hawaii Activities.
For something different, check out the Feast at Mokapu, which is from the same organization but features a plated dinner with Polynesian performances. It’s an elevated experience (and my favorite luau on Maui).
Want to go deeper into Maui planning? My Maui Travel Guide for Families covers everything you need to know, or sign up for my free 7-day Maui email course.
Maui vs Big Island: The Bottom Line
So which island should you choose? Here’s my honest take as both a professional tourist and Hawaii travel expert who’s explored both islands extensively with kids.
Choose Big Island if:
- You want adventure and exploration to be the main focus
- You don’t mind spending time in the car between activities
- Your kids love nature, animals, and hands-on experiences
- You’re fascinated by volcanoes and want to see Hawaii’s most active geology
- You’re looking for a more affordable Hawaii vacation overall
Choose Maui if:
- You want a true resort vacation with some activities mixed in
- You prefer staying in one location and taking day trips
- You want the easiest logistics (smaller island, less driving)
- You have younger kids who need regular nap times and pool breaks
- You want the most polished Hawaii vacation experience
Here’s what I usually tell families: Big Island is incredible if you’re up for adventure and okay with longer drives between activities.
Maui is perfect if you want to relax by the pool with a cocktail in hand (or a virgin lava flow if you’re 10 years old) and explore the island at a more leisurely pace.
The good news? You really can’t go wrong with either island. Both offer incredible Hawaiian experiences, just in different styles.
I share a detailed comparison of which Hawaii island is best for families in this episode.
Can You Visit Both Islands?
Absolutely! Inter-island flights between Big Island and Maui take about 45 minutes and usually cost $80-100 each way. If you have a week or more, island hopping between the two gives you the best of both worlds.
My recommendation: Book an early morning flight to maximize your time on each island. Even if you just do a day trip from one island to the other, it’s totally doable.
Need help comparing other islands? Check out my posts on Maui vs Kauai and Big Island vs Kauai. Or read my complete breakdown of all the Hawaiian islands to see which one fits your family best.
Planning Your Hawaii Trip
Whether you choose Maui, Big Island, or both, having the right resources makes planning so much easier. I’ve created detailed island guides, free email courses, and even a Hawaii Travel Journal to help you document your trip.
And if you’re feeling overwhelmed by all the options and want someone to help you plan the perfect itinerary for your family, I offer personalized Hawaii travel consultations.
We’ll hop on a call and I’ll walk you through exactly what to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your time.
I also chat about both islands regularly on my podcast, Hawaii Travel Made Easy. Here are two episodes you’ll find helpful:
Don’t forget to save money on your car rental! I always use Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they compare all the major companies and consistently get me the best rates.
Ready to capture your trip with professional photos? Flytographer connects you with local photographers in Hawaii. You can save $20 when you book through my link.
Whatever island you choose, you’re going to make incredible memories. Both Maui and Big Island are absolute treasures, and your family is going to have an amazing time. Safe travels!
Looking for more Hawaii planning help? Check out my step-by-step Hawaii planning guide and my list of things to know before you go to Hawaii.
Want more Hawaii travel resources? Find out how to rent a car in Hawaii, Oahu vs Kauai, things to know before you go to Hawaii, a breakdown of all the Hawaiian islands, and my step-by-step Hawaii planning guide!
P.S. Join our Hawaii Travel with Kids Facebook group to get connected with other families planning a trip to Hawaii!
