Maui, the second largest island in the Hawaiian Chain, is a dream vacation destination for families of all sizes. Whether looking for a luxurious escape or a relaxing beach bungalow, the island offers a wide variety of family-friendly resorts that cater to every need and budget. From sprawling oceanfront mansions to cozy beachside bungalows, here are the 11 best Maui family resorts that provide a comfortable and memorable experience for families of all ages.
1. Wailea Beach Resort
Nestled between the stunning waters of the Pacific Ocean and the lush greenery of the Wailea valley, the Wailea Beach Resort is a family-friendly paradise. This upscale resort offers both elegant and relaxed accommodations, perfect for families seeking a combination of comfort and luxury. The Wailea Beach Resort is known for its stunning 325-foot waterslide, which is the longest in Maui. The resort also features three swimming pools, a game room, movie theater, and daily housekeeping services.
2. Fairmont Kea Lani
The Fairmont Kea Lani is a luxurious all-suite resort offering spacious accommodations and exceptional services. This resort boasts six swimming pools, a beautiful ocean view, and an on-site chef's kitchen. The FairmontKeaLani also offers a kids' club for children aged 5-12 years. Its location in Wailea provides easy access to some of Maui's most beautiful beaches and snorkeling spots.
3. The Grand Wailea
Perfect for families looking to indulge in a fun pool experience, the Grand Wailea boasts an extensive system of swimming pools and water slides. The property's oceanfront position makes it a great choice for families seeking a luxurious and adventurous holiday. The Grand Wailea also offers an authentic Hawaiian luau, fitness center, and spa services.
4. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
This luxurious oceanfront resort is perfect for families who enjoy poolside activities and unique wildlife encounters. The hotel's spacious family suites and oceanfront location make it a great choice for a family vacation. The Hyatt Regency Maui also offers a world-class kids' club, fitness center, restaurants, and bar, and a 150-foot lava tube waterslide on its pool area.
5. Westin Maui Resort & Spa
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is a great choice for families who love being part of the action and enjoy the beachfront location. This family-friendly hotel features five swimming pools, two waterslides, outdoor activities, and a nighttime kids' program. The Westin also offers a private sunset dining experience and a spa experience to help families unwind.
6. Napili Kai Beach Resort
Located on the picturesque Napili Bay, the Napili Kai Beach Resort offers a low-key beach retreat perfect for families seeking a more laid-back experience. This resort is known for its spacious, condo-style accommodations and kitchen facilities, making it a great base for a memorable family vacation. The Napili Kai also features a casual but romantic atmosphere, with weekly mai tai parties and other family-friendly activities.
7. Montage Kapalua Bay
For families who desire luxury and luxurious living, the Montage Kapalua offers a serene and comfortable resort experience. This resort is renowned for its large, residential-style accommodations and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The Montage also offers a comprehensive kid's program with cultural activities tailored for different ages of children.
8. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa at Black Rock
Nestled near the iconic Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach, the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa combines historic charm with modern amenities. The hotel's sprawling lagoon-style pool, daily cliff diving ceremony, and lazy river make it a great destination for families seeking a blend of adventure, history, and relaxation. The Sheraton offers a casual atmosphere but also offers a variety of dining options, including a beachfront restaurant.
9. Outrigger Ka'anapali Beach Resort
Perfect for families on a budget, the Outrigger Ka'anapali Beach Resort provides a direct access to the soft sand and clear waters of Ka'anapali Beach. This beachfront hotel offers easy access to various dining and shopping options. The hotel's large pool and whale-shaped design make it a great choice for families looking for a simple yet fun beachfront experience.
10. Marriott's Maui Ocean Club
This vacation ownership property offers a spacious and comfortable vacation experience for families who appreciate extra space and prepare their own meals. The resort's three swimming pools, pirate ship, waterslides provided, and on-site restaurants make it a perfect destination for families with children. The Marriott Ocean Club also offers a no daily resort fee, making it a great value for families on the road.
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The Best of the Rest
Maui has a wide array of family-friendly restaurants. The restaurant scene in Maui plays out in diverse flavors and settings, offering a range of dining options from beachfront to upscale. The restaurant list is regularly updated with new and exciting culinary experiences. These restaurants range from casual to upscale dining experiences and often offer vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Maui Snorkeling Guide
Maui is a paradise for snorkeling enthusiasts. The underwater world is rich and colorful, with vibrant corals and diverse marine life. With a map and a bit of practice, snorkeling can be an exhilarating adventure for the whole family. The snorkeling experience can vary in difficulty depending on the location and conditions, so it's important to have some experience or take a snorkeling course before hitting the water.
Where to Stay on Maui with Kids
Maui offers a range of accommodations to suit different family sizes and budgets. For families traveling with children, the Southside (Wailea and Launiupoko) and Eastside (Kapalua and Kuau) regions are typically more child-friendly, with a wider range of family-friendly accommodations and activities. The beachside locations are also generally quieter and more family-oriented than the Northshore, which can be bustling with tourists.
Is a Hotel or Vacation Rental Better for Families on Maui?
Staying at a hotel on Maui with children can be expensive, with many hotels charging daily resort fees and offering a limited range of amenities compared to vacation rentals. Vacation rentals offer more flexibility and control over space and amenities. However, hotels can provide more amenities, such as restaurants, room service, and amenities for guests of all ages, but are generally more expensive.
Maui Vacation Rentals for Families
Maui vacation rentals offer a more cost-effective alternative to hotels and resorts, with the flexibility to vacation in one's own way. Vacation rentals can provide larger and quieter accommodations, a full kitchen for families, and the freedom to relax in one's own space. The rental experience also gives families the flexibility to avoid the crowds and noise associated with larger hotels and resorts.
Maui is well-known for being the best island for resorts. There are so many to choose from. I have considered location, price, vibe, and kid/adult amenities to compile this list.
