Spending time on the beach is one of the best parts of visiting Maui with family. I’ve found that not all beaches are created equal when it comes to keeping the little ones safe and entertained. Some spots offer calm waters and natural tide pools, while others have facilities that make a day at the beach much more convenient.
The best family beaches on Maui provide gentle waves, shallow entry points, and nearby amenities like bathrooms, showers, and shaded areas. Beaches like Launiupoko Beach Park and Baby Beach in Lahaina are perfect for families with young children. When visiting with kids who aren’t strong swimmers, finding the right beach can make all the difference between a stressful outing and a relaxing day in paradise.
Makena Beach
Makena Beach is truly one of Maui’s hidden treasures for families! I recently visited with my kids and was amazed by its spacious shoreline. The golden sand stretches wide, giving everyone plenty of room to set up without feeling crowded, even on busy days.
The water here is crystal clear and perfect for swimming when the conditions are calm. My children loved snorkeling along the edges where they spotted colorful fish. The beach is also known locally as “Big Beach” because of its impressive size – nearly 2/3 of a mile long!
There are convenient amenities that make this beach family-friendly. I appreciated the picnic tables where we enjoyed our lunch with an incredible ocean view. The food truck nearby offers tasty refreshments when you don’t want to pack your own meals.
Parking is available, though I recommend arriving early on weekends. The gentle slope of the beach makes it easy for little ones to play in the shallows, though parents should always watch for occasional larger waves.
Rating: 4.7 (1961 reviews)
Location: 6600 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (800) 464-2924
Website: Visit Website
Kamaole Beach Park I
I recently visited Kamaole Beach Park I with my family and found it to be a perfect spot for kids! The sandy beach stretches beautifully along the shore, making it easy for little ones to build sandcastles or play in the shallow areas.
The water is notably calm here, which gave me peace of mind while my children were swimming. There’s an on-duty lifeguard, adding an extra layer of safety that parents will appreciate. I noticed several families seemed to feel the same way.
One of the highlights of our visit was spotting sea turtles! My kids were thrilled to see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. The beach wasn’t overcrowded, so we had plenty of space to set up our beach gear and relax.
The park is well-maintained and clean, with restroom facilities nearby. I found it easy to spend a full day here since it offers both sun and shade options. The sunset views were absolutely beautiful too!
Rating: 4.7 (993 reviews)
Location: 75 Alanui Ke’ali’i, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 879-4364
Website: Visit Website
Keawakapu Beach
I recently visited Keawakapu Beach with my family and was amazed by its tranquil beauty. This half-mile stretch of golden sand offers perfect conditions for a relaxing day by the ocean. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for families with children of all ages.
Snorkeling here was a highlight of our trip! My kids were thrilled to swim alongside colorful fish and sea turtles in the warm, gentle waters. The picturesque scenery with views of neighboring islands creates a postcard-perfect backdrop for family photos.
What I love about Keawakapu is how it never feels overcrowded, even during peak season. There’s always plenty of space to spread out your beach towels and build sandcastles. The offshore swimming area is perfect for splashing around, though keep in mind there’s no lifeguard on duty.
Beach amenities include showers to rinse off after your swim and parking across the street on Kilohana Drive. If you’re planning a full day, I recommend bringing your own refreshments as there are limited facilities nearby.
Rating: 4.8 (954 reviews)
Location: South Kihei Road & Kilohana Dr, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 891-4951
Website: Visit Website
Baby Beach, Sprecklesville Area
Baby Beach in Sprecklesville is a hidden gem for families visiting Maui. I recently spent a day here with my kids and was amazed by how perfect it is for little ones. The gentle waters are protected by a reef, creating a natural shallow pool that’s ideal for babies and toddlers.
The soft sandy beach offers plenty of space to set up for the day. I noticed many local families frequent this spot, which is always a good sign when looking for authentic beach experiences on the island.
Parking is limited but I managed to find a spot nearby. I recommend arriving early, especially during peak tourist season. The beach doesn’t have facilities like restrooms or food vendors, so I packed essentials for our visit.
What impressed me most was the calm, warm water. My toddler splashed happily for hours without me worrying about strong waves or currents. The views of the North Shore are stunning too, making this a relaxing spot for parents while the kids play safely.
Rating: 4.6 (395 reviews)
Location: 207 Kealakai Pl, Paia, HI 96779
Kahekili Beach Park
I recently visited Kahekili Beach Park with my family and found it to be a perfect spot for children. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for little ones to splash around safely. The offshore reef creates a natural barrier that keeps the waves gentle most of the time.
The amenities here are fantastic for families. I loved that there’s a boardwalk lining the beach, making it accessible even with strollers. The covered picnic pavilion came in handy when we needed a break from the sun, and the barbecue grills let us enjoy a delicious lunch right by the water.
What really impressed me was how clean the facilities were. The showers and restrooms made it easy to rinse off after swimming and change before heading back to our hotel. I also noticed plenty of shade trees along parts of the beach, offering natural relief from the hot Maui sun.
Snorkeling here is amazing! My kids were thrilled to spot colorful fish just a few feet from shore. The water clarity is exceptional, and we even saw a few sea turtles swimming nearby during our visit.
Rating: 4.7 (1138 reviews)
Location: 65 Kai Ala Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761
Contact: (808) 270-7230
Website: Visit Website
Black Rock Beach
Black Rock Beach is a fantastic spot for families visiting Maui. I took my kids there last summer, and they couldn’t get enough of the golden sand and clear waters. The beach gets its name from the dramatic black lava rock formation that juts out into the ocean at the north end.
Snorkeling here is amazing for all ages. I saw dozens of colorful fish right off the shore, and even spotted a few sea turtles gliding through the water. The kids were thrilled! The water near the beach is usually calm enough for younger swimmers.
Cliff diving from Black Rock is a popular activity for teenagers and adults, but I preferred watching the brave jumpers from the safety of my beach towel. Every evening at sunset, a cliff diver performs a traditional torch lighting ceremony that’s worth staying late to see.
The beach has good facilities nearby, with restrooms and showers available. There are also several resorts along this stretch that offer food and drink options. I recommend arriving early to get a good spot, as this beach can get crowded during peak hours.
Rating: 4.6 (1711 reviews)
Location: Lahaina, HI 96761
Website: Visit Website
Ulua Beach Park
I recently visited Ulua Beach Park in Kihei, and it’s definitely one of Maui’s hidden gems for families. The sandy shoreline is lined with beautiful palm trees, creating plenty of shady spots for little ones to take a break from the sun.
The beach offers calm waters most mornings, making it perfect for kids to swim safely. I noticed many families enjoying the gentle waves, and some older children were having a blast bodyboarding in the slightly deeper areas.
What I really appreciated were the convenient facilities. The beach has clean restrooms and outdoor showers to rinse off after playing in the sand. The parking lot was adequate, though I’d recommend arriving early during peak season to secure a spot.
I found this beach less crowded than some of Maui’s more famous spots, which made it much easier to keep an eye on the kids. The natural beauty combined with family-friendly amenities makes Ulua Beach Park a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Maui with children.
Rating: 4.8 (352 reviews)
Location: Ulua Beach Rd, Kihei, HI 96753
Contact: (808) 879-4364
Website: Visit Website
Oneuli Beach
Oneuli Beach is a hidden gem on Maui that offers a unique experience with its striking black sand. This beach is less crowded than many others on the island, making it perfect for families who want some space to spread out and relax.
The swimming and snorkeling here are fantastic! My kids were thrilled to spot colorful fish and other marine life just offshore. The water gets deep relatively quickly, so I made sure to keep a close eye on my younger children while they played near the shore.
What makes Oneuli special is its natural beauty without the tourist crowds. The beach has a more rugged feel than some of Maui’s more manicured beaches, which my family found refreshing. We spent hours exploring the shoreline and taking photos of the dramatic contrast between the black sand and blue ocean.
I recommend bringing water shoes as the sand can get quite hot in the afternoon sun. Also, pack plenty of snacks and drinks since there aren’t any concession stands nearby. Morning visits offer the calmest water conditions and best snorkeling visibility.
Rating: 4.5 (257 reviews)
Location: 5550 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753
Hamoa Beach
Hamoa Beach is a stunning spot on Maui that I recently visited with my family. The crescent-shaped beach has beautiful clear blue water that my kids couldn’t wait to splash in. The sand is soft and perfect for building sandcastles, though it has a unique salt-and-pepper look that makes it stand out from other beaches.
The waves here can be quite sizable, which was perfect for my teenager who loves to bodysurf. However, I kept my younger children closer to shore as the currents can be strong. The beach isn’t usually overcrowded, which gave us plenty of room to spread out our beach blankets and toys.
What I loved most about Hamoa Beach was the breathtaking scenery. Tall palm trees line the beach providing natural shade, and the lush green hills surrounding the cove make it feel like a tropical paradise. I recommend arriving early in the morning to secure a good spot and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere before more visitors arrive.
The beach has a remote feel, but it’s still accessible. We brought our own snacks and water since there aren’t many facilities nearby. If you’re planning a family day here, I suggest packing everything you need in advance.
Rating: 4.7 (547 reviews)
Location: Hamoa Beach, Hana, HI 96713
Website: Visit Website
Ho’okipa Beach Park
Ho’okipa Beach Park is a stunning white sand beach that’s widely known as the “home of contemporary surfing.” I was amazed by the breathtaking views when I visited. The beach spans 8.4 square miles with three parking lots that can fit over 170 cars.
While I visited, I noticed that Ho’okipa might not be ideal for families with young children due to the powerful waves. The conditions are fantastic for experienced surfers and windsurfers, but not so much for casual swimming.
I appreciated the family-friendly amenities available. There are three pavilions with BBQ grills and picnic tables where you can enjoy a meal while watching the surfers. The park also has restrooms, outdoor showers, and fresh water fountains.
Safety is well-covered with lifeguards on duty from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. Even if swimming isn’t ideal for kids, I found it’s still worth visiting to watch professional surfers and possibly spot sea turtles resting on the shore.
Rating: 4.8 (6074 reviews)
Location: 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779
Contact: (808) 572-8122
Website: Visit Website
Why Maui is Ideal for Family Beach Vacations
Maui offers the perfect combination of safe waters and exciting activities that make beach days enjoyable for both parents and kids. I’ve found that the island’s diverse coastline provides options for families with children of all ages.
Safe Swimming Beaches
When traveling with kids, safety is my top priority. Maui has several beaches with calm waters perfect for young children. Lahaina Baby Beach is one of my favorites since it has gentle waves and shallow water ideal for toddlers and new swimmers.
Kapalua Bay is another great option with its crescent shape that creates a natural barrier against strong currents. The water here stays calm most of the time, making it easier to keep an eye on the little ones.
What I love about these beaches is that they often have facilities nearby like:
- Clean restrooms
- Shaded areas for breaks
- Easy parking access
- Gentle slopes into the water
Family-Friendly Beach Activities
Maui beaches offer more than just swimming! My kids always get excited about snorkeling with sea turtles in the clear waters. The vibrant underwater world is accessible even to beginners in the protected beach areas.
Beach days here are so simple – I just pack swimsuits, sunscreen, and a few beach toys, and we’re good to go for the day. Building sandcastles on the golden shores keeps the younger kids busy for hours.
Many beaches also offer easy access to:
- Beginner snorkeling spots
- Tide pools for exploring
- Gentle waves for first-time boogie boarding
- Beach-side parks with play equipment
I’ve found that the natural beauty combined with kid-friendly conditions makes Maui truly special for making family memories.
Exploring Marine Life with Kids
Maui offers amazing opportunities for your kids to discover underwater worlds. The island’s clear waters and protected bays create perfect conditions for young explorers to safely encounter colorful fish and other marine creatures.
Best Spots for Snorkeling
Lahaina Baby Beach (also called Pu’unoa Beach) is my absolute top recommendation for families with young kids. It’s ideal for beginners with calm, shallow waters.
The gentle waves and protective reef make it safe for little ones to practice their snorkeling skills. I’ve watched my own children spot colorful fish mere feet from shore!
Kapalua Bay is another fantastic option that consistently ranks as one of Maui’s most family-friendly beaches. The clear waters offer excellent visibility for spotting tropical fish.
Napili Bay is perfect for families too. The curved bay creates calm conditions, and you might even spot sea turtles swimming near the reef!
Pro tip: Bring your own snorkel gear or rent from local shops to save money. Always check conditions before entering the water.
Tide Pools and Educational Opportunities
Tide pools offer a different way to explore marine life that’s perfect for younger kids or those not ready for snorkeling. These natural aquariums are filled with fascinating creatures!
I love visiting the tide pools during low tide when my kids can safely observe small fish, crabs, sea urchins, and sometimes even tiny octopuses.
Maui Ocean Center provides fantastic educational opportunities if you want a more structured marine experience. They offer interactive exhibits that my kids absolutely adore.
When exploring tide pools, I make sure to teach my children these important rules:
- Never remove animals from their habitat
- Step carefully on rocks (not coral)
- Don’t poke or disturb the creatures
- Leave everything as you found it
The best time to explore tide pools is early morning when temperatures are cooler and crowds are smaller.
Essential Tips for a Family Beach Day on Maui
A fun day at a Maui beach with kids requires some preparation and safety knowledge. I’ve learned from experience that the right gear and sun protection can make all the difference between a magical day and a challenging one.
Packing Smart for the Beach
When heading to Maui’s family-friendly beaches, I always bring a few essentials beyond just towels and swimsuits. A pop-up beach tent provides crucial shade for little ones who need breaks from the sun.
Bring plenty of fresh water – the Hawaiian sun is stronger than you might expect! I recommend at least one large water bottle per person.
Beach Gear Checklist:
- Beach toys (buckets, shovels, sand molds)
- Waterproof bag for wet clothes
- Snorkel gear (often cheaper to bring your own)
- Rash guards for kids
- Beach chairs or mats
- Cooler with snacks and drinks
For beaches like Kapalua Bay, I pack water shoes to protect little feet from occasional rocky spots.
Staying Sun Safe
The Hawaiian sun is intense, especially between 10am-2pm. I apply waterproof sunscreen (SPF 50+) to my kids 30 minutes before hitting beaches like Napili Bay.
Reapply sunscreen every 1-2 hours, even on cloudy days. The reflection from the water amplifies UV exposure more than you might realize.
Sun Safety Must-Haves:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (Hawaii law requires it)
- Wide-brimmed hats for everyone
- UV-protective sunglasses
- Long-sleeve rash guards (easier than constant sunscreen battles)
- Beach umbrella or tent
I’ve found that scheduling beach time in the early morning (8-10am) or late afternoon (after 3pm) at spots like Kalepolepo Beach Park means less sun exposure and often calmer waters for the kids.
