8 Best Family Resorts in Hawaii 2024

Hawaii just may be the most perfect family vacation destination on Earth. World-class all-inclusive resorts for families set on jaw-dropping beaches with direct flights and spectacular sunsets. Whether you’ve got littles or teens, they will all remember this trip as their best vacation ever. That is, if you choose the right resort.

We’ve scoured the options to highlight the absolute best family resorts in Hawaii, from resorts with rushing water slides, to kids’ clubs with ukulele and Hula lessons, you won’t be disappointed.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Yes, this is where the famed first season of White Lotus was filmed, and this family-friendly resort in Hawaii is truly more spectacular in person. But what the show did not highlight is how amazing this resort is for families.

Any elevated vantage during the winter months here could reveal humpback whales frolicking in the sea just offshore and in the Kids for All Seasons program, littles can learn about migratory patterns and whale habitat to enrich their sightings.

The kids’ program also brings in special speakers, like a “Wayfarer” who teaches kids about how indigenous Hawaiians navigated by the stars. The Four Seasons also provides free use of baby items like strollers, bottle warmers and swim diapers for guests so you needn’t lug them from home.

Be sure to check out the somewhat similar Four Seasons Resort Hualalai here before choosing. Luxury lovers say this hotel is a "must-visit" and is worth "every cent." We wholeheartedly agree.

Mauna Kea Beach Resort

The Mauna Kea Beach Resort is a special place. The first resort ever built on the Big Island, initially dreamed up by Laurence Rockefeller in the ‘60s, this property is set on a spectacular stretch of white sand beach with all ocean-facing guest rooms.

Golfers will love the 18-hole Hapuna Golf Course (also the first course on the island) and the hotel maintains a strong commitment to authentic Hawaiian culture as evidenced by the daily chanting of E Ala E to the sun and sky as Hawaiian ancestors did. Goosebumps.

As if the natural playground isn’t enough, the resort features family pools and half-day programs every weekday where kids can participate in fun treasure hunts and lei-making lessons making it one of the best family resorts in Hawaii.

Grand Hyatt Resort and Spa, Kauai

This gorgeous property on the lush island of Kauai, is an A+ playground for families. Mom and Dad will love the plein-air treatments at Anara Spa, but the real star here are the endless pool options. From a lava-rock-lined lazy river, to a saltwater “lagoon” to a high-octane whoosh down a 150-foot waterslide, this multi-level pool system is best in class.

And no worries if the beach is more your style. The white sand of the Keoneloa Bay/Shipwreck Beach is just steps away. Spa treatments are never far off, as well as healthy walking opportunities to get your steps in or just watch a breathtaking sunrise. Be sure to pack your best double travel stroller if you're heading to this Hawaiian escape with more than one child.

It's an ideal resort for toddlers, little kids and teens alike—there's something for everyone at every age and stage. While there, be sure to eat local fish and make the most of coconut-laden desserts that'll make you wonder why you don't live in Hawaii.

Aulani, A Disney Resort and Spa

Aulani is fully Disney-does-Hawaii, as only Disney can do any destination. From character meet and greets (Mickey’s in a floral shirt and lei!) to kid-friendly restaurants and incredible, pools and beaches, the entire property is one big kid's club and definitely earns mention as one of the best family resorts in Hawaii.

Don’t miss Auntie’s Beach House, where storytelling becomes an interactive experience. Only a 30-minute drive from Honolulu, a stay at this resort means you do not need a connecting puddle jumper flight to get here from your home city.

Because it's a Disney property, you know every detail has been considered and mapped out. Little kids have access to toddler-appropriate food menus, big kids can score surf lessons down by the water and parents can happily lounge as needed.

Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort, Maui

Nestled on the edge of the famed Wailea Beach, this lush, luxe resort set on 40 acres of tropical landscape features the largest private art collection in Hawaii—the entire state. Kids love the gratis beach cruiser bikes, learning the ukulele and Hawaiian hula and everyone will be gob-smacked when they see the authentic Gran Lu’au.

Once you’ve settled in, take advantage of one of the other smart perks—a 45-minute family photography session with a local professional. It's a rare amenity more family resorts should offer, and one we can't stop raving about. A vacation and a holiday card photo session in one is as close to magic as we can think of.

We also love the soft, clean sand at this Hawaiian family resort's private beach as well as the manicured landscaping that turns even the most normal moments into picture-perfect excuses to snap lifelong memories.

Sheraton Waikiki

Come here for a dip in the longest oceanfront infinity pool in the world (yes, cool IG pics galore) but stay for the incredible infant childcare! The Sheraton Waikiki understands that what parents actually need on vacation (especially new, exhausted parents) is a little alone time – and the Sheraton Waikiki’s Poppins Day Care offers childcare starting at just three months.

This is by far the best Hawaiin resort for families to stay if you have an infant. Just think of all the fun you can have while your teeny tiny naps the afternoon away (and yes, that's a lot of fun)! Take advantage of mouth-watering meals, several on-site food and beverage options, a totally relaxing beach scene and nighttime activities for the whole family.

While you're there, be sure to book an Outrigger Canoe trip along the crystal clear waters of Waikiki. Trust us, it doesn't disappoint and will instantly be the thing you go home and rave to all your friends about.

The Lodge at Kukui’ula

Unlike the other resorts on this list, the Lodge at Kukui’ula is all private vacation homes. Since you can choose between one to four bedrooms for your unit, you can bring grandma, and each of your teens can have their own space if they wish. It's an upgrade from even the best family hotels in Hawaii.

Homes come with the option of a private pool, and the resort includes all the amenities, from Pickleball and a variety of saltwater swimming pool options to bike rentals and The Farm, where you can pick your own flowers or herbs.

We love this property for larger families and multi-generational trips. It's a favorite among repeat travelers and Hawaii die-hards who just can't get enough of the island's warm waters, hot sun and mouth-watering local fare.

Montage Kapalua Bay, Maui

This friendly hotel sits right on the green cliffs overlooking Namalu Bay in Maui. The hotel incorporates that sea-faring focus into all its common spaces and is comprised of one to four-bedroom suites which means you can prep breakfast and snacks in the room if you feel like skipping the restaurants.

Kids love Paintbox, the kids club for five to 12-year-olds, focused on the treasures of the tide pools and games by the pool. For every activity completed kids earn a Montage Merit Badge—collect all 12 and earn a prize. Our editors said the kids' menus on-site were "comprehensive" and "completely delicious."

Plus, the entire family can take advantage of activities including nature classes, walks and indigenous dancing. Picturesque scenery, loads of things to do and ultra clean facilities make it one of the best resorts in Hawaii for families.

Update: The Montage is still open and remains unaffected by the Lahaina fires. The hotel's parent brand is actively assisting workers and locals affected by the fires and encourages tourists to visit respectfully and support the local economy.

FAQs

How did we pick the best family resorts in Hawaii?

We looked at a variety of factors ranging from overall value to cleanliness and of course, the availability of fun activities for all ages. We also measured factors like beach access, pools, on-site restaurants and dining, as well as the availability of items like cribs and high chairs.

We sent our own editors to properties at most of the major Hawaiian islands, with many top contenders coming from hot spots like Waikiki and the North Shore areas (though we absolutely loved some of the more remote properties as you can see). Our 2024 list saw updates with new properties and the removal of a handful of favorites like the Turtle Bay Resort and Ko Olina (more on that later).

What should you pack for the best family resort in Hawaii?

Every family is different, but those who are breastfeeding should definitely take their best nursing swimsuits. Be sure to pack swim diapers, plenty of sunscreen, sandals for kids and long-sleeve rash guards. The sun is strong and you'll almost certainly burn without proper precautions.

Do the best family resorts in Hawaii allow dogs?

That depends on the resort. Some family resorts in Hawaii do allow pets (and most allow service animals). You'll have to check with the property. Those allowing pets may have size limits or small added fees.

Need more pet-friendly resort ideas? Check out this list of the best family resorts in Texas.

Do family resorts in Hawaii offer cribs?

Yes! Many resorts offer travel cribs, toddler travel beds, kids' mattresses and rollaway cots that are perfect for children. Be sure to let your hotel know (and call the front desk before booking) at least a day before your arrival so they can have kid-friendly bedding ready for you upon check-in.