Updated for 2026
Searching for the best family resorts on Maui? I’m a Hawaii travel planner, hopeless resort addict, and Maui mama of two. We test a lot of Maui family resorts, and I’m here to spill the tea.
Location, location, location: Most families are happiest in South Maui (Wailea/Kihei) or West Maui (Kaanapali/Kapalua)—great weather, swimmable beaches, and a wide range of kid-friendly resorts. The quick overviews below will help you choose. For deeper context—drive times, beach vibes, where to eat—see my Ultimate Guide to Maui.
Note on West Maui: West Maui was heavily impacted by the August 2023 wildfires. As of 2026, Kaanapali and Kapalua are open to visitors, and thoughtful travel supports recovery. You can support our community by shopping at locally owned businesses during your stay!
Don’t have time to read a bunch of blog posts?
Check out our Busy Mom’s Guide To Maui
South Maui Resorts (Wailea/Kihei)
South Maui is the sunny side of the island with calm, swimmable beaches, easy paths for strollers, and an impressive lineup of luxury, family-friendly resorts. Wailea feels polished and walkable—with beach access, shops, and restaurants in one compact area. Nearby Kihei offers more budget-friendly condos, local eats, and great beaches without the resort price tag.
This side of the island is an ideal home base for toddlers and early risers (mellow mornings, quick beach runs), and you can often skip the car for a day thanks to the oceanfront path and nearby dining. Drive time from the airport (OGG) is typically 25–30 minutes.
Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
Location: Wailea (South Maui)
Perfect for: Families who want big waterslides + easy, walkable access to beaches, restaurants, and shops
Wailea Beach Resort sits between Wailea Beach and Ulua Beach, right on the oceanfront path and a short walk to The Shops at Wailea. The layout feels lush and spread out (low-rise buildings, winding paths) versus one massive tower. It’s great for families who want a “we hardly have to leave” vibe without feeling trapped on property.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- Not technically beachfront: you’ll walk a short path down to Wailea or Ulua Beach (it’s quick and easy, just not “from pool deck onto sand”).
- Kids’ club: the drop-off kids’ club has been temporarily closed. The resort still runs Movie House showings and a GameSpace family arcade, plus daily activities.
- Fees: expect a daily resort fee and paid parking (self or valet).
Wailea Beach Resort Cheat Sheet
Pools: 3 main pool zones + 4 waterslides
Kids’ club: Temporarily closed (Movie House + GameSpace available)
Restaurants: Humble Market Kitchin, KAPA Bar & Grill, Whale’s Tale; poolside food truck + Starbucks
Compare Rates for Wailea Beach Resort
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Location: Wailea (South Maui)
Perfect for: Families who want luxury, calm vibes, and service that makes you feel like a VIP
This is one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever stayed at. When I’m on vacation, I want to feel off-duty from real life—no mental load and no logistics. As always, Four Seasons delivers. They treat you (and your kids) like you’re important, not an inconvenience. The property fronts Wailea Beach and connects to the oceanfront path, so you can easily wander to dinner elsewhere.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- It’s expensive. As in: Four Seasons is expensive. However, because so many “extras” are already included, I do sometimes find it to be comparable to other resorts when you add it all up.
- The vibe is peaceful, not party. If your dream is loud slides and constant activities, this isn’t that. With little kids, it’s heaven. With activity-hungry teens, consider pairing with a day at a slide-heavy resort.
- While the spa is beautiful, I felt rushed and found my massage a bit robotic. I have heard this from other guests as well. (You may want to consider booking spa treatments next door at the Grand Wailea.)
Four Seasons Maui cheat sheet
Pools: 3 saltwater (Serenity adults-only, Fountain, Waterfall family pool with a small slide)
Kids’ club: Yes, complimentary (5–12)
Restaurants: Spago, Ferraro’s, DUO; kids five and under eat free
Compare rates for Four Seasons Maui
Fairmont Kea Lani
Location: Wailea (South Maui)
Perfect for: Families who appreciate space, suites, and a calmer luxury vibe
Fairmont Kea Lani is a Maui classic and one of my personal favorites for families because of the room to breathe. Every accommodation is a suite or villa, which means nap-friendly layouts, doors you can close, and actual living space. The resort sits on Polo Beach at the quieter end of Wailea—beautiful, relaxed, and easy for those “let’s just stay put” days.
Read our full review of Fairmont Kea Lani here.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- No kids’ club currently (as with so many Maui kids’ clubs, it was discontinued)—great pools and activities, but no drop-off childcare on site
- It’s at the southernmost end of Wailea, which is nice and peaceful, but a longer walk to The Shops at Wailea and some restaurants (you’ll want a stroller or quick drive at night)
- Expect a daily resort fee. Self-parking is typically included, and valet is extra—always double-check current details at booking
Fairmont Kea Lani cheat sheet
Pools: 3 (two family pools with a 140-ft slide + adults-only tranquility pool)
Kids’ club: No
Restaurants: Kō, AMA Bar & Grill, Kea Lani Restaurant (breakfast), Pilina bar & lounge, Nick’s Fishmarket
Compare rates for Fairmont Kea Lani
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
Location: Wailea (South Maui)
Perfect for: Families with kids of multiple ages who want beachfront + epic pools
Grand Wailea is the “go big” option in Wailea. It’s right on Wailea Beach, the grounds are massive (40 acres), and the pool scene is basically an amusement park for water-loving kids. If your crew wants to bounce between beach, lazy river, and slides all day, this is your place.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- It’s busy around the pools (unsurprising given how fun they are). Cabanas help—book ahead on popular weeks.
- While the Grand Wailea is consistently clean and updated, some may want a more modern vibe. Think: sophisticated luxury, large statues, and marble floors.
- I find it strange that you have to walk through the adults-only pool to get to the family-friendly pools, but I’m usually the one dripping with children, so who am I to complain?
Grand Wailea cheat sheet
Pools: Wailea Canyon Activity Pool (lazy river, 7 slides, rope swing, sand “baby” beach) + adults-only area
Kids’ club: Yes, $75 fee for ages 5–12, half day only (AM/PM available)
Restaurants: HUMU (check out the live fish in the bar!), Nobu, Olivine, Botero Lounge, Loulu, poolside/Grotto Bar (plus luau)
Compare rates for Grand Wailea
West Maui Resorts (Kaanapali/Kapalua)
West Maui brings the classic resort-strip energy in Kaanapali (long beachfront path, big pool complexes, Whalers Village dining/shopping) and the quieter, scenic vibe in Kapalua (protected coves, tidepools, and the Kapalua Coastal Trail). Beaches here are gorgeous, with frequent off-the-beach snorkeling and plenty of space for kids to roam.
It’s a great fit for school-age kids and teens who love waterslides, beach hopping, and snorkeling. Kaanapali is very walkable (you can do car-free days along the Beachwalk), while Kapalua is more spread out and benefits from a rental car for dining and beach options. Typical drive time from the airport (OGG) is 45–60 minutes, depending on traffic.
Tip: If you want that “resort row” feel with tons of pool time and easy access to restaurants, choose Kaanapali. If you prefer quieter coves and scenic trails, go Kapalua.
Honua Kai Resort & Spa
Location: Kaanapali (West Maui)
Perfect for: Large families and multigenerational trips that want condo space + resort-style pools by the beach
As a travel planner, Honua Kai is my go-to when a big crew needs room to spread out. These are condo-style suites with full kitchens and in-unit laundry, set on the quieter north end of Kaanapali Beach. You get the best of both worlds: homey space for naps and snacks, plus a legit aquatic playground right outside.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- No kids’ club and no classic room service—think condo resort, not full-service hotel.
- It’s north of the main Kaanapali “strip,” so quieter vibe; great with littles, but it’s a longer stroll to Whalers Village energy.
- Many units are individually owned; layouts and decor can vary by building and booking channel. Housekeeping/inclusions may differ, too.
Honua Kai cheat sheet
- Pools: Multi-zone aquatic playground (lazy river, slides, splash areas) + quiet/relax pool
- Kids’ club: No
- Restaurants: Duke’s Beach House; lobby market/cafe status varies—confirm during your dates
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaʻanapali
Location: Kaanapali (West Maui)
Perfect for: Families who want beachfront energy + a huge pool scene steps from Whalers Village
This is one of my easy “yes” picks when a family wants to be in the middle of the action. You’re on a wide stretch of Kaʻanapali Beach, which made my list of the best kid-friendly beaches on Maui. With tiered pools, a legit waterslide, and instant access to coffee, snacks, and dinner at Whalers Village, this resort could not be more convenient. When we stay here, my kids love to bounce between beach time, pool slide, and evening arcade/bowling.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- It’s a large, lively resort; pool areas can get busy—grab chairs EARLY on peak weeks
- Yet another discontinued Maui kids’ club, womp womp
- Expect a daily resort fee and paid parking
Westin Maui cheat sheet
Pools: ~87,000 sq ft across multiple pools + a 128-ft waterslide
Kids’ club: No
Restaurants: Poolside options, lobby bar/lounge, quick-grab spots; Wailele Luau on site
Compare rates for The Westin Maui
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Location: Kaanapali (West Maui)
Perfect for: Families with teens who want a big pool scene, wildlife vibes, and walkable beach path access
Hyatt Regency sits on the southern end of Kaanapali Beach with a lagoon-style pool complex, waterfalls, and a 150-foot enclosed slide that older kids will loop all day. It’s lively and easy—think lazy river sections, penguin feedings (yes, really), and quick strolls along the beachwalk for snacks and sunset.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- This is a huge, popular resort, so the pool area gets busy—claim chairs early during peak weeks
- No kids’ club; look for family activities instead (stargazing, cultural classes, mermaid swim sessions)
- The sand directly in front of the hotel can be narrow/seasonal from erosion; more beach opens up as you walk north along Kaanapali
- While the wildlife features here are unique, they might not appeal to everyone
- Expect the standard daily resort fee and paid parking
Hyatt Regency Maui cheat sheet
Pools: Large lagoon complex with waterfalls + 150-ft enclosed slide
Kids’ club: No
Restaurants: Multiple on-site options; shave ice/coffee along the beachwalk; Whalers Village is a longer walk or short drive
Compare rates for Hyatt Regency Maui
Napili Kai Beach Resort
Location: Napili (West Maui)
Perfect for: Families seeking a low-key, beachfront retreat with an old-Hawaii feel
This is our go-to for a casual weekend away. Napili Kai feels like stepping back in time—in the best way. Low-rise buildings, friendly staff, and a right-on-the-sand location at gorgeous Napili Bay. The condo-style rooms (with kitchens or kitchenettes) make family life easy, and the vibe is relaxed, not resort-row. Tip: check out their family reunion package if you’re traveling with a large group!
Why we love it
- Simple, calm, and right on Napili Bay
- Condo-style space with kitchens = fewer restaurant battles and easier naps
- No resort fee and lots of sweet throwbacks: weekly mai tai party, shuffleboard, putting greens, free popcorn, and a keiki hula show
- Complimentary kids’ club (rare on Maui) gives parents a real break—only available seasonally, check dates!
Good to know (no surprises)
- The decor leans classic/older; if you want glossy-modern, this isn’t that
- No room service or true poolside service—think low-key condo resort, not full-service hotel
- The bay is generally calm, but conditions can change—winter swells happen; always check the water before sending kids in
Napili Kai cheat sheet
Pools: 4 (quiet, small-scale pools spread around the property)
Kids’ club: Free and seasonal (mid-June–late August, Thanksgiving, Christmas/New Year’s)
Restaurants: The Sea House Restaurant (beachfront, kids ten and under eat free); casual snack/coffee options on site
Montage Kapalua Bay
Location: Kapalua (West Maui)
Perfect for: Families who want true luxury, quiet, and big residential-style space
Montage Kapalua Bay is the place I send families who want space without giving up five-star everything. Think one- to four-bedroom residences with full gourmet kitchens, real dining/living rooms, and lanais you’ll actually use. The vibe is tranquil and upscale; my nervous system slows down here in the best way.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- Premium pricing across the board—this is a splurge property
- Not set directly on the sand; it’s a short walk down to Kapalua Bay (worth it)
- The atmosphere is serene, with a small waterslide for kids; if your crew wants constant action and bigger slides, look to resorts in Kaanapali
- On-site dining is excellent but limited compared to bigger resorts; many families cook breakfast in the residence and go out for dinners nearby
Montage Kapalua Bay cheat sheet
Pools: Three-tiered lagoon pool with ocean views
Kids’ club: Paintbox, ages 5-12, half and full day available, rates vary
Restaurants: Cane & Canoe, The Hideaway, poolside bar; easy access to nearby Kapalua spots
Compare rates for Montage Kapalua Bay
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa (Black Rock)
Location: Kaanapali (West Maui)
Perfect for: Families who want adventure + culture right on the beach
Set at iconic Black Rock, this is the Kaanapali classic—steeped in legend, front-row for snorkeling, and home to the nightly torch-lighting and cliff-diving ceremony. The property sprawls over 23 acres, so you get that big-resort energy along with long beach walks and sunset views that can’t be beat.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- It’s a big, busy resort; pool chairs go early on peak weeks—plan your morning strategy
- The grounds are spread out— the extra walking required to navigate the grounds felt a bit exhausting every time I had to head back to our room to grab something
- Ocean conditions around the point can change quickly; snorkel on calm days and keep an eye on currents/wind
- No traditional drop-off kids’ club; look to the pool, beach, and luau for family fun
Sheraton Maui cheat sheet
Pools: Large lagoon-style pool with a winding “lazy river” vibe + small slide
Kids’ club: No
Restaurants: Multiple on-site options + beachwalk access to Whalers Village
Bonus: Nightly torch lighting & cliff-diving ceremony at Black Rock
Compare rates for Sheraton Maui
Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort
Location: Kaanapali, Maui
Perfect for: Families on a budget who want true beachfront + daily cultural activities
Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort is the rare right-on-the-sand option that won’t wreck your budget. The vibe is warm and welcoming, with a big emphasis on genuine Hawaiian hospitality and daily cultural programming. You’re steps to soft sand, clear water, and an easy walk to dining and shopping.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- You can still feel the hotel’s older bones—clean and welcoming, just not ultra-modern
- Amenities are simpler than the mega-resorts: the whale-shaped pool is cute but basic, and there are no waterslides
- No kids’ club; plan on beach, pool, and cultural activities for your family time
Outrigger Kaanapali cheat sheet
Pools: One whale-shaped, no-frills pool
Kids’ club: No
Restaurants: 3, including Maui Brewing Company
Compare rates for Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort
Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
Location: Kaanapali (West Maui)
Perfect for: Families who want the comfort of home—full kitchens, laundry, and a big pool scene—right on Kaanapali Beach
This is a vacation ownership resort that anyone can book. The key detail: Lahaina & Napili Towers = full villas (full kitchen + in-unit washer/dryer). Molokai/Maui/Lanai Towers = kitchenette-style units (great value, but not a full kitchen). If you’re traveling with little kids or a longer stay, I steer families to Lahaina/Napili for the space and laundry.
Why we love it
Good to know (no surprises)
- Check-in is typically 4:00 pm; check-out is 10:00 am—standard for MVC properties.
- Historically, no resort fee here, but parking is typically charged and, as of 2025, MVC has been rolling out nightly parking fees more broadly—confirm your dates.
- Service feels friendly but less doting than a full-service hotel (it’s a vacation club vibe). Pools can get busy in peak seasons.
- No traditional drop-off kids’ club. Plan on pool/beach time and DIY activities.
Maui Ocean Club cheat sheet
Pools: Super pool complex with pirate ship, slides, waterfalls, hot tubs (lazy-river style)
Kids’ club: No
Restaurants: Longhi’s (on site) + pool bars/quick options; easy walk to more along the beachwalk
Compare rates for Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
South Maui vs West Maui — Which Side is Better for Families?
South Maui (Wailea/Kihei): Upscale, chill vibes, with swimmable beaches, a polished, walkable resort area, and lots of dining along the oceanfront path. Home to Four Seasons, Andaz, Wailea Beach Resort, and Fairmont Kea Lani. Fantastic for toddlers and easy access to explore the island.
West Maui (Kaanapali/Kapalua): Classic resort-strip energy in Kaanapali (long beach path, multiple pool complexes, off-the-beach snorkeling) and quieter, scenic Kapalua (coves, tidepools, coastal trails). Great if you like to beach-hop and don’t mind a bit more driving.
Bottom line: With small kids and strollers, Wailea is hard to beat. For big pool complexes and that classic “resort row” feel, Kaanapali is awesome.
Should I hire a Hawaii travel agent for my Maui trip?
Short answer: Maybe! You can absolutely use this guide to find and book a great family resort on your own. If you want confidence you’re choosing the right fit—and you love a few VIP perks—it’s worth it.
I’m a Maui-based travel planner who works with families every day. When you book your hotel through me, you keep the same publicly available rate (or lower if there’s a qualifying offer), and you may receive extra perks like daily breakfast for two, a resort credit, a room upgrade, early check-in/late check-out, and a welcome amenity. Perks vary by property and dates, but they’re an easy value-add for families.
Is Maui Good for Families?
Yes—Maui is a dream for families. It’s so kid-friendly that we decided to raise our own kids here.
Every island is unique, but Maui’s sweet spot is the balance of adventure and relaxation. Whale season (Dec–April), tons of family-friendly restaurants, and plenty of kid-friendly beaches that never feel too crowded. Want to stay busy the whole time? Maui can do that. Want to melt into a world-class resort for a week? Also yes. Maui doesn’t judge (and neither do I).
What Is There to Do on Maui for Families?
My favorite thing about Maui is the variety. From the Road to Hana to snorkeling at a volcanic crater, there’s endless room for learning and play. Popular tours can book up fast—reserve bucket-list stuff a few months ahead when you can!
Read our favorite kid-friendly things to do on Maui with kids
Is a Hotel the Right Option for Your Family?
While expensive, resorts are still the most popular option. They offer benefits that most parents can’t pass up: kids’ clubs, restaurants, waterslides, kids-eat-free, and daily housekeeping (praise be). If you can swing it, a resort is the way to go. Tip: If you’re a sucker for hotel life but on a strict budget, Oahu hotel options are often less expensive.
This mostly comes down to budget and vacation style. Resorts on Maui are expensive, especially in peak seasons. Many also charge daily resort and parking fees (often $40–$60/day), so definitely check the fine print.
While costly, resorts are popular for a reason: restaurants on site, waterslides, housekeeping, and sometimes kids’ clubs. If that mix makes your vacation feel like… an actual vacation, it’s worth it.
Maui Vacation Rentals for Families
Vacation rentals won’t give you the same amenities as a resort, but they do give you freedom: kitchens, laundry, and space. If you’re traveling with a group or you want after-bedtime living room time, check out VRBO for terrific properties with lots of room to spread out.
For the best of both worlds, look at resort-style condos (with hotel-adjacent amenities), like Honua Kai Resort in Kaanapali.
Next Steps to Planning Your Maui Vacation
Now that you’ve landed on a hotel, decide whether you need a rental car and make sure you know your way around with my Ultimate Guide to Maui.
Pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready to explore the magic of Maui with your family. As the saying goes, Maui No Ka Oi (Maui is the best)!
FAQ: Maui family resorts (Updated for 2026)
Is West Maui open for visitors in 2026?
Yes—Kaanapali and Kapalua are open, and thoughtful travel supports recovery! The island is still gorgeous. Book early for peak seasons, and please prioritize locally owned businesses while you’re here.
Do we need a rental car on Maui?
In most cases, yes. Short stays near the beach path can be semi car-free, but I still recommend a car for beach-hopping, Upcountry Maui, Haleakalā, and grocery runs.
Which resorts have the best waterslides?
All-day slide action: Grand Wailea and Wailea Beach Resort
Single-slide fun: Hyatt Regency Maui
Small slide for littles: Four Seasons Maui
Are there any all-inclusive resorts on Maui?
Short answer: no—Maui doesn’t do true “all-inclusive.” Most resorts here are pay-as-you-go for food, drinks, and activities. You’ll occasionally see packages with breakfast included or a nightly dining credit, but that’s not the same as unlimited meals and drinks.
If you want a budget you can control, two good options:
Pick a resort that offers breakfast packages or dining credits and plan most lunches by the pool + casual dinners nearby.
Book a suite/condo with a kitchen (like Honua Kai or Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club) for easy breakfasts and some dinners in, then splurge on a few special meals out.
What’s better for families—Wailea or Kaanapali?
Wailea = calmer, polished, easy boardwalk + beaches.
Kaanapali = classic resort row, bigger pool scenes, lively vibe.
Both are great—choose your pace and how much you want to walk vs drive.
Are resort fees and parking fees standard?
Yes at most properties (Four Seasons is a rare no-resort-fee exception). Fees and amounts change; double-check for your dates.
aloha, I’M FLO
Hawaii travel blogger + itinerary planning extraordinaire
I’m an island-hopping Maui mama of two, here to bring your Hawaii vacation dreams to life.
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