Searching for the best places to stay on Maui for families? I’m a Hawaii travel planner, shameless resort addict, and Maui mom of two. We stay in hotels a lot, and I’m here to spill the tea.
From resorts with epic waterslides to tranquil retreats with spacious suites, these 11 family-friendly hotels are places we’ll visit time and time again.
Is Maui Good for Families?
Yes, Maui is a dream destination for families. It’s so kid-friendly that we decided to raise our own kids here!
Every Hawaiian Island is unique, but what I love about Maui is its perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, making it an ideal destination for families. Maui’s the best island for whale-watching (Dec-April), there are numerous family-friendly restaurants, and we have tons of kid-friendly beaches that never get too crowded.
Want to stay busy the whole time? Maui can make that happen. Or maybe your ideal vacation is never leaving a world-class resort. Maui doesn’t judge (neither do I).
What Is There to Do on Maui for Families?
Maui is a playground for all ages. From ziplining over tropical forests to snorkeling in a Volcanic Crater, Maui offers endless opportunities for family exploration and education. Keep in mind that popular tours and activities can book up quickly. So, if possible, reserve a space for your bucket list adventure a few months in advance!
Read about all of our favorite kid-friendly things to do on Maui.
Where to Stay on Maui With Kids
If you visit Maui with kids, you’ll likely want to stay in Wailea (Southside) or Ka’anapali (Westside). Both areas provide excellent weather and plenty of places to rest your head.
However, if you prefer to travel off the beaten path, there are many wonderful Maui nooks and crannies to discover. My Ultimate Guide to Maui explains each region in detail and will help you decide the best location for your family.
Is a Hotel the Right Option for Your Family?
The answer to this essentially boils down to one question: How much are you willing to spend? Because there’s no way around it: Staying at a hotel on Maui is expensive. If you’re a sucker for hotel life but on a strict budget, Oahu hotel options are often far less expensive.
The Hawaii Tourism Authority shares that, compared to a Maui vacation rental, guests throw down almost 20% more to stay in a hotel. Not only are hotels more expensive, but many charge sneaky resort and parking fees (typically $40-$50/day), which can add up quickly.
While expensive, resorts are still the most popular option. They offer benefits that most parents can’t pass up: kid’s clubs, restaurants, waterslides, kids-eat-free, and daily housekeeping (praise be). If you can swing it, a resort is the way to go.
Maui Vacation Rentals for Families
A vacation rental may not offer the same amenities as a hotel, but it does provide the freedom to vacation in your own way. For example, having a kitchen and washer/dryer can be a game-changer, especially if you’re traveling with a large group.
In addition, vacation rentals can provide something that moms don’t get much of in life: SPACE. While some of the hotels on the list below offer suites, many cannot compete with the kind of space that most vacation rentals will provide. I sometimes book vacation rentals just so I don’t have to go to bed at the same time as my kids!
For the best of both worlds, resort-style condos are available on Maui, like Honua Kai Resort in Ka’anapali.
The Best Maui Resorts for Families
Maui is well-known for being the best island for resorts—there are so many to choose from! We stay at Maui hotels and resorts often, so our personal experience is your best resource. Also taken into account: kid/adult amenities, location, price, and vibe.
These are the best places to stay on Maui for families.
Fairmont Kea Lani
Location: Wailea, Maui
Perfect For: Families With Toddlers
The Fairmont Kea Lani is a Maui staple, and it doesn’t take long to see why.
This resort stands out with its unique all-suite and villa luxury offerings, providing spacious accommodations for children and parents (after all, this is your vacation, too). The vibe at Fairmont Kea Lani is relaxed and sophisticated, making it easy to enjoy a blend of comfort and style.
The resort has three swimming pools, including a 140-foot waterslide and a toddler-friendly pool. Additionally, its location in Wailea means you’re steps away from some of Maui’s most beautiful beaches and snorkeling spots.
Why We Love It:
I love the Fairmont Kea Lani for so many reasons, but the first is the SPACE. Here, every room is either a one-bedroom or two-to-three-bedroom villa, so you can easily nap a toddler mid-day and stay awake in the other room after putting them to bed at night.
As with most Fairmonts, the property is stunning, especially after a recent 2024 remodel. Our service at the Fairmont has always been exceptional, and I really appreciate the little details (like tiny step stools) they have placed around the hotel for kids.
Additionally, they offer a terrific list of cultural activities and host multiple events a year that benefit the community.
Cons:
Fairmont Kea Lani is situated on the southernmost point of Wailea, separating it from the other hotels. This can be great, as it allows you some breathing room. But, it does mean walking longer to nearby shops and restaurants.
Additionally, the kid’s wading pool is great, but there are no poolside play structures for toddlers to climb on. And, the real kicker: they recently discontinued their complimentary kid’s club (I’m not sure why, but this has been the case for many resorts on Maui).
Pools: 3 kid-friendly pools and one adult-only pool
Kids Club: No
Restaurants: 6, Kids under 5 eat free at Ko Restaurant and AMA Bar & Grill
Hyatt Regency Ka’anapali
Location: Ka’anapali, Maui
Perfect For: Families With Teens
The Hyatt Regency is set along the stunning Ka’anapali Beach and is a dream for families who want a perfect balance of fun activities and relaxing beachfront views. From a lazy river and waterfalls to a 150-foot waterslide, there’s no shortage of excitement here.
The Hyatt stands out for its wildlife features, including African Black-Footed Penguins (you read that right) and exotic birds. It’s also home to an elaborate pool area, including a lazy river, waterfalls, and a 150-foot lava tube waterslide! The beach directly in front of the hotel is tiny, but a short walk up Ka’anapali Beach leads to more sand.
Unfortunately, this kid’s club was also discontinued, but they offer many family-friendly activities like stargazing and a mermaid swim academy.
Why We Love It:
The resort’s suites offer the chance to hang out in a separate room from messy teens (or napping toddlers). This lively location provides plenty of on-site activities and is great for older kids who want the freedom to roam. A short stroll up the beach path gives access to various snacks and entertainment. We always enjoy our time here!
Cons:
Because of its size and popularity, this resort can get busy, especially around the pool area. This might not be the best fit if you’re looking for a more intimate or quiet experience.
Additionally, the beach directly in front of the hotel is tiny, but a short walk up Ka’anapali Beach leads to more sand. And while the wildlife features are unique, they might not appeal to everyone.
Pools: 6
Kid’s Club: No
Restaurants: 5, including Ululani’s Shave Ice (arguably the best shave ice on Maui!)
The Grand Wailea
Location: Wailea, Maui
Perfect For: Families With Kids of Multiple Ages
The Grand Wailea is a Waldorf Astoria Resort renowned for its lavish amenities and family-friendly offerings.
Located right on the beach in Wailea, this resort is excellent for families seeking luxury and adventure. It sits on 40 acres of tropical gardens and hosts a great kid-friendly luau. People from around the world have been coming here for years to get married at the charming stained-glass Seaside Chapel.
The Grand Wailea is most famous for its activity pool, which consists of nine pools connected by a lazy river. It offers thrilling waterslides for teens and a sandy beach pool for toddlers.
Did I mention the Tarzan pool with a rope swing? Sorry, did I mention the swim-up bar??
Why We Love It:
This is my favorite option for families with kids of multiple ages because it has something for everyone. The massive pool setup is something to behold. Additionally, the property is gorgeous and situated right on Wailea Beach, meaning you only have to walk a few steps to go from pool to beach and back to pool again.
The Kilolani Spa is my favorite on the island and underwent a major renovation in 2024. I have received many great massages here, and the new “hydrotherapy garden” is not to be missed! I often take my friends here for their birthdays to celebrate (Followed by an incredible dinner at Humu Humu (sit at the bar if you’re on a date, it’s filled with live fish)!
Cons:
The Grand Wailea also discontinued their kids club, and it’s a real bummer because it was epic. But you don’t have to be here long to see that this resort still caters to children.
I do find it odd 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?
Pools: 9, including 5 waterslides and 3 jacuzzis
Kid’s Club: No
Restaurants: 5
Four Seasons Resort
Location: Wailea, Maui
Perfect For: Families Looking for Luxury
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is the epitome of elegance, and it truly delivers a luxurious escape. If you’re searching for a vacation in the form of calm sophistication, this is the place to be.
The Four Seasons is renowned for its impeccable service and attention to detail, ensuring a stay that’s as relaxing as it is memorable. The resort’s three saltwater pools, including a serene adults-only option and a beautiful family pool, cater to every mood and preference.
This is the nicest hotel in Wailea (or the entire island, depending on who you ask).
Why We Love It:
This is one of my favorite hotels I’ve ever stayed at, and I don’t say that lightly. When on vacation, I want to feel like I’m on a break from my regular life. The Four Seasons accomplishes this by treating you like you’re a VIP, far beyond check-in. This is the kind of place that calls you by name, and your family’s needs are often anticipated before you even realize you have them.
The grounds are absolutely gorgeous, and our room included thoughtful amenities like kids’ shampoo, diaper genie, Nespresso machine, crib, and nighttime turn-down service. They also offer bottle warmers, rocking chairs, and strollers.
One major perk of the Four Seasons Maui is that, while expensive, they don’t charge for many “extras” like other resorts in Hawaii (no resort fee). Also included in your stay are complimentary pool cabanas (very rare!), so there’s no need to leave the pool with a sleeping baby or toddler. They even brought a crib to our cabana! If you’re traveling with little ones, this might be reason enough to stay.
In addition, they have a fantastic kid’s club, which is also complimentary for ages 5-12. Add this to the massive game room and restaurants where kids 5 and under eat for free; it became clear to me that bougie hotel stays don’t always have to mean “kid-free.”
Cons:
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea comes with a price tag to match its luxury offerings, which can stretch the budget, to say the least. Also, while the resort is peaceful, those seeking a more lively, activity-filled stay might find it too quiet. I wouldn’t stay here with active teens.
Lastly, while the spa was 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.)
Pools: 3, including a serene adults-only pool and a family pool with a small waterslide and shallow end for toddlers
Kid’s Club: Yes, complimentary for ages 5-12
Restaurants: 3, kids five and under eat free
Westin Maui Resort and Spa Ka’anapali
Location: Ka’anapali, Maui
Perfect For: Active Families and Water Slide Enthusiasts
The Westin Maui Resort and Spa in Ka’anapali is excellent for families who love being part of the action and right on the beach. This resort is located on a prime location of Ka’anapali Beach, which made our list of the best kid-friendly beaches on Maui.
The Westin Maui is particularly famous for its impressive aquatic playground, featuring five pools, two waterslides, and a dedicated kids’ area. If your kids are older, there’s a thrilling 128-foot waterslide!
Why We Love It:
The Westin’s location could not be more convenient. The resort is located on the widest part of Ka’anapali Beach and directly next to Whaler’s Village Shopping Mall.
The Westin Ka’anapali recently opened an indoor entertainment venue called “Social Space (ALMOST making up for yet another discontinued kid’s club).” This venue provides a fun opportunity to play arcade games, golf simulations, duckpin bowling, and indulge in food, local beers, and craft cocktails. It’s family-friendly and transitions into an adult-only (21+) space later in the day.
Cons:
The Westin Maui Resort has 770 rooms, so many people stay here, especially during peak seasons. If you want a quieter, more intimate experience, this is not your place.
They’ve done a great job with the pool layout, creating five different pool levels overlooking the ocean. Still, the property and pools can get quite crowded. Be prepared for a lot of kids running around and head down early in the morning to reserve your pool chairs.
Pools: 5, including a 128-foot waterslide and 87,000 square feet of fun
Kid’s Club: No
Restaurants: 3, including an “Eat Well” menu with healthy options for kids
Napili Kai Beach Resort
Location: Napili, Maui
Perfect For: Families Seeking a Low-Key Beach Retreat
This is our go-to for a casual weekend away. Napili Kai Resort is a hidden gem for families looking for a more laid-back, intimate experience in Hawaii.
Tucked away on the shores of the picturesque Napili Bay, this resort feels like stepping back in time. Napili Kai’s charm lies in its traditional Hawaiian feel and smaller scale, starkly contrasting the larger, more bustling resorts. Its beachfront location provides direct access to the calm, clear waters of Napili Bay, which is a great beach for kids.
Why We Love It:
Napili Kai’s appeal is in its simplicity and focus on relaxation. The spacious, condo-style accommodations with kitchen facilities make it perfect for a convenient, home-away-from-home experience. The resort’s low-rise buildings and absence of resort fees add to its laid-back charm. Their motto is: “We don’t nickel and dime our guests.”
This place is quirky and cute, with a weekly mai tai party, shuffleboard, putt-putt, free popcorn, and an authentic hula performance by kids. In a sea of large resorts, I find this spot to be intimate and refreshing.
Cons:
While Napili Kai offers a peaceful retreat, the decor is a bit outdated, and it lacks some of the extensive amenities and activities found in larger resorts, which might be a downside if you’re seeking a more luxurious experience. While we have found the service excellent, no poolside or room service is available to guests.
Tip: Check out their “family reunion” package if you’re traveling with a large group!
Pools: 4
Kid’s Club: Complimentary and Seasonal (available mid-June to late August, Thanksgiving, and Christmas/New Year’s)
Restaurants: 1, The Sea House Restaurant, known for its beachfront dining and local cuisine
Montage Kapalua Bay
Location: Kapalua, Maui
Perfect For: Families Desiring Luxury and Spacious Living
Montage Kapalua Bay, located in the high-end Kapalua area, is the definition of luxury and comfort for families who appreciate the finer things in life.
This resort is renowned for its sprawling, residential-style accommodations and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. This is not the kind of resort where other visitors (or even your own family) are on top of you the entire time. Montage offers a stunning property and spacious 1-4 bedroom suites and residences, each with top-notch amenities AND a gourmet kitchen.
Why We Love It:
Other luxury resorts can’t compete with the Montage’s spacious accommodations, which include separate living and dining rooms, a full gourmet kitchen, soaking tubs, and separate showers. It’s rare to experience this level of luxury with these family-friendly amenities.
The Spa Montage is reason enough to stay here, although you don’t have to be a guest to pay a visit. They offer a range of treatments that truly embody the spirit of aloha, and if you can swing it, I highly recommend a visit!
Their kid’s program, Paintbox, is one of the best on the island, with tailored activities for different days of the week. They even offer a “children’s night out” twice weekly, with dinner and a private movie screening.
Cons:
Montage Kapalua Bay’s exclusivity and high-end offerings come with a premium price tag. Additionally, its tranquil and luxurious atmosphere might not align with families looking for a more casual or activity-packed resort experience. Let’s just say that when my kids were loud, people noticed.
Pools: A stunning 3-tiered lagoon pool
Kid’s Club: Paintbox, an exclusive children’s program with a variety of cultural activities
Restaurants: 3 (The Hideaway is the most kid-friendly!)
Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa at Black Rock
Location: Ka’anapali
Perfect For: Families Who Love Adventure and History
The Sheraton Maui is a sprawling 23-acre resort located at the iconic Black Rock on Ka’anapali Beach, which is ideal for families seeking a blend of Hawaiian culture, adventure, and relaxation.
This resort is steeped in history and legend, situated at a spot known for its significance in Hawaiian culture and excellent snorkeling opportunities right off the beach. The Sheraton Maui is renowned for its giant lagoon-style pool and the nightly cliff diving ceremony, a tradition that pays homage to the island’s heritage.
You almost guaranteed to recieve a stunning oceanfront view from nearly every room here, which is rare!
Why We Love It:
Aside from its rich cultural backdrop, the real highlight of the Sheraton is the lazy river pool, which extends 142 yards (an entire football field) throughout the hotel! There are several large swimming areas, a small waterslide, and a shallow area that’s great for toddlers.
Sheraton’s prices are also fairly reasonable (by Maui’s standards).
Cons:
The Sheraton Maui is bustling, especially during peak seasons, which might not suit those looking for a quieter, more secluded experience. People tend to love or hate the resort’s size. For me, 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.
Pools: A sizeable lagoon-style pool with a lazy river and separate areas for kids
Kid’s Club: No
Restaurants: 5
Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort
Location: Ka’anapali, Maui
Perfect For: Families on a Budget
Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort is a great option for families on a budget who don’t want to sacrifice a beachfront location. This resort is celebrated for its prime setup on Ka’anapali Beach, offering direct access to soft sand and clear water. Staying here also means easy access to various dining and shopping options.
The Outrigger’s vibe is warm and welcoming, focusing on genuine Hawaiian hospitality. It claims to be “Hawaii’s most Hawaiian hotel” and offers an impressive list of daily cultural activities.
Why We Love It:
To put it simply – this place is old school. Staying here feels like stepping back in time, which can be charming. A giant remodel in 2023 gave the place a nice facelift and added an onsite Maui Brewing Company, which made our family’s list of the best kid-friendly restaurants on Maui.
Overall, I love this option for families on a budget who want to stay at Ka’anapali Beach (without taking out a loan).
Cons:
Although it’s part of its charm, you can tell this is an older hotel. The decor is a bit outdated, although the rooms are clean and welcoming. There aren’t a ton of amenities here, and the whale-shaped pool is pretty basic. If things like a toddler play area and waterslides are important to you on vacation, this isn’t it.
Pools: A unique, no-frills, whale-shaped pool
Kid’s Club: No
Restaurants: 3, including the newest Maui Brewing Company location
Book Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Resort
Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club
Location: Ka’anapali, Maui
Perfect For: Families Who Want the Comfort of Home
Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club, situated in the heart of Ka’anapali Beach, is a vacation ownership property anyone can book and stay at.
The booking process can be a bit confusing because the property is categorized as “Lahaina and Napili Towers” or “Molokai, Maui, and Lanai Towers.” I always refer families to the Lahaina and Napili Towers because the villas are incredibly spacious and include a full kitchen and a washer and dryer!
Maui Ocean Club offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and provides easy access to Ka’anapali Beach. The resort has a sprawling super pool complex with a pirate ship, waterslides, and a lazy river!
Why We Love It:
My two-year-old loved the pirate ship play area and the little water slides. I loved having a washer and dryer in our villa and throwing both kids in the big bathtub at the end of the night was a huge plus. The on-site amenities make this a very convenient place, especially with a toddler in tow.
In addition, Maui Ocean Club does not charge a daily resort fee, which is rare in Hawaii (although they still charge for parking).
Cons:
Because this is a vacation ownership property, there are a couple of quirks. Check-in is at 4:00 pm, and check-out is at 10:00 am. And while the staff is friendly, they may not go out of their way to make you feel doted on.
In addition, this is not a chill resort by any means. While it provides hours of fun, the pool area can get crowded.
Pools: An impressive super pool complex with a pirate ship, waterslides, and a lazy river
Kid’s Club: No
Restaurants: One beachfront restaurant (Longhi’s) and two pool bars
Honua Kai Resort
Location: Ka’anapali, Maui
Perfect For: Large Families and Group Travel
Honua Kai Resort is a fantastic condo-style resort option for families who need space—especially if you’re traveling with extended family or a group of people. Located on the quieter northern side of Ka’anapali Beach, Honua Kai offers spacious accommodations with fully equipped kitchens, in-room laundry, and all the comforts of home.
With multiple pools (including a fun kids’ pool with a lazy river), water slides, and a beachfront setting, this resort strikes the perfect balance between a family vacation and a relaxing escape.
Why We Love It:
I’m a huge fan of the full kitchens here, especially when traveling with little ones. Not having to eat out every meal can be a lifesaver with picky eaters in tow. The resort is family-friendly without feeling too “resorty,” and the beach is just a few steps away. Honua Kai offers all the perks of staying in a hotel but with the spacious feel of a vacation rental.
The Duke’s restaurant onsite is also a big hit, especially with its beachfront seating—perfect for a family dinner while the kids can play in the sand.
Cons:
While the resort offers a lot of space and amenities, it doesn’t provide room service or a traditional kids’ club. Also, it’s on the quieter side of Ka’anapali Beach, so if you’re looking for more action, you might prefer staying closer to the main Ka’anapali strip.
Pools: 4 pools, including a lazy river, children’s play area, and water slides
Kid’s Club: No
Restaurants: 2, including Duke’s Beach House
Next Steps to Planning Your Maui Vacation
Now that you’ve landed on a hotel, figure out if 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)!
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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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