Maui is known for plentiful sports on land and sea, including golf and diving. Families vacationing to Hawaii have an excellent opportunity to bond through the island’s varied experiences, including an authentic family dinner, whale watching and a trip to the aquarium. Luaus, while considered by many as a typical tourist thing to do, can be a bonding family experience and a chance for the kids to learn about culture, food and quality time. Kalua pork, island fruits and vegetables, poi (made from the taro plant), haupia (coconut dessert) and lots of fresh catch are among the items at this feast. The entertainment is also dynamic, so kids and adults will be enthralled. It’s best to make reservations and you can select varying levels (more or less entertainment, alcoholic drinks, etc.).
Maui Ocean Center is home to native sea animals, including sea turtles, sharks and rays. The marine park will keep the family entertained throughout the day. Whale watching from December to May brings a day at Maui Ocean Center to life, with a number of whales migrating and playing. Excursions will take you closer but several beaches on West and South Maui offer scenic lookouts.
Kamaole Villa
Kamaole Villa in Kihei on Maui’s South Side is a great location for whale watching and accessibility to shops, restaurants and activities. The spacious home that sleeps six will make the kids want to keep coming back for holiday vacations. The pool, backyard and nearby activities (plus activities the concierge can book for you) will not only keep the kids busy but really make the vacation rental a home and haven for gathering together for meals and memorable times both indoors and outside. Watching movies, splashing around in the pool or dining poolside will create plenty of happy island experiences.
Makena Aloha Estate
Makena Aloha Estate in Lahaina on Maui’s West Side is a vacation rental ideal for an extended family, perhaps even for celebrations of milestone birthdays or special anniversaries together with all the family members vacationing as a group. The home sleeps 15 and is an incredible value for the fine furnishings and features, including the private pool, hot tub, spacious living and sleeping quarters and nearby beaches and sights.
Ocean Bliss Estate
Wailea’s South Side is the location for Ocean Bliss Estate, is a sanctuary for a tight-knit family to bond further, with Maui’s island features beckoning at every turn. Golf, beaches, ocean views and a bounty of water sports nearby will easily fill a few days. Save time for nearby scuba, shopping and whale watching (in season). The gourmet kitchen is perfect for creating hearty and fresh island meals for the family but make sure to save a night for a luau when no one in the family feels like cooking but everyone wants an indulgent and enriching dinner experience.