Ka‘anapali Beach, Hawaii sits along three miles of sandy white beaches in West Maui. It is surrounded by welcoming ocean waters and amazing mountain views at every turn. Many Ka‘anapali Beach vacation rentals are located within close proximity to both the beach and a wide variety of Maui attractions. Whale watching, surfing, and snorkeling just scratch the surface when it comes to family-friendly things to do in this Hawaiian paradise. The weather and friendly residents make a visit to Ka‘anapali Beach even better. To ensure you enjoy every minute of your vacation, here are the top 10 kid-friendly things to do in and around Ka‘anapali Beach.

1. Take a Whale Watching Tour

Sail the Central Pacific and spot whales at every turn with a Sail Trilogy whale watching tour. Tours take place on catamaran boats with wide viewing platforms and comfortable seats, and each tour lasts approximately two hours. Onboard naturalists provide information about the humpback whale and its natural habitat, and hydrophones on deck amplify the whale sounds from over 100 yards away.

2. Check Out the Shops at Whaler’s Village

For a fun day of shopping and picking up some memorable souvenirs, take a walk or short drive from your vacation rental over to Whaler’s Village. Peruse the beachwear shops or pick up a classic aloha shirt at Malibu Shirts, and sample a tasty macadamia nut cookie at Honolulu Cookie. When you’re done shopping for the day, grab an authentic Hawaiian meal at the Hula Grill.

3. Go Snorkeling

If your kids are interested in a little underwater exploring, sign up for a snorkeling tour with Sea Maui. The boat leaves from Ka‘anapali Beach, directly behind Whaler’s Village. The tour heads out to the best snorkeling locations on the water, where you may spot a few sea turtles, tropical fish, and many other beautiful underwater creatures. Snacks and drinks are provided for all guests, and music makes the experience fun and festive.

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4. Spend Some Time at the Beach

Ka‘anapali Beach is one of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches, and there’s no better way to enjoy the amazing sand and surf than a beach day with the family. Pack up some fresh fruit and drinks to keep you hydrated and cool under the sun, and spend the day splashing around in the waves, building sandcastles, and hunting for beautiful shells to take home to friends and family.

5. Go Horseback Riding at Ironwood Ranch

For a fun day of recreation, take a short drive into neighboring Lahaina to do a little horseback riding at Ironwood Ranch. Kids aged 7 and over are welcome to ride, and all riders are matched with horses to fit their skill levels and needs. Each tour group consists of six riders maximum, so your trail guide can offer personalized attention and ensure that everyone’s having a good time. The tours take riders through some of the most beautiful natural scenery in Maui, so make sure to have your camera handy when you stop and take a break.

6. Zipline Over Maui

For a unique view of Ka‘anapali Beach and a guaranteed adrenaline rush, sign your family up for a Skyline Eco-Adventure. The course consists of eight lines that take you over the beaches and greenery of Maui, and you can see ocean views at every turn. Rookie zipliners are welcome, as the experienced guides stay with you every step of the way and ensure everyone knows the ropes before jumping on the lines.

7. Visit With Marine Life at Maui Ocean Center

If your kids want to learn more about the incredible marine life in the Hawaiian waters, spend a day at the Maui Ocean Center, just 12 miles away in Wailuku. The center houses the world’s largest Pacific coral collection, along with 60 separate indoor and outdoor exhibits. Explore the aquarium and view stingrays, turtles, and tropical fish up-close, then finish the day with a meal at Seascape, Maui’s ocean-friendly restaurant.

8. Take a Surfing Lesson

Surfing is one of Maui’s most popular pastimes, and you and your kids can join in on the fun with a family surfing lesson. Maui Surf School offers group lessons, and the instructors are patient and helpful. All lessons are approximately two hours, and the first 30 minutes consist of first aid and on-shore instruction before you hit the water.

9. Enjoy an Old-Fashioned Luau

For a fun night filled with local history, get tickets to the Legends of Ka‘anapali Beach Luau at the Ka‘anapali Beach Hotel. Enjoy a delicious Hawaiian feast in the hotel’s courtyard, followed by the Legends of Ka‘anapali live show, featuring dancing, Hawaiian music, and a fire-walking finale.

10. Go on a Magical Hawaiian Mermaid Adventure

If you’ve got an aspiring mermaid or merman in your family or you’re simply looking foe a unique way to spend the day, sign up for a Hawaiian Mermaid Adventure. Skilled instructors teach how to swim gracefully underwater just like the mermaids, and everyone gets their own tail. Underwater photographers capture every moment and provide photos to all guests, so you’re sure to remember this amazing experience for many years to come.


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