The Big Island of Hawaiʻi is full of epic landscapes and once-in-a-lifetime experiences—and yes, many are absolutely doable with kids. From lava fields and waterfalls to snorkeling with sea turtles and stargazing above the clouds, this island is a playground for curious families.
Before we dive in, have you seen our ranked lists on Big Island? They might add helpful context and information for your trip.
Discover the Best Kid-Friendly Hotels on the Big Island of Hawaii
Family friendly excursions on Big Island
Kid friendly beaches on Big Island
For detailed visitor info, check out the Wikivoyage page on Big Island.
Here are some of our favorite things to do on the Big Island with kids of all ages.
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
If your kids love science, nature, or just stomping around in otherworldly places, this park is a dream. You can walk through the massive Nāhuku lava tube (bring flashlights for fun), feel heat rising from steam vents, and spot native birds in the rainforest. The Kīlauea Visitor Center has interactive exhibits, ranger talks, and junior ranger booklets. The easy Sulphur Banks Trail is stroller-friendly and full of bubbling geothermal spots. For adventurous families, the Devastation Trail or parts of Crater Rim Drive offer dramatic views of the caldera. Pro tip: bring jackets—it’s often chilly and rainy at this elevation. If you’re coming from Kona, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive each way, so pack snacks and maybe stop for malasadas at Punaluʻu Bake Shop on the way!
Night Snorkel with Manta Rays
This is one of those “only on the Big Island” experiences that families talk about forever. Tours take you out just after sunset, where you’ll float on a lit-up raft while enormous manta rays glide below to feed on plankton. It’s surreal to watch their wingspan—some up to 16 feet—loop and swirl just inches away. Most operators welcome kids ages 6+ if they’re comfortable in the water. Wetsuits and snorkel gear are provided, and you’re guided by expert crew the whole time. For younger kids or those who prefer to stay dry, some boats offer a ride-along viewing option from the deck. The most popular launch points are in Kona and Keauhou Bay. Tip: bring a towel, dry clothes, and some warm layers—it gets chilly when you’re back on the boat!
Kealakekua Bay (Captain Cook Monument)
Kealakekua Bay is a breathtaking spot for snorkeling, with clear, calm waters teeming with colorful fish and vibrant coral. The area near the Captain Cook Monument is especially popular thanks to its rich marine life and excellent visibility. Reaching it adds a sense of adventure—you’ll need to take a boat tour, kayak across the bay, or hike in on a rugged trail. There’s no sandy beach here, which helps keep the water clear and undisturbed. Families often enjoy taking a guided tour by Zodiac raft or catamaran, which makes access easier and more fun. While in the area, swing by Keiki and Cope in Kealakekua town for a smoothie break and a kid-friendly indoor play space.
See the best snorkeling on Big Island.
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area
Hāpuna is one of the best swimming beaches on the island, thanks to its soft white sand and gently sloping shoreline. The waves are usually calm in summer, making it great for young kids to splash and older ones to body surf or boogie board. There’s plenty of room to spread out, plus restrooms, showers, and shaded picnic pavilions—huge perks when you’re visiting with a family. Parking is easy, and a short paved path makes it stroller-friendly. Arrive early for the best shady spots and bring reef-safe sunscreen—there’s not much natural shade. During winter, waves can get rougher, so check conditions before letting kids in the water.
Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
This unique beach is not only stunning, but also a great place to spot Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) resting on the warm black sand. The sand here is volcanic, formed from lava that cooled rapidly in the ocean. Kids will love the novelty of walking on black sand, and there are tide pools nearby to explore safely at low tide. While swimming isn’t always ideal due to the rocky bottom and stronger currents, it’s a fun stop for a picnic and some turtle-watching. There are restrooms and a small parking lot. Combine this with a visit to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park or a stop at the nearby Punaluʻu Bake Shop for sweet treats.
ʻAkaka Falls State Park
Just north of Hilo, this short and easy loop trail leads through a lush rainforest filled with bamboo, orchids, and giant ferns to the stunning 442-foot ʻAkaka Falls. The paved trail is doable with little kids (though not great for strollers due to steps), and older kids will love looking out for frogs and birds along the way. It’s a quick stop—usually under an hour—so it’s great to pair with other nearby Hilo attractions. Restrooms and parking are available for a small fee. Bring rain jackets—this side of the island gets frequent showers.
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station
Families with older kids and teens will love stargazing at the VIS, located at 9,200 feet on the slopes of Mauna Kea. It’s one of the best places in the world for astronomy thanks to low light pollution and clear skies. Volunteers often set up telescopes for public viewing and give short astronomy talks. Dress warmly—it’s cold, even in summer. Arrive before sunset to adjust to the elevation and enjoy the changing sky. Kids under 13 shouldn’t go higher than the VIS due to altitude risks, but this stop alone is magical for families. There are restrooms and a small gift shop.
Snorkeling at Kahaluʻu Beach Park
This protected bay in Kona is a fantastic spot for beginner snorkelers. The water is calm, shallow, and teeming with colorful reef fish and even sea turtles. You don’t need to go far from shore to see marine life, making it perfect for kids with masks and fins. The park has lifeguards, restrooms, showers, and picnic tables. Arrive early for good parking and calmest waters, especially if you’re visiting with young kids. It’s also a good idea to wear water shoes—some parts of the beach are rocky. Reef-safe sunscreen is a must to help protect the fragile ecosystem.
See the best snorkeling on Big Island.
Waipiʻo Valley Lookout
This scenic lookout offers breathtaking views of the lush Waipiʻo Valley, dramatic sea cliffs, and black sand beach below. It’s a great quick stop with kids—just a short walk from the parking lot to the overlook, with a large viewing platform that’s stroller-accessible. Informational signs give insight into the valley’s cultural and historical significance. You can’t drive into the valley unless you have a 4WD vehicle and permission (and the road is currently closed to the public), but the overlook alone is worth the stop. Combine this with a visit to nearby Honokaʻa town for snacks or lunch. Bring binoculars or a zoom lens—you might spot waterfalls or horses in the valley far below.
Rainbow Falls
Just five minutes from downtown Hilo, Rainbow Falls is a super accessible and kid-friendly stop. The 80-foot waterfall is most spectacular in the morning sun when rainbows often appear in the mist—hence the name! There’s a flat path to the viewing platform and a short (but slippery) hike up to the top of the falls if your kids are older and adventurous. Restrooms and parking are free and plentiful. It’s a great addition to a Hilo day trip—combine it with a stop at nearby Boiling Pots or a visit to Liliʻuokalani Gardens for a full morning of nature and culture.
Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Located south of Kona, this preserved sacred site offers an amazing cultural experience for families. It was once a place of refuge for ancient Hawaiians who broke kapu (sacred laws). Kids can explore reconstructed temples, wooden tiki statues, and lava rock walls while learning about ancient Hawaiian society. There are educational signs throughout the park, and ranger-led programs are offered regularly. It’s flat and stroller-friendly, with shaded areas and tide pools to peek into. The nearby picnic area is perfect for lunch with a view, and Two Step—a top snorkeling spot—is just next door if your family wants to snorkel afterward.
ʻImiloa Astronomy Center
Located in Hilo, ʻImiloa blends Hawaiian culture with astronomy in a way that’s fun and educational for all ages. Kids can explore interactive exhibits about volcanoes, navigation, and the stars, and the planetarium shows are a big hit—especially the ones geared toward younger audiences. The center also has a café and botanical gardens featuring native plants. It’s indoors and air-conditioned, making it a perfect option for rainy days or hot afternoons. It’s a fantastic stop to help kids connect the cultural and scientific stories of Mauna Kea and the stars above Hawaii.
Pololū Valley Lookout
This lookout on the island’s north coast offers epic views of green cliffs, a black sand beach, and the wild Pacific Ocean. It’s a peaceful spot for families who want a scenic stop with minimal walking—the viewpoint is right next to the small parking area. Adventurous families can hike the steep trail down into the valley (about 20–30 minutes down, a bit longer up), but it’s not ideal for younger kids or strollers. Bring binoculars and snacks, and try to go early in the day for better parking and clearer views. There are no restrooms or services here, so plan accordingly.
Whale Watching on the Big Island
For those visiting the Big Island between December and April, there’s a chance to experience one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events—whale watching. Each year, thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Hawai’i’s warm waters to mate and give birth. Tour companies offer whale-watching excursions where visitors can see these majestic animals breaching, spyhopping, and tail-slapping. For those who prefer a more laid-back experience, Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site is an excellent spot for shore-based whale watching. It’s a perfect way to witness these gentle giants from the comfort of the beach.
Papakōlea Green Sand Beach Adventure
Papakōlea Beach, located at the southern tip of the Big Island, is one of only four green sand beaches in the world. The unique green color comes from Olivine, a mineral found in the sand. Visitors must hike 2.5 miles to reach the beach, making it a special adventure for those seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination. The hike is best tackled early in the morning to avoid the heat. It’s recommended to bring plenty of water, reef-safe sunscreen, and a camera to capture this rare and beautiful spot.
Scenic Drive Along the Hamakua Coast
The Hamakua Coast offers one of the Big Island’s most scenic drives, taking visitors from Hilo to Honoka’a with stunning views of lush mountains and the ocean. Along the way, travelers can spot waterfalls, botanical gardens, and the charming town of Honoka’a. For those looking for an even more picturesque route, the Pepe’ekeo Scenic Drive is a must. This four-mile stretch features one-lane bridges, lush foliage, and breathtaking vistas, making it one of the most scenic drives on the island.
Explore Kona Coffee Living History Farm
The Kona Coffee Living History Farm provides a hands-on, educational experience for families interested in the history and culture of coffee farming on the Big Island. Visitors can try their hand at traditional coffee-picking methods, explore historic farm buildings, and learn about the importance of coffee to the island’s economy. The farm also features chickens, fruit trees, and a lovely garden for children to explore. It’s a fun and educational outing that brings Hawaii’s agricultural heritage to life.
Enjoy Sunset Views
For an unforgettable sunset experience on the leeward side of the Big Island, Lava Lava Beach Club in Waikoloa is a top choice. This laid-back restaurant, located directly on the beach, offers fantastic food, nightly entertainment, and tables set right in the sand. Families can enjoy a beautiful, unobstructed view of the sunset while dining or exploring the nearby tide pools. Due to its popularity, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a table with a prime view of the sunset.
Don’t miss stargazing on the Big Island
The Big Island is renowned for its stargazing opportunities, offering clear skies and minimal light pollution. Visitors can head up to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station for a night of stargazing, or even embark on a 7+ hour tour to the summit of Mauna Kea. For those looking to stargaze without the drive, hotels along the Kohala Coast offer excellent views of the night sky as well. Whether from a mountaintop or a beachfront location, stargazing on the Big Island is a mesmerizing experience.
Have you seen our ranked lists on Big Island?
Discover the Best Kid-Friendly Hotels on the Big Island of Hawaii
Family friendly excursions on Big Island
Kid friendly beaches on Big Island
For detailed visitor info, check out the Wikivoyage page on Big Island.
