Your Family-Friendly Guide to Hawaii’s Big Island

Welcome to our family travel series dedicated to Pacific Northwest adventures! Join us as we explore top destinations, featuring must-see attractions, delightful dining spots, and activities tailored to the whole family. Writer Kate Neidigh launched this series in 2018 as a new mom, determined to get out and explore with her little one. Fast forward to 2024, and she’s now a seasoned mom of two, excited to share her travel experiences and insights learned along the way. So, pack your bags, gather the fam, and let’s discover the wonders of the PNW and beyond.

Aloha from Hawaii’s Big Island!

Hawaii’s Big Island, also known as the Island of Hawaii, is a paradise that offers something for everyone, especially families. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and abundance of activities, the Big Island is perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones. My husband and I honeymooned on the Big Island 13 years ago, and returning with our two children to make new memories together made the experience even more special. Our daughter is eight, and our son is two, and there was no shortage of activities that we could enjoy as a family. Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore volcanoes, or learn about Hawaiian history, this guide will help you plan the perfect family-friendly vacation. Something to note, when it comes to the Big Island, think lava and marine life versus typical white sand beaches. The Big Island is different from Maui, offering unique experiences that set it apart from the other Hawaiian Islands.

When to Visit

The Big Island is a year-round destination; we recently spent 10 days there in August when the weather was hot, not overpowering. However, the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November), when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller. These shoulder seasons also tend to offer lower prices on accommodations and flights. But if your family enjoys warmer weather and a livelier atmosphere like mine, summer is a great time to visit as well! There are also direct flights to Kona from Seattle that are less than six hours, making this an easy enough destination to get to.

Where to Stay

There are several family-friendly areas on the Big Island where you can base your stay. We chose the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Kohala Coast, which turned out to be a fantastic choice. The resort features several family-friendly pools, restaurants, activities, and easy access to beautiful beaches.

We stayed in a bottom-floor unit with easy access to the kids’ pool, which had an ocean view and two beds—perfect for our family. The kids’ pool quickly became our favorite spot, with its shallow water and fun water features, making it ideal for both our daughter and son to splash around safely. The resort also boasts two additional pools: a large lagoon-style pool with waterfalls and a lazy river, and an adults-only pool, offering plenty of options for everyone to enjoy.

One of the highlights of our stay was the chance for my daughter and I to swim with dolphins at the resort’s on-site Dolphin Quest. This interactive experience allowed us to get up close with these incredible animals, creating memories we’ll cherish forever.Dolphin Quest Hawaii is known for its educational programs, support of scientific studies, and hands-on conservation advocacy.

The resort offers a variety of dining options, ranging from casual to fine dining. We loved starting our day with a hearty breakfast at Lagoon Grill, where we could enjoy views of the dolphins while we ate. For lunch, Nui Italian served up delicious pizzas and pasta dishes that were perfect for a quick bite between pool time. In the evenings, we treated ourselves to a more upscale experience at Kamuela Provision Company, where the seafood was fresh, and the sunset views over the ocean were breathtaking.

Another option is to stay in Hilo, located on the island’s east side. Hilo is closer to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and has a more local, laid-back vibe. It’s a great choice if you want to explore the island’s lush rainforests and waterfalls.

Beach Days

The Big Island boasts numerous beaches, each with its own unique charm. Here are some of the best family-friendly beaches:

• Waialea Beach (69 Beach): Waialea Beach is one of the more popular white sand beaches on the Big Island, especially during the summer months, thanks to its sun, shade, and great snorkeling. It’s also known as “69 Beach” due to the number 69 utility pole near the parking area. We loved this beach so much that we visited three times during our recent stay!
• Hapuna Beach: This is one of the island’s most popular beaches, and for good reason. The soft white sand and gentle waves make it perfect for families. There are also picnic areas, restrooms, and lifeguards on duty.
• Magic Sands Beach: Located near Kailua-Kona, this beach is great for bodyboarding and swimming. The waves can be a bit strong at times, so keep an eye on younger children, but the beach is beautiful and close to amenities.
• Spencer Beach Park: A calm, sandy beach with shallow waters, Spencer Beach Park is ideal for families with small children. There are also picnic tables, restrooms, and shaded areas, making it a great spot for a relaxing day by the ocean.

Top Family Activities

Pololu Valley Lookout Trail

The Pololu Valley Lookout Trail, is one of the most scenic hikes on the Big Island of Hawaii. It offers unmatched views of the coast and leads down to a remote black sand beach and serene valley.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

No trip to the Big Island is complete without a visit to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Kids will be fascinated by the active Kilauea volcano, and there are plenty of easy trails to explore, such as the Thurston Lava Tube and Devastation Trail. Be sure to stop by the visitor center for interactive exhibits and ranger-led programs that will engage the whole family.

Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

This unique beach on the island’s southern coast is a must-visit for families. The black sand is fascinating for kids, and the beach is also a popular spot for spotting sea turtles basking in the sun. While the waters can be a bit rough for swimming, it’s a great place to have a picnic, play in the sand, and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Imiloa Astronomy Center

Located in Hilo, the Imiloa Astronomy Center offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family. The center combines Hawaiian culture with astronomy, and kids will love the interactive exhibits and planetarium shows. It’s a great way to spend a rainy day or take a break from the sun.

Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay

Kealakekua Bay is one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. The calm, clear waters make it ideal for families with children, and you’ll have the chance to see vibrant coral reefs and a variety of marine life, including tropical fish and sea turtles. If your kids are a bit older, consider taking a guided kayak tour to explore the bay and learn about its historical significance.

Akaka Falls State Park

Take a family-friendly hike through lush rainforests to see one of the island’s most stunning waterfalls, Akaka Falls. The paved trail is easy to navigate, making it perfect for families with young children. Along the way, you’ll pass beautiful tropical plants and smaller waterfalls before reaching the 442-foot Akaka Falls.

Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station

If your family is interested in stargazing, head to the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. Located at 9,200 feet, this spot offers some of the clearest skies in the world. The visitor station hosts nightly stargazing programs where you can look through telescopes and learn about the stars and planets from knowledgeable guides. Bring warm clothing, as it can get chilly at this elevation.

Explore Kona Coffee Farms

Take a tour of a Kona coffee farm and learn how Hawaii’s famous coffee is grown and processed. Some farms, like Greenwell Farms, offer kid-friendly tours where children can learn about the different plants on the farm and even sample some chocolate-covered coffee beans.

Where to Eat

The Big Island offers a wide variety of delicious and family-friendly dining options. Don’t miss trying local favorites like shave ice, spam musubi, and poke.

• We loved Fresh Off The Grid in Kohala for it’s atmosphere and fresh Hawaiian food.
• For a sweet treat, head to Scandinavian Shave Ice in Kailua-Kona.
• If you’re in the mood for poke, Umekes Fish Market Bar & Grill is a great choice, offering fresh, flavorful options that everyone in the family will enjoy.
• And be sure to stop by a local market or convenience store to grab some spam musubi—a classic Hawaiian snack that kids often find surprisingly tasty and it’s super affordable. We lived off these!

Cultural Experiences

Puuhonua o Hnaunau National Historical Park

This sacred site offers a glimpse into ancient Hawaiian culture. Families can explore the well-preserved grounds, learn about Hawaiian traditions, and even participate in cultural demonstrations. It’s a peaceful and educational experience that’s perfect for all ages.

Lava Tree State Monument

This park features lava molds of trees that were formed during a volcanic eruption in the 1700s. It’s a short, easy walk that kids will find fascinating, and the surrounding rainforest is full of interesting plants and wildlife.

Attend a Luau

No trip to Hawaii is complete without attending a traditional luau. Many resorts and venues on the Big Island offer family-friendly luaus that include Hawaiian music, hula dancing, and a delicious feast. It’s a fun way to experience the island’s culture and create lasting memories. We attended the Legends of Hawaii Lau at the Hilton and loved every minute.

Practical Tips

• Car Rental: The Big Island is large, so renting a car is essential for getting around. Make sure to book your rental car in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. The only time our son napped during the trip was in the car, so those drives became our cherished quiet time.
• Pack for All Climates: The Big Island has diverse climates, from sunny beaches to chilly mountaintops. Be sure to pack a variety of clothing, including swimsuits, light layers, and warm jackets if you plan to visit Mauna Kea or the volcanoes.
• Sun Protection: The Hawaiian sun can be intense, so make sure to bring plenty of sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses for the whole family. Reef-safe sunscreen is recommended to help protect the island’s marine life.
• Respect Nature and Culture: Hawaii is home to many sacred sites and fragile ecosystems. Teach your children to respect the land, wildlife, and local customs by following posted signs and guidelines.

Mahalo, Until Next Time!

The Big Island of Hawaii is an incredible destination for a family vacation. With its mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring volcanoes, snorkeling with sea turtles, swimming with dolphins, or simply relaxing on the beach, your family will create memories that will last a lifetime on this beautiful island. We can’t wait to go back!

Where should we go next? Email [email protected] to share your ideas.

Kate Neidigh is a writer for Seattle Refined, covering lifestyle, fashion, beauty, travel, real estate, gift guides and feature stories. See more of her work on Instagram here.