Activities for Kids on the Big Island
One of my favorite Hawaiian memories was the time we explored the Big Island. I figured it would be a good mix of activities and lounging and I was right! Some days we went on an adventure but other days we hung out on the beach reading and napping. The Big Island has so much to offer families and I’ve put together the best activities for Kids on the Big Island of Hawaii!
Visit a Vanilla Farm
Hawaiian Vanilla Company is one of the only two vanilla farms on the island and it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon. Vanilla tastings and a beautiful location make the Hawaiian Vanilla Company a unique place to visit.
Learn about one of the few vanilla farms on the island and get ready to taste test some delicious items! If you purchase several vanilla beans to take home Hawaiian Vanilla Company will teach you to make a vanilla extract!
Get insider tips for visiting Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, visiting Kona coffee plantations, and so much more!
Attend a Luau
An amazing luau show is a must for activities for kids on the Big Island! Kids usually love the music and fire aspect of Hawaiian luaus! Our favorite is the luau at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. They have a kid’s buffet that is open as soon as you get there. The talent is amazing and if you can score discounted tickets, it’s well worth attending!
Zipline Tour
KapohoKine Adventures offers a fun zipline tour for people of all ages. Note the drive-up is a bit bumpy and the lines are high up so plan accordingly if you get motion sickness. KapohoKine also offers hiking tours and kayak tours.
Explore the Lava Tubes at Hawaii Volcano National Park
Make a quick stop at the Nahuku Thurston lava tubes and you can go inside and walk a lava tube/tunnel. Located at the Hawaii Volcano National Park, this is usually a popular tourist spot so go earlier in the day. There are lights in the lava tube, which help someone afraid of darkness. Remember to dress warm and pack good shoes.
The park features easy hikes, like the Sulphur Banks Trail, where kids can observe steaming vents and learn about geothermal energy. The Junior Ranger program is a great way to engage young visitors, as it encourages them to explore, learn, and complete activities for a special badge.
Snorkeling at Kailua-Kona
One of the best activities for children on the Big Island of Hawaii is snorkeling at Kailua-Kona. The calm, clear waters of Kailua Bay are perfect for young snorkelers. The Big Island has beaches with colorful fish and gentle sea turtles, so children can experience the wonders of marine life up close.
Local guides offer family-friendly snorkeling tours. Make sure to bring floatation devices if your child is new to snorkeling, as they will help them feel more comfortable in the water.
Explore the Waikoloa Petroglyphs
A fun and educational activity for kids on the Big Island is exploring the Waikoloa Petroglyphs. Located near the Waikoloa Beach Resort, this easy-to-hike trail takes families through a field of ancient rock carvings. Kids will be fascinated by the petroglyphs, which depict scenes of Hawaiian life, animals, and symbols carved by early Polynesian settlers.
The hike is short and relatively easy, making it perfect for children to enjoy while learning about the island’s rich history. Bring plenty of water and wear sturdy shoes to make the most of this outdoor adventure!
