What are the best Hawaii beaches for families? So you’re planning a family vacation to Hawaii and finding the perfect beach for your crew is on the list. Well, Hawaii has plenty of options when it comes to beautiful coastlines and clean beaches. But which beaches are best for families?
While all Hawaiian beaches are beautiful, the best beaches for families should have a combination of safety, gentle waves for kids to play in, and restrooms and picnic areas.
You also want to consider if your family wants to try new water sports like surfing or stand-up paddleboarding as some beaches have gentler waves and even lessons. This is what we’ll discuss in this guide and much more.
Choose the Right Island for Your Family
For first-timers looking for plenty of amenities and attractions along with amazing beaches, Oahu (home to Waikiki Beach) might be a good starting point.
If your idea of a Hawaiian vacation is more laid back and chill, Kauai with its lush landscapes and North Shore might be the way to go.
If you want a little bit of everything - from active volcanoes and coffee farms to snorkeling spots - you’ll likely end up on the Big Island.
Lastly, Maui is famous for its resorts, whale watching, and world-class beaches (if you’re an early riser) so if you can afford it, this island might be calling your name.
Best Beaches for Families in Hawaii: Our Top Picks
Now that you have an idea of the island you want to visit, it’s time to narrow down the beaches. To help you find the ultimate beach experience we’ve rounded up a list of some of the best:
Oahu
Oahu is the most populated and lively island in the chain. Home to the city of Honolulu and Waikiki Beach, Oahu is both urban and natural. From Pearl Harbor to the North Shore waves, Oahu has everything for a family trip. Let’s get to the best beaches in Oahu.
Lanikai Beach (East Oahu)
Lanikai Beach, one of the world’s most beautiful beaches, is a postcard-perfect spot with soft white sand, turquoise water, and stunning views of two offshore islands. Great for families who like to kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or just relax on the soft, pristine sand.
Kailua Beach Park (East Oahu)
This busy beach park has a long stretch of white sand and calmer waves than some North Shore beaches. Families come here to swim, boogie board, kayak, and picnic. There’s plenty of space to spread out. Rentals for water activities are available too, which is a nice bonus.
Ala Moana Beach Park (South Shore Oahu)
If you’re looking for beaches near Honolulu, look no further. Ala Moana Beach Park is a gem, with a tranquil lagoon protected by a reef so no big waves - perfect for toddlers.
Amenities abound with picnic tables, restrooms, showers, lifeguards on duty, and a nearby playground.
Big Island
Big Island, officially Hawaii Island, is the largest and most varied of the islands. It’s known for its dramatic landscapes, from active volcanoes and rainforests to black sand beaches and snow-capped mountains.
Big Island has one-of-a-kind adventures and views. Let’s discuss the best beaches on the Big Island where you’re guaranteed a great day.
Spencer Beach Park (Kohala Coast)
When asking “what are the best beaches for families in Hawaii?” Spencer Beach is usually at the top of the list. Calm, shallow water protected by a natural breakwater makes this perfect for toddlers.
There are picnic areas, shade trees, and a playground when you need a break from the sand.
Hapuna Beach State Recreation Area (Kohala Coast)
Praised for its beauty, this white sand beach stretches for a half mile along the Kohala Coast. It has everything you could ever need: picnic areas, restrooms, and even lifeguards.
With its gentle slope and clear turquoise water, Hapuna is good for all ages. But parking can be tough in peak season.
Maui
Maui is often called the “Valley Isle” and is famous for its beaches, valleys, and mountains.
Known for its luxury resorts, the Road to Hana and Haleakalā National Park, Maui is a traveler’s favorite for adventure and relaxation. Let’s look at the best beaches in Maui for an amazing day out.
Napili Bay
Napili Bay is a great spot for families in Maui, with beauty and safety combined. Calm waters and small waves make it perfect for swimming and snorkeling with kids.
The crescent shape of the beach provides a protected area so parents can relax while kids play in the water.
Restrooms and restaurants nearby make it convenient for your beach day. Families can also picnic in the grassy areas surrounding the bay.
The scenery, with greenery and sunsets, is peaceful for families to chill and make memories. Soft sand is perfect for building sandcastles, and Napili Bay is a family beach. Don’t forget your snorkeling gear!
Makena Beach (Big Beach)
Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach, is great for families looking for a big beach. Located in Makena State Park, this beach has golden sand and clear water perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and playing.
The beach is known for its big shore break, which can be fun but pay attention, especially with young kids.
Always keep an eye on your kids and choose the calmest areas for swimming. Makena Beach has plenty of parking and essential facilities like restrooms and picnic areas so it’s perfect for a full day out.
The big size of the beach means there’s plenty of space for families to spread out, play beach games, and enjoy the scenery. With its views and space, Makena Beach is a great spot for a fun family day at the beach.
Kapalua Bay Beach
This picturesque cove has calmer water for swimming and snorkeling due to the two lava rock outcroppings. Lifeguards are on duty for extra safety, and it's one of the best beaches in Maui for swimming.
Plus, this beach is in the upscale Kapalua Resort so you’ll have access to top-notch amenities and even a walking trail with stunning views.
Kauai
Kauai is the “Garden Isle” and the oldest and most green of the islands. It has dramatic cliffs, rainforests, and beaches. Known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, Kauai is a peaceful and beautiful escape for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
From the rugged Na Pali Coast to the calm beaches of Hanalei Bay, Kauai’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in Hawaii. Let’s get to the best beaches here.
Poipu Beach Park (South Shore)
Poipu is on every “best beaches” list and for good reason. Lifeguard towers, picnic tables, showers, and restrooms mean your family has everything they need.
A natural breakwater creates a calm swimming area for kids but be aware of strong currents in certain sections.
Anini Beach (North Shore)
If you want the scenery to go along with your perfect beach, Anini might be it. This beautiful beach has a half-mile-long reef offshore that creates incredibly calm and protected waters.
Another gem with calm and shallow water even when surf is up elsewhere so great for beginner snorkelers.
There are also several secluded coves along the shore for even more privacy.
Conclusion:
Hawaii has beaches for everyone, so it’s a beach lovers paradise. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly beaches, marine life, or just a spot to relax, the islands have it all.
From the calm shallow waters of Baby Beach in Maui to the famous stretches of Waikiki in Honolulu, each beach has its own special something.
The leeward sides of the islands are generally the safest and most peaceful, perfect for families. Wherever you go, you’ll find beaches that will create lifelong memories - Enjoy your trip to Hawaii!
Frequently Asked Questions
Both have pros: Maui is more laid back and less crowded than Honolulu. It also has an incredible array of ocean life and whale watching is a favorite pastime.
But Honolulu has many attractions and iconic beaches all within close proximity to each other. Ultimately it depends on your family’s priorities and preferred pace.
There is no one best, every island in Hawaii has amazing beaches. But as a general rule, the calmer (leeward) side of an island has the most family-friendly conditions.
The west sides of the islands usually have gentle waves and calm swimming areas perfect for families.