City Guide: Hawai'i, HI
The island of Hawaii, often referred to as “The Big Island,” has the perfect mix of local charm, resort-style fun, dramatic scenery including an active volcano, and once-in-a-lifetime adventures like snorkeling with manta rays! Hawaiian culture values “ohana” (family), and you can feel that love and adoration as you witness the locals interact with “keiki” (children). Hawaii is ideal for a family vacation and offers activities at any pace you prefer.
The Big Island is the third most popular Hawaiian island for travelers but has the largest land mass. This is good news - it means you won’t be fighting for a patch of sand at overly crowded beaches. Still, expect a laid-back rural vibe, especially when traveling between the larger towns or staying somewhere off the beaten path.
We have created the perfect 5-day Big Island Itinerary for your family, using many toddler-friendly suggestions below!
Hawaii Hike view
Kona Airport (KOA) & Hilo Airport (ITO)
The Big Island of Hawaii is serviced by the Kona International Airport (KOA) on the island’s west side and Hilo Airport (ITO) on the east.
Kona International Airport - You will immediately feel the humidity in your skin and hair! Welcome to Hawaii! And you get to walk down movable stairs to the tarmac upon arrival - my family always finds this so fun!
The style is reminiscent of a tiki hut, and while it has covered areas, it is all outdoors. This small airport has only eleven gates and a commuter terminal for inter-island flights. You will be at your baggage claim area in minutes. There can be long lines at the rental car pickup area. If you can, send someone ahead to manage the pickup while you let your little one stretch their legs on the lawn at the front of the airport.
Upon departure, have your sunblock and water handy as you will need to wait in the sun for check-in and TSA. Have your sunblock and water handy! The airport is busy for its size, especially right before take-off. Give yourself peace of mind and arrive ninety minutes to two hours early, longer if traveling during the holidays. The good news is car rental drop-off is swift, and the shuttle runs to the airport frequently.
Hilo Airport - Though most visitors land in Kona, there is still a possibility that your flight lands you in Hilo. The airport is spacious and quiet, albeit a bit outdated. Still, it serves its purpose! With nine gates, it is reasonably straightforward to navigate to baggage claim. For departure, arrive up to ninety minutes before departure.
At both airports, your bags will need to be scanned for agriculture (anything pulpy is a no-go), which can cause slowdowns. This screening is in addition to TSA.
A lei greeting symbolizes love, friendship, celebration, or honor. Unfortunately, they are no longer complimentary as it once was. But you can still have this iconic moment by booking a lei greeting. This would be a great surprise, especially for the kids in your group!
Transportation
The Big Island is nearly two times the size of all the other Hawaiian islands combined and yet only 95 miles across at its widest points. We recommend renting a car to navigate it at your own pace (or your toddler’s pace). However, due to supply and demand, car rentals can be pricey - or downright cost-prohibitive. If a car rental is not an option for your family, check out your options for car-sharing using the app Turo.
Otherwise, it is possible to grab an Uber or Lyft in the bigger towns. You might find challenges with ride-shares in other parts of the island. Taxis are available, but it is strongly advised that you book in advance as it is nearly impossible to hail a cab on the island. For a sample of taxi fares, check out this list. If you prefer, you can check out the Hele-Bus schedule or consider booking tours with transportation included. Be sure to mention whether or not you need a car seat for your little one.
Strollers & Carriers
Hawaii is a world-class destination, and part of its charm is that it is untouched, rugged, and rural. This also means sidewalks and paved walkways are few and far between. Expect to walk on sand, rocks, grassy, and dirt everywhere except at resort properties. On the other hand, the hikes are unreal! For these reasons, we suggest bringing a backpack-style hiking carrier over a stroller for your visit to Hawaii. If you have extra space or do not plan to hike during your visit, an umbrella-style stroller may come in handy around a resort property, in the towns of Kona and Hilo, and at the zoo.
Packing Suggestions
It goes without saying - pack a hat, swimsuit, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Better yet, purchase sunscreen on the island, as they only sell reef-safe options. Consider packing a floatie for your toddler to enjoy the calm beaches, and snorkel gear for yourself! Bring water shoes to explore tide pools and protect your feet when the sand gets hot. Interested in hiking? We strongly recommend mosquito repellent. Depending on the season, you may see daily tropical rain, which can make for slippery terrain, especially when hiking over lava rocks. Bring hiking boots or, at the very least, sneakers with good traction, are advised. If you are headed to Hawaii Volcano National Park, consider packing layers! It can be 10-20 degrees cooler, overcast one minute, and blazing hot the next.
Local Rental Equipment & Retail Stores
Unable to pack everything you need? Aloha Kona Kids has everything you need from life vests to pack-n-plays, high chairs, beach toys, potty seats, monitors, breast pumps, and beach equipment. Another convenient rental option is BabyQuip.
Otherwise, just fifteen minutes south of the Kona Airport are Costco, Target, Walmart, and several thrift stores to pick up anything you didn’t have the space to pack. On one of our trips to Hawaii, we picked up some great beach toys for $1 at a local thrift store and donated them to other kids at our resort when we left. Many resorts will have sunscreen and pool floaties for rent or purchase. However, depending on the size of your toddler, they may not have appropriate swim floaties. Call ahead to see what the hotel offers.
While I still recommend purchasing what you can upon arrival, note that the prices for all things - restaurants, groceries, diapers, sunscreen, floaties, babysitters, excursions - are much higher in Hawaii. We found prices were roughly 1.25-2 times more expensive than what we are used to on the mainland. You may consider the pros and cons of paying for additional luggage on your flights to avoid the high cost of buying gear upon arrival.
Babysitters
In our experience, there are limited childcare options on the island. We highly recommend securing your sitter in advance so you don’t have to scramble when you arrive. Those who have used Malihini Keiki Care boast about their friendly, accommodating, and patient caregivers. The nannies at Big Island Nannies, LLC are certified in First Aid, Infant & Child CPR. Both will provide services at your accommodations, making it super simple to get away for a few hours.
Otherwise, check if your hotel has any recommendations, or look into Care.com or SitterCity.
Just know that the locals run on island time, and your babysitter, tour, dinner reservations, and other planned events may not start on time. As long as you go into it with a flexible attitude, you will enjoy yourself!
We have compiled our top choices for toddler-friendly fun in Hawaii, HI. To make your life a little easier, we have added every location mentioned on the interactive google map at the very bottom of this page.
Best Places to Stay on the Big Island with a Toddler
We suggest staying near Kona (on the west) or Hilo (on the east) to make the most of your visit. If you stay longer than five days, you may want to split your time between the two!
On the island's west side, you will find Kailua-Kona - a modern and lively town. It has all the amenities you want, including breweries, restaurants, shave ice, and activities! If your goal is to get to your resort and settle in as quickly as possible, plan to stay in Kailua-Kona or the surrounding areas. While all of Hawaii has high prices, this area is considered the most expensive place to stay. As for the landscape, the black lava rock blankets the region, reaching into the sea. The view reminds me of a desert, with lava rock for miles and only low shrubs for greenery. There are few street lights and very few buildings outside the town of Kailua-Kona, which make for a stunning view of the stars at night. If you stay at a resort property, you will find foliage as you might expect in Hawaii - palm trees, grass, flowering trees, and all the tropical colors. Most resorts have provided shuttles to reach the nearby shopping centers.
If you are looking for a more traditional island vibe, the town of Hilo to the east might be more your style. Hilo is the biggest town on the island, but still not quite a city, and embodies quintessential Hawaii, with lush landscapes and more traditional Hawaiian buildings. Hilo is close to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and some of the best waterfalls on the Big Island. It is considered more affordable than Kona, but it also has older buildings and is further from the main airport.
Best Indoor Activities with a Toddler
Escape Rooms - Our family loves escape rooms, and we have found them to be toddler-friendly as everything in the room is made to be mishandled without breaking! Most often, the company will let our toddler “play” free! Our top tips: bring snacks, pick a room that isn’t “scary” or has too many flashing lights or loud noises (call and ask for guidance if you aren’t sure), know that your child will need attention, and plan to trade off as needed. The Big Island has 808 Escape in Kailua-Kona and Escape Hilo in (you guessed it!) Hilo.
The Vanillerie ($) - Does your little one love plants? This primarily indoor tour takes place in a greenhouse on unpaved but flat terrain. Taste and tour hand-grown vanilla!
KBXtreme - This arcade is admittedly geared toward pre-teens. Still, they have a few attractions for little ones, including a spaceship, rollercoaster simulator, Minions Whack-A-Mole, Space Invaders, and bumper bowling.
Shopping - There are several shopping centers with moderate rain coverage.
Queens’ Market Place at the Waikoloa Beach Resort has a movie theater, supermarket, art galleries, grab-and-go restaurants, and live entertainment in the afternoon.
Kona International Market is the island’s version of a flea market with food tents and local artists’ wares.
Sea Life Educational Tours ($) - If your kids love learning about, petting, and feeding sea animals, you have two great options in Kailua-Kona - the Kanaloa Octopus Farm (free under 1 yr) and the Ocean Rider Seahorse Farm (free under four years, but cannot hold a seahorse). Tour prices are high, in our opinion, over $40 per person, but funds help local foundations and conservation.
Atlantis Adventures Kona Submarine Tour ($) - 100 feet below the ocean’s surface, you will explore the wonders of the sea, including an 18,000-year-old giant coral reef! The 45-minute tour is provided in English, but headsets with narrations in Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, and Spanish are available upon request at no additional cost. Have your little ones ‘think tall’ as there is a 36” height requirement to take this tour.
Best Outdoor Activities with a Toddler
Parks & Playgrounds
Kamakana Playground - Ranked 11th in “Early Childhood Education Zone’s” 50 Best Playgrounds, this playground celebrates Hawaiian culture. The picnic tables are even shaped like the Hawaiian Islands! Kids will find hours of entertainment while caregivers take in the ocean views. The shade and parking are best in the morning. Be sure everyone wears proper shoes, as the ground covering is made of small stone pebbles.
Waimea Park & Anuenue Playground - Grab a coffee, some lunch, or local finds across the street at the farmer’s market on Saturday mornings. Then, watch your little ones galavant between the different park sections, including a few with musical gadgetry! This is an ideal place for toddlers to make friends and tire themselves out chasing the local chickens! The playground is fully fenced, and there are plentiful park benches and shade for caregivers to rest. This area can be up to 10 degrees cooler than the coast, so bring layers.
Dr. Ruth E Oda Playground - The play structure is nice, the astroturf drains well even after recent rain, and it is well fenced. We add this playground, Hilo’s only playground, with some hesitancy. There used to be a robust un-housed population who claimed the bathrooms, but a security guard was recently placed on-site during daylight hours. Check for the security guard before sending your kids in to play.
Ho’oko Playground - A small jungle gym, a shaded structure, and an open field make up this simple playground. The ground is made of gravel, so wear proper shoes. If you are in the area and need a play space, this will work - but don’t add it to your bucket list!
Naalehu Park - [Update: May be temporarily closed] A beautiful new play structure, open grass field, and picnic tables make for a perfect visit! Though this playground seems to be for slightly older children, toddlers can enjoy it with some adult assistance.
Activities & Excursions
Pana’ewa Rainforest Zoo (Free) - You will not regret bringing your toddler to this free zoo! Over 150 animals, including peacocks that roam around the property, water buffalos, tigers, and a petting zoo. What’s even better is that they recently built a children’s playground! It takes about an hour to see everything at the zoo, longer if your kids don’t want to leave the playground area. Food on site is limited to snack items. The zoo does accept donations.
Catch the sunrise in Hilo (Free) - If you find yourself up early due to jet lag or perhaps an overly-excited toddler, take advantage of those extra morning hours to watch the sunrise over the ocean. Find an eastern-facing open space, and get comfy. These are the moments to remember.
Lavaloha Chocolate Farm ($) - Love chocolate? Who doesn’t! The first time we took a chocolate tour, we were surprised we had never taken the time to research a cacao plant before. The shape is almost alien! We had a whole new appreciation for chocolate after that! You can visit the gift shop or take a farm tour to learn about the land, the process, and even feed the local ducks! Kids under 13 years are only $7, but the rest of the family will pay $39 per person.
Glass Bottom Boat Tour ($) - We can’t wait until our toddler is old enough and a strong enough swimmer to snorkeling! Until then, we love the idea of a glass-bottom boat tour! Introduce them to the amazing sea life in Hawaii on a safe and stress-free tour. Kids 6 and under are free!
Luau ($) - We love a good luau! Sure we get that they are “touristy,” but they are also educational, awe-inspiring, and tasty! We asked around, and the locals suggested the Tihati Gala Luau with shows in Waikoloa and Kona. Keep in mind that luaus tend to start around sunset, and with jet lag, you may want to consider a luau close to your hotel, or make this a date night and get a babysitter to stay with the little ones.
Hula Show (Free) - Think a luau might be overwhelming for your little one? Get the hula dancing without the hubbub and price tag of a luau! Visit the Coronation Pavilion at Queen’s Market Wednesdays from 6-7pm for a modern and traditional hula show!
Farmer’s Markets (Free) - Shop like a local and support local farmers and artisans! Farmer's Markets are one of my favorite ways to connect with locals and pick up on the general vibe of a place. I usually discover a handful of things I have never seen or tasted before! Luckily, the Big Island is in no shortage of these markets. Our favorites are:
Hilo Farmers Market - Boasting over 200 vendors, including crafts, clothing, baked goods, local honey, warm food, and produce. Daily 7am-3pm, with “Big Market” days, Wednesdays & Saturdays
Keauhou Farmers Market - Focusing only on Hawaiian Island products: produce, plants, coffee, macadamia nuts, and baked goods. No crafts at this market. Saturdays 8am-12pm
Waimea Town Market - We love this market because it has an awesome playground across the street. Peruse the goods of over fifty vendors selling locally grown produce, coffee, tea, pastries, plants, drinks, meals, and crafts. Saturdays 7:30-12pm
Hikes & Lookouts
Rainbow Falls - It is rare to come across such a fantastic waterfall without much hiking! No carrier or hiking backpack required - this waterfall overlook is the perfect spot for you to stretch your legs and view an 80-foot waterfall cascading into an emerald pool! While in the area, head up the road just two miles for a fantastic view of Boiling Pot.
Akaka Falls Trail ($ Park Admission) - This half-mile loop is an easy route on a paved trail, taking steady walkers about 15 minutes to complete. This is a beautiful and relaxing walk with only a few stairs.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park ($ Parking) - How many chances do you get to check out a volcano? This massive national park has incredible outlooks, toddler-friendly hikes, and tours. Be sure to bring plenty of water and sun protection as the lava floor leaves you exposed. It is best to plan a whole day or to spend the night taking it in at a slower pace. Most visitors visit at night when flowing lava is more visible against the night sky. It can also be challenging to find parking after dusk. We found it only moderately busy when we arrived around 10am. Our top toddler-friendly suggestions are:
Kilauea Iki Trail & Thurston Lava Tube - For those who are comfortable with a moderate hike with some steep descents, this 3.3-mile loop will not disappoint (it takes about 5 hours at a steady pace with a toddler). Starting at the Kilauea Iki Overlook (parking may be limited - arrive early), you will start your hike in a verdant rainforest and then come upon a lava tube (similar to a cave). Before you know it, your lush surroundings will disappear and give way to an expanse of hardened lava rock. It may feel as though you are on a different planet! There are many lookouts along the path to keep it interesting. A hiking backpack carrier is highly recommended for this hike. Many hikers prefer to go counter-clockwise for an ‘easier’ hike. Though flowing lava is usually not visible during daylight hours, a pair of binoculars may help you see some of it during the day.
Devastation Trail - This paved 1-mile round trip stroller-friendly hike takes about one hour to complete. Meanwhile, you will see the land recovering from lava ash from the Kilauea Iki eruption.
Chain of Craters Road - Journey along this 18.8-mile (almost 40 miles round trip) road to view petroglyphs, cinder cones, and craters, all without getting out your hiking sticks. These stunning views can be seen with just a short walk from the road - perfect for those traveling with sleeping babies. Fair warning: The Hole Sea Arch viewing area at the end has been closed due to unsafe conditions. Come prepared, as there are no amenities along this drive, including food, water, or fuel.
Note: If you are interested in seeing ‘flowing’ lava, check the current eruption conditions during your visit to see your best options. The volcano is not always in a state of eruption, so don’t promise flowing lava to your toddler until you know for sure!
Beaches
Anaeho’omalu Bay - This was our favorite beach by far! You could easily spend a few hours exploring all the exciting things this beach offers, including tide pools, fish ponds, petroglyphs, hiking, and playing in the beautiful white sand. The entry into the water is effortless for a toddler or a caregiver holding a toddler. This beach has restrooms, shade, showers, a bar, and nearby parking. This beach is located in front of the Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort.
Kamakahonu Beach - Colloquially referred to as “King Kam Beach” or Children’s Beach, this is one of the most toddler-friendly beaches on the island for its soft white sand and perfectly calm waters. Park on Palani Road and take a short walk to the beach, or pay for parking at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel if you want to park closer. The nearby Ahuena Heiau temple, built by King Kamehameha the Great, is considered one of the island’s most historic sites.
Hapuna Beach ($) - You will find postcard-perfect white sand and aqua waters at this family-friendly beach. There is a $5 fee per person and an additional parking fee for visitors. Complete with a snack bar, bathrooms, year-round lifeguard, and plentiful shade, this is a great place to plop down your beach blanket! Forgot some beach gear? Rent it from the local shop at Hapuna Beach! Winter conditions can be hazardous, so check local conditions. In the area, but not willing to pay to go to the beach? Check out Spencer Beach, just north of Hapuna, for toddler-friendly waters and many on-site amenities.
Kahalu’u Beach Park - One of the island's busiest parks, and for a good reason! The calm aqua waters, protected by a reef break, are perfect for your toddler. Older kids will enjoy feeding and snorkeling with tons of fish! Recently the reef has started to grow back, so it is important not to step on it - be prepared to float. There are equipment rentals on-site, a lifeguard, a shade pavilion, parking, and a snack bar. Some little ones might not love the grainy sand but will be happy floating in the calm waters. This is no hidden gem - arrive early to beat the crowds!
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach - Searching for that Instagram-worthy black sand beach? You will find it right off the road on the island’s southeast shore! Though we don’t suggest this beach for an all-day adventure, as it lacks amenities and the swimming can be dangerous, it is a great stop to look for Hawksbill and Green Sea Turtles (be respectful: keep a 15 feet distance)!
Onekahakaha Beach Park - An excellent beach for spotting the Hawaiian Sea Turtle! Surrounding rocks protect the beach from larger waves, and the water is shallow with a sandy bottom. With picnic tables and lifeguards on-site, you are sure to enjoy your day at the beach!
Ho’okena Beach Park - An excellent spot for dolphin spotting and checking out some beautiful tropical fish. However, the sand can be scorching, so keep your kid's shoes on and bring shade and picnic blankets! Not the perfect spot for a kids’ beach day, but again - dolphins!
Toddler-Friendly Restaurants
Cafe 100 - Famous for having invented the Loco Moco - a Hawaiian dish of white rice topped with hamburger, a fried egg, and smothered in gravy! With humble roots, they aim to serve quality food at a reasonable price in a safe environment. Kids are meant to feel welcome at their restaurant. They share the love locally, employing members of the community's special ed and mental health programs.
Tex Drive-In - There are many toddler-friendly meals on their menu, and it is a drive-in to boot! This is a no-brainer for breakfast, lunch, or dinner! Be sure to order plenty of malasadas (Portuguese-style donuts).
Volcano House/The Rim Restaurant - Located inside the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this restaurant is toddler friendly, and they have no issues with babies running around exploring. You can also catch a nice view of the crater from this restaurant with a cocktail in hand - we suggest the guava flow drink! Fun fact - the fireplace has been lit since the building was built in 1846.
Shave Ice - A trip to Hawaii is not complete until you get your fill of shave ice! With plenty of space to sit and enjoy your ice-cold treat, this is the perfect pit stop after a long day in the sun! The best on the island are touted to be One Aloha, Ululani’s Shave Ice, and Scandinavian Shave Ice (aka Scandi’s).
Huggo’s On The Rocks - This outdoor restaurant has live entrainment nightly, starting at 5pm. If your toddler gets restless, it is easy to walk around the grounds and find something entertaining before heading back to your seats. There is a full kids menu and fabulous people-watching!
Ka’aloa’s Super J’s - If you have mentioned your travels to the Big Island, someone has likely recommended “Super J’s.” This is your super-local, super-authentic, super-delicious Hawaiian food. Order the chicken and pork lau lau and kalua pork!
Ken’s House of Pancakes - Toddlers love breakfast - why else would they get up so early? This retro diner serves the classics like pancakes and French toast and local flavors like simian (Hawaiian noodle soup), salads, sandwiches, and teriyaki!
Lava Lava Beach Club - [Closed for upgrades until Oct 2022] It can feel touristy and overpriced, but we loved the island vibe, outdoor dining, and lawn games!
Kona Brewery Co. - Beer for the adults, lawn games for the kids, and dinner for the whole family! Stop by when they have live music, and you have found yourself a piece of paradise.
Adult Adventures
If it’s in the cards to get a babysitter for your kid(s), check out these 21+ or otherwise not suitable for toddler restaurants and experiences:
Kona Brewing Co. Brewery Tour ($) - For those homebrewers who love to talk beer even on vacation - this is for you! 15+ yrs to attend the tour, and 21+ for the included tastings.
Take a Hike (Free) - If you are the outdoorsy type, and are itching to explore faster than at a toddler’s pace, check out your options on AllTrails.com (not sponsored). We love the ability to search for a suitable hike nearby, sort by difficulty and length, and if we are feeling lucky, select a desired “attraction,” such as a waterfall!
Kaumana Caves Park - Hikers rave about these caves but warn that each person should have a good flashlight both for safety and to really enjoy exploring. Parts of the cave can get very narrow, so only venture in as far as you are comfortable. Due to sharp, narrow areas and a climb down into the caves, we do not recommend this with a toddler.
Kona Kozy Comedy & Magic Show ($) - A magic show wasn’t on your Hawaiian bucket list? Ours either! But people are raving about this world-class comic magician, and it might just be the night out you need! 18 yrs+
Honaunau “Two Step” Snorkeling (Free) - Two Step is considered the best place to snorkel in Hawaii, and we must agree! There are a few challenging steps as you make your way down the rocks, but as soon as you get into the water, there is sea life all around you! In just about “two steps,” the rock drops off, and it is instantly deep. You will see schools of bright yellow, purple, and iridescent fish in all directions! The black-gray lava rock makes them pop out even more brilliantly. We spent almost two hours gawking and would go back in a heartbeat! Bring your gear as there is no place to rent it here. This beach is next to Puuhonua o Honaunau, which has interesting historical significance and gives off Motunui (Moana Disney movie) vibes!
Spa Treatments ($) - It might be best to check with your hotel or vacation rental host for a local recommendation for a masseuse. There are a handful of companies in each of the main cities on the island that will travel to you or set up at the beach to provide their relaxing services - the ultimate way to rejuvenate!
Manta Ray Snorkeling at Night ($) - Unforgettable! This experience is unlike any other and can only be had in a handful of places worldwide. Our tour left at dusk, and we headed out to the manta ray feeding grounds by boat. We donned our snorkel gear, jumped into the water, and held onto an illuminated ‘surfboard,’ which draws up the phytoplankton. The manta rays take turns swimming up to the surfboard to scoop up dinner! We prefer Sea Quest Hawaii as they do not allow children under 7, and to be honest, it would probably be a scream fest if they did. Even some adults get jumpy - take a few calming breaths and think instead about what you are witnessing!
Check out the perfect 5-day Hawaii Itinerary for your family, using many of the toddler-friendly suggestions shared here!
This interactive Google map has every location listed in this blog to make your trip that much easier. Click the “expand” square in the top right banner. Be sure to save the link to this page or save the map to “Your Places” in Google Maps, to use on your trip!
What do you think of this list? Any place you would add? Share in the comments!
