One Of The Most Family-Friendly Spots In Hawaii Is This Underrated Beach Park

Anyone who says they haven't dreamed of visiting Hawaii simply can't be trusted. Hawaii is famously one of the most beautiful places not only in the USA, but in the world, and the state is the epitome of paradise. Not only is it a destination where it's basically summer all the time, but Hawaii appeals to a wide range of travelers. While Hawaii is a common honeymoon destination, families will be pleasantly surprised to find that many parts of the state are perfect for a group spanning multiple generations.

Amongst the top family-friendly destinations in Hawaii is an underrated state park found on the island of Maui. Honokōwai Beach Park is in Lahaina, which was devastatingly affected by the Maui wildfires of 2023, but the area has finally reopened and is ready for tourism again. Honokōwai Beach Park has ample options for swimming, hosting picnics, barbecuing fresh meat and veggies, and of course, simply chilling out on a coveted Hawaiian beach. There are plenty of amenities on-site that make Honokōwai especially family-friendly, so if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path beach that will appeal to all ages in your party, and want to support an area that is still on the road to recovery, look no further than Honokōwai.

What is it about Honokōwai Beach Park that makes it so particularly family-friendly? For starters, there are two designated playgrounds for kids. There are also ADA-accessible pathways suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. When you and your young ones' appetites come calling, there are several picnic tables where you can enjoy takeaway food from one of the nearby restaurants or grocery stores. If you feel like cooking, you can even grill up your own food on the park's public barbecue.

The area is great for swimming and Maui is one of the best family-friendly destinations where seeing sea turtles is a high possibility. It should be noted there's no lifeguard on duty. There are showers and restrooms available to clean up when you and the kids inevitably get sandy after a long day out in the sun. The biggest draw of Honokōwai Beach Park is simply that it's a laid-back, uncrowded alternative to some of the other nearby popular beaches. It's in a prime location near plenty of resorts but is seemingly one of the best-kept secrets for family-friendly fun in Maui.

As mentioned, Honokōwai Beach Park is near plenty of fabulous beach resorts in Maui. For one of the nicest resorts within the area, head to Hilton Vacation Club Ka'anapali Beach Maui. The sprawling property is home to pools and plenty of golf courses.

The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Ka'anapali, a property spanning over 16 acres of land, is a great option for those who want to spend their time in Maui in a spacious one or two-bedroom villa. The Westin is family-friendly, as there's a dedicated Kids Club. Marriott loyalists will want to stay here, as they can use (or rack up) Marriott Bonvoy points. 

Speaking of Marriott loyalists, The Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa is yet another ideal option in the area for family-friendly lodging in a luxurious setting. Located directly on Ka'anapali Beach, this oceanfront property is pretty hard to beat. So much so, that it frequently ranks as one of the best hotels not only in Maui, but in all of Hawaii.