Maui Magic: 5 Days of Family Fun in Paradise

Pick up your car rental, settle in at your hotel, relax by the pool and enjoy dinner at a restaurant onsite. Remember to stop by the ABC Store to pick up snacks, souvenirs and snorkel gear. It’s a better value than renting at the hotel, and you can always give them away to other visitors when you’re ready to leave. Get an early night’s rest for the next day’s adventure!

Start your day early to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise at Haleakalā Summit. Dress warmly and prepare for a wondrous experience. The summit is above the cloud cover, so it will feel like another world. This volcano is sacred to Native Hawaiians. You will need to get up very early, but do this on your first full day, when jet lag is on your side.

After the sunrise, explore Haleakalā National Park with its scenic hiking trails offering stunning views of the volcanic crater. Get lunch at Kula Lodge.

Next, venture to upcountry Maui to visit local farms, lavender fields and charming towns like Makawao. Stop by Surfing Goat Dairy for award-winning gourmet goat cheese and truffles - little ones will enjoy meeting the goats. Visitors can also sign up to feed the goats and participate in milking and evening chores.

Eat a hearty breakfast at the hotel, then get an early start on the iconic Road to Hana to make the most of your day. Make sure to allot time for scenic stops such as Twin Falls, Ho'okipa Beach Park and Garden of Eden Arboretum along the way to stretch your legs and enjoy the views.

Have lunch in Hana, a charming town with laid-back vibes.

On the drive back, visit Wai'anapanapa State Park, known for its black sand beach, sea caves and hiking trails. This state park requires advance reservations. Time permitting, you can also check out the Bamboo Forest Waterfalls.

Stop by Paia for dinner, with options from casual cafes to seafood restaurants. Paia Fish Market was our favorite for fresh seafood in a casual atmosphere with a distinct Hawaiian flair.

Molokini Crater is a crescent-shaped islet located about 2.5 miles off the southwestern coast of Maui. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a partially submerged volcanic crater in the clear waters off the coast. Snorkeling excursions typically depart from Ma'alaea Harbor. It's essential to book a boat tour to access the crater. Morning tours are recommended for the best visibility, calmer sea conditions and fewer crowds. This activity is suitable for older kids or more confident swimmers, as the water is deep.

For younger children, there are many places to snorkel just off the beach in Maui, such as in Wailea, Kaanapali, Kapalua and more. Depending on the time of year, consider a whale watching cruise. But you may not need to sign up for a tour just to see whales — they can often be spotted breaching offshore. We saw a humpback whale on our way to Molokini Crater in April. Whale watching season in Maui is from November to May.

In the afternoon, relax on Wailea Beach or take a surfing lesson, then enjoy dinner at one of the many resort restaurants available there. Also consider booking a photographer for a family photo session to commemorate your trip and double as your holiday card!

Enjoy your last morning with a leisurely breakfast and stroll on the beach, perhaps a final dip in the pool, then pack up and head to the airport.