Planning a family vacation to Hawaii's Big Island? You've chosen one of the most diverse and exciting islands in the world! From snorkeling with colorful tropical fish to exploring active volcanoes, the Big Island offers unforgettable adventures for visitors of all ages.
When you stay at Kona Ocean Views Vacation Rentals on Aliʻi Drive or in Keauhou, you'll be just minutes from many of the island's top family attractions. Here's our guide to the 15 best family-friendly activities that will make your Hawaiian vacation one to remember.
1. Snorkel at Kahaluʻu Beach Park
Just a few minutes from our Keauhou vacation rental, Kahaluʻu Beach Park is one of the best snorkeling spots on the Big Island for families.
The calm, shallow waters are ideal for beginners, and children love spotting colorful reef fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles. It's an easy and memorable introduction to Hawaii's underwater world.
Family Tip: Arrive early in the morning for the clearest water and fewer crowds.
2. Visit Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
No family trip to the Big Island is complete without visiting one of the world's most incredible national parks.
Kids are fascinated by lava fields, steam vents, the Thurston Lava Tube, and the enormous Kīlauea Caldera. Educational exhibits and scenic overlooks make this an adventure everyone can enjoy.
Plan a full day for your visit and bring comfortable walking shoes.
3. Spend the Day at Hapuna Beach
Frequently ranked among Hawaii's best beaches, Hapuna Beach features soft white sand, gentle waves during calm conditions, and plenty of space for families.
Build sandcastles, swim, boogie board, or simply relax under the Hawaiian sun.
4. Watch the Sunset Along Aliʻi Drive
One of the best parts of staying in our Aliʻi Drive vacation rental is having easy access to Kona's spectacular sunsets.
Take an evening stroll, grab an ice cream, and watch the sky transform into shades of orange, pink, and purple.
It's completely free—and often becomes one of our guests' favorite memories.
Of course, if you stay at our property off Ali'i you will have a large, comfy lanai to watch endless sunsets on.
5. Take a Glass Bottom Boat Tour or Submarine
Not everyone wants to snorkel, especially younger children.
A glass-bottom boat tour or submarine tour lets the whole family experience coral reefs, tropical fish, and sometimes even sea turtles while staying dry. The best place to catch them is downtown Kona.
6. Tour a Kona Coffee Farm
Many Kona coffee farms welcome families with guided tours through lush orchards.
Adults can sample world-famous Kona coffee while kids learn how coffee grows and enjoy beautiful views of the coastline.
Several farms also offer fresh tropical fruit and locally made treats.
7. Visit Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park
Known as the "Place of Refuge," this beautifully preserved cultural site introduces families to ancient Hawaiian history.
Walk among carved kiʻi (wooden images), royal fishponds, and historic temples while learning about traditional Hawaiian life.
It's educational, peaceful, and one of the island's true treasures.
8. Experience the Famous Manta Ray Night Viewing
Older children and teenagers often consider this the highlight of their vacation.
Whether you choose to snorkel or simply watch from a boat, seeing giant manta rays glide gracefully through the water is unforgettable.
Many tours depart just minutes from our Keauhou property.
9. Explore Akaka Falls
A short walk leads to one of Hawaii's most beautiful waterfalls.
The paved trail winds through a tropical rainforest filled with bamboo, orchids, and giant ferns before revealing the spectacular waterfall.
It's an easy hike suitable for most families.
10. Discover Rainbow Falls
Located near Hilo, Rainbow Falls is easy to access and often displays beautiful rainbows in the morning sunlight.
Kids love the roaring waterfall and lush tropical scenery.
11. Visit the Kona Farmers Market
Browse local crafts, tropical fruits, handmade jewelry, fresh baked goods, and Hawaiian souvenirs.
Children enjoy tasting exotic fruits while parents shop for locally made gifts.
It's a fun way to support local businesses.
12. Build Sandcastles at Magic Sands Beach
Located close to our Aliʻi Drive vacation rental, Magic Sands Beach is perfect for swimming during calm conditions and spending a relaxing afternoon by the ocean.
Bring buckets and shovels—the soft sand is perfect for creative sandcastle competitions.
13. See Sea Turtles at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach
One of Hawaii's most unique beaches, Punaluʻu features striking black volcanic sand and is famous for Hawaiian green sea turtles basking along the shoreline.
Remember to admire these protected animals from a respectful distance.
14. Stargaze on the Big Island
Thanks to minimal light pollution, the Big Island offers incredible night skies.
After dinner, head outside your vacation rental and look up—you may be amazed by the number of stars visible.
For an even more unforgettable experience, consider a guided stargazing tour on the slopes of Mauna Kea.
15. Relax and Enjoy Your Kona Ocean Views Vacation Rental
Sometimes the best family memories happen without a schedule.
Enjoy breakfast on your private lanai, swim in the pool, play games together, or simply relax while listening to the sound of the ocean.
Many of our guests tell us these quiet moments become their favorite part of the trip.
Why Families Love Staying at Kona Ocean Views
Our vacation rentals are designed to make family vacations easy and memorable.
Guests enjoy:
- Spacious accommodations
- Beautiful ocean views
- Easy parking
- Full kitchens
- Swimming pools and hot tubs
- Quick access to beaches
- Minutes from shopping and restaurants
- Convenient location for exploring the entire island
Whether you choose our Aliʻi Drive location near downtown Kona or our peaceful Keauhou property, you'll have the perfect home base for your Big Island adventure.
Plan Your Family Vacation Today
The Big Island offers adventures that every generation can enjoy—from toddlers seeing their first sea turtle to grandparents watching unforgettable Hawaiian sunsets.
Book your stay with Kona Ocean Views Vacation Rentals and discover why so many families return to the Big Island year after year.
We can't wait to welcome your family to paradise. Aloha!