Planning a Big Island getaway with kids or teens? You’re in the right spot! Hawaii’s biggest island is bursting with activities that’ll keep everyone from toddlers to teenagers grinning from ear to ear. Whether you’re chasing waves, exploring volcanoes, or just kicking back with some shave ice, there’s something here for every age. We’ve rounded up our favorite things to do—both at the awesome Hualalai Resort and out in the wilds of the island. Let’s break it down for the little ones (0-8) and the bigger kids (8 and up)—grab a snack and dive in!
Activities at Hualalai Resort
If you’re staying with us at Kema Kama on the Big Island, you’ve got a front-row seat to some seriously fun activities at Hualalai Resort. Here’s what the kids and teens can get into without even leaving the property.
For Kids Ages 0-8 Years Old
Keiki Playgrounds: There are a bunch of playgrounds with slides and swings dotted around the resort. It’s the perfect spot for them to run wild while you kick back nearby.
Snorkeling at King’s Pond: This giant lagoon is like a living fish tank, packed with colorful critters. For the little ones, it’s a chill way to dip their toes into snorkeling—super calm waters and tons of fish to spot. They might even get to toss some food in and watch the fish go nuts!
Canoe Time: Ever tried paddling a Hawaiian canoe? They’ve got these cool outrigger boats you can take out as a family. The crew’s awesome about helping even the smallest paddlers feel like pros—it’s such a fun way to soak up some island vibes together.
For Kids and Teens 8 and Up
Stand-Up Paddleboarding: Older kids can grab a paddleboard and cruise along the oceanfront. It’s mellow but still a little challenging, and the views of Hualalai are unreal. Perfect for teens who want to look cool without trying too hard.
Tennis & Pickleball Lessons: The resort’s got courts galore—seven for tennis and three for pickleball. They offer lessons with pros who make it fun, whether your kid’s a total newbie or already swinging like a champ. Pickleball’s especially a hit with the older crew—it’s fast and addictive!
Snorkeling at King’s Pond: For the bigger kids, this lagoon gets even cooler. They can swim around with huge rays and all sorts of fish, and there’s usually someone there sharing fun facts about what’s swimming below. It’s like an underwater safari.
Off-Property Adventures Worth Checking Out
Ready to explore beyond Hualalai? The Big Island’s packed with stuff to keep everyone happy. Here’s what we’ve found that’s a hit with families, just a short hop from your Kema Kama vacation rental.
For Kids Ages 0-8 Years Old
Keiki Museum at Waikoloa Kings’ Shops: About 15 minutes up the road, this little museum is all about hands-on fun—think science and art stuff that’ll keep kids under 10 busy. It’s tucked in a shopping spot, so you can grab a snack after.
Boogie Boarding at Hapuna Beach: Fifteen minutes away, this beach has soft sand and waves just right for little boogie boarders. It’s super relaxed, and there are lifeguards keeping an eye out—great for a lazy beach day.
Puako Tide Pools: Twenty minutes north, these shallow pools are full of sea turtles and tiny fish. The kids can wade around and peek at wildlife—it’s easygoing and totally magical.
Rainbow Falls in Hilo: An hour and a half drive, but so worth it. This waterfall’s right off the road—no big hike needed—and it’s stroller-friendly. Go early, and you might catch a rainbow in the spray!
Shave Ice at Kawaihae Harbor: Twenty-five minutes away, there’s this spot where you can grab fluffy shave ice in flavors like mango or coconut. It’s a simple treat that’ll have the kids grinning ear to ear.
For Kids and Teens Ages 8 and Up
Night Snorkel with Manta Rays: Half an hour south near Kona, you can float over manta rays at night while lights bring them right up close. It’s wild but safe—teens go crazy for it. Check out local outfits like Sea Paradise.
Horseback Riding in Waimea: Forty-five minutes to Waimea, and you’re riding horses through green hills with killer views. Places like Paniolo Adventures make it feel like a real cowboy adventure.
Volcano National Park: An hour and 45 minutes away, this place is all about lava and steam vents. Teens love wandering around Kilauea and peeking at the crater—especially if it’s glowing at night.
ATV Rides in Waipio Valley: An hour north, you can rip through this jungle-y valley on ATVs. It’s messy and loud—basically a teen’s dream. Look up Ride the Rim for tours.
Queens’ Marketplace Fun: Ten minutes away in Waikoloa, they’ve got movies, shopping, and killer acai bowls at Island Vintage Coffee. It’s a laid-back hangout spot for older kids.
Hapuna Beach Boogie Boarding: Bigger waves here mean more fun for the 8+ crowd—bring a board and let them loose.
Puako Tide Pools: Teens dig snorkeling these pools for turtle close-ups—great for pics to show off later.
There you go—tons of ideas for keeping kids and teens happy on the Big Island! From chilling at Hualalai to exploring volcanoes and turtles, this place has something for every age. We’ve loved seeing families light up over these spots while staying at Kema Kama. Got a favorite Big Island activity? Drop it in the comments—I’d love to hear what your crew’s into!
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