Maui Ocean Center
The Maui Ocean Center is one of the largest tropical aquariums in the world and is fascinating for both kids and adults. The great thing about the Maui Ocean Center is that marine life isn't shipped in just to fill out the aquarium. Instead, only aquatic life from the area is featured. Since Hawaii is home to a vast array of exotic animals, you and the kids can be wowed by coral reefs, sea turtles, sharks, rays and jellyfish. There is a special petting area where the kids can actually touch sea urchins and some rays.
Maui Ocean Center
192 Ma'alaea Road
Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793
(808) 270-7000
Mauna Kea
Due to the high altitude of Mauna Kea, children under 16 are advised not to ascend the volcano any higher than the Visitor Information Center. Don't worry, however, because there is plenty to keep kids busy below that level. At the 9,300-feet level, you will find the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy. Free tours begin at 1:00 p.m. and there are three telescopes with capable assistance provided. Stargazing activities are featured every night from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Because of the altitude, dress for cooler weather when taking the kids here.
Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea Observatory Access Road
Kamuela, HI 96743
(808) 961-2180
Fern Grotto and Wailua River Cruise
The kids will probably enjoy the rather overstated Hawaiian tone of this attraction, but it can still be fun for all ages. This is a two-mile trip up the river to a lava grotto and waterfall. Flat-bottom riverboats carry you along while you are regaled by guitarists and ukulele players performing traditional Hawaiian music. In addition, passengers are treated to entertaining history lessons and stories about Hawaii's past. A tropical rain forest canopies the path leading to the grotto. Kids will also enjoy learning how to dance the hula.
Snorkeling
If the kids don't already know how to snorkel, Hawaii is the best place to learn. Unlike scuba diving, no special certification is needed and the equipment is light and easy to use. Just about any beach you go to offers incredible views beneath the waves, including brilliantly colored fish and coral. There's always the potential for spotting sea turtles and dolphins, too. Hanauma Bay on Oahu is one of the best places to take kids snorkeling.
About The Author
Timothy Sexton is an award-winning author who started writing in 1994. He has written on topics ranging from politics and golf to nutrition and travel, and his work appears online for Zappos.com, Disaboom, USAToday.com and MOJO, among others. He has also done work for "Sherlock Holmes and Philosophy." He holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of West Florida.
