Hawaii consists of six islands: Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui and Hawaii's Big Island. Visitors to Hawaii are charmed by its warm and friendly people, and the natural beauty of its beaches and volcanoes. Vacationers find that Hawaii has something to offer everyone, especially the "keiki" (Hawaiian for children). But there's much more to do in Hawaii than building sand castles, surfing, and learning how to dance the hula.
Take the family to the Koke'e Natural History Museum on the island of Kauai and learn about the natural and cultural history of Waimea Canyon and Koke'e state parks. Highlights include a weather room with videos about Hawaii's climate; an exhibit on forest trees and how they're used; an introduction to game animals on Kauai, such as wild boar and game birds; and a collection of land and sea shells from Kauai and Niihau. The museum is open daily, including holidays, and admission is free.
Kokee Natural History Museum
Mile Marker 15, Kokee Road
Kekaha, HI 96752
808-335-9975
kokee.org
If you take a trip to Oahu, don't forget to stop at the Sea Life Park at Makapuu Beach. This park---with reefs, lagoons, pools and theaters---offers water activities and programs for the entire family. Kids can swim with dolphins in Dolphin Royal Swim, which, according to their website, is the park's "most popular activity." Other activities where you can come face to face with animals are Sea Lion Discovery, Dolphin Swim Adventure, Sea Trek Adventure, Hawaiian Ray Encounter, and Dolphin Encounter, which is ideal for smaller children. Sea Life Park is open daily and is free for children under the age of 3.
Sea Life Park Hawaii
41-202 Kalanianaole Hwy #7
Waimanalo, HI 96795
866-365-7446
sealifeparkhawaii.com
Located on the island of Molokai, Big Wind Kite Factory sells handmade kites and windsocks, each uniquely decorated with a Hawaiian theme. Little ones can take a kite class and learn how to make a simple kite, as well as participate in a free kite-flying lesson. Dancer kites and petroglyph diamond kites are also available for purchase.
Big Wind Kite Factory
P.O. Box 10
Maunaloa, HI 96770
808-552-2364
molokai.com/kites
