If your family’s planning a visit to Maui, costs can add up more quickly than you think. In addition to
visiting the gorgeous beaches, there are also plenty of other destinations on the island where you can
entertain the entire family without blowing your budget.
The following are six budget-friendly family activities in Maui to check out:
1. Kulu Botanical Garden
This 8-acre botanical garden has unique, colorful plants as well as rock formations, waterfalls, a covered bridge,
koi pond, aviary and carved tiki exhibit. The picnic area is perfect for enjoying a family meal as you take in
gorgeous views of the West Maui Mountains.
Admission is $10 for adults, $3 for children 6 to 12 and children younger than 6 are free.
2. Whalers Village events
Take the entire family to browse through the shops at Whalers Village in Lahaina. While you’re there, enjoy a
variety of classes and events that highlight Hawaiian culture. Hula lessons are held weekly, while lei-making
classes are offered twice a week. Hula shows are performed biweekly as well. These events are free.
3. Maui Swap Meet
Since 1981, locals and visitors have found everything under the sun at the area’s biggest open market, including
local produce, baked goods, fresh flowers, plants, jewelry and other wares from local artisans. Kids as well as
adults will enjoy the sights and can pick up uncommon souvenirs to take home, like pipipi shells and carved koa
wood decor.
The swap meet is open every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Admission is 50 cents and children younger than 12 are
admitted free.
4. Maui Friday Town Parties
Each Friday, the Maui County Office of Economic Development hosts a rotating party highlighting the unique culture
and flavor of one of five local communities. Parties are held in the communities of Wailuku, Lahaina, Makawao,
Kihei and Lana‘i. It’s a friendly, small-town atmosphere full of music and fun.
Town parties are every Friday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., but check the schedule to see which community it's being
held at. These are kid-friendly and free to attend, but you’ll want to bring money for food and crafts.
5. Haleakala National Park
Home to one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes, Haleakala National Park has beautifully diverse landscapes.
It also contains more than 30 hiking trails, which start at about 10 minutes long, so you'll be able to choose
one the kids can handle. Views of the sunrise are beautiful from the park, but you'll need to make reservations
in advance since this event is so popular and parking is limited. Admission is $25 per vehicle. If you’d like
to view the sunrise, it's an additional $1.50 per vehicle.
6. Helicopter Tour
Give the kids something to talk about at every holiday and get-together: breathtaking up-close encounters of
waterfalls with unparalleled views of the landscape aboard a helicopter tour. The
Hana Rainforest Experience also offers an exclusive landing in a
former taro plantation where you can explore the lush vegetation few have explored. Although this activity is
a bit more expensive than the others, it's an affordable option to see so much of the island without spending
your entire vacation in the car.
The special online reservation price of $249 per person includes all taxes and fees.
Contact Maverick Helicopters at 808-893-7999
or LiveChat with one of our reservation agents to start planning your Maui family activity.