Top 5 Toddler-Friendly Activities on the Big Island of Hawaii

Wondering if Big Island is a good place to take your toddler? If you are looking for gorgeous calm baby beaches for relaxing and easy hikes to volcanoes and tropical waterfalls for adventure, then Big Island is your perfect family vacation destination! There are plenty of activities that both parents and toddlers can enjoy on the Big Island. This list of 5 toddler friendly activities on the Big Island is your sign to book that family trip to the Big Island!

1. Keiki (baby) Beaches

The Big Island of Hawaii has some of the best keiki (or baby) beaches we have been to in Hawaii. The water is so calm and shallow that you can let your toddler splash around with more peace of mind while you lounge on the white sand beach. The tricky part is finding parking at these popular beaches because there are only a few coveted public parking spots. But I got you covered! Find the best baby beaches in the Big Island and mostly importantly, parking tips, on our Big Island guide.

2. Farmer’s Markets

Farmer’s markets are a family affair on the Big Island. The farmer’s markets take place on different days all around the island. Find everything from local jam and coffee to local art and delicious cooked to order foods. Toddlers will love the samples and dancing to the live music! The farmers markets are also a great place to pick up some foodie souvenirs. As a bonus, the Waimea Town Farmer’s Market is right next to a great playground. Perfect for little ones to burn off some energy before nap time.

3. Volcanoes National Park

Yes, you can visit Volcanoes National Park with a toddler! You probably won’t be able to go on any crazy hikes, but there are some easy hikes with great overlooks. The Thurston Lava Tubes are also a great hit with toddlers because of the tunnel factor. We debated whether it would be worth it to drive all the way there with a toddler, and it definitely was worth seeing an active volcano bubbling away. If you only have one day to explore Volcanoes National Park, follow our guide to hit the must sees before nap time. Or take a guided tour and leave the driving to someone else!

4. Waterfalls

You don’t have to go offroading to find a beautiful waterfall in the Big Island. If you want a little more activity after all that beach lounging, spend a day doing a side trip to the Hilo side of the island. Take a detour to Akaka Falls on the way to Volcanoes National Park and you can go on an easy paved hike with your toddler down to an overlook of a beautiful secluded waterfall.

5. Shave Ice

Not gonna lie, shave ice was probably our toddler’s favorite Big Island activity. There is something about shave ice in Hawaii that you just can’t replicate back on the mainland. Maybe it’s the tropical atmosphere or just being in the vacation mindset. Original Big Island Shave Ice Co at the King’s Shops really hit the spot after a day of playing in the water. And if you’re hungry for more substantial food after that shave ice, check out our list of kid-friendly restaurants on the Big Island!

Ready to explore the Big Island with your toddler? Find all the details you need to plan your trip and where to stay in our Big Island with a toddler itinerary!