Need Guidance and a Sample Itinerary

Question

We are a vegetarian family of 4 (2 adults 2 kids - 7 yr and 1.5 months) planning to visit Hawaii and explore it in the month of December between Christmas and New Years. We are currently planning to visit the islands for about 10 days and would love your ideas and help to build an itinerary.

I would like all the help in planning as if we are visiting Hawaii for the 1st and last time; esp keeping in mind the young kids.

Any help in this regards is seriously appreciated and Thank you in advance

Answer

Planning a 10-day trip to Hawaii for a family with young children and a vegetarian diet requires balancing sightseeing, beach time, and manageable travel between islands. December is a beautiful time to visit, though the weather can be a bit wetter on some islands, particularly the north and east sides. Here’s a detailed suggestion for your first-time itinerary with young kids in mind.

Since you have 10 days, it’s ideal to split your time between 2 islands to reduce travel stress. A combination of Oahu (for culture, beaches, and family-friendly activities) and Maui (for stunning beaches and scenic drives) works well.

Suggested 10-Day Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Oahu (Honolulu)
- Arrive in Honolulu and pick up a rental car if staying outside Waikiki.
- Check into a family-friendly condo or hotel.
- Relax at Waikiki Beach and have a casual vegetarian dinner.
Day 2: Honolulu & Diamond Head
- Morning hike up Diamond Head for panoramic views (kid-friendly option: stroller up to lookout points).
- Visit the Honolulu Zoo or Waikiki Aquarium for young kids.
- Evening stroll along Waikiki Beach.
Day 3: North Shore Day Trip
- Drive to the North Shore for a scenic tour; stop at Haleiwa town for local shops and shave ice.
- Visit kid-friendly beaches like Waimea Bay (note: winter surf can be high—stick to safe areas).
- Return to Honolulu for dinner.
Day 4: Polynesian Cultural Center / Luau
- Spend the day at the Polynesian Cultural Center, exploring interactive cultural villages.
- Enjoy a vegetarian-friendly luau or dinner on site.
Day 5: Fly to Maui (Kahului or West Maui)
- Pick up rental car and check into a kid-friendly resort or condo in Ka’anapali or Napili area.
- Relax on nearby beach, settle in, and explore local eateries for vegetarian meals.
Day 6: Lahaina & Beach Day
- Visit historic Lahaina Town, walk Front Street, check out shops and art galleries.
- Afternoon at Ka’anapali or Napili Beach for swimming and sand play.
Day 7: Road to Hana (Partial for Young Kids)
- Do a shorter version of the Road to Hana drive with key stops (Twin Falls, Wai’anapanapa State Park, short hikes to waterfalls).
- Bring snacks, water, and plan frequent breaks for the kids.
Day 8: Haleakalā Sunrise & Upcountry Maui
- Drive up to Haleakalā National Park for sunrise (weather permitting); leave early and dress warmly.
- Explore Upcountry Maui towns like Makawao or Kula for gentle sightseeing and local produce.
Day 9: Snorkeling / Beach Day
- Take a gentle snorkeling trip or explore kid-friendly snorkeling spots like Honolua Bay or Kapalua Bay.
- Relax in the afternoon at the resort pool or nearby beach.
Day 10: Departure from Maui
- Last morning at the beach or pool.
- Return rental car and fly home.

Vegetarian Dining Tips:

Oahu: Peace Café, Down to Earth Organic & Natural, and The Beet Box in Honolulu.
Maui: Choice Health Bar (smoothies & bowls), Fork & Salad, and veg-friendly options at Lahaina and Ka’anapali restaurants.
Pack snacks for hikes and drives, especially for the Road to Hana or longer excursions.

Additional Tips:

Book accommodations early since December is peak holiday season.
Consider a stroller for the 7-year-old and a baby carrier for the 1.5-month-old for hikes and sightseeing.
Plan flexible days and keep beach/pool downtime for the kids to avoid over-scheduling.
Check sunrise and sunset times for Haleakalā in December; reservations may be required for sunrise viewings.

This itinerary balances sightseeing, gentle hikes, cultural exposure, and ample beach/pool time for young children, making it manageable and enjoyable for a first-time family visit to Hawaii.

Need Guidance and a Sample Itinerary

More Hawaii (HI) Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions