Disney’s Aulani has lots of activities for kids.

Hawaii is a great place to visit with kids and choosing the right place to stay can make your visit that much more special. Whatever your budget, Hawaii has a spot for you!

One of the best, and most popular, hotels for families to stay on Oahu is the Hilton Hawaiian Village overlooking the beach in Waikiki. With multiple pools (one is the largest in Waikiki!) and animals like parrots and penguins scattered throughout, your kids will be having too much fun to ever get bored. Their “Camp Penguin” organizes activities and excursions for ages 5-12. Another top choice for those with children is Disney’s Aulani Resort. Situated on the beautiful and sunny west shore, kids will have a blast swimming in the pools, making sandcastles on the beach, and listening to traditional Hawaiian stories with Mickey and Minnie! Kids can hang out at “Auntie’s Beachhouse,” a supervised play and activity area.

One of our favorite’s on Oahu is the Turtle Bay Resort, on the North Shore. Located out in the “country,” it offers a more rural experience. You can take a horseback ride along the beach, watch turtles swim in the surf just steps from the hotel’s really fun water slide and pool, play tennis, or just relax on the beach. We came across a rare Hawaiian Monk seal sunning himself on the shore the last time we were there.

On the Big Island, the Hilton Waikoloa Village is a great choice! With many kid-friendly amenities and the opportunity to swim with dolphins, your kids will have a blast. The Marriott on Kauai and the Four Seasons on Maui are ideal hotels on the outer islands– each have activity programs for children and the best beaches on the island. Many of these hotels offer excursions for the whole family– perhaps you’d like to go on a horseback ride along the beach or attempt to learn how to surf!

If you’re watching your budget, many of the more affordable chain hotels like Best Western and Holiday Inn can be great options for traveling with kids, as well. Just make sure they’ve got a pool and you’ll be set. After all, what kid doesn’t like a buffet breakfast?

For a more adventurous and often economical option, you might want to rent a home or apartment on Airbnb. This site lists homes all across the islands at various price points. You can stay in the heart of the city or perhaps stay a little off the beaten path and see Hawaii the way the locals see it. It’s a great way to feel like you live in the islands. Often, staying in a rented home can be far more comfortable and less stressful than a hotel for younger children. With a whole house or apartment to spread out in, kids feel much more at home. With a kitchen, you can have a laid back breakfast together or a late-night dinner when you don’t feel like going to yet another restaurant. The ability to cook favorite foods is always a plus! Many of these homes also have pools and jacuzzis, so you won’t be missing out on any water time. Just make sure that the house is listed as “kid-friendly” and you’re good to go!

If you are heading to Hawaii from just about anywhere, you’re going to have at least a 5-hour flight. You’ll want to pack the carry-ons with these items to keep your children happy and entertained:

1. Keep them warm and comfortable…

Airplanes can get very cold and blankets are no longer always provided for every passenger. Bring a favorite blanket and a small pillow. A set of pajamas to wear during the flight can be a good idea too. A fleece or polartec hoodie is a must.

2. Pack plenty of snacks

Pack several single-serving packages of chips, trail-mix, raisins or other dried packaged fruit. Granola bars and cheese crackers are always popular. Don’t try to bring fresh fruit… it will be confiscated.

3. Bring an empty water bottle or sealable sippy cup.

It’s much easier to have your own that you can fill with water or juice once you’re through security at the airport.

4. Electronic Entertainment is a must

iPad, Kindle, or whatever loaded with games, movies and books. Be sure to bring headphones!

5. Small games, books, drawing tools keep hands and minds busy

Favorites are a deck of cards, a small notebook for games like tic-tac-toe or hangman and inexpensive storybooks (you can leave them behind if your bags are stuffed on the way home). For budding artists, bring a blank notebook and crayons or colored pencils for drawing.