Top Things to Do With Kids on Oahu
Oahu, often referred to as “The Gathering Place,” is a family-friendly paradise offering a mix of cultural, historical, and outdoor adventures. Whether your family enjoys beach outings, wildlife encounters, or educational experiences, Oahu has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best activities to enjoy on Oahu with kids.
1. Relax on Family-Friendly Beaches
Oahu’s stunning beaches provide the perfect setting for family fun. With calm waters, soft sand, and plenty of amenities, these beaches are ideal for kids of all ages.
Kailua Beach: With its turquoise waters and gentle waves, this beach is great for swimming, paddleboarding, and building sandcastles. It’s also less crowded than Waikiki, making it perfect for families.
Ko Olina Lagoons: These man-made lagoons on the west side of Oahu offer calm waters and safe swimming areas for kids. Nearby grassy areas are great for picnics.
Waikiki Beach: While bustling, Waikiki is a must-visit for families. Rent a surfboard or boogie board and let the kids enjoy the gentle waves.
2. Explore the Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is a fantastic place for kids to learn about animals and conservation. Located in Waikiki, this 42-acre zoo is home to over 900 animals, including elephants, lions, and exotic birds. The Keiki Zoo, a special area for children, allows kids to interact with animals and learn through hands-on activities.
3. Do A Family Photo Shoot with Megan Costello
Capture your Oahu vacation memories with a professional family photo shoot by Megan Costello. Known for her expertise in family photography, Megan’s work is characterized by vibrant, heartfelt images that beautifully capture the spirit of Oahu and the bond between family members.
Why Choose Megan Costello: Megan’s natural style and ability to work with kids make her the perfect choice for a family photo shoot. Her portfolio showcases stunning outdoor shots taken on Oahu’s beaches and other picturesque locations.
How to Book: Visit Megan Costello’s website at www.avalanchevocals.com/family to schedule your session and browse her work.
A family photo shoot is not just a vacation activity; it’s a way to create lasting keepsakes that you’ll treasure forever.
4. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay
Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is a favorite spot for families to experience Oahu’s underwater world. The bay’s calm, shallow waters are perfect for first-time snorkelers. Kids will love spotting colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral reefs. Be sure to arrive early, as entry is limited to preserve the bay’s ecosystem.
5. Visit the Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is a smaller yet fascinating attraction for kids. Located next to a beach park, it features marine life native to the Hawaiian Islands and the Pacific. Highlights include a giant clam display, monk seals, and vibrant coral reef exhibits.
6. Hike to Manoa Falls
For families who love hiking, the Manoa Falls Trail offers a lush, rainforest adventure. The trail is just under 2 miles round trip and leads to a stunning 150-foot waterfall. While the hike can be muddy, it’s manageable for kids and provides plenty of opportunities for photos and wildlife spotting.
7. Learn About Hawaiian History at Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor offers an educational experience for the entire family. The USS Arizona Memorial, Battleship Missouri, and Pacific Aviation Museum provide insights into World War II history. Interactive exhibits and guided tours help kids understand the significance of this historic site.
8. Interact with Marine Life at Sea Life Park
Sea Life Park offers hands-on marine experiences for kids. Families can feed sea turtles, watch a dolphin show, or participate in a dolphin or sea lion encounter. The park also has a bird sanctuary where kids can feed tropical birds.
9. Attend a Luau
A Hawaiian luau is a must-do activity for families visiting Oahu. It’s an opportunity to enjoy traditional Hawaiian food, music, and dance.
Paradise Cove Luau: Located in Ko Olina, this luau offers cultural activities such as lei-making, hula lessons, and spear throwing before the main show.
Polynesian Cultural Center: In addition to a luau, this center offers immersive cultural villages where kids can learn about Polynesian traditions.
10. Discover the Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie provides an interactive way for families to learn about Pacific Island cultures. The center features themed villages representing Hawaii, Samoa, Fiji, and more. Kids can try traditional games, learn hula dancing, and watch a canoe pageant.
11. Ride the Pineapple Express at Dole Plantation
A visit to the Dole Plantation is a fun, educational experience for kids. Ride the Pineapple Express train to learn about Hawaii’s pineapple history, navigate the world’s largest pineapple maze, and enjoy a refreshing Dole Whip.
12. Spot Whales and Dolphins
Take a family-friendly boat tour to see dolphins, whales (during winter), and other marine life. Companies like Dolphin Star offer tours with kid-friendly activities and guaranteed sightings.
13. Explore Byodo-In Temple
Nestled in the lush Valley of the Temples, the Byodo-In Temple is a serene place to explore with kids. Feed the koi fish in the pond, ring the temple bell for good luck, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
14. Visit the Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum in Honolulu is a treasure trove of Hawaiian history and culture. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, planetarium shows, and hands-on activities that make learning fun. The museum’s Science Adventure Center is especially engaging for younger visitors.
15. Zipline at Kualoa Ranch
For adventurous families, Kualoa Ranch offers ziplining tours that provide breathtaking views of Oahu’s lush valleys. The ranch also offers ATV tours, horseback riding, and a movie site tour showcasing locations from films like Jurassic Park.
16. Build Sandcastles at Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The calm waters are ideal for young swimmers, and the expansive sandy beach offers plenty of space for sandcastle building. The park also has picnic areas and shaded spots for family gatherings.
17. Visit the Children’s Discovery Center
Located in Honolulu, the Hawaii Children’s Discovery Center provides hands-on exhibits designed to spark curiosity and imagination in kids. From exploring different cultures to engaging in pretend play, this center offers hours of fun for younger children.
18. Take a Catamaran Cruise
A catamaran cruise is a fantastic way to explore Oahu’s coastline. Many cruises are family-friendly, offering snorkeling, swimming, and even glass-bottom viewing for those who prefer to stay dry.
19. Eat Shave Ice at Matsumoto’s
No trip to Oahu is complete without sampling Hawaiian shave ice. Matsumoto’s Shave Ice in Haleiwa is a favorite spot for families. Kids can choose from a rainbow of flavors, and parents will appreciate the nostalgic charm of this North Shore institution.
20. Explore Haleiwa Town
Haleiwa, the surf capital of the world, offers a laid-back vibe and kid-friendly activities. Families can browse local shops, watch surfers tackle big waves, or grab a bite at food trucks serving delicious Hawaiian plate lunches.
21. Visit Turtle Beach (Laniakea Beach)
Laniakea Beach, also known as Turtle Beach, is a popular spot for spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles. Kids will be fascinated by these gentle creatures as they bask on the sand or swim near the shore. Remember to maintain a respectful distance to protect the turtles.
22. Try Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP)
Stand-up paddleboarding is a fun and family-friendly activity. Rent a paddleboard at Kailua or Ala Moana Beach Park and enjoy gliding over calm waters. Many rental shops offer boards in sizes suitable for kids.
23. Spend a Day at Wet’n’Wild Hawaii
Wet’n’Wild Hawaii, located in Kapolei, is Oahu’s only water park. With water slides, wave pools, and a lazy river, this park offers fun for all ages. The Keiki Kove area is specially designed for younger kids.
24. Go on a Sunset Picnic
End your day with a sunset picnic at Magic Island or Sunset Beach. Pack a blanket, local snacks, and enjoy the vibrant colors of the Hawaiian sunset while the kids play nearby.
Oahu is a family-friendly island full of exciting adventures and relaxing activities. Make the most of your trip by planning a mix of activities that cater to all ages, and don’t forget to soak in the aloha spirit that makes this island so special.
