Take your next family vacation in a lush, tropical island paradise. Enjoy a much-needed break with the family and head to a place full of sand, sun, fun, and plenty of rest and relaxation.
When you plan your tropical trip, be sure to include a stay on Oahu. Youโll find plenty of things to keep you busy, including plenty of family-friendly activities Oahu for every age!
We have listed our top 14 family friendly activities that youโll surely enjoy when you visit Oahu with your family!
USS Arizona Memorial Museum
President Roosevelt called the December 7, 1941 attack on Pearl Harbor โA date which will live in infamy.โ The attack marked the countryโs official entry into World War II.
A visit to the Pearl Harbor National Memorial is something to put on your familyโs must-do list, along with a tour of the memorial, built directly over the wreckage of the warship that was so irreparably damaged that it didnโt see a day of action in the war.
A 45-minute guided tour of the memorial hosted by National Park Service members runs daily 8 a.m. โ 3:30 p.m. Tours run every 15 minutes, and each tour is capped at 145 people in accordance with US Navy and US Coast Guard regulations.
Polynesian Cultural Center
If you want to have a local experience in Hawaii and show your kids the local culture, visiting the Polynesian Culture Centre is a great option. Hawaii is made up of several islands, and visiting each one is a big task. This place has always been close to our hearts due to the warm experiences we’ve had here.
Located on the North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers an immersive experience of Polynesian cultures. Families can explore authentic villages, enjoy traditional Polynesian performances, and participate in interactive activities like canoe rides and lei-making. The evening luau and show, โHa: Breath of Life,โ are a must-see.
At the end of the day, you and your kids will learn about Hawaiian culture in depth and be able to recite your experiences with more zeal when you return.
Hiking Aiea Loop Trail & Diamond Head
While your trip to the Hawaiian Islands will likely include a lot of beach bumming, youโll also want to make time to see the sights.
A driving tour around the island will give you a good look, but some places deserve more than a glimpse out the car window. Get out and take a hike through stunning landscapes for awesome views you donโt get from the car.
Explore trails for beginners, like Aiea Loop Trail, a less-than-five-mile loop that takes you through some of the islandโs native beauty. While the trail may be comparatively simple, watch out your kids on the way to keep them safe.
Another excellent hiking option is the Diamond Head hike. This is one of Oahuโs most famous landmarks inside the Diamond Head State Monument.
The trail to the summit is moderately challenging but offers stunning views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. Itโs a great way for families to enjoy some outdoor activity and appreciate the islandโs natural beauty from the top of the volcano.
For a more adventurous hike, consider Halona Beach Cove. It can be a bit difficult to hike down to, but it’s worth it for quick photos and to see the blowhole in action.
Spend Quality Time on the Beaches
There are plenty of things to do and see during your Oahu family vacation. Spending a little time on the beach each day is a must. Whether itโs just to sit out in the sun or wade into the water for some swimming or other fun, a day at a beach on Oahu is not to be missed.
One of the best beaches to hang out with your entire family is Waikiki Beach. Waikiki Beach is one of the most iconic destinations in Hawaii, renowned for its golden sands and gentle waves.
Itโs the perfect spot for families to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and surfing lessons. The beachfront is lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a convenient and lively place to spend the day.
Many tourists flock to Waikiki Beach for the iconic experience. Avoid the crowds and explore other beaches around the island, including the one thatโs close to your rental.
If youโre not tired and would like to walk a bit to the other beach, Ala Moana Beach is an excellent option. It is located just west of Waikiki and is a local favorite, with calm waters, wide sandy beaches, and plenty of grassy areas for picnics.
Itโs a great place for swimming, paddle boarding, and simply relaxing. The nearby Ala Moana Center offers shopping and dining options.
Watch Wildlife at Honolulu Zoo
Oahu is filled with hundreds of wildlife to see. You can charter a boat that seeks out some of Oahuโs sea life.
There are several charters that will take you out in search of dolphins, whales, and other ocean dwellers that swim in the warmer waters of Hawaii. Donโt forget your camera! You might even win their companionship and be able to watch as they race alongside the vessel.
Feels too adventurous? Don’t worry, you can still see the wildlife. Head to Honolulu Zoo, where you’ll see many and many animals in one place.
Located in the heart of Waikiki, the Honolulu Zoo is a fantastic destination for families. It houses over 900 animals from around the world, including elephants, giraffes, and exotic birds. The zoo also offers educational programs and interactive exhibits that are perfect for kids.
See Marine Life at Sea Life Park & Waikiki Aquarium
If your kid is afraid of going inside the ocean to see the vast marine life, we suggest a completely safe and fun activity. Oahu has two of the most prominent locations to see aquatic creatures from a distance.
First is Sea Life Park, located near Makapu’u Point. It is an educational and entertaining marine park. Your whole family can enjoy watching dolphin and sea lion shows without being afraid.
If you want, you can also interact with marine animals and explore various exhibits about Hawaii’s ocean life. The park also offers unique experiences like swimming with dolphins and sea turtles.
Now, after you’ve already visited the Honolulu Zoo, you can go a little further and visit the famous Waikiki Aquarium. Just a short walk from the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in the United States.
It showcases a diverse range of marine life native to Hawaii and the Pacific Ocean. Kids will love the touch pools and interactive displays that provide a hands-on learning experience.
Coral Crater Adventure Park
Head out on an adventure through Oahuโs beautiful wilderness. The company offers zipline tours (3-6 ziplines), where youโll be guided through the course by professional guides. The full tour is approximately two hours long.
Stay at the park and climb the โadventure towerโ featuring rope bridges, ziplines, a climbing wall, and more. Cool off after all the fun with a ride on the thrilling Daโ Flowrider bodyboard wave simulator at Wet โnโ Wild Hawaii. All adventures are suitable for guests six years old and older. All safety gear is provided.
Visit Kualoa Ranch
Even if your kids are not enjoying their time in Oahu with the above option, then it’s the best time to take them to the famous Kualoa Ranch. It’s the same place where movies like Jurassic Park and Jumanji were shot.
Kualoa Ranch is an adventure playground for families, offering a range of activities from ATV tours and horseback riding to movie site tours of famous filming locations.
Families can also enjoy ziplining, jungle expeditions, and exploring the beautiful Ka’a’awa Valley. There are several tours available to choose from, so pick one that fits your time!
Discover the Hawaiian History at Iolani Palace & Bishop Museum
Before Hawaii became the 50th state in 1959, it was its own unified and internationally recognized kingdom. Traces of the monarchy remain throughout the islands, including Oahu. The palace was the official residence of Hawaiiโs monarchy, full of grandeur and opulence fitting of a monarch.
The restored building in downtown Honolulu is a National Historic Landmark. Two of the island chainโs most notable monarchs, King Kalakaua โ who built the magnificent structure โ and Queen Liliuokalani, lived in the building.
To know more about Hawaiian history, walk 3 miles to visit the Bishop Museum. The Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum in Honolulu is the largest museum in Hawaii and a treasure trove of Hawaiian and Polynesian artifacts.
The museum’s exhibits cover everything from ancient Hawaiian history to modern science, providing a comprehensive and engaging educational experience for families.
Learn About Hawaiian Pineapples at Dole Plantation
The Dole Plantation in Wahiawa is a fun and educational destination. You can treat the kids to a 20-minute train ride through the Dole Plantation and get a close-up view of the pineapple farm.
You can also tackle the giant Pineapple Garden Maze, which typically takes no less than 40 minutes to solve. Want to delve more into the nature? Take a scenic hour-long walk through the gardens.
While leaving, remember to treat them to the famous pineapple soft serve. This is surely going to be the highlight of the entire visit.
Snorkeling at Hanauma Bay
The natural beauty of the Hawaiian islands extends to below the waves crashing along their shores. A number of tour companies will take you to some of Oahuโs most breathtaking locations for a look above and below the water.
Explore reefs and shipwrecks, or swim with sea life like a variety of fish species or sea turtles! Companies usually provide all the snorkeling gear โ mask, snorkel, and swim fins. Some allow you to bring your own snacks and non-alcoholic beverages, too.
Hanauma Bay is a top snorkeling destination known for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. The bay is also a protected marine conservation area, making it ideal for families to explore underwater. Before entering, visitors watch an educational video about preserving the bay’s ecosystem.
Check age requirements before booking; some companies allow children as young as three to take the plunge, while others prefer children be eight and older. Make sure to pack an underwater camera to capture the magnificent underwater world.
Treat Shave Ice in North Shore
While the North Shore is known for its high waves and surfing opportunities, people also come here to taste the world famous dessert at Matsumoto Shave Ice.
Matsumoto Shave Ice is an iconic destination on the island of Oahu, particularly in the quaint town of Haleiwa on the North Shore.
Known for its delectable shave ice treats, Matsumoto Shave Ice has become a must-visit spot for families, offering a refreshing and flavorful experience that captures the essence of Hawaiian sweetness.
Stay or Pay a Visit to Aulani Disney Resort
For an authentic Hawaiian getaway with an extra sprinkle of enchantment reminiscent of Disney, we love the Aulani Resort.The resort features numerous pools, exhilarating water slides, playful splash areas, and a relaxing lazy river.
We’ve seen kids enjoy a lot here with their favorite Disney characters. Families enjoy a private lagoon perfect for snorkeling adventures.
A highlight is Aunty’s Beach House, a fantastic kids’ club offering exciting activities. Thereโs also an impressive and engaging luau,complimentary boogie boards and beach toys for endless seaside fun.
Walk Around the Waimea Valley
Waimea Valley on the North Shore offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural history. You can easily stroll through lush botanical gardens, learn about Hawaiian history and culture, and swim in the Waimea falls at the end of the valley.
The valley also hosts cultural events and demonstrations. We personally experienced a memorable blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and outdoor adventure on Oahu’s North Shore, which is actually great for a family to experience together.
It’s not just a valley but a place where families can connect with Hawaii’s past and present while creating lasting memories together in a stunning natural setting.
FAQs
How can I get around Oahu conveniently with my family?
Renting a car is ideal for exploring the island, but you can also use public buses (TheBus) or book tours that provide transportation to popular attractions.
Are there any kid-friendly beaches with calm waters on Oahu?
Apart from the beaches mentioned above, there are beaches like Kailua Beach and Lanikai Beach on the Windward Coast, known for their soft sands and gentle waves, perfect for families with young children.
How can we find information about events and activities happening during our visit to Oahu?
You can check local event calendars, visitor guides, or consult with hotel concierges for recommendations on current events, festivals, and family-friendly activities on the island.
Bring the Family to Oahu
Whether youโre exploring the nature or the water, Oahu just has the right options of fun things you can enjoy with your family. With the family friendly places mentioned, we are sure that youโll have a great time here.
If you are looking for a nice stay, weโve got your covered! For a family-friendly destination, don’t miss the Royal Hawaiian Center, one of Hawaii’s largest indoor-outdoor shopping malls located in the buzzing heart of Waikiki. It offers complimentary cultural programming such as hula performances, live music, weaving, and lei-making classes.
From a cozy studio for your small family to a two-bedroom for your larger family, Midway Vacations has a cozy vacation rental thatโs just right for your Memorial Day retreat. Arrive and feel the stresses and worries of home melt away, replaced by the spirit of Aloha.
Contact us today to start planning a family adventure to Oahu!
