Oahu Activities for Families: Your Ultimate Guide for 2025
Hey parents! Are you planning a family trip to Oahu and want to have an amazing time with your kids? It’s the perfect place for it – I’ve got 25 fantastic activities that will make the whole family happy!
Oahu is a paradise not just for grown-ups but for kids (called ‘keiki’ in Hawaii) too, with tons of activities that are fun for everybody.
From incredible beaches with facilities close by to indoor spots perfect for a rainy day, let’s dive into the best family activities Oahu has to offer!
Outdoor Activities for Your Family on Oahu
First things first – find a Longs Drugs. They’re found all over the island, and it’s where you’ll find everything you’ll need during the course of your trip. Snacks, souvenirs, first aid items, beach toys, sunscreen… it’s a lifesaver.
And it’s owned by CVS, so you can use your card there. (I have no connection – it’s just a great store!)
Beach and Water Fun
1. Waikiki Beach is a fantastic spot for families. The shallow depths and calm water make it safe for young swimmers, and the beach has plenty of restroom facilities and showers.
You can rent a paddleboard, build sandcastles, or just splash around in the shallow waters. Plus there’s no shortage of snack stops and restaurants on the beach.
2. For a unique experience, rent a private cabana at Pualani Cabanas at the Royal Hawaiian’s beachfront area. Kids can play in the sand and shallow water while parents relax nearby.
There are restrooms and showers near the beach area, providing easy access.
You can rent beach chairs, umbrellas, and other equipment to make your day more comfortable. And there are changing rooms available so you can freshen up after a swim.
3. Another great option is Kailua Beach Park, known for its powdery white sand and calm waters. There are plenty of shaded picnic areas, restrooms, and showers.
You and your kids can enjoy swimming, boogie boarding, or even kayaking in the protected bay.
Nearby is the Kalapawai Market for snacks and some hot food, and Bob’s Pizza – by the slice or pie – just down the road. And around the corner is K and K Bar-B-Que – so ono (delicious). Give it a try!
4. The tidal pools at Pupukea, on Oahu’s North Shore, are a fantastic spot for the family to explore the marine life in a safe spot. These natural pools are formed by lava rock formations that create calm, shallow waters perfect for young explorers.
You can spend hours discovering different sea creatures like small fish, crabs, and colourful sea anemones in the clear pools. The calm conditions of the tidal pools make it easy and fun for keiki to snorkel or wade, depending on the tide.
It’s a beautiful spot, and directly next door to Shark’s Cove (a misleading name, as you can’t expect to see sharks here), the best snorkelling spot on the island.
There are restroom facilities at Shark’s Cove, food trucks across from the Cove, and a Foodland grocery store just a little further down the road.
5. Hanauma Bay, on Oahu’s southeastern coast, is an amazing spot to snorkel with your kids. The calm, shallow waters make it perfect for safe snorkelling and swimming among the colourful fish and sea turtles.
The bay has great facilities like restrooms, showers, and picnic areas, making it super convenient.
Plus, there’s a short educational video before you go in that teaches everyone about protecting the ocean. Hanauma Bay is a mix of fun, learning, and beautiful scenery.
6. Wet’n’Wild Hawaii is an awesome spot for families looking for a fun day out together. The park is packed with water slides, a lazy river, and a massive wave pool.
There’s a special Keiki Cove area designed just for younger kids, too, with smaller slides and splash zones that are safe and super fun.
With plenty of lifeguards on duty, a variety of food options, and lots of shady spots to relax, Wet’n’Wild Hawaii is the perfect spot to bring a smile to your kid’s face.
Nature and Adventure
7. Head to Waimea Valley on the North Shore for a mix of nature and culture. This incredible botanical garden has easy, stroller-friendly hikes that end at a beautiful waterfall where you can all splash around or swim. Restrooms and picnic areas are available, along with food and snacks, making it perfect for a family day out.
There are even movie nights and activities. You can watch traditional Hawaiian hula performances and even participate in hula lessons.
Or you can learn how to make your own flower leis, a fun hands-on activity that introduces them to Hawaiian culture. And you can try your hands at Lauhala weaving using leaves from the hala tree, creating little keepsakes to take home.
8. Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden, in Kaneohe, is a great place to take the kids out in nature. There are paved walking paths that make it easy for strollers to navigate
You’ll find a lake and plenty of spots for a picnic. Kids love feeding the ducks (you’ll need to bring bird-friendly food like cracked corn or birdseed – get it at Longs Drugs) and exploring the various plant collections.
Or you can try your luck at fishing! The garden offers catch-and-release fishing at the lake, which is a fantastic activity for families to do together.
Fishing poles and bait are provided for free on weekends from 10 am to 2 pm. It’s a great way for kids to learn about fish and their habitat.
As well, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Garden often hosts weekend activities and educational programs. These can include guided nature walks, storytelling, and hands-on craft activities that focus on nature and conservation.
Check the garden’s schedule on their website before you go to see if there are any special events happening during your visit.
9. The Makapu’u Point Lighthouse Trail is perfect for a hike to take with your family. It’s a 2-mile round trip with a smooth, paved path, making it easy for kids and even strollers.
The gentle incline is manageable, and there are rest stops along the way. The best part? The stunning views of the coastline and the historic lighthouse.
If you’re lucky, you might spot humpback whales during the winter months – I once spotted a mom with her calf! It’s a fun, scenic adventure for everybody.
10. Manoa Falls Trail is another great hike, especially for families with older kids. This 1.6-mile round-trip trail takes you through a rainforest, with plenty of shade and giant plants.
The trail can be a bit muddy, but the journey ends at the gorgeous 150-foot Manoa Falls, making it worth it.
Kids love crossing small streams and bridges along the way. It’s a short, moderate hike that’s perfect for a little adventure in nature.
11. Kualoa Ranch, on the road toward the North Shore, is a fantastic place for families with loads of fun activities. You can go on an exciting jungle expedition, ride ATVs, or explore movie sites from famous films like Jurassic Park.
There’s also horseback riding for a more laid-back adventure and a petting zoo where you can meet friendly farm animals. The educational tours about Hawaiian culture and the natural environment are fun, too, making it a perfect family day out.
12. Waimanalo Country Farms offers a petting zoo as part of their family-friendly activities. You can interact with different farm animals like goats, sheep, rabbits, and chickens.
The farm often has seasonal events and activities like pumpkin patches in the fall and sunflower fields in the spring, providing a fun and educational experience for families.
Indoor Activities for Rainy Days
13. On a rainy day, the Bishop Museum in Honolulu is a lifesaver! With interactive exhibits on Hawaiian culture and natural history, it’s both fun and educational (but the kids will never suspect). It’s one of my favourite spots!
The onsite Science Adventure Center is a hit with parents and kids. Explore a simulated volcano, learn about Hawaiian ecosystems, and even play with underwater robotics.
Plus the museum’s Planetarium has phenomenal shows about the stars and Hawaiian navigation.
14. The Children’s Discovery Center is a wonderland for young kids. It’s in the Dole Pineapple Cannery in Honolulu, in Iwilei.
With different themed play areas, you can explore a mini Hawaiian town, play in a rainforest, or even pretend to be doctors and firefighters. It’s a perfect spot for a few hours of indoor fun.
15. Dave & Buster’s in Honolulu is always a hit with families. With a wide range of arcade games, it’s a great place to let the kids blow off some steam. Plus, they have a full menu, so you can enjoy a meal while the kids play.
It’s close to the Ward shopping area, as well as the South Shore Market, so there’s lots around to do – end the days at Dave and Buster’s as a treat for the family!
Unique Activities for Families
Cultural Experiences
16. The Polynesian Cultural Center is an incredible place for families to learn about the different cultures of the Pacific Islands. There are hands-on activities, canoe rides, and even a kids’ area where they can try traditional Hawaiian games.
There is also a family-friendly luau that includes activities like lei-making, hula lessons, and more traditional games. Attending a luau is a must in Hawaii. This is a great opportunity!
Animal Encounters
17. The Honolulu Zoo in Waikiki is a fantastic place to spend a morning or afternoon. Just across the street from Queen’s Beach, on the east end, the zoo is well-maintained and has a great variety of animals.
There’s also a Keiki Zoo area where kids can get up close with goats, sheep, and other farm animals.
18. The Waikiki Aquarium, farther south down the beach, is a fantastic spot to explore the marine life. Here, you can marvel at the tropical fish, sea horses, and colourful coral reefs.
Interactive exhibits and touch pools let you get up close with sea creatures, making learning about the ocean fun and entertaining.
With its focus on Hawaiian marine ecosystems and conservation, the Waikiki Aquarium is an educational adventure. They have a fun gift shop, too.
BONUS: For a fun and unique experience, join a night reef walking tour with the Waikiki Aquarium. You’ll be guided to explore marine life at dusk, using plexiglass-bottomed boxes and flashlights.
Discover nocturnal creatures like octopuses and sleeping parrot fish in the shallow water. The tours run from late fall to early spring and are perfect for anyone six years and older. Prices are pretty reasonable too.
19. Sea Life Park has marine life shows, interactive exhibits, and even the chance to swim with dolphins. Kids love watching the playful sea lions and learning about Hawaii’s marine life.
There are options for buying snacks and meals in the park, too. You’ll find local Hawaiian favourites like Kalua pork and garlic shrimp, plus kid-friendly hot dogs, pizza, and burgers.
Best Places to Eat with Kids
Family-Friendly Restaurants
20. Teddy’s Bigger Burgers, found around the island, is a local favourite. They have a kid-friendly menu with burgers, fries, and shakes. The relaxed atmosphere and tasty food make it a great spot for families.
21. Cheeseburger in Paradise is a fun dining experience with a variety of options that will please even the pickiest eaters. The energetic environment is perfect for families.
22. Eggs ‘n Things in Waikiki is perfect for breakfast with the family. The menu has a wide variety of breakfast favourites, including pancakes, waffles, and omelets.
Keiki especially love the fun, tropical-themed pancakes with fresh fruit and whipped cream. The friendly atmosphere and kid-friendly portions make it a great place to start your day.
Unique Dining Experiences for Families
23. Aloha Table serves up delicious local dishes with a kid-friendly twist. They can adapt their traditional Hawaiian and local dishes to suit younger palates and smaller tummies. Parents can enjoy the full-sized version!
Their loco moco (rice layered with hamburger patties, fried egg and gravy), and garlic shrimp are musts, and they have a relaxed, homey atmosphere.
24. For a taste of classic Hawaiian plate lunches, head to the iconic Rainbow Drive-In. The menu is simple and tasty, with quick service and outdoor seating.
There’s no need to worry about keeping your kids too quiet, as the relaxed environment is very accommodating. The casual setting and large portions are perfect for families.
25. Makahiki, at the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa, on the leeward side, is another great spot for families. The buffet has a wide variety of great dishes, from fresh local favourites to kid-friendly classics.
What makes it extra special for kids is the chance to meet and take photos with Disney characters during their meal. The fun atmosphere and interactive dining experience make it a fun and memorable place for families.
Summing It Up: Oahu Activities for Families
Oahu is a paradise filled with endless activities that will keep your whole family entertained and happy.
From the sunny, sandy beaches with essential facilities to action-packed museums and fun-filled cultural experiences, there’s a lot for the whole family to enjoy.
So pack your bags, bring plenty of (reef-safe) sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure for your family in Oahu!
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