The Best Kid (and Mom) Friendly Restaurants on Oahu

Traveling to Oahu with kids and searching for the best kid-friendly restaurants? I’m a Hawaii travel planner and Maui mama of two, and sometimes we travel to Oahu just to eat! From beachfront eateries to upscale dining in your best aloha shirt, the Oahu foodie scene is where it’s at.

What Makes Oahu Cuisine Special?

Oahu, often considered the heart of Hawaii, is a melting pot where East meets West, and traditional Hawaiian dishes mingle with Asian, European, and Polynesian influences. This culinary crossroads creates a vibrant food scene that’s as colorful as the island itself. 

Oahu’s cuisine celebrates its rich natural resources and multicultural heritage, from the freshest seafood caught daily to the locally grown fruits and vegetables. 

Whether it’s a simple “plate lunch” (two scoops of rice and macaroni salad on the side), a sophisticated fusion dish, or the sweet, tropical flavors of shave ice, dining on Oahu offers a unique opportunity to explore the island’s history, culture, and spirit of Aloha.

Are There Any Kid-Friendly Food Trucks on Oahu? 

Yes! You’ll find food trucks all over Oahu, most located on the North Shore. This dates back to the 1970s when locals began selling homemade plate lunches from roadside vehicles. 

Oahu was ahead of the game! By the 1990s, food truck culture was in full swing, showcasing local cuisine, shrimp trucks, and shave ice. Today, food trucks are essential to the island’s foodie scene.

This is excellent news because you don’t have to pay resort prices to try terrific Oahu grindz (food). I’m continually impressed by the caliber of noms produced in such tiny spaces!

“Food Truck Parks” are popping up all over Oahu. As a mom, I love this because it allows everyone in our family to order whatever they please. 

These are our favorite food trucks on the island of Oahu:

• Leonard’s Malasadas: A Malasada is a fried Portuguese doughnut with a dreamy variety of sweet fillings. Leonard’s was the first to bring them to Hawaii! The Ube flavor is my favorite and provides a fun way to try some local flavor. You’ll find four “Malasadamobiles” located around Honolulu. Order Online and pick some up on the way to the airport! 
• Sunrise Shack: This colorful little eatery is a North Shore staple in the Oahu surf scene. They are all about delivering fresh smoothies, acai bowls, and curated coffee. My family is obsessed with this place! Stop by after exploring Shark’s Cove or Sunset Beach.
• Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck: Oahu’s OG Shrimp Truck is located on the North Shore; order the shrimp scampi with a side of Mac salad! Prepare to wait in line.

Kid-Friendly Tips for Eating on Oahu

•While Oahu is the most budget-friendly of all the Hawaiian Islands, it’s still expensive. If you’re pinching pennies, remember that this is still America, and the portions are often huge. If your kids are young, start with one or two dishes for everyone to share. Chances are, they don’t need their own $30 meal. In addition, keep an eye out for happy hours with half-price “pupus (appetizers).”

•If you have assembled a kid’s backpack with things to do on the plane, keep it in your car to bring to restaurants.

•Never underestimate the value of a picnic! We love dining out. But nothing beats just getting the meal to go and throwing a blanket down at a beach park. The kids run free while we watch the sun dip into the sea.

The Best Kid-Friendly Restaurants on Oahu

These are our favorite kid-friendly restaurants on Oahu, organized by region to help you plan your days. If you need help understanding where these are located, check out Oahu with Kids: The Ultimate Guide.

Honolulu/Waikiki

Musubi Cafe Iyasume

Location: Honolulu

This no-frills spot is famous for its vast selection of musubis, a simple yet satisfying snack that originates from Hawaii. The classic Spam musubi consists of spam and rice wrapped in nori. Here, you can also try more adventurous flavors like eel, egg, or ume.

Musubi Cafe Iyasume’s compact, casual setting makes it easy to grab a few musubis to take to the beach. This is a fun place to introduce your kids to new flavors in a fun, unintimidating way. They might surprise you. We love musumbis!

They have five locations on Oahu:

638 Ke’eaumoku St #101, Honolulu, HI 96814 (Walmart)

227 Lewers St, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Waikiki Beach Walk)

1450 Ala Moana Blvd #2278, Honolulu, HI 96814 (The Lanai)

2427 Kūhiō Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815 (Pacific Monarch Hotel)

334 Seaside Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Seaside Commercial Center)

Leonard’s Bakery

Location: Honolulu

Leonard’s Bakery is a Honolulu gem where we love to flock for the legendary malasadas. These warm, sugar-coated Portuguese donuts are perfectly filled with rotating sweet fillings. They have multiple “malasadamobiles” around Honolulu, but if you want to stop into the original Bakery, they also offer hot dogs and ham and cheese wraps. 

Leonard’s Original Bakery Location: 

933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816

Rainbow Drive-In 

Location: Honolulu

Rainbow Drive-In is our go-to spot when craving local comfort food in a laid-back, nostalgic setting. This place has been serving generous portions of plate lunches (choose your main dish; they all come with two scoops of rice and mac salad) since 1961. From the iconic Loco Moco to the BBQ mix plate, every dish is a hearty nod to Hawaii’s melting pot culture. 

Dining here is an informal affair and not always a healthy one. But if you want to partake in an authentic slice of Hawaii, this is the place to be. 

They have three locations: 

3308 Kanaina Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (original)

1339 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

98-1005 Moanalua Rd, Aiea, HI 96701

Eggs’ N Things

Locations: Honolulu and Leeward Coast

Egg’s ‘N Things is not where you lazily sip on bottomless mimosas well into the afternoon. (Remember those days?) But if you’re looking for fluffy pancakes and eggs cooked to your liking in a casual environment, this is the place to be.

The lines get long, and the place gets loud, but you won’t have to worry about your toddler’s messy hair (or refusal to take their jammies off that morning). They have something on the menu for everyone. My kids love the Honu Plate, and I’m a big fan of the chewy mochi waffle. When I’m on vacation, whipped cream counts as breakfast food. 

They have four locations on Oahu:

343 Saratoga Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815

2464 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815

451 Piikoi St, Honolulu, HI 96814 (Ala Moana Plaza)

92-1047 Olani St #1-101, Kapolei, HI 96707 (Ko Olina Center)

Banzai Burger 

Location: Waikiki

Ah, Banzai Burger, where the burgers are as legendary as the North Shore waves they’re named after. 

I love this spot when we play tourist and wander around busy Waikiki. This casual, order-at-the-counter joint is an excellent place to people-watch without worrying if your kiddos are too loud or causing a scene.

Banzai Burger is known for its smash burgers, and the Hawaiian Burger is a must-try when exploring Oahu. It’s juicy, tangy, and sweet. Equally important are the gelato shakes. I love the Kona Coffee Brown Sugar, and Wilder is a big Ube Cookies and Cream fan. 

The kid’s menu consists of the trifecta of every toddler’s pallet: burgers, chicken fingers, and mac and cheese. It’s all fun and games until someone drops ketchup on their swimsuit.

2330 Kalākaua Ave # 250, Honolulu, HI 96815

Liliha Bakery

Locations: Honolulu and Central Oahu

Even if you didn’t grow up in Hawaii, Liliha Bakery feels like coming home. This place has been around since 1950 and reminds me of the diners with trusty baked goods that I knew and loved as a kid. 

Check out one of their many locations to indulge in heavenly desserts (the Coco Puffs are nonnegotiable) and local dishes (this is a great place to try Hawaii’s famous Loco Moco for the first time).

The vibe is diner-meets-bakery, so expect a bustling atmosphere and a bit of a wait, but it’s all part of the charm. Grab a box of pastries for later!

They have five locations:

515 N Kuakini St, Honolulu, HI 96817

580 N Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96817

3rd fl, 1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814 (Macy’s)

2330 Kalākaua Ave Suite 326, Honolulu, HI 96815 (International Marketplace)

1000 Kamehameha Hwy #210, Pearl City, HI 96782 (Pearl Highlands Center)

Goofy Cafe

Location: Waikiki

Goofy Cafe is where health-conscious eats and surfer vibes collide. Just a short walk from some of the best family-friendly hotels on Oahu, this cozy café offers fresh air with its farm-to-table approach, serving dishes packed with local, organic ingredients.

Their menu is a hit with our family, featuring everything from acai bowls to hearty benedicts.

Goofy’s dining area is adorable…and tiny. This is not where you want to be with toddlers. Instead, get it to go.

1831 Ala Moana Blvd #201, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Hilton Hawaiian Village)

Helena’s Hawaiian Food 

Location: Honolulu

This Honolulu staple doesn’t just serve food; it dishes out history, tradition, and a side of Aloha. Helena’s Hawaiian Food is the real deal for Hawaiian cuisine, where the recipes have been passed down through generations, and the welcome is warm. 

Forget about fancy décor or modern twists—Helena’s is about soul-satisfying comfort food that hits the spot, whether you’re a local or a visitor craving a taste of the islands. The menu is a who’s who of Hawaiian classics: pipikaula short ribs, poi, and lomi salmon.

It’s casual, it’s crowded, and yes, you might have to wait, but dining here is an authentic experience our family loves.

1240 N School St, Honolulu, HI 96817

Aloha Beer Company 

Location: Honolulu

We love Aloha Beer Company, where island life meets the craft beer scene. This is a family-friendly hangout that’s as fun as it is welcoming. 

This brewery boasts an impressive selection of house-made beers, from refreshing lagers to bold IPAs. But it’s not all about the beer; the food menu is equally compelling, featuring local favorites and pub classics with a Hawaiian twist, ensuring even the pickiest little eaters find something to smile about. 

The spacious, open-air seating encourages laid-back dining and conversation, while the occasional live music adds to the ambiance and makes me less paranoid when my kids are loud.

They have three locations:

700 Queen St, Honolulu, HI 96813

220 S King St, Honolulu, HI 96813 (Central Pacific Plaza)

2155 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Bank of Hawaii Waikiki Center)

Easy ‘Que

Location: Windward Coast

Easy ‘Que is where you go when you’re craving for some finger-licking barbecue hits.

Nestled in the laid-back vibe of Kailua, this spot is a carnivore’s paradise with a side of aloha. It’s casual and friendly and perfect for kids.

Their menu is a testament to barbecue done right, with ribs that fall off the bone, brisket that melts in your mouth, and sides that could easily steal the show. You’ll find mac and cheese and kalua pork sliders on the kid’s menu. 

I love their cute little bar and outdoor seating. Easy ‘Que never disappoints.

767 Kailua Rd #106, Kailua, HI 96734

Maui Brewing Co 

Location: Honolulu and Windward Coast

Maui Brewing Co. on Oahu is where craft beer meets island cuisine, creating a laid-back haven for parents and a welcoming spot for kids. 

Its spacious, industrial-chic vibe and open-air patio make it the perfect place to unwind. Here, craft beer is king, offering a dizzying array of choices from light and fruity to dark and robust. But it’s not just about the beer; they have a full bar and even make their own root beer! 

They have a large food menu as well. We love the fish tacos, and the extensive kids’ menu ensures that your kiddos are more than just an afterthought. 

Maui Brewing Co. is where you can savor the island’s flavors, enjoy a cold one, AND keep an eye on the kids. No complaints here.

They have two locations on Oahu:

2300 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel)

573 Kailua Rd Suite 105, Kailua, HI 96734 (Lau Hala Shops)

Nico’s

Location: Honolulu and Windward Coast

Nico’s is a waterfront dining experience that allows you to roll up in flip-flops and a tank top and yet indulge in seafood dishes that rival those of upscale restaurants—without the upscale prices. 

The open-air setting offers stunning harbor views, making every meal feel like a special occasion, even if it’s just lunch on a Tuesday. The menu is a testament to local flavors and ingredients, with the furikake ahi being a standout dish that draws locals and tourists alike. 

For the kids, the simplicity of the fish and chips is a hit, allowing them to enjoy seafood at its finest without too much fuss. Nico’s blends a casual dining experience with quality, freshness, and a view that entertains the whole family. It’s a reminder that in Hawaii, the best meals aren’t always found in the fanciest places but in the ones where the ocean is your backdrop, and the food speaks for itself.

Nico’s does not take reservations.

They have two locations:

1129 N Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96817 (Pier 38)

970 N Kalaheo Ave, Kailua, HI 96734

Restaurant 604 

Location: Honolulu

Restaurant 604 offers a dining experience as close to the water as you can get without dining on a boat. Located right on the edge of Pearl Harbor, with breathtaking views steeped in history.

The vibe here is effortlessly casual, with an open-air atmosphere inviting you to relax. The menu mixes local Hawaiian fare and American classics, ensuring something to satisfy everyone in your crew. I love going here for brunch because their Bloody Mary is to die for! Other noteworthy menu items are the poke nachos and the salmon bombs. They have a great kid’s menu, as well. 

Inside Tip: Hop on their website to get on a waitlist so you don’t have to hang around for a table with kids in tow.

57 Arizona Memorial Dr #108, Honolulu, HI 96818

Duke’s Waikiki

Location: Waikiki

Duke’s Waikiki is where the spirit of Hawaii beach culture comes to life.

Nestled right on the iconic sands of Waikiki Beach, Duke’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s an institution that pays homage to the surf legend Duke Kahanamoku. Here, you can gather to the sound of live Hawaiian music and share hearty meals while the ocean provides the perfect backdrop. The menu is a crowd-pleaser, with the Hula Pie—a towering dessert of ice cream, cookie crust, and fudge—stealing the show and likely to be the most photographed item at your table. 

Duke’s Waikiki embodies the laid-back luxury of island dining. 

I highly suggest making a reservation! Hang out on Waikiki Beach while you wait.

2335 Kalākaua Ave #116, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort)

North Shore

Ted’s Bakery

Location: North Shore

Ted’s Bakery is an Oahu institution, a casual eatery that’s as much a part of the North Shore as the surf and sand. Known far and wide for its legendary chocolate haupia cream pie, Ted’s offers a laid-back, authentic Hawaiian dining experience that our family adores.

This is the perfect pit stop while exploring North Shore Oahu, where you can indulge in a menu brimming with local favorites like garlic shrimp and Hawaiian BBQ chicken. We love having breakfast here and always make sure to make a pit stop when staying at Turtle Bay Resort.

The dining area is outdoors and about as unpretentious as they come, inviting you and the kids to come as you are—sandy feet and all.

59-024 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Haleiwa Bowls

Location: North Shore

Haleiwa Bowls is a must-visit if you’re looking for a healthy, refreshing treat. Nestled in the heart of North Shore, this cozy spot specializes in acai bowls prepared with fresh, local fruits, honey, and granola. 

It’s the perfect pick-me-up after a day of surfing or exploring, offering a delicious way to cool down and refuel. The laid-back vibe and vibrant bowls make it a hit with kids and parents, providing a snapshot of Hawaii’s bountiful produce. Quick, friendly service ensures you’ll be back on your adventure quickly.

66-030 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Sunrise Shack

Location: Honolulu, Windward Coast, and North Shore

Sunrise Shack is Oahu’s answer to the ultimate kid-friendly, health-conscious eatery, wrapped in a vibrant, Instagram-worthy package. 

This cheerful, colorful shack is one of our Oahu favorites. Known for its mouthwatering smoothie bowls, bulletproof coffee, and an array of refreshing, tropical-infused snacks, it’s the perfect way to fuel up before you explore some of the best kid-friendly beaches on Oahu.

The laid-back, beachy vibe invites you to relax and savor the moment, all while your little ones dig into vibrant bowls packed with fruits, honey, and all things nice. The Sunrise Shack isn’t just about eating well; it’s about feeling good.

They have five locations:

1450 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814 (Ala Moana Center)

2335 Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort)

130 Kailua Rd unit 109, Kailua, HI 96734 (Kailua Beach Center)

59-158 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712 (Original Location at Sunset Beach)

59-712 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712 (Shark’s Cove)

Surf and Salsa

Location: North Shore

Surf and Salsa is the laid-back roadside retreat your family needs after a day of exploring the island. This authentic Mexican spot is tucked away in Haleiwa. 

The menu is a vibrant celebration of classic Mexican dishes, from tacos and burritos to quesadillas, all bursting with flavor and made-to-order.

This is the kind of place you order at the window and dine on a picnic table in the Hawaiian sun. Don’t let the laid-back atmosphere fool you; the food here is serious business, and the Boho vibe is warm and welcoming. Prepare to wait in line; it’s worth it.

66521 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Kono’s

Locations: Waikiki, North Shore, and Leeward Coast

Kono’s makes our favorite breakfast burritos (they call them bombers) that are perfect for a morning at the beach!

Known for their 12-hour slow-roasted pork and conveniently located all across Oahu, this is a place I trust to keep everyone in my family happy. They have a great keiki (kids) menu and killer milkshakes! 

If you want to try their pork but are feeling something on the lighter side, check out the “Pigs on Grass,” a tasty salad loaded with pork and papaya seed dressing!

They have four locations:

2310 Kūhiō Ave. #1-A, Honolulu, HI 96815

945 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816

131 Hekili St #102, Kailua, HI 96734 (Merchant’s Row)

66-250 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712 (North Shore Marketplace)

Haleiwa Beach House

Location: North Shore

Haleiwa Beach House is where you go to elevate your dining experience without leaving the laid-back charm of the North Shore behind. This spot offers families a taste of upscale dining in a setting that’s as breezy as the beach. It’s the perfect blend of sophistication and casual island life, where you can enjoy fresh seafood while watching surfers catch the last waves of the day. 

The open-air dining area means you can enjoy the stunning sunset views without worrying about your kids being too loud—they even have an outdoor lawn area for them to play (rare for Oahu). From the locally sourced ingredients to the thoughtful presentation, every meal I have ever had here feels special and unique.

62-540 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Haleiwa Joe’s 

Locations: Windward Coast and North Shore

Dining at Haleiwa Joe’s makes you feel like you’ve discovered a hidden gem.

The vibe here is laid-back yet attentive, making you feel like you’re dining at a friend’s (very scenic) backyard BBQ. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after exploring Oahu, where you can sip on a tropical cocktail while the kids marvel at the koi ponds. The menu, featuring island-inspired dishes made with local ingredients, offers something for all ages and appetites. We’re obsessed with the Paradise Pie! 

Both locations are great; Haleiwa is the original location, offering a more laid-back vibe, and the Kaneohe location provides stunning views of Haiku Gardens and the Ko’olau mountain range.

They have two locations:

46-336 Haiku Rd, Kaneohe, HI 96744

66-011 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712

Related: Do you really need to rent a car while visiting Oahu? This is how you get around Oahu with kids.

Windward (Kailua/Kaneohe)

Cinnamon’s

Locations: Honolulu and Windward Coast

Nestled in the heart of Kailua, Cinnamon’s is a little slice of carb heaven. This has been a staple on Oahu since 1985, and the atmosphere is as laid-back as the island itself, making it the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of adventures.

My husband and I love to go halfsies on their Kalua pork and crab cake eggs benedicts while our kids go to town on the guava pancakes. They’re also open for lunch. People rave about their take on the classic Loco Moco.

Be sure to grab one of their cinnamon rolls out the door! 

They have two locations:

1777 Ala Moana Blvd #150, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Ilikai Hotel)

315 Uluniu St, Kailua, HI 96734

Kalapawai Market & Cafe 

Location: Windward Coast

Picture this: a quaint, green building at the end of your beach day in Kailua. Kalapawai’s is part market, part cafe, and entirely delightful. 

The vibe here is effortlessly relaxed and welcoming, where sandy feet and saltwater hair are part of the dress code. 

Their menu is a refreshing mix of casual eats and gourmet finds, which keeps everyone in our family happy. My kids love their homemade Mac and Cheese, and I can never decide between their fresh fish tacos and beautiful salads. 

306 S Kalaheo Ave, Kailua, HI 96734

Leeward (West Oahu)

Monkeypod Kitchen 

Locations: Honolulu and Leeward Coast

Monkeypod Kitchen is a staple in our house! This is our go-to when we want fresh food, a killer mai tai, and a place loud enough to drown out our very loud children.  

This a great elevated dining experience without all the stuffiness. The ethos here is all about farm-to-table dining, where local ingredients shine in dishes that are as delicious as they are sustainable. The open-air design and live music set the stage for a relaxed yet refined meal.

The world-famous Mai Tai does live up to the hype and is topped with a lilikoi (passionfruit) foam you’ll still dream of months later. The menu offers a thoughtful selection of kid-friendly favorites made with the same commitment to quality as the adult dishes. 

Make a reservation, and whatever you do, don’t sleep on the lobster-deviled eggs! 

They have two locations:

2169 Kālia Rd unit 111, Honolulu, HI 96815 (Outrigger Reef Waikiki Resort)

92-1048 Olani St, Kapolei, HI 96707 (Ko Olina Center)

Makahiki

Location: Leeward Coast

Located within the Aulani Disney Resort & Spa, Makahiki is an upscale buffet that is not to be missed. 

Here, you can indulge in diverse dishes, from fresh, local seafood to handcrafted desserts, all while Disney characters mingle and create unforgettable memories at your table. Whether you’re here for a bountiful breakfast or a lavish dinner, Makahiki is an experience that captures the essence of family dining in Hawaii—joyful, sumptuous, and filled with aloha.

They book up fast, so make a reservation as soon as possible. 

Inside Tip: Disney characters are only available during breakfast. Call ahead to ensure they will be there during your visit. 

92 Aliinui Dr, Kapolei, HI 96707 (Aulani Disney Resort)

Plantation Tavern

Location: Leeward Coast

Tucked away in Kapolei, Plantation Tavern is a bit off the beaten path but worth every turn for the warm welcome and comfort food. This spot is all about bringing families together around the table and serving dishes that blend local flavors with the comfort of American classics. 

Plantation Tavern is a great place to try Hawaii Plantation food for the first time. Think spam fries, fresh poke, and Korean-style short ribs. The laid-back, friendly atmosphere makes everyone feel like a regular, even if it’s your first visit. Their extensive bar and live music don’t hurt!

590 Farrington Hwy, Kapolei, HI 96707

Mekiko Cantina 

Location: Leeward Coast

Mekiko Cantina is one of the few places in Hawaii that competes with the mouth-watering Mexican cuisine we used to get when we lived in California.

Located in Kapolei and next door to the Aulani Disney Resort, this is a colorful escape for families looking to get off the compound and spice up their dining routine. 

I love this spot for many reasons: The margaritas, the fresh, local ingredients, the Birria tacos, the Ceviche… Did I mention the margaritas? Grab a table, share a plate of nachos, and let the good times roll.

Be sure to check out Happy Hour, where you can try their street tacos for just $5. 

92-1047 Olani St Suite 2-101, Kapolei, HI 96707 (Ko Olina Center)

Mina’s Fish House 

Location: Leeward Coast

Mina’s Fish House offers a dining experience as unforgettable as the sunset views it’s famed for.

Nestled on the pristine shores of Ko Olina, this award-winning restaurant by Chef Michael Mina redefines the family dining experience with its innovative take on seafood. The fish house concept is elevated here, blending the line between upscale and approachable. The service is warm and genuine, with a family-friendly atmosphere that makes every diner feel VIP.

Located in the Four Seasons, this oceanfront location is a dream. Kids can watch the waves and spot a sea turtle or two while dining off the keiki menu, while parents indulge in the freshest fish and seafood sourced from Hawaiian waters. 

Inside Tip: If you’re due for a date night and staying here at the Four Seasons, they offer an excellent (and complimentary) Kid’s Club! 

92-1001 Olani St, Kapolei, HI 96707 (Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina)

Central Oahu

Dole Pineapple Plantation

Location: Central Oahu

Dole Pineapple Plantation is a rite of passage for any family braving Oahu with kids in tow. Learn a thing or two about pineapples, wander through the world’s largest maze, and ride a train perfect for toddlers. But let’s talk priorities: it’s all about that Dole Whip soft serve. I still don’t understand how they make it so creamy AND dairy-free! 

In the visitor center, you’ll also find Plantation Grill, where you can indulge in an overpriced plate of local favorites, cheeseburgers, and hot dogs.

64-1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786

Related: Ready to map out some excursions? Check out the best things to do on Oahu with kids.

Dessert (Shave Ice!)

Whatever you do, don’t forget the shave ice! It’s a snack, an activity, a bribe—it’s whatever you need it to be. Just don’t call it a snow cone. Tip: order your shave ice with ice cream, you won’t regret it!

These are our favorite places to treat ourselves on Oahu.

Matsumoto Shave Ice

Often considered the most iconic and well-known shave ice spot on Oahu, Matsumoto Shave Ice is especially famous in the North Shore area, attracting visitors from all over the world.

Island Vintage Shave Ice

Known for its organic ingredients and unique flavors, Island Vintage Shave Ice is the place to be if you’re looking for a slightly healthier or more gourmet option.

Ice Monster

Gaining popularity for its unique texture and flavors, we love Ice Monster’s Taiwanese take on shave ice! The warm side of boba and fresh panna cotta won me over! My six-year-old loved the Mango sensation. These servings are huge, and I had to make him stop!

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