Fun Things to Do on Oahu with Kids: A Hawaii Mom’s Guide

Traveling to Hawaii and searching for the best things to do on Oahu with kids? You’re in luck, mama!

I’m a Hawaii travel planner who is raising two kids on the island of Maui. Our family loves to visit Oahu as often as we can. From mom-friendly spas to kid-friendly luaus, Oahu is the place to be!

Wondering if you chose the right island? Check out Oahu with Kids: The Ultimate Guide.

Waikiki for families

Waikiki is the most well-known spot on Oahu. This Honolulu neighborhood is bustling with people surfing, shopping, dining, and lookin’ pretty.

Waikiki Aquarium

Located along the shoreline, the Waikiki Aquarium displays an array of marine life, including some rare sea creatures native to the Pacific. I love this underwater world for inexperienced swimmers (and us moms who aren’t in the mood to get our hair wet).

The Waikiki Aquarium has existed since 1904! Reservations are required. Tickets are reasonably priced, and kids three and under get in for free. 

This is a small aquarium, and from our experience, an hour or two to walk around is fine. If you’re used to bigger aquariums back home, you can probably skip this experience.

Tip: Diamond Head Luau guests receive a free Waikiki Aquarium pass, good for 14 days after the luau date.

Honolulu Zoo

At the entrance to Kapiolani Park, you’ll find the Honolulu Zoo. Here, you can wander through lush tropical gardens while spotting a pretty impressive collection of animals from around the globe.

The zoo is 42 acres and home to 905 different animals. Compared to larger zoos, this is a smaller operation that can be completed in about 2-3 hours. Walkable from the Waikiki Aquarium, it’s easy to pair the two together.

There are plenty of areas for kids to play, including a picnic lawn and playground. Heads up that Honolulu Zoo does not provide much shade. 

Free admission for kids 0-2. Reservations are not required.

Tip: There are restrooms located around the zoo, but the Keiki Petting Zoo restrooms tend to be cleaner than the others!

Free Fireworks Display

Every Friday evening at 7:45 p.m., people gather to witness this 10-minute, free fireworks show in Waikiki put on by the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Something about watching fireworks with your toes in the sand is such a magical experience!

You can witness the Waikiki fireworks anywhere along the coast between Diamond Head and Ewa Beach, but most people gather on the beach in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

The best viewing location is the western side of the Hilton Lagoon (free and open to the public), but it may be too loud for kids with sensitive ears. In this case, head to Magic Island, located at the east end of Ala Moana Beach Park. You’ll still be close to the action but with far less noise. 

Inside Tip: If you know you’re going to be staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village on a Friday, book an oceanfront room in the Rainbow Tower!

Royal Hawaiian Center

Located just steps from Waikiki Beach, the Royal Hawaiian Center is well-known as a shopping and dining destination with several upscale luxury brands and boutiques. 

This is a nice place to shop, grab a bite, or attend a unique take on a luau. Be sure to take a stroll through Coconut Grove, located next door at one of my favorite Waikiki gems, The Royal Hawaiian Hotel.

The Royal Hawaiian Center offers complementary lei-making and cultural classes to the public. They also offer free hula lessons to kids (5-10 years), where your kids can learn basic moves to Hawaiian children’s songs.

The Royal Hawaiian Center has a large, convenient parking garage in the heart of Waikiki.

Restrooms can be found in the food court.

Tip: Treat your kids to some Island Vintage Shave Ice!

Iconic Historical Sites

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

Pearl Harbor National Memorial is the most famous activity on Oahu. A visit with kids can present a somber learning opportunity that’s not to be forgotten.

The memorial is free to visit, although a $1 service charge is required to reserve tickets to the USS Arizona Memorial. This is the most popular site at Pearl Harbor and sells out quickly. Reserve tickets well in advance! If you know you’re going to need a ride from somewhere in Waikiki, you might as well combine the two and book a tour. 

Consider purchasing an audio tour upon arrival! Kids are much more interested in listening to facts than reading about them. Also, be sure to check out the Junior Ranger program, which allows them to fill out a booklet as they explore and receive a Junior Ranger Badge upon completion.

The USS Arizona Memorial includes a short documentary with footage from the attack on a large screen. This can be overwhelming for young people, so consider bringing noise-reducing headphones if someone in your family is sensitive to sound. 

The Aviation Museum, Pacific Fleet Submarine Museum, and Battleship Missouri Memorial all offer hands-on learning, allowing kids to climb into a real cockpit, submarine, or battleship. These are all privately owned and require an entrance fee.

Above all, the USS Missouri is not to be missed! It is a humbling and emotional experience that does a great job of bringing history alive to young people and adults alike. You won’t regret it!

Tips for Visiting Pearl Harbor with Kids

Pearl Harbor has a STRICT no-bag policy, so don’t bring anything you can’t carry. A small snack shop is available, and there are water fountains throughout the park to use or refill containers.

Strollers and wagons are permitted at Pearl Harbor but not on the US Navy vessels or the USS Arizona Memorial. Because of this, consider bringing a baby carrier! If you bring diapers, place them in a clear ziplock bag in your stroller caddy.

Make reservations well in advance, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t feel like you have to do it all.

Lastly, keep in mind that this kind of stuff is hard for adults to process, and there’s a good chance your kids won’t fully get it – that’s okay. You may want to talk with them about the attack on Pearl Harbor beforehand.

Iolani Palace

If you have a family full of history buffs, Iolani Palace should definitely be on your itinerary. Even if you’re not, this is a great way to ground your family in Hawaii’s history, which can only enrich your time here.

Iolani Palace was once the residence of the Hawaiian monarchs and now holds great cultural and historical significance in Hawaii. This is the only palace in the United States and had electricity, indoor plumbing, and a working telephone even before the White House!

This experience truly feels like stepping back in time. Walking around the palace and observing well-preserved furniture and artifacts, it’s easy to imagine official functions and lavish celebrations taking place here in the 1800s.

You can choose to participate in a guided or self-led tour, both lasting 60-90 minutes. Either way, reservations are required.

It’s important to note that the tour is quite reverent. They expect the vibe to stay calm and quiet, and touching the artifacts is not allowed. So, if you have rambunctious kids, save yourself the headache and wait until they’re older.

Children under five are free and required to be in a carrier or stroller (which they provide at no charge).

Hiking Trails

Monoa Falls 

Hiking to Manoa Falls is a magical experience. The trail winds through a lush rainforest that feels straight out of a movie set—you’re not imagining things—Jurassic Park and the show Lost were both filmed here!

The 1.6-mile round trip to the 150-foot waterfall is relatively easy, making it great for kids. It took us about two hours to complete (faster if you don’t have toddlers who like to stop and look at every tree branch along the way). 

There is no entrance fee, but parking is $7 a vehicle in the lot. 

Bathrooms and Treetops Restaurant can be found at the entrance.

Tip: Wear shoes with good traction, bring bug spray, and keep a gallon of water in the car to rinse muddy shoes and belongings after! It’s best to avoid Manoa Falls if it’s been raining, as the conditions can quickly become unsafe.

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail

If you want to avoid the mud, check out the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail! This paved path provides an easy/moderate 2-mile round trip hike that’s also stroller-friendly, making it accessible for families with children of all ages. (There is one set of stairs at the top leading to another lookout, but you’ll get plenty of stunning views without it.)

Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail offers spectacular views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline, including Koko Head and the distant island of Moloka’i on clear days. Bring binoculars for whale watching during the winter months! 

The trail took us about two hours, and the gradual incline led to a beautiful, historic lighthouse. The path never gets too crowded because its paved surface is around 8 feet wide, so there’s plenty of room for everyone. 

No Bathrooms. Free parking (arrive early). 

Tip: Wear sunscreen and hats, as the trail offers little shade. Carry sufficient water to stay hydrated in the sun, and arrive early to secure parking and enjoy the cooler weather. 

Diamond Head

Diamond Head is made up of the remnants of an extinct volcano that erupted 300,000 years ago!

Hiking Diamond Head with kids can be a fun adventure that offers panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. This 1.8-mile moderate hike is suitable for kids, but know that if you have little ones, you may end up carrying them for part of the way.

This paved trail includes steep stairs and uneven surfaces, so a baby carrier is advisable for babies/toddlers. Once at the summit, the breathtaking scenery makes the effort worthwhile, and it’s a great spot for photos. Engage your kids by playing a game of spotting landmarks or ships in the distance.

Start early to avoid the midday heat (take advantage of the jet-lag). Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes and bring water. Snacks like granola bars or fruit can keep energy levels high. 

Note that this is one of the most popular destinations on Oahu, and it WILL get busy, no matter the time of day. Diamond Head State Monument is $10 to park and $5/person to enter. (Children 0-3 are free.)

Restrooms and a few food vendors can be found in the parking lot.

Reservations are required.

Tip: If hiking’s not your thing, or you want to avoid the crowds, soak up your view of Diamond Head on this family-friendly sail and snorkel adventure!

Beaches and Water Activities

Family Surf Lessons

I highly encourage you to take a family surf lesson while in Hawaii! This is the best way to bond with your kids trying something new together. Waikiki Beach is renowned for its gentle, rolling waves, making it an ideal spot for beginners of all ages.

While there are endless surf schools in Waikiki, be sure to choose one that has extensive experience with kids of all ages.

Our family loves the Ohana Surf Project because they do a lot of good in the community, and the instructors are next-level. They do a great job of making this a safe and fun experience for young people (and, er, nervous parents). I love that they have no age restrictions and will ride tandem with kids if they’re afraid.

Ohana Surf Project provides high-quality photos and videos (for an extra fee), which is a non-negotiable for me! Surf photos or it doesn’t count!

Equipped with soft-top boards and patient instruction, even the youngest members of the family can stand up and ride their first wave. There is nothing better than watching your kiddo move from fear to confidence into full-on stoke-mode!

I just started surfing at the age of 39! Get out there, mama! There’s a good chance you’ll surprise yourself.

Snorkeling Excursions

Snorkeling is one of my favorite things to do with my kids. It’s fun and exciting, and it fosters a deeper appreciation for Hawaii’s diverse ocean ecosystems.

Places like Hanauma Bay offer calm, clear water that’s ideal for younger snorkelers. Many consider this THE best snorkeling spot in Hawaii!

30 minutes from Waikiki, Hanauma Bay provides gear rentals, lockers, and even a snack bar. There is a fee to enter the nature preserve, and reservations must be made in advance (closed Mondays and Tuesdays).

Alternatively, you can easily rent your own gear and explore places like Kuilima Cove, Paradise Cove, and Shark’s Cove when the conditions are right.

Snorkeling can be daunting the first time with kids, so consider a much more convenient adventure by going on a snorkel cruise! Waikiki has many great companies that will take your family out on a sailbot to explore some hidden snorkel spots.

Our family is obsessed with the Dolphins and You Snorkel Cruise in Waikiki. They pick you up at your hotel and provide lunch, snorkel gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddle boards. They even have a photographer on the boat, and the real win is the 20-foot waterslide!

Kid-Friendly Oahu Beaches

Oahu has so many incredible beaches that are great for the whole family. But it’s important to note that not every wave in Hawaii is created equal. In fact, North Shore Oahu is famous for its big wave surfing, which often makes ocean conditions dangerous for babies and young children.

This is not part of your vacation where you should go with the flow. Instead, have some of your top beaches in mind so you can plan your day around them and check weather conditions before heading out.

You can learn about all of our favorite kid-friendly beaches on Oahu here. If you are traveling to Hawaii with young kids and searching for beaches with smaller waves, these are our top picks for each region:

Ala Moana Beach Park/Magic Island (Waikiki)

Ala Moana Beach is great for swimming and tends to be a lot less crowded than the famous Waikiki Beach. This location also features a large, manmade peninsula known as Magic Island, which has a large seawall and lagoon that’s great for toddlers. Ala Moana’s proximity to Honolulu makes a day at the beach easy to combine with other activities. 

Kuilima Cove (North Shore)

This small beach is a gem on the North Shore of Oahu. It offers calm water, easy access, and good snorkeling. Kuilima Cove is located next to Turtle Bay Resort, and although the beach is open to the public, it’s one of the main reasons we decided to stay here. 

Wondering if this iconic hotel is a good fit for your family? Check out Turtle Bay Resort: Is it Worth it?

Lagoons at Ko Olina (West Coast)

These four artificial beach coves are not to be missed, as they are ideal for babies and toddlers! Connected by a seaside pathway, the Lagoons at Ko Olina provide a unique controlled environment with minimal waves.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (East Coast)

The Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve offers a safe and educational snorkeling experience. The bay’s clear, calm waters are ideal for beginner snorkelers, but this is also a great place to splash around and laze the day away!

Cultural Immersion

Polynesian Cultural Center 

Visiting the Polynesian Cultural Center is my favorite way to deep dive into the rich cultural heritage of the Pacific Islands. Located on Oahu’s North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers a variety of activities and experiences that are awesome for kids of all ages.

If your kids can hang, I highly suggest making this an all-day experience!

Arrive when the doors open at 12:30 p.m. and start with a private or self-guided tour through six island villages. Kids love the interactive demonstrations, from hula lessons to coconut tree climbing. Fill the rest of your afternoon with the Canoe Pageant, lunch at one of the many kid-friendly eateries, or visit the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame.

Conclude your visit with the Ali’i Luau, a family-friendly feast featuring traditional Hawaiian food and entertainment, and the “Ha: Breath of Life” evening show, an experience that left us completely speechless! I feared my two-year-old wouldn’t last, but this 90-minute, award-winning show miraculously kept him entertained the entire time. 

It’s worth noting that the performance does go until 9 p.m., so take this into consideration, especially if you’ll need to drive back to another part of the island. But if you’re considering staying on the North Shore or keeping the kids up late, THIS IS SO WORTH IT.

If you’re on a budget, I suggest bringing your own snacks and purchasing the Islands of Polynesia & Ha: Breath of Life Package.

Tip: Bring a stroller (you can rent one for $20), plan for breaks, and don’t be afraid to engage with the guides.

Kids 0-4 are free.

Bishop Museum

Located in Honululu, The Bishop Museum was founded in 1889 and is the largest in Hawaii. With its interactive exhibits and kid-friendly activities, this is a great way for children to learn about Hawaii’s rich heritage in a fun and engaging way.

If you’re short on time, prioritize the Hawaiian Hall, Planetarium, and Science Adventure Center, where you can see real molten lava and marvel at a three-story volcano!

Planetarium tickets must be purchased in addition to general admission. To make the most of your visit, visit the Bishop Museum’s website beforehand for showtimes, special exhibits, and scheduled activities.

Kids 0-4 are free.

Family Excursions

Kualoa Ranch

Visiting Kualoa Ranch is one of my favorite things we’ve done as a family! 

This working cattle ranch and private nature reserve is a famous filming location for numerous movies like Jurassic Park and 50 First Dates. Upon arrival, it’s clear that they are dedicated to preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Hawaii.

I took my six-year-old on the Kualoa UTV Raptor adventure, which far exceeded our expectations (kids must be five years old to ride along). The UTV was such a thrill and our guides had us laughing and learning every time they’d have us pull over to take something in.

My husband, Chris, took our two-year-old on the Movie Sites Tour, where they rode a vintage school bus around to many note-worthy locations. Like many, my toddler is obsessed with buses, so that was an adventure in itself. Chris loved it too, commenting on the movie sites and going into detail about the historical WWII army bunker.

From horseback riding, UTVs, jungle expeditions, and movie site tours, you could easily spend the whole day here.

Grab tickets well in advance for whatever part of Kualoa Ranch you explore because they sell out fast. Remember sun protection, as many tours are outdoors, and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking and exploring rugged terrain.

Tip: One bummer about Oahu is the beaches are often crowded. Most people don’t know that Kualoa Ranch has a Secret Island Beach where you can kayak, paddleboard, and play various beach games in a somewhat-secluded, serene environment. Just don’t forget to bring your own food and drinks!

Dole Pineapple Plantation

Dole Plantation started as a small farm stand in 1950 and has since transformed into one of the busiest Oahu attractions, bringing in over a million visitors annually.

Start your adventure with the Pineapple Express train ride, which provides a narrated tour through the pineapple fields. Next, get lost in the world’s largest maze, where kids can enjoy a fun challenge. End your experience with a large helping of the famous pineapple soft serve: Dole Whip.

The plantation has a touristy-vibe, and we probably wouldn’t go out of our way to visit again. However, this can be a worthwhile stop if you’re driving back to Honolulu from the North Shore. My two-year-old loved the train ride, and my six-year-old got a kick out of trying to find the secret stations in the giant maze. 

Tip: Bring snacks and water to make this budget-friendly, as the plantation’s food options are quite overpriced. Additionally, visit early to avoid crowds (and the midday heat).

Kid-Friendly Restaurants

One of the many reasons to visit Oahu is the foodie scene! Oahu is often considered the heart of Hawaii, and its many cultures and culinary experiences are a reflection of that.

Luckily, you don’t have to settle for chicken fingers just because you’re dining out with kids. There are so many incredible Kid-Friendly Restaurants on Oahu! These are just some of our favorites that made the list: 

Leonard’s Bakery – Honolulu gem that serves warm, sugar-coated Portuguese donuts 

Sunrise Shack – Cheerful eatery with our favorite acai bowls and smoothies 

Restaurant 604 – Waterfront, open-air eatery next to Pearl Harbor (the BEST Bloody Mary)

Duke’s Waikiki – Iconic beachfront restaurant, great for celebrating birthdays and anniversaries

Haleiwa Joes – Laid-back, upscale dining with a view 

Shopping and Souvenirs

Shopping is a great way to support small businesses and boost the island’s local economy.

Oahu offers the best shopping of all the Hawaiian islands! In fact, because we live on Maui and the shopping can be a bit limited, we have flown to Oahu just for this reason (it only takes about 40 minutes)! These are some of our favorite places to keep our family looking good:

Ala Moana Center – The largest open-air shopping mall in the world. It features a variety of kid-friendly stores, play areas, and dining options (there’s a free kid’s hula show on Centerstage every Sunday at 1 p.m.)

Aloha Stadium Swap Meet – Great place for unique souvenirs, local crafts, and tasty treats at budget-friendly prices

Honolulu Farmers Market at Blaisdell Center –  Sample fresh, local produce and handmade goods while kids enjoy live music and other fun activities

Kailua Town – Quaint town known for its charming boutiques, locally made clothing and accessories

Family-Friendly Luaus 

A luau is a tradition in Hawaii that combines food and entertainment; attending one is at the top of most visitor’s lists. There are countless luaus on Oahu, but not all of them are great for kids.

As a parent, I consider these three factors when booking a luau: cost, activities, and location. 

Are kids offered a discounted ticket? Are there any additional kid-friendly activities provided? Is the location an hour drive from our hotel? Will the performance go well past bedtime? 

Considering these factors, these are our favorite family-friendly luaus on Oahu:

Toa Luau 

Toa Luau is my favorite luau on Oahu, especially if you’re traveling with young children or expect to be jet-lagged during the performance. They offer two different showtimes: 12:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., giving you a rare option to return to your hotel before bedtime!

Other reasons to love Toa Luau are its cultural activities (arrive early), reasonable price, and free admittance to Waimea Valley Botanical Garden, where you can also swim in a waterfall.

Toa Luau is located in Waimea Valley on Oahu’s North Shore. This is something to consider if you’re staying in Waikiki, as it may be an hour’s drive from your hotel. 

Kids 0-4 are free. 

Book Toa Luau

Ali’i Luau 

As mentioned, the Polynesian Cultural Center is one of our favorite places on Oahu. Their award-winning Ali’i Luau is an authentic experience with a beautiful backdrop, underground oven, and exceptional Hawaiian hospitality. 

Children dance in this luau, and they encourage kids in the audience to participate.

I love that the price point is close to other luaus on the island but includes admission to six interactive island villages and the not-to-be-missed “Ha: Breath of Life” Show.

The Polynesian Cultural Center is located on the North Shore of Oahu. If you’re hoping to spend a few hours at a luau close to Waikiki, keep reading. But if you have a day to dedicate to this immersive experience, you won’t regret it. 

Note: Polynesian Cultural Center does not serve alcohol. 

Kids 0-4 are free.

Book Ali’i Luau

Chief’s Luau 

Chief’s luau is located in the Ko Olina area at Wet’n’Wild Hawaii, Oahu’s waterpark. If waterparks aren’t your slice of pie, don’t worry, as they do a pretty good job of making you feel like you’re somewhere else. 

This luau has received considerable attention because of its engaging host, Chief Sielu, a world-champion fire-knife dancer and comedian. Many people prefer this option simply because he makes it such an entertaining experience. 

Cheif’s luau offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free menu options (rare).

They also offer a shuttle service from seven different locations in Waikiki. 

Kids 0-4 are free.

Book Cheif’s Luau with Transportation

Queens Waikiki Luau 

Queens Waikiki is the best luau to attend if you want to stay in Waikiki. Located inside the International Marketplace Mall, it’s a great family-friendly option that’s also easy on the bank account. 

Most of the best luaus exist outside of Waikiki, but the food and entertainment at Queens is up to par with others on the island. You may not have your toes in the sand, but the ability to attend an easily-accessible luau after a day of wandering around Waikiki makes this option a huge win in my book!

Book Queen’s Luau

Rainy Day Activities

Oahu’s occasional rainy days don’t have to dampen family fun! The island offers a variety of indoor activities that are perfect for keeping kids entertained and engaged.

The following indoor playgrounds are conveniently located in Honolulu. They all provide air conditioning and a few hours of fun that will guarantee plenty of laughter and a solid nights sleep (hallelujah).

Children’s Discovery Center

The Children’s Discovery Center is a 45,000-square-foot interactive museum that encourages hands-on learning through play. Kids can explore different exhibits that cover a range of topics, from science to culture. They do a great job of inviting kids into their own imagination. My kids loved playing on the Hawaiian Airlines Aircraft!

Kid City

This two-story indoor playground was a dream come true for my poor, sheltered Maui-born kids (insert sarcasm here)! Jokes aside, I really wish we had something like this where we live!

Kids City has some seriously epic imaginative play areas, slides, and climbing structures. They have a floor specifically designed for ages 0-5 and a separate one with larger structures that caters well to older kids. The massage chairs for adults are a major bonus. Kids City has two locations on Oahu: Honolulu and Kapolei. 

Keiki Kingdom

The newest addition to the rainy day scene, Keiki Kingdom offers a variety of interactive play zones, including ball pits, obstacle courses, and creative play areas. Big kids love the trampolines, and there is a separate space for toddlers and young children. 

Tip: Indoor playgrounds can get wild, especially on busy days. Before your kids start running around, come up with a meeting point so you can find each other if anyone gets lost.

Practical Tips for Visiting Oahu with Kids

Plan Ahead: Research and book popular attractions and activities in advance to avoid disappointment, especially during peak travel seasons (winter and summer).

Pack Wisely: Bring essential items such as reef-safe sunscreen, reusable water bottles, and those must-have snacks. Check out my Hawaii Packing Guide, which includes items that will save your hair in the humidity and keep your snacks from getting soggy! 

Choose Kid-Friendly Accommodations: Look for hotels or vacation rentals offering pools, kitchenettes, and easy beach access. You can read about the best family-friendly resorts on Oahu here.

Rent a Car: While Oahu offers public transportation, renting a car allows you to explore the island at your own pace and visit less accessible spots. However, you might not need a car if you don’t plan to leave Waikiki. Alternatively, check out the Waikiki Trolley! My son and I had a blast riding this for a day. 

Rest and Recharge: Schedule downtime between activities to prevent kids from getting overtired. Midday naps or relaxing beach time can keep everyone happy!

Cultural Respect: Teach kids about Hawaiian culture and respecting local customs and the environment. Participating in cultural activities can make this fun and easy for the whole family.

Conclusion

Exploring Oahu with kids is a fantastic way to create unforgettable family memories. From the educational exhibits at the Bishop Museum to the thrilling adventures at Kualoa Ranch, Oahu offers a diverse range of activities that cater to little ones and parents.

After all, this is your vacation, too.

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