5 Fun Must Do in Oahu with Kids

You might be wondering … is Oahu good for families? After visiting with our family of four, we can confidently say that Oahu is an exceptional destination for in Hawaii for families! Known as “The Gathering Place,” Oahu offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and diverse activities for visitors of all ages. Families can explore everything from rainforests and stunning beaches to historical landmarks. If you’re want to know what to do in Honolulu with kids, we’ve got kid-friendly things to do in Honolulu and beyond, if you’re up for a little adventure! Oahu is an ideal choice for families looking to create unforgettable memories together. Here are 5 Must Do in Oahu with Kids.

Introduction

Oahu’s diverse landscape allows for plentiful outdoor activities such as snorkeling, hiking, and cultural tours, all of which are suitable for kids of all ages. The island is also home to numerous family-friendly resorts and hotels, ensuring that your stay is comfortable.

Some Considerations Before your Trip

When is the Best Time of Year to Visit Oahu?

Oahu can get quite crowded, so be ready for traffic and busy spots at high season. To avoid the crowds, consider visiting during the “shoulder season,” which includes April, May, September, and October. These months offer great weather and fewer tourists, making for a more relaxed experience. If you’re interested in whale watching, plan your trip between January and March, when humpback whales are often seen off the coast. This way, you can enjoy both a quieter island and the chance to see whales in their natural habitat. We visited in February and got to watch whales from the shore on several days of our trip!

Where should you stay?

During our visit to Oahu, we stayed at the Hyatt Place Waikiki, which we found to be an excellent choice for families. The hotel’s location is ideal, just a short walk from Waikiki Beach and near several shops and restaurants. This allowed us to explore the area easily on foot.

Our room was spacious, with two queen beds and a separate living area with a foldout couch that provided plenty of space for our family of four (the rooms sleep up to six). The highlight was our Mountain View room. Waking up to the views of Diamond Head Crater was a beautiful way to start each day. The hotel also offers a range of amenities perfect for families, including free daily breakfast, an outdoor pool, and complimentary Wi-Fi, making it a comfortable base for our adventures.

The Hyatt Place Waikiki also features a 24/7 fitness center and provides facilities like computers for public use, event spaces, and a lobby bar with food and drink options. They welcome pets, have a laundry service available, and offer paid parking, which was convenient for our needs. This combination of location, comfort, and family-friendly amenities made the Hyatt Place Waikiki an ideal choice for our stay in Oahu.

A great bonus for us is that we were able to use Chase Ultimate Rewards we earned on our Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card. Chase is a transfer partner of Hyatt, which means you can use your Chase Ultimate Rewards points to book Hyatt hotels for free. If you want more information about that, please message me on Instagram.

Should you rent a car in Oahu?

Yes, renting a car in Oahu is highly recommended, especially for families. The island’s top attractions, like North Shore beaches, Pearl Harbor, and the hiking trails, are spread out, and public transport may not be convenient with kids. Having a car gives you flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace, easily carry any essentials, and avoid the hassle of waiting for buses. It’s the best way to make the most of your trip to Oahu. You can rent a car here.

The Best Things to Do in Oahu with Kids

From our time in Oahu with the kids, we found five great activities that every family should try. These experiences are fun, engaging, and perfect for making your trip to Oahu unforgettable. Here are our top picks for the best things to doing Hawaii for families:

1. Hanauma Bay Snorkeling

Hanauma Bay, located on the southeastern coast of Oahu, is a protected marine life conservation area that offers an incredible snorkeling experience for families. The calm, clear waters are perfect for beginners and young children, making it an ideal spot for a family snorkeling adventure. Here, you can swim among colorful tropical fish and coral reefs while learning about marine conservation. The Bay’s calm waters are sheltered by cliffs and reefs, making it safe for children and providing a fantastic introduction to the underwater world.

When visiting Hanauma Bay, it’s essential to plan ahead due to its popularity and conservation measures. Tickets must be purchased online 48 hours in advance, and parking is limited, so arriving early is crucial. Remember to bring reef-safe sunscreen, water, snacks, and snorkeling gear to make the most of your visit. For a detailed guide on planning your visit, including tips on safety and what to pack, check out our full post on Hanauma Bay Snorkeling.

2. Waimea Falls Hike

The Waimea Falls hike is perfect for families, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and a refreshing swim in the Falls at the end. Located in Waimea Valley on the North Shore of Oahu, this 1.5-mile round-trip trail is stroller-friendly and suitable for all ages. As you hike through the valley, you’ll pass botanical gardens, cultural demonstrations, and native Hawaiian flora, providing an educational experience for your whole family.

The highlight of the hike is reaching Waimea Falls, where families can take a dip in the cool, clear water under the supervision of lifeguards. Life jackets are provided, and the swimming area is well-maintained, making it a safe and fun experience for kids. The Waimea Falls hike is a great way to introduce children to Hawaii’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, all within an easy and enjoyable hike.

For more information on what to expect and how to prepare for your visit, read our guide on the Waimea Falls Hike.

3. Kualoa Ranch Jungle Tour

The Kualoa Ranch Jungle Expedition Tour is an adventure perfect for families with children ages three and up. Located on Oahu’s east coast, Kualoa Ranch offers a variety of tours. The 90-minute tour takes you deep into the Hakipu’u rainforest in an open-air jeep, navigating rugged terrain and offering breathtaking views of the landscape.

The Jungle Expedition Tour is an excellent choice for families seeking adventure and a taste of Hawaii’s natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll hear Hawaiian legends and learn about the ranch’s conservation efforts. Kids will love the bumpy ride and the chance to see locations featured in movies like Jurassic World and Jumanji.

After the tour, there’s plenty to explore on the ranch grounds, including a gift shop with local souvenirs and movie memorabilia. If you’re planning a visit, be sure to book your tour in advance to secure your spot. For a more detailed account of our experience and tips on what to expect, check out our full post on the Kualoa Ranch Jungle Tour.

4. Diamond Head Hike

The Diamond Head hike is one of the most iconic hikes on Oahu, offering spectacular views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. This 1.6-mile round-trip hike up Diamond Head Crater is moderately challenging, with steep inclines, switchbacks, and a few staircases. It’s a great choice for families who have experience hiking and are up for a bit of a challenge.

While the trail is not particularly long, it does require a good level of fitness and the ability to handle heights, as there are several sections with steep drop-offs. The reward, however, is well worth it. From the summit, you’ll have panoramic views of Waikiki, the island’s coastline, and the deep blue waters of the Pacific. It’s a breathtaking sight that makes the climb worthwhile.

For families with younger children, it’s important to assess your kids’ hiking abilities before attempting Diamond Head. While our 5 year old managed the hike well, our 3 year old needed to be carried for much of the way. Proper footwear, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water are essential for this hike, as the trail is exposed to the sun and can get quite hot.

If you’re interested in learning more about the Diamond Head hike and whether it’s suitable for your family, be sure to read our detailed article on Diamond Head Hike with Kids.

5. Pearl Harbor with Kids

Pearl Harbor is a significant historical site and a must-visit for families traveling to Oahu. While it might not seem like the typical kid-friendly attraction, we found it to be a surprisingly engaging and educational experience for our children. The USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum offer a mix of history and interactive exhibits that captivate both adults and kids.

Our visit began with the USS Arizona Memorial, which provides a solemn but important lesson in American history. We prepared our children for the experience by explaining the significance of Pearl Harbor and the importance of respectful behavior at this memorial site.

After the USS Arizona, we visited the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, which turned out to be a highlight for our kids. With hands-on exhibits, vintage aircraft, and interactive displays, the museum kept our children engaged while providing valuable historical context. The museum is stroller-friendly, making it easy to navigate with young children.

If you’re planning to visit Pearl Harbor with your family, it’s a good idea to arrive early and prepare your children for the experience. For more tips on how to make the most of your visit and what to expect, check out our guide on Pearl Harbor with Kids.

What to Pack for a Trip to Hawaii?

Last but not least, I wanted to share our list of essentials to take to your Oahu vacation to ensure you are prepared for various activities and weather conditions.

1. Beach Essentials: Swimsuits, beach towels, reef-safe sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, flip-flops, and a reusable water bottle. Here is my Hawaii Beach Essential list.
2. Clothing: Light, breathable clothing like shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
3. Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for hiking and exploring. We recommend these hiking sandals for women, these for men, and these for kids.
4. Snorkeling Gear: If you plan to snorkel, bringing your own gear can be more convenient. Here’s the snorkel that my sons use, and the ones my husband and I prefer.
5. Daypack: A small backpack for day trips and excursions.
6. Bug Spray: Here is our favorite DEET-free mosquito repellent.
7. Electronics: Waterproof phone cases, camera gear, chargers, and portable power banks.
8. Documents: ID, credit cards, travel insurance information, and copies of reservations or confirmations.
9. Extras: A lightweight rain jacket (for tours like Kualoa Ranch), snacks, and a travel guide or map of the islands.

Conclusion

Oahu is a great place for families, with plenty of activities for all ages and interests. From snorkeling in Hanauma Bay and hiking to Waimea Falls to off-road adventures at Kualoa Ranch and educational visits to Pearl Harbor, there’s something for everyone. Planning ahead and considering the needs and abilities of your children will help ensure a fun and memorable trip. For more detailed information on each activity, be sure to read our full posts linked above!