Thinking about planning a trip to Hawaii and want to know the best Hawaii tourist attractions for families? Keep scrolling for some of our favorite things to do in Hawaii with kids!
This list of the best Hawaii tourist attractions for families was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
After visiting Hawaii over 40 times since I was 10 years old, I’ve explored just about every tourist attraction across all four major islands.
But here’s the thing: not every attraction is worth your time, and some of the most popular spots aren’t even the best ones for families.
As a professional tourist and Hawaii travel expert, I’ve narrowed down the absolute best Hawaii attractions that my kids have genuinely loved over the years.
These are the places we go back to again and again, the ones that create those vacation memories you’ll still be talking about years later.
Ready to find out which Hawaii attractions are actually worth adding to your itinerary? Let me walk you through my family’s tried-and-true favorites across Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Want to skip all the planning and get my complete itineraries with daily schedules and insider tips? Check out my travel guides for Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.
Best Oahu Attractions for Families
Oahu has more family attractions than any other Hawaiian island, which makes sense since it’s home to Honolulu and Waikiki. But that also means you could easily waste time at mediocre spots.
Here are the ones actually worth visiting.
Polynesian Cultural Center
If you only do one paid attraction on your entire Hawaii trip, make it the Polynesian Cultural Center. My kids have been obsessed with this place since their first visit.
The hands-on activities are seriously cool. My kids try to create fire by rubbing a stick on a log every single time we visit (they’ve never been successful, but they keep trying).
You can learn traditional dances, play ancient games, climb through authentic village replicas, and watch demonstrations of skills that Pacific Islanders used for centuries.
It’s open Monday through Saturday (closed Wednesdays and Sundays) and gates open at 12:30 PM.
The center features six different Polynesian villages representing Hawaii, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Tahiti, and Aotearoa (New Zealand). Each village has its own performances and hands-on activities throughout the day.
The evening includes dinner and the “HA: Breath of Life” show, which is one of the largest productions in Hawaii. Kids under 4 get in free, and they often run promotions like 50% off for children.
This is also where you can really start to understand the different cultures that make Hawaii so unique. It’s educational without feeling like a history lesson, which is exactly what you want when traveling with kids.
Kualoa Ranch
Kualoa Ranch is hands-down my favorite attraction in all of Hawaii. The scenery is jaw-droppingly gorgeous, with those dramatic green mountains you’ve seen in dozens of movies and TV shows.
The UTV tour, movie tour, and jungle expedition are all amazing experiences.
We’ve done the UTV tour multiple times and it never gets old. You drive through valleys where Jurassic Park, Lost, and Hawaii Five-0 were filmed. The views are incredible and the kids love spotting movie locations.
Fair warning: book your tours at least 4-6 weeks in advance because they sell out constantly. Tours start at $154.95 per person and the driver needs to be at least 21 with a valid license. Kids must be 5 or older to ride.
You can book Kualoa Ranch tours on Viator or directly through their website. If you’re staying in Waikiki, transportation is available for select tour times.
Listen to this Hawaii Travel Made Easy episode where I share my favorite Kualoa Ranch tours.
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki gets a bad rap from people who think it’s too touristy, but hear me out. It’s got good vibes and my kids love people watching while also playing in the calm water.
The water is perfect for little kids because the waves are gentle and there are lifeguards everywhere. You can rent surfboards and paddleboards right on the beach.
Plus, you’re walking distance to restaurants, shave ice stands, and ABC Stores for any forgotten beach supplies.
The free hula shows at the Royal Hawaiian Center happen several times a week and the kids think they’re fun. Just check their schedule when you arrive.
Waikiki is also incredibly convenient if you don’t want to rent a car for your entire trip. You can easily walk to restaurants, shops, and the Honolulu Zoo from most Waikiki hotels.
Waimea Valley
Waimea Valley is one of the most underrated attractions on Oahu. Admission comes with access to really cool cultural activities that are included in your ticket, which makes it a great value.
The paved trail to the waterfall is about three-quarters of a mile and takes about 30 minutes each way.
Along the way, you’ll walk through 52 different botanical gardens and pass by ancient Hawaiian cultural sites. There are usually artisans demonstrating traditional crafts like lei making and kapa cloth printing.
The waterfall at the end is beautiful and you can swim in it (conditions permitting). They provide life jackets and there’s a lifeguard on duty.
Admission is $25 for adults, $20 for seniors and students, and $15 for kids ages 4-12. Children 3 and under get in free. The valley is open daily (hours vary seasonally, typically 9 AM to 4 PM or 5 PM depending on the season).
A shuttle is available for $10 round trip if anyone in your family doesn’t want to walk the trail. Get more details about visiting Waimea Valley.
Diamond Head State Monument
I hiked Diamond Head with my oldest a few years ago and we had a blast seeing the sunrise together. It’s one of those classic Hawaii experiences that’s actually worth doing.
The hike is 0.8 miles one way with a 560-foot elevation gain. It’s not super easy, but kids as young as 5 can usually handle it with encouragement.
The views from the top are incredible and you get that sense of accomplishment when you reach the summit.
Here’s what you need to know: Reservations are required for non-residents and must be booked up to 30 days in advance. Entry is $5 per person and parking is $10 per vehicle. Children 3 and under get in free.
The park is open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM (last entry at 4 PM), except Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Check the reservation website for the most current schedule before booking.
Make your Diamond Head reservations here as soon as you know your travel dates because popular time slots fill up quickly.
Want to know more about hiking Diamond Head with kids? Read my complete guide here.
Pearl Harbor
Pearl Harbor is one of the most famous attractions in Hawaii, and for good reason. Even if your kids are young, it’s worth visiting.
The USS Arizona Memorial is free but requires advance reservations through recreation.gov. Arrive early because security lines can be long.
The memorial is solemn and moving, and it’s a great opportunity to teach kids about an important moment in history.
Beyond the memorial, there’s also the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, the USS Bowfin Submarine, and the USS Battleship Missouri. These are paid attractions but they’re excellent for kids who are interested in planes, ships, and military history.
Check out my complete guide to visiting Pearl Harbor with kids for everything you need to know before you go. You can also book Pearl Harbor tours on Viator.
Dole Plantation
Kids love the Dole Plantation, especially if you have toddlers or preschoolers. They can explore the pineapple maze, ride the little train around the property, and of course, get authentic Dole Whip.
It’s located on the North Shore on your way to other attractions, so it makes a perfect pit stop. Admission to the plantation is free, but you pay separately for activities like the maze and train ride.
The pineapple garden maze is the world’s largest maze (according to the Guinness Book of World Records) and kids think it’s hilarious to try to find their way out. Budget about 45 minutes to an hour here.
Learn more about visiting Dole Plantation.
Haleiwa
Haleiwa is the main town on Oahu’s North Shore and it’s got that laid-back surf town vibe. This is where you’ll find Matsumoto Shave Ice (be prepared for a line) and tons of cute shops and food trucks.
Plan to spend an hour or two just walking around, browsing shops, and eating your way through the town.
The beaches on the North Shore are stunning but can have serious waves in winter, so stick to summer if you want calm water for little kids.
Check out my guide to the best things to do in Haleiwa for my favorite spots.
Best Maui Attractions for Families
Maui is where you go for incredible natural beauty and outdoor adventures. These are the Maui attractions my family returns to every single trip.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is one of those bucket list Hawaii experiences, and it lives up to the hype. The drive itself is the attraction, with countless waterfalls, scenic lookouts, and roadside stands selling banana bread and fresh fruit.
We always get banana bread at the Halfway to Hana stand and snack on it in the car. It’s become a family tradition. The stand is easy to spot with its colorful signs right around Mile Marker 17.
The full drive from Kahului to Hana is about 64 miles, but plan on it taking 2-3 hours each way because you’ll want to stop frequently.
The road has over 600 curves and 50+ bridges, so if anyone in your family gets carsick, bring medication.
My favorite stops include Twin Falls (early in the drive), Wai’anapanapa State Park (black sand beach), and the Seven Sacred Pools in Haleakala National Park’s Kipahulu District.
Get all my Road to Hana tips and favorite stops here. I also cover the Road to Hana in depth on this podcast episode.
Haleakala National Park
Watching sunrise from Haleakala is one of the most incredible things you can do in Hawaii. But here’s what nobody tells you: it’s COLD up there.
The first time we went to Haleakala, my kids were SO cold because we didn’t prepare properly. We ended up having to warm up in the car from time to time.
The summit is over 10,000 feet and temperatures can be 30-40 degrees colder than at sea level, even in summer.
Bring warm layers, blankets, and hot drinks. You’ll be glad you did.
Sunrise reservations are required from 3 AM to 7 AM and cost $1 per vehicle (in addition to the park entrance fee).
Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance on recreation.gov and they’re released at 7 AM Hawaii time. A limited number of last-minute reservations are released 48 hours before your visit date.
If you don’t get a sunrise reservation, sunset is also spectacular and doesn’t require reservations. The park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle and is good for three days.
Read my complete Haleakala tips here or book a Haleakala sunrise tour that includes warm jackets and transportation.
I share more about visiting Haleakala on this Hawaii Travel Made Easy episode.
I’ao Needle
I’ao Needle is the most kid-friendly hike on Maui. I’ve done it with toddlers and preschoolers and it’s perfect for little legs.
The hike is only 0.6 miles on a paved path with beautiful tropical plants and a stream along the way. It ends with stairs to a lookout where you can see the I’ao Needle, a 1,200-foot tall green-covered rock formation that’s absolutely stunning.
As of 2025, I’ao Valley State Monument requires advance reservations for non-residents. Entry is $5 per person and parking is $10 per vehicle. Kids 3 and under are free. Reservations are available in 90-minute time slots from 7 AM to 6 PM.
The whole experience takes 30-60 minutes, which makes it perfect for a morning activity before heading somewhere else. Make your I’ao Valley reservations here.
Learn more in my guide here.
Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii. It’s a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater that creates a protected area perfect for seeing tropical fish and sea turtles.
You have to take a boat tour to get there, but that’s half the fun. Many tours include breakfast, lunch, snorkel gear, and sometimes even a water slide off the boat.
The water is crystal clear and even nervous snorkelers feel comfortable here because the water is calm.
Morning tours tend to have the best visibility and calmest water. Most tours are 3-5 hours total. Book Molokini snorkel tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
Read my complete Molokini Crater guide for everything you need to know.
Maui Ocean Center
The Maui Ocean Center is the best rainy day activity on Maui. It’s the only aquarium on the island and it’s perfect for a half-day adventure.
They have indoor and outdoor exhibits, cultural presentations throughout the day, and hands-on activities. The walk-through tunnel where you’re surrounded by sharks and stingrays is always a hit with kids.
Tickets are available at the door or online. Check pricing and availability here.
Best Kauai Attractions for Families
Kauai is the greenest, most lush Hawaiian island. It’s perfect if your family loves outdoor adventures and natural beauty.
Spouting Horn
Spouting Horn is a natural blowhole where waves crash through lava rocks and shoot water high into the air. It’s free to visit and takes about 15 minutes, which makes it a perfect quick stop.
Kids love trying to time the waves and see how high the water shoots up. Sometimes you’ll see water spray 50 feet in the air. There are also souvenir stands in the parking lot where kids can browse Hawaiian trinkets.
It’s located in Poipu on Kauai’s South Shore. There’s free parking and it’s easy to access.
Waimea Canyon State Park
Waimea Canyon is called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific” and it’s absolutely stunning. The red and green striped canyon walls are like nothing else you’ll see in Hawaii.
It’s super easy to drive up the winding road to the scenic lookouts. You can also do some easy hikes around the canyon if your family is into that.
Note: From July 14 through early December 2025, the Waimea Canyon Lookout is closed for construction of safety improvements. The Kalalau Lookout remains accessible with limited parking. Check the Hawaii DLNR website for current status.
When the lookout is open, there’s usually someone selling fresh fruit or snacks, which is always a hit with kids. It’s one of the most famous landmarks in Hawaii and definitely worth the drive.
Kilohana Plantation
My kids loved the Kilohana Plantation Railway when they were toddlers and preschoolers. My oldest rode it multiple times in one day with his grandma because he was so obsessed.
The little train does a loop around the plantation with a stop to feed the animals. It’s about 40 minutes total and young kids think it’s the best thing ever.
Beyond the train, Kilohana Plantation also has shops, restaurants, and the Koloa Rum Company for tastings (for the grown-ups). You can easily spend a couple hours here.
This is also where they filmed scenes for the Disney movie Jungle Cruise, so kids who’ve seen that movie get excited to recognize locations.
Kilohana is also home to Luau Kalamaku, a great family-friendly luau. Check current availability here.
Na Pali Coast
The Na Pali Coast is probably the most beautiful place on Kauai (and that’s saying something). The dramatic sea cliffs with lush greenery cascading down to the ocean are absolutely breathtaking.
You can see the Na Pali Coast by boat, helicopter, or by hiking the Kalalau Trail.
Boat tours are great for families and many include snorkeling stops. Helicopter tours are incredible but pricey. The Kalalau Trail is serious hiking (11 miles) and only recommended for older, experienced hikers.
Book Na Pali Coast tours here.
Best Big Island Attractions for Families
The Big Island is where you go to see active volcanoes and experience the most dramatic landscapes in Hawaii.
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
If your kids want to see lava, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is where you need to go. The park is huge with tons of hiking trails, scenic drives, and the Kilauea caldera.
Visit the visitor center first to find out where the best chance to see lava is that day. Sometimes you can see lava glowing at night from various lookout points. Rangers also lead guided walks and talks throughout the day.
The park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle and is good for seven days. Plan to spend at least half a day here, though you could easily spend a full day exploring.
Read my complete guide to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.
Listen to my podcast episode about the Big Island for more tips.
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park
Pu’uhonua o Honaunau is one of the most unique historical sites in Hawaii. In ancient Hawaii, people who broke the law faced death as punishment. The only way to survive was to reach this place of refuge.
My kids still talk about taking selfies with the tiki statues here. The park has these massive carved wooden ki’i (tiki statues) that are over 20 feet tall and kids think they’re so cool to see up close.
You can walk around the grounds, see ancient temple platforms, learn about Hawaiian history and culture, and explore the royal grounds. It’s a great way to teach kids about Hawaii’s fascinating past.
Entrance is $10 per vehicle or covered by the National Parks Pass. Learn more here.
Punalu’u Black Sand Beach
Punalu’u is one of the most famous black sand beaches in Hawaii. The black sand is created by lava flowing into the ocean and then being broken down by wave action.
Kids love the novelty of black sand. Plus, Hawaiian green sea turtles frequently sun themselves on this beach. Remember to keep at least 10 feet away from any turtles you see (it’s the law) but watching them from a respectful distance is amazing.
The beach is free to visit with parking available. It’s located on the southeastern coast between Pahala and Naalehu.
Mauna Kea Stargazing
Mauna Kea is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. The summit is over 13,000 feet, which puts you above most of the atmosphere and light pollution.
You can watch an incredible sunset and then stay for stargazing. The Visitor Information Station at 9,200 feet offers free nightly stargazing programs with telescopes.
Kids think it’s magical to see the Milky Way so clearly and to look at planets and stars through the telescopes. It’s one of those Hawaii experiences that’s completely different from anything you can do on a beach.
The drive to the summit requires a 4WD vehicle, but anyone can visit the Visitor Information Station. Dress very warmly because temperatures can drop to freezing even in summer.
Planning Your Hawaii Vacation
Now that you know which Hawaii attractions are actually worth your time, you’re ready to start planning your trip.
Want my complete day-by-day itineraries with all the insider tips and tricks I’ve learned over 40+ trips to Hawaii? Check out my Hawaii travel guides:
- Oahu Travel Guide for Families
- Maui Travel Guide for Families
- Kauai Travel Guide for Families
- Big Island Travel Guide for Families
- Hawaii Island Hopping Guide
Need help planning your entire Hawaii vacation? I offer Hawaii travel consultations where I’ll create a custom itinerary based on your family’s specific needs and interests.
And don’t forget to sign up for one of my free email courses:
- How to Travel to Hawaii Like a Pro
- How to Save Money in Hawaii
- How to Plan a Trip to Oahu
- How to Plan a Trip to Maui
- How to Plan a Trip to Kauai
- How to Plan a Trip to Big Island
Ready to book your Hawaii vacation? Here are some resources to help you save money:
- Find hotels on Expedia
- Book tours on Viator or Get Your Guide
- Book a family photo session with Flytographer and save $20
- Rent a car through Discount Hawaii Car Rental
Hawaii is one of the most magical family vacation destinations in the world. With the right planning and these tried-and-true attraction recommendations, your family will create memories that last a lifetime.
Want more Hawaii travel tips? Listen to my Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast where I share insider tips, answer listener questions, and help you plan the perfect Hawaii vacation.
Looking for more fun things to do in Hawaii with kids? Check out my mega list of things to do on Oahu, Maui, and Kauai! And get answers to your top Hawaii questions!
