Planning a trip to Oahu with kids and want to find the best kid-friendly attractions, activities, restaurants, and more? Scroll to check out this mega list of the best things to do on Oahu with kids!
This guide on the best things to do on Oahu with kids 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.
When I was 16, I sat on Waikiki Beach for the first time and felt like I’d walked into a movie.
The people watching was unreal. The waves were gentle enough that I felt brave.
The whole scene was my ideal version of Hawaii, and honestly, it still is three decades later.
I’m Marcie, a Certified Hawaii Destination Specialist who’s visited Oahu 40+ times since the 90s. I dance hula.
My mom lives on Kauai. I’ve spent 20 years figuring out which family activities are actually worth your precious vacation time and which ones you can skip.
This is not a comprehensive list of every single thing you can do on Oahu.
This is my carefully curated collection of the 55 best experiences for families, updated for 2026 with current prices, hours, and insider tips.
The Best Oahu Beaches for Families
1. Waikiki Beach
People love to hate on Waikiki because it’s crowded and touristy, but you know what? It’s crowded and touristy for a reason.
The waves are perfect for kids. The sand is soft. There are lifeguards everywhere. You can rent beach chairs and umbrellas without planning ahead.
My pre-teen learned to surf here. My yougest built sandcastles here. And I still come back every single trip because sometimes the classic tourist experience is classic for good reason.
Insider tip: The stretch in front of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is usually less packed.
2. Kailua Beach
Kailua Beach has the softest sand I’ve ever felt. I’m not exaggerating. It’s powdery and perfect and stretches for more than 2 miles, so you can always find a spot that feels private even on busy days.
The water is that turquoise blue you see in photos and think has been filtered. Nope. It really looks like that.
Good to know: There are beach showers, public restrooms, and picnic tables. You can easily spend an entire day here.
Book a kayak tour to the Mokulua Islands from Kailua Beach for an eco-friendly adventure your kids will never forget.
3. Ko Olina Lagoons
These four man-made lagoons near Aulani Resort are open to the public and perfect for little kids. The rocks create a protected swimming area with no scary currents.
Plus, you’re on the dry side of the island, so your chances of sunny weather are way better than on the windward side.
Parking tip: Get there early. The small parking lots fill up fast.
4. Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Hanauma Bay is hands-down the best snorkeling on Oahu with kids. It’s a protected marine sanctuary with more than 400 species of fish.
My kids spotted sea turtles, parrotfish, and Hawaii’s state fish (the Humuhumunukunukuapuaa’a, which is fun to say).
Here’s what changed for 2026: You absolutely need reservations now. They’re not messing around about this.
Current details:
- Open Wednesday-Sunday, 6:45am-4pm (closed Monday/Tuesday)
- $25 per person entry (kids 12 and under FREE)
- $3 parking
- Reservations open 48 hours in advance at 7am HST
- Book through recreation.gov
- Last entry at 1:30pm
- Mandatory 9-minute educational video before entering
Pro tip: Reservations sell out within minutes. Set your alarm for 6:55am HST exactly two days before you want to go, then refresh right at 7am.
Book a tour with transportation and snorkel gear if you don’t want to deal with the reservation madness.
5. Turtle Beach (Laniakea Beach)
Want to see Hawaiian green sea turtles up close? Head to Laniakea Beach on the North Shore, nicknamed Turtle Beach by basically everyone.
You’ll see these gorgeous creatures sunbathing on the sand and swimming in the waves.
Just remember: it’s illegal to touch them or get too close. Stay at least 10 feet away and let them do their thing.
Best time: Early morning or late afternoon
Read my full guide to Turtle Beach for more details.
6. Kualoa Beach Park
This beach has Chinaman’s Hat (that little island) in the background, which makes for incredible family photos. The grassy field is perfect for throwing a frisbee or playing catch.
Swimming isn’t ideal because of rocks, but it’s excellent for kayaking to the little island.
The Best Places to Eat on Oahu with Kids
7. Kahuku Farms
Stop. Everything. This North Shore farm café just won Newsweek’s “Best Farm to Table” restaurant in the entire United States, and it’s not even close.
Their acai bowl is next level. They grow their own Hawaiian acai berries (the only farm in Hawaii doing this), so you’re eating acai that was picked that morning, not frozen pulp shipped from Brazil.
It comes topped with their famous lilikoi butter, apple banana slices, mac-nut crumble, and granola.
My family makes a point to stop here every single North Shore day, and I’m not even sorry about it.
Current details:
- Open 11am-4pm
- Closed Tuesday and Wednesday
- Closed Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
- No reservations needed for the café
- Farm tours available (reservations recommended)
What to order: Farm Grown Acai Bowl, Grilled Banana Bread with vanilla haupia sauce, Farm Pizza
Location: 56-800 Kamehameha Highway, Kahuku
8. Duke’s Waikiki
There are Duke’s locations all over Hawaii, but Duke’s Waikiki is special because it’s right on the beach with one of the best Happy Hours in Waikiki.
The kids’ menu has Hawaiian-inspired mocktails. And their Hula Pie (an ice cream cake the size of your head) can easily feed your entire family.
Pro tip: Go for sunset. The view is spectacular.
9. North Shore Food Trucks
The North Shore shrimp trucks are basically mandatory. You haven’t really done Oahu until you’ve eaten butter garlic shrimp from a food truck by the side of the road.
Giovanni’s and Romy’s are the most famous, but honestly, they’re all good. Pick whichever one has the shortest line.
What to know: These shrimp plates come with two scoops of rice and are genuinely a full meal.
10. Cinnamon’s (Kailua)
If you only eat breakfast out once during your trip, make it Cinnamon’s. Their guava chiffon pancakes are legendary. Like, people drive from Honolulu just for these pancakes.
My husband always gets the Loco Moco (hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy over rice). Our kids usually share the pancakes because one order is huge.
Smart move: They serve breakfast all day, so you can go before or after Kailua Beach.
11. Rainbow Drive In
For authentic Hawaiian plate lunch, head to Rainbow Drive In. This is where locals go.
Get a few different plate lunches and eat family-style so everyone can taste everything.
Each plate comes with rice and macaroni salad, plus your choice of protein like kalua pork, teriyaki beef, or mochiko chicken.
Four locations: Kapahulu (near Waikiki), Ewa Beach, Kalihi, and Pearlridge
Must-Do Oahu Attractions for Families
12. Diamond Head Sunrise Hike
Hiking Diamond Head at sunrise with my kids is one of my favorite Oahu traditions. We feel so accomplished finishing before breakfast, plus you beat the heat and the crowds.
Yes, there are stairs. Yes, it’s steep in parts. But my kids have been doing this hike since they were 6 years old, and they always feel so proud at the summit.
What changed in 2026:
- Reservations REQUIRED (since May 2022)
- $5 per person + $10 per vehicle parking
- Book up to 30 days in advance at gostateparks.hawaii.gov
- Open 6am-6pm (last reservation 4pm, must enter by 4:30pm)
- Two-hour time slots for parking
- Hawaii residents with valid ID are free and don’t need reservations
The hike: 0.8 miles one way, 560 feet elevation gain, takes 60-90 minutes round trip
What to bring: Water (no refill stations), sunscreen, closed-toe shoes, and a flashlight for the tunnel
Book a guided Diamond Head tour if you want to learn about Hawaiian history and culture while you hike.
Read my full Diamond Head hiking guide for more tips.
13. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
Pearl Harbor is a must for families with older kids and teens who’ve learned about World War II. Yes, it can be somber, but it’s also incredibly moving and educational.
What’s free: USS Arizona Memorial (requires reservation)
What costs money: USS Missouri Battleship, USS Bowfin Submarine, Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
Current details:
- Arizona Memorial is FREE but requires $1 service fee to reserve
- Tickets available 56 days (8 weeks) in advance at 3pm HST
- Secondary booking window: 1 day in advance at 3pm HST
- Book at recreation.gov
- No bags allowed (paid storage available on-site)
- Plan for 4-7 hours total if visiting multiple sites
The USS Missouri is incredible. My kids were awed by the massive guns and walking on the deck where Japan surrendered to end World War II.
Book a Pearl Harbor tour with transportation from Waikiki to avoid dealing with parking and reservations.
Read my Pearl Harbor with kids guide for detailed tips.
14. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum
This museum is seriously impressive and my husband’s favorite part of Pearl Harbor.
The docent-led tours are fantastic, and the guides will point out actual bullet holes in the windows from the World War II attack.
Get discounted tickets here and read my full Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum review.
15. Polynesian Cultural Center
The Polynesian Cultural Center is one of those attractions that sounds super touristy but is actually excellent.
I’ve been going since I was a teenager (and I’m a professional hula dancer, so my standards are high).
What makes it special: Six authentic Polynesian village recreations with hands-on activities, demonstrations, and performances representing Hawaiian, Tahitian, Maori, Fijian, Samoan, and Tongan cultures.
Current details:
- Open Monday-Saturday, 12pm-9pm (closed Sundays)
- Villages open 12:30pm-6pm
- Kids tickets currently 50% off adult price (limited time offer)
- Free 3-day consecutive admission to villages
- Several package options available
- “HĀ: Breath of Life” evening show
- Ali’i Luau dinner option
How long: Plan for 4-5 hours to see everything properly
Transportation: Roundtrip motor coach from Waikiki available (pickup 10-10:30am, return 10:30-10:45pm)
Pro tip: Arrive at noon so you have time to do all the hands-on activities before the evening show.
Book Polynesian Cultural Center tickets and read my full review with kids.
16. Dole Plantation
The Dole Plantation is touristy in the best way. Kids love the pineapple maze, the Pineapple Express train ride, and obviously the Dole Whip.
It’s a perfect quick stop on your way to or from the North Shore.
17. Waimea Valley and Waterfall
Waimea Valley is one of my favorite North Shore spots. It’s a botanical garden with an easy paved trail to a waterfall where kids can swim under the watchful eyes of lifeguards.
What’s included: Cultural programs, botanical garden, easy 0.75-mile trail to waterfall
Current details:
- Open Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-4pm (closed Mondays in Jan, Feb, Oct, Nov)
- $25 general admission
- Free with Toa Luau ticket (valid 7 days before/after)
Pro tip: Bring life vests for kids. They’re required for swimming and provided free.
Get admission to Waimea Valley and check out my full Waimea Valley guide.
18. Byodo-In Temple
This stunning Buddhist temple in the Ko’olau Mountains is a replica of the 950-year-old temple in Japan. It’s set in the Valley of the Temples Memorial Park and is drop-dead gorgeous.
Kids love ringing the sacred bell, feeding the koi fish, and looking for peacocks wandering the grounds.
Entry fee: Small admission fee (pricing varies)
Good for: Photography, peaceful walks, cultural appreciation
If you’re fans of Lost, Hawaii Five-O, or Magnum P.I., you’ll recognize this spot immediately.
Book a tour to Byodo-In Temple and read my temple guide.
19. Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum has the largest collection of Hawaiian artifacts in the world (24+ million!), but it’s way more fun than that sounds.
There are hands-on exhibits, Hawaiian storytelling, cultural demonstrations, and a planetarium that ties into the wayfinding themes from Disney’s Moana.
My kids actually beg to come here.
Current pricing: Check website for latest rates Good for: Rainy days, escaping the sun, learning Hawaiian history
Buy discounted Bishop Museum tickets and read our full Bishop Museum review.
20. Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is the second-oldest public aquarium in the United States and it’s tiny, which is actually perfect for little kids.
You’ll see Hawaiian monk seals, green sea turtles, tropical fish, and coral reefs up close.
Best part: It’s cheap. Adults are $12, kids 4-12 are $5, and kids 3 and under are free.
21. Honolulu Zoo
The Honolulu Zoo is small but well-done. It’s at the edge of Waikiki, so you can easily walk there from most hotels.
Perfect morning activity for toddlers who need something to do before nap time.
22. Iolani Palace
Iolani Palace is the only royal palace in the United States. Let that sink in.
This is where Hawaiian royalty lived in the 1800s, and it’s beautifully restored with original artifacts and furniture.
The guided tours are excellent for older kids and teens interested in how Hawaii went from an independent kingdom to the 50th state.
Fun fact: You might recognize it from the opening credits of Hawaii Five-O!
Read my full Iolani Palace guide.
23. Manoa Falls Hike
Manoa Falls is one of the most popular waterfall hikes on Oahu because it’s easy to reach from Waikiki and the trail is mostly flat.
The hike: 1.5 miles round trip through a bamboo forest to a 150-foot waterfall
What to know: The trail can be muddy. Wear real shoes, not flip flops.
24. Makapuu Lighthouse Trail
This recently repaved trail to Makapuu Lighthouse is perfect for families. It’s paved the entire way, so you can push a stroller or younger kids can walk it easily.
The hike: 2 miles round trip with ocean views
Bonus: During whale season (December-May), this is one of the best spots on Oahu to see humpback whales from shore.
Book a shuttle from Waikiki if you don’t have a car.
The Best Oahu Luaus for Families
25. Toa Luau at Waimea Valley
Hands down, Toa Luau is my family’s favorite luau on Oahu.
My kids love it because of all the hands-on activities. I love it because it’s intimate (usually under 200 guests) and run by a local Samoan family.
What makes it special:
- Traditional kava ceremony
- Umu (Samoan above-ground oven) demonstration
- Small, family-owned atmosphere
- Set in beautiful Waimea Valley
- Includes free admission to Waimea Valley botanical gardens and waterfall (valid 7 days before/after your luau)
Current details:
- Two showtimes daily: 12:30pm and 5pm
- Check-in 10 minutes before showtime
- 3-hour experience total
- Three package levels (Silver, Gold, VIP)
- Free parking
- No transportation provided (you must drive yourself)
Tip for families: The 12:30pm showtime finishes at 3:30pm, which is better for younger kids and for anyone driving back to Waikiki.
Book Toa Luau tickets and read my full Toa Luau review.
26. New Kaula Luau at Ko Olina (Coming February 2026)
Big news for 2026: A brand-new Broadway-style luau is launching at Ko Olina Resort in February 2026. It’s replacing Paradise Cove Luau (which closed at the end of 2025).
This new production is led by Native Hawaiian organization Hawaiian Council and will feature Hawaiian, Tahitian, and Samoan storytelling with state-of-the-art staging.
What to expect: More theatrical and production-focused than traditional luaus, with cultural workshops like lei making and traditional Hawaiian games still included.
I’ll update this section with more details and my review once it opens.
27. Chief’s Luau
Chief’s Luau in Kapolei is run by a comedian and fire knife dancing champion, which tells you everything you need to know.
It’s high-energy, super fun, and great for families who want maximum entertainment.
Book Chief’s Luau tickets here.
Read about more kid-friendly Oahu luaus.
The Best Oahu Activities for Families
28. Learn to Surf at Waikiki Beach
Waikiki is the birthplace of modern surfing, and the gentle waves make it perfect for beginners. We’ve had our kids take lessons here since they were 8 years old.
Several surf schools operate right on Waikiki Beach, or you can book lessons through your hotel.
What to know: Group lessons are cheaper. Private lessons are better for kids who need extra attention.
29. Outrigger Canoe Surfing
Want to try something uniquely Hawaiian? Outrigger canoe surfing is basically riding waves in a traditional Hawaiian canoe with a guide who does all the paddling.
It’s perfect for young kids who aren’t ready for surfing lessons but want to ride waves. 30-minute sessions are ideal.
Book outrigger canoe surfing from Waikiki Beach.
30. Go Kayaking
Kayaking on Oahu is one of my favorite family activities. You can rent kayaks at Kailua Beach or Lanikai Beach and paddle out to the little islands (Na Mokulua).
Book a kayaking tour or rent kayaks if you want to explore on your own.
31. Kualoa Ranch Horseback Riding
Kualoa Ranch offers horseback riding tours through some of the most beautiful scenery on Oahu. Kids 10+ can participate.
Bonus: Your guide will tell you about Hawaii’s paniolo (cowboy) history while riding through valleys you’ll recognize from Jurassic Park.
Book Kualoa Ranch horseback riding and read my Kualoa Ranch guide.
32. Snorkel at Shark’s Cove
Shark’s Cove on the North Shore is incredible for snorkeling when the water is calm (summer months only).
Despite the name, there are no sharks. Just lots of tropical fish, sea turtles, and clear water.
Warning: Do NOT snorkel here in winter. The waves are massive and dangerous.
33. Breakfast with Mickey Mouse at Aulani
Did you know you can book the character breakfast at Aulani Resort even if you’re not staying there?
Your kids will meet Mickey, Minnie, and other Disney characters during a buffet breakfast. Plus, Aunty comes around and teaches kids a bit of hula dancing.
Pro tip: Book well in advance. This breakfast sells out quickly.
Read my full Aulani Character Breakfast review.
34. Sunset Dinner Cruise
A sunset boat tour with dinner and Polynesian entertainment is a special way to end a day. If you book it for Friday, you’ll see fireworks from the water.
Perfect for families celebrating something special.
Book a sunset dinner cruise from Waikiki.
35. Take a Helicopter Tour
A helicopter tour is pricey but incredible. You’ll see Oahu from above, including Waikiki, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and the North Shore.
Some tours let you land on a remote beach or mountaintop. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
36. Go Whale Watching (December-May)
Humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters every winter to mate and give birth.
Whale watching season runs from December through May, with peak viewing in February and March.
You can spot whales from shore at Makapuu Lighthouse Trail, or book a whale watching boat tour to get closer.
37. Visit Sea Life Park
Sea Life Park is an open-air marine park where kids can see dolphins, sea lions, penguins, and stingrays up close.
They offer programs where kids can swim with dolphins or interact with other marine mammals.
Book Sea Life Park tickets and read my Sea Life Park review.
38. Do a Family Photo Shoot
Trust me on this: book a Flytographer session on one of your first days in Hawaii.
You’ll get gorgeous family photos in paradise without the stress of selfies or asking strangers to take pictures.
Our Flytographer photos from Oahu are some of our most treasured family pictures.
Save $20 when you book Flytographer using my link.
39. Take an Oahu Food Tour
An Oahu food tour is the best way to try multiple Hawaiian restaurants and learn what to order. Your guide will take you to spots locals actually go.
Perfect for adventurous eaters who want to understand Hawaiian food culture.
Book an Oahu food tour here.
40. Ride the Waikiki Trolley
The Waikiki Trolley is an open-air trolley system with multiple lines covering Waikiki, downtown Honolulu, and surrounding areas.
It’s a fun way for kids to see the island without dealing with car seats and parking.
Check out my Waikiki Trolley review to see if it’s worth it for your family.
The Best Shave Ice on Oahu
41. Island Vintage Shave Ice
Island Vintage Shave Ice uses fresh fruit syrups, and it shows. My mom (who lives in Hawaii and has tried every shave ice place) says this is the best.
Multiple locations around Oahu, including Ala Moana Center.
42. Kaimana Shave Ice
Kaimana Shave Ice in Haleiwa uses natural fruit flavors made with organic cane sugar. The ice is incredibly fine and the syrups aren’t overly sweet or artificial tasting.
As a parent, I love that they focus on quality ingredients rather than artificial colors. Plus, the portions are perfect for kids.
Hours: Monday-Saturday, 12pm-4:30pm
43. Waiola Shave Ice
Waiola Shave Ice is where President Obama goes when he’s home in Hawaii. That’s all you need to know.
Located in Honolulu with a definitely local vibe.
44. Matsumoto Shave Ice
Matsumoto’s in Haleiwa is probably the most famous shave ice on Oahu. The line often goes out the door, but it moves quickly.
Nostalgia pick for me since I’ve been going here since the 90s.
Read about all the best shave ice spots on Oahu.
Hawaiian Foods You Must Try
45. Spam Musubi
Spam musubi is Hawaiian-style sushi made with grilled Spam. I know it sounds weird. Try it anyway.
You can find it at ABC Stores, 7-Eleven, and most grocery stores. It’s the perfect beach snack.
46. Hawaiian Plate Lunch
A Hawaiian plate lunch comes with two scoops of white rice, one scoop of macaroni salad, and your choice of protein. Order a few different plates and share family-style.
Where to try it: Rainbow Drive In, any food truck, most local restaurants
47. Malasadas
Malasadas are Portuguese donuts rolled in sugar. Leonard’s Bakery in Honolulu is the most famous spot.
Get them filled with haupia (coconut), lilikoi (passion fruit), or custard. Or just get them plain and warm.
48. Fresh Poke
Hawaiian poke is raw fish marinated with soy sauce, sesame oil, and various garnishes. It’s nothing like the poke bowls on the mainland.
Where to try it: Foodland, Whole Foods, Ono Seafood, or any local poke shop
Important: The fish is raw. Use your judgment about whether your kids are ready for this.
49. Shave Ice (Obviously)
See the shave ice section above. Daily shave ice is basically mandatory in Hawaii.
Read about all the Hawaiian foods you should try.
Easy Free Things to Do on Oahu
50. Watch the Friday Night Fireworks from Waikiki Beach
Every Friday night, the Hilton Hawaiian Village shoots off fireworks at 7:45pm.
Find a spot on Waikiki Beach and enjoy the show for free.
51. Explore Haleiwa Town
Haleiwa is the main town on the North Shore. It’s filled with surf shops, art galleries, shave ice stands, and restaurants.
Park once and walk around. It’s a great afternoon activity.
52. Free Hula Shows at Ala Moana Center and Royal Hawaiian Center
Both Ala Moana Center and Royal Hawaiian Center offer free hula shows and Hawaiian cultural programs throughout the week.
Check their websites for current schedules.
53. Watch Sunset from Anywhere
Oahu sunsets are spectacular from basically any beach. My favorite sunset spots:
- Waikiki Beach
- Ala Moana Beach Park
- Ko Olina Lagoons
- Haleiwa Beach Park
- Any beach on the leeward (west) coast
54. Visit Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens
Hoomaluhia Botanical Gardens is that Instagram-famous spot with the road leading to the mountains.
But there’s also 400 acres of gardens to explore, catch-and-release fishing on weekends, and peacocks wandering around.
Entry: Free!
55. Look for Rainbows
Hawaii is called the Rainbow State for a reason. After any rain shower, look up. You’ll probably see a rainbow.
My kids have learned to automatically look for rainbows after it rains. It’s one of those simple Hawaiian experiences that never gets old.
Where to Stay on Oahu with Families
I have detailed guides for the best family resorts on Oahu, but here are my top three picks:
Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa – The ultimate family resort experience with character dining, pools, a lazy river, and activities designed specifically for kids.
The Ritz-Carlton O’ahu, Turtle Bay – Located on the North Shore with two championship golf courses, five miles of coastline, and a more laid-back vibe than Waikiki.
Hilton Hawaiian Village – Huge resort in Waikiki with multiple pools, a lagoon, Friday night fireworks, and everything within walking distance.
Planning Your Oahu Trip
Listen, planning a Hawaii vacation can feel overwhelming. I get it.
That’s why I created my Oahu Travel Guide for Families with day-by-day itineraries, budget breakdowns, and all my insider tips in one place.
Want more help? I offer Hawaii travel consultations where we jump on a call and I help you plan your perfect trip based on your family’s specific needs.
On a budget? Check out my free 5-day email course on saving money in Hawaii.
First time to Hawaii? Take my free 7-day email course on planning a trip to Oahu.
And of course, listen to my Hawaii Travel Made Easy podcast where I share even more tips and answer listener questions.
Final Thoughts from a Professional Tourist
After 40+ visits to Oahu, I still find new favorite spots. But these 55 experiences are the ones my family returns to again and again.
You don’t need to do everything on this list. In fact, please don’t try. Pick the experiences that sound most appealing to your family and leave room for spontaneity.
Sometimes the best Hawaii memories happen when you’re not following any itinerary at all.
Safe travels, and enjoy Oahu!
Pin this for later! Save this guide to your Hawaii Pinterest board so you can find it when you’re planning your trip.
More Oahu Resources:
- Best Oahu Beaches for Kids
- Oahu Travel Tips
- Things to Do in Waikiki with Kids
- Best North Shore Oahu Beaches
- Easy Oahu Hikes
Need a car? Use Discount Hawaii Car Rental with my referral code for the best rates.
Book your Oahu vacation:
P.S. Join our Hawaii Travel with Kids Facebook group to get connected with other families planning a trip to Hawaii!