Oahu is a beautiful place, a tropical island paradise in Hawaii. With stunning landscapes, picturesque views and lots of things to do in Oahu, it’s a perfect place to go with friends, your partner or your family. If you’re traveling with your children, there are lots of Oahu family activities to take advantage of. There are countless places to get wet, to enjoy different sports, and to get close to local wildlife.
The variety of family activities here is impressive, it doesn’t matter if your children are just small kids, or heading into their teens. Older kids will be able to appreciate the region’s incredible beauty, while younger ones will just want to enjoy themselves and see different animals. Read on to find out about some recommended Oahu family activities for your next vacation!
1. Start Your Oahu Family Activities With a Cruise
The first activity for families vacationing in Oahu is the Morning Calm Cruise tour. This is a laid-back experience ideal for young ones, allowing them to see the ocean in the morning, when it’s calm and peaceful. They might even be able to see dolphins swimming in the boat’s wake! If they’re old enough, they can snorkel in a quiet bay by a stunning reef featuring impressive species like sea turtles and flying fish. Adults and children alike will love the buffet lunch on the sail back to Ko’Olina. This is definitely a great choice for a family vacation to Oahu.
2. Try Family Snorkeling at Turtle Canyon
If you and your family want to get closer to the turtles, then try the Waikiki Turtle Canyon Snorkel and Lunch Sail Combo tour. This tour puts you on a comfortable catamaran, together with expert turtle spotters who will show you where they are. Enjoy a trip down the Waikiki and Honolulu coastline with your family on this fantastic day out. Designed to be accessible to youngsters, this tour includes a certified lifeguard onboard this tour, who’ll make sure you and your children are safe. In addition to the turtles, you can also see dolphins and migrating whales, depending on the season.
3. See the Sea Life of Hawaii
Another thing to do with kids in Oahu that’s also popular with little ones is the Sea Life Park tour in Honolulu. It has five different animal habitats and is home to incredible creatures. You’ll get the chance to interact with dolphins, stingrays, and penguins during a memorable family day out. If your kids are older than 8, you’ll even have the chance to come face to face with the sea lions of Honolulu. Enjoy an intense experience with your new sea mammal pal, admiring the tricks they perform. This’ll be something your kids are talking about forever when you get home!
4. Forget Family Dinner: Delight in a Luau
If you prefer something more traditional, then don’t miss the chance to enjoy the world-famous Germaine’s Luau in West Oahu. This must-do family activity in Oahu takes you to a traditional beach barbecue and fantastic regional festivities. Eat all you want, drink unlimited non-alcoholic drinks, and have a fantastic time admiring Hawaiian and Polynesian culture. Experience hula dances and other astounding spectacles during a wonderful evening out.
5. A Horseback Ride for the Older Kids
A final recommendation for slightly bigger kids (10 years or older) is the Oahu Horseback Tour, which offers an equine experience on a 4,000-acre ranch. Savor the relaxing feeling of a 1- or 2-hour ride as you admire incredible landscapes and scenery. See Hawaii sights like Mokoliʻi Island — known as the “Chinaman’s Hat” — along with an 800-year-old fishpond and Hollywood scenery in the form of the stunning Ka’a’awa Valley.
Enjoy a Dream Hawaii Vacation – Best Things to Do With Kids in Oahu and Honolulu
As you can see, you’ll never be short of something to do in Hawaii. Experience different Oahu family activities during a truly memorable vacation. Whether you’re traveling with babies, kids, teens, or adolescents, there’s something for everyone. Discover breathtaking landscapes and rich culture as you make the most of your time on this incredible island.
Finally, take a look at even more hand-picked tours and excursions in Oahu. Additionally, make sure you’ve pre-booked your hassle-free shuttle from Honolulu Airport to your resort in Waikiki or Honolulu. It’s the best way to start your dream family vacation in colorful Oahu!
More experiences to try at the other Hawaiian islands
Even more tips: here are some great recommendations from the local experts if you’re visiting the other Hawaiian islands: