Are you planning a trip to Oahu with kids and aren’t sure where to stay? Keep scrolling to check out my top picks for the best Waikiki hotels for families visiting Oahu!
This list of the best Waikiki hotels for families was written by family 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.
I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve landed in Honolulu with my kids in tow, but I can tell you this: picking the right hotel in Waikiki can make or break your family vacation.
After 40+ trips to Hawaii (yes, really), I’ve figured out what works for families and what doesn’t. And here’s the thing about Waikiki that I absolutely love: you can walk to everything. Beaches, restaurants, shave ice stands, the zoo. It’s perfect when you’re traveling with kids who melt down after too much time in the car.
So let me walk you through my honest picks for the best places to stay in Waikiki with kids. I’m talking real talk here, from one mom to another.
Want to make planning even easier? Grab my free 5-day email course on how to plan a trip to Hawaii like a pro. It’s basically everything I wish someone had told me before my first Hawaii trip.
What Makes a Great Family Hotel in Waikiki?
Before we get into specific hotels, here’s what I look for as a family travel blogger:
Pool situation. Kids need somewhere to burn energy when they’re not at the beach. Bonus points for waterslides.
Location, location, location. Can you walk to the beach without crossing a highway? Are there restaurants nearby for when no one can agree on dinner?
Room size. Will you be climbing over suitcases to get to the bathroom? Some Waikiki hotels have surprisingly spacious family suites.
The little things. Mini fridges for milk and leftovers. Balconies for that morning coffee while the kids sleep in (ha, just kidding). Friendly staff who don’t glare when your toddler has a meltdown in the lobby.
Best Luxury Waikiki Hotels for Families
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Let’s start with the fancy stuff. The Royal Hawaiian (aka the Pink Palace) is gorgeous. Like, Instagram-worthy gorgeous.
But here’s what sold me: while you’re staying at this luxury resort, you actually get access to the kids’ amenities at the Sheraton Waikiki next door. So your kids can go wild on the waterslides and playground, while you still get to enjoy that elegant Royal Hawaiian vibe.
The two outdoor pools include a children’s pool with a waterslide. The beachfront location is perfect. And that afternoon tea service? It’s a special treat that my kids still talk about.
Yes, it’s pricey. But if you’re looking for that special splurge vacation, this is it. Check current rates on Expedia.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
The Moana Surfrider is one of those historic hotels that just feels special. It’s Waikiki’s first hotel (opened in 1901!), and they’ve maintained that vintage charm.
My kids love the pool, and I love the beachfront dining. The Moana Lani Spa is perfect for when you need a break (and you will need a break). They have five restaurants on-site, which is clutch when you don’t feel like leaving the property.
The location puts you right near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue and International Market Place. Easy walking distance to everything.
It’s definitely on the luxury end, but honestly? Worth it for a special trip. See the latest prices here.
Best Mid-Range Waikiki Hotels for Families
Hilton Hawaiian Village
Okay, this is my go-to recommendation for families. The Hilton Hawaiian Village is huge. Like, it’s basically a small city.
Five pools including a 10,000-square-foot Super Pool. The Paradise Pool has waterfalls and a waterslide that my kids obsess over. There’s even a saltwater lagoon where you can kayak and paddleboard.
Here’s what makes it perfect for families: everything is on-site. Restaurants, shops, activities. You literally don’t have to leave if you don’t want to. Which is a beautiful thing when you’re trying to manage kids on vacation.
We always stay in the Rainbow Tower. The ocean views are stunning, and it’s right by the lagoon. Plus there’s a Friday night fireworks show that’s become one of our family traditions.
Check rates and availability on Expedia. For my full detailed review, head over to my Hawaii Travel with Kids site.
Pro tip: While you’re in Waikiki, book a family photo session with Flytographer. You’ll get professional photos with that gorgeous Hawaii backdrop, and you can save $20 when you use my link. Trust me, these are the photos you’ll treasure forever.
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
The Sheraton Waikiki has one of the best pool areas in Waikiki. The Helumoa Playground has two pools, a waterslide, and interactive fountains. My kids could spend hours there.
The beachfront location is fantastic. You’re steps from the sand and close to Royal Hawaiian Center and International Market Place for shopping and dining.
They have family rooms that sleep five, which is perfect if you’ve got multiple kids. The infinity pool has incredible ocean views (great for those sunset photos).
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa
The Hyatt Regency is literally one minute from Waikiki Beach. One. Minute.
The family suites sleep six comfortably, which is a huge win if you’ve got a bigger crew. The rooftop pool is fun (though not huge), and kids love being able to watch the scene on Kalakaua Avenue from up there.
There are three on-site restaurants, and they offer cultural programming like lei-making and hula workshops. My kids actually loved learning to make leis, which surprised me.
It’s close to Kuhio Beach Park and the Duke Kahanamoku Statue. Super walkable to everything. Check availability on Expedia.
Read my full Hyatt Regency Waikiki review for more details.
Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
The Outrigger Waikiki is steps from the beach and International Market Place. Literally steps.
Their Club Rooms can fit up to six people, which is clutch for families. The outdoor pool is nice (not waterpark-level, but perfectly adequate). And the beach activities are fantastic: scuba diving, surfing, snorkeling, all right there.
Two on-site restaurants with ocean views. Yoga classes. A spa. It’s got everything you need.
The staff here consistently gets rave reviews from families. See rates on Expedia.
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
The Waikiki Beach Marriott is near the Honolulu Zoo, which is super convenient for a morning activity.
Two outdoor pools where kids can splash around. A poolside bar for the adults (yes, please). The Royal Kaila Spa for when you need that massage.
Five restaurants on-site serving American cuisine. There’s even a grocery store in the hotel, which is amazing when you need snacks, milk, or forgot the sunscreen.
The beachfront location and proximity to Kuhio Beach Park and International Market Place make this a solid choice. Check current rates.
‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach
The ‘Alohilani Resort is especially great if you’re traveling with teens. It’s got a modern, cool vibe that older kids appreciate.
Two outdoor pools including a children’s pool. Five restaurants. A rooftop terrace with killer views. The hotel also has a spa and offers Pilates and aerobics classes.
It’s a short walk to Waikiki Beach and Kuhio Beach Park. Close to International Market Place and Waikiki Beach Walk for shopping and dining.
Families consistently praise the dining options and overall value. See availability on Expedia.
Read my full Alohilani review to see why it works so well for families with teens.
Best Budget-Friendly Waikiki Hotels for Families
Embassy Suites by Hilton Waikiki Beach Walk
Here’s my top pick for families watching their budget: Embassy Suites Waikiki.
Why? Free cooked-to-order breakfast every morning. Do you know how much money this saves when you’re feeding a family? A lot. A LOT.
The suites sleep up to six people, which means you’re not cramming everyone into one tiny room. There’s an outdoor pool and a children’s pool. Three on-site restaurants.
Plus there’s a free daily manager’s reception. Free parking would make this perfect, but you can’t have everything.
Steps from Waikiki Beach Walk, close to the Honolulu Zoo and Ala Moana Center. Check rates on Expedia.
Holiday Inn Express Waikiki
The Holiday Inn Express Waikiki has a “Kids Stay and Eat Free” program. Up to four kids aged 12 and under eat free at their restaurant, and kids 19 and under stay free in your room.
Let me repeat that: kids stay and eat FREE.
The Skydeck has an outdoor pool, mini golf, giant chess, shuffleboard, ping pong, and foosball. My kids went crazy for the mini golf.
It’s a bit further from the main beach action, but honestly? For these prices and amenities, it’s worth the extra walk.
Things to Do Near Your Waikiki Hotel
Staying in Waikiki puts you close to so many family-friendly activities. Here are my top picks:
Beach time. Obviously. Waikiki Beach is perfect for kids with its calm, shallow waters.
Honolulu Zoo. Right across from several of these hotels. Easy morning activity.
Waikiki Aquarium. Small but well done. Good for a quick visit.
Surfing lessons. So many spots offer kids’ lessons right on Waikiki Beach. Book through Viator or Get Your Guide.
Duke Kahanamoku Statue. Great photo op and a chance to teach kids about Hawaiian history.
International Market Place and Royal Hawaiian Center. Shopping, dining, entertainment. All walkable.
Diamond Head hike. About 20 minutes from Waikiki. Worth it for the views, though it can be tough with really young kids.
Pearl Harbor. A bit of a drive but absolutely worth it. Book your Pearl Harbor tour through Viator well in advance.
For more ideas, check out my posts on 25 Amazing Things to Do on Oahu with Kids and The Ultimate Guide to Oahu Luau Experiences for Families.
Waikiki Hotels FAQs
Do any Waikiki hotels have kids clubs?
Most hotels haven’t reopened their kids clubs since the pandemic. But many still offer family programming like ukulele lessons, lei-making, and hula dancing.
Which Waikiki hotels have the best pools for kids?
Hilton Hawaiian Village and Sheraton Waikiki both have amazing pools with waterslides. Royal Hawaiian also has great pools, plus you get access to the Sheraton’s facilities.
Are there family-friendly hotels with kitchenettes in Waikiki?
Yes! Embassy Suites has full kitchens in their suites. Some of the Outrigger properties also offer kitchenettes.
What’s the best area of Waikiki to stay with kids?
I prefer the western end near Hilton Hawaiian Village. It’s a bit quieter but still walkable to everything. The central area near Kalakaua Avenue is more crowded but very convenient.
How far is North Shore from Waikiki?
About an hour drive, depending on traffic. Great for a day trip to see the big waves and turtle beaches.
Should I rent a car in Waikiki?
Not necessary if you’re staying in Waikiki the whole time. Everything’s walkable or accessible by rideshare. But if you want to explore the rest of Oahu (which you should), rent a car for a few days.
What’s the best time to visit Waikiki with kids?
We love late April through early June and September through mid-December. Good weather, smaller crowds, better prices.
My Final Take on Waikiki Hotels
Look, here’s the truth: you can’t really go wrong with any of these hotels. They all have what families need.
My personal favorite is still Hilton Hawaiian Village for the sheer convenience and those five amazing pools. But if you want something more intimate and upscale, go for the Royal Hawaiian or Moana Surfrider.
Watching your budget? Embassy Suites or Holiday Inn Express will treat you right without breaking the bank.
The best Waikiki hotel for your family depends on your budget, your kids’ ages, and what matters most to you. Pool? Beach access? Dining options? Room size?
Whatever you choose, you’re going to love Waikiki. It’s such a special place for families. The beaches, the food, the aloha spirit. My kids ask to go back every single year.
For more Oahu planning help, check out my 10 Must-Read Oahu Travel Tips for First-Timers and my guide to the 10 Best Oahu Resorts for Families if you want to look beyond just Waikiki.
And seriously, grab that free Hawaii planning email course. As a family travel expert, I’ve packed it with everything you need to know to plan an amazing Hawaii vacation without the stress.
Looking for more Oahu travel resources? Check out 10 Must-Read Oahu Travel Tips for First-Timers, 10 Best Oahu Resorts for Families Worth Booking, 25 Amazing Things to do on Oahu with Kids, and The Ultimate Guide to Oahu Luau Experiences for Families!
