Are you planning a trip to Oahu for 2024 and want to start working on your Hawaii itinerary? Check out these awesome things to do on Oahu with kids!
This list of the best things to do on Oahu with kids was written by family travel expert Marcie Cheung and may contain affiliate links, which means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
Planning a trip to Oahu and want to find the best kid-friendly attractions, activities, restaurants, and more? We got a great list of the coolest things to do in Oahu with kids for your next Hawaii trip.
I’ve visited Oahu many times over the past 20 years, and we always find new things to do.
I started visiting with my family when I was a teen, and now we do big family trips with our own kids.
Because we’ve done so much on Oahu, I thought I’d create a huge list of our favorite kid-friendly things to do on Oahu. Some are favorites from my childhood, and others are new favorites.
Many of these family adventures are located near popular destinations, such as the North Shore, Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head, offering scenic views and fun activities for the whole family.
Check out this list of the best things to do on Oahu with kids! You won’t regret it – these activities will keep your little ones entertained for hours on end.
Whether you’re getting around by trolley, bus, or rental car, Oahu is a great place to explore at your own pace and create memorable experiences for your kids.
Keep scrolling for my top 25 things to do in Oahu with kids!
Need help planning? Save time and money with this Oahu with Kids guidebook!
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25 Best Things to Do in Oahu with Kids
1. Have an Adventure at Kualoa Ranch
One of the coolest Oahu attractions is Kualoa Ranch. It’s a major filming site in Hawaii (you’ll know it from LOST), but they also have tons of adventures.
For families that don’t mind getting a bit dirty, head to Kualoa Ranch for an ATV Raptor Tour, where they filmed Jurassic Park! It’s for kids ages 5 and up, and it’s one of the coolest things to do on Oahu.
They also offer a movie tour, ziplining, horseback riding, and even time on their own Secret Island.
The way it’s set up, you can do multiple adventures in one day or split up your party so people are doing different things at the same time.
2. Go to an Authentic Hawaiian Luau
One of the top things to do on Oahu at night is attend a luau.
Out of all the Hawaiian islands, Oahu has the largest variety of luau shows. You can do one at Sea Life Park, at a Waikiki hotel, inside a water park, or at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
However, not all Oahu luaus are of great quality or worth the money.
My favorite luau in Honolulu is the Experience Nutridge Luau at Nutridge Estates. It’s very small, and it feels like you are hanging out in your Aunty’s backyard. It’s a laid-back island-style luau.
We also really love Toa Luau up on the North Shore. It’s a super intimate, family-run luau with tons of hands-on activities for kids.
3. Get Shave Ice on Oahu
One of the best Hawaiian treats is shave ice. It’s a thousand times better than a snow cone because the ice is shaved so finely that it just melts in your mouth.
The most famous North Shore Oahu shave ice spot is Matsumoto’s Shave Ice. It’s located in Haleiwa, and most people stop here on their drive up the North Shore.
The best place to get shave ice in Waikiki Beach is Island Vintage Shave Ice. They are open late, so it’s the ultimate after-dinner treat.
4. Visit Waimea Valley Waterfall and Cultural Park
North Shore Oahu is one of the best places to visit in Hawaii with family.
Waimea Valley has a botanical garden and numerous programs perfect for parents who want their kids to be safe while they enjoy culture, swimming at the base of a waterfall, or having fun on an easy hiking trail that leads up to it!
And you can get free admission here if you book Toa Luau— my favorite luau company here on the North Shore. This is one of the best things to do on Oahu North Shore.
5. Enjoy Breakfast at Cinnamon’s
You can’t go wrong with a meal at Cinnamon’s! They have the best guava chiffon pancakes in all of Waikiki and Kailua.
It’s also a great place to try authentic Loco Moco, which is white sticky rice topped with a hamburger patty and a fried egg, smothered in gravy. And they have lots of options for kids.
They serve breakfast all day long, and it’s a great place to go before or after a morning at either Lanikai Beach or Waikiki Beach.
Book a Family Photo Shoot
Whenever we travel, we almost always book a family photo shoot with Flytographer. They are super easy and affordable AND guarantee that I’ll be in some photos. You can get $25 off if you book through this link.
6. Try Outrigger Canoe Surfing
Want to learn more about Hawaiian culture? You can take your family on an Outrigger Canoe Surfing experience that will be both fun and exciting!
You can book a 30-minute Outrigger Canoeing experience that’s geared for families of all ages and abilities. This is one of the top kid-friendly things to do in Oahu!
This activity is an especially enjoyable experience for the whole family, combining culture, adventure, and time on the ocean in a unique way.
Check out the latest prices and more details.
7. Hop on the Waikiki Trolley
Whether you’re staying in Waikiki or just visiting, a fun way to get around town is by hopping on the open-air Waikiki Trolley.
They offer different routes that cover most of Honolulu, and kids will love riding while also getting some sightseeing opportunities themselves!
You can use it like an all-day tour (it covers many attractions), or use it as transportation to go shopping or grab dinner.
It’s also a great way to explore nearby stops within walking distance of your hotel, making it convenient for families with young kids.
8. See Animals at the Honolulu Zoo
There are so many things to do in Honolulu with kids!
The Honolulu Zoo is one of the best things to do on Oahu with toddlers.
It’s located near Waikiki, which means you can go there after breakfast and enjoy a morning exploring this Hawaii zoo before your little ones need to take their nap.
You’ll find giraffes (my favorite!), zebras, hippos, and even rhinos! There are countless other animals, too. And they even have a play area!
You can easily get there using public transportation, which makes it a budget-friendly and accessible option for visitors without a car.
9. Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center
If you are looking for one of the most popular Oahu attractions, look no further than the Polynesian Cultural Center up in Laie.
They have set up little “villages” featuring Hawaiian, Tahitian, Maori, Fijian, Samoan, and Tongan cultures.
Kids will love the hands-on activities and interactive exhibits at Polynesian Cultural Center. There are tons of things to do and see, not just for kids but also for adults!
They also host a full luau and the ‘Ha: Breath of Life’ show, making it a full-day trip if you want to make the most of it.
10. Kayak at Kailua Beach
The first time I went to Kailua Beach, it was love at first sight. The sand is incredibly soft and beautiful there.
It’s also ranked as one of the top beaches on Oahu because not only does this spot offer gorgeous scenery with bright blue waters (perfect swimming!), but you can enjoy peace in your own private slice of paradise when exploring this 2-mile-long stretch from end to end.
One of the top things to do at Kailua Beach for families is to kayak over to the Mokulua islands. There’s a really cool eco-friendly kayak tour worth booking!
11. Explore Sea Life Park
The best place to take kids who love animals is Sea Life Park. It’s an open-air attraction where families can learn more about sharks, sea lions, and penguins, among other things!
There are hands-on exhibits that will keep you entertained all day long while your little ones enjoy their own adventures.
They offer a variety of animal encounter experiences, including swimming with dolphins, suitable for kids of all ages.
Sea Life Park is an excellent destination for kids who are fascinated by marine life, especially those who want to learn about Hawaii’s ocean ecosystem in an interactive way.
I recommend taking the Waikiki Trolley to make it a full-day adventure!
12. Learn About Pearl Harbor
Visiting Pearl Harbor with kids is an educational and historical experience. For older kids who have learned about World War II, you’ll definitely want to visit this site where Japan attacked the United States, leading America into WWII.
It’s not just a somber spot, but there are so many other things that make up what happens here!
One of our favorite activities at Pearl Harbor is touring the USS Battleship Missouri. It has giant guns on board and tons of cool exhibits inside the ship.
There’s also the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, which has flight simulators for kids and adults.
Don’t miss the USS Arizona Memorial, one of the most visited landmarks on Oahu due to its profound historical significance and moving tribute to fallen soldiers.
13. Hike Manoa Falls
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly waterfall hike on Oahu, it doesn’t get much better than the Manoa Falls trail. It’s only about 20 minutes from Waikiki.
The trail is less than 2 miles round-trip, and you’ll get to explore the lush rainforest before seeing a gorgeous Oahu waterfall!
After your hike, head over to the little restaurant in the parking lot for shave ice, Dole Whip, or even an acai bowl.
Since this is a short hike, be sure to bring good shoes because the trail can get muddy, especially if it’s recently rained.
14. Try a Hula Dog
Hula Dog is a kid-friendly place in Waikiki that has some of the most unique hot dogs you’ll ever taste.
They take this small loaf of bread and stuff it with a hotdog. Then they top off your dog with specialty sauces and relishes.
If I could recommend just one thing for kids who aren’t adventurous eaters, try out their lilikoi mustard!
This is an easy grab-and-go food item to take to the beach or you can sit at one of their tables. Oh, and make sure to get their freshly squeezed lemonade!
This is one of our favorite places to eat on Oahu for kids.
15. Shop at Ala Moana Center
There are plenty of things to do in Oahu with teens, including going shopping.
If your family likes luxury brands and small boutique stores, then head over to Ala Moana Shopping Center, which has an array for everyone! It’s one of the largest outdoor shopping malls in the world!
In 2021, they got an IT’SUGAR store that is pretty awesome. It’s a massive candy store with tons of cute gift ideas with pop culture references. My kids LOVE it!
Ala Moana Center is located close to Waikiki, so it’s easy access if you’re staying there too. You can take the Waikiki Trolley Pink Line for just $5 (or let your teen ride it for free).
They also offer a lot of free programming (including hula shows), and they have a fairly new play area by Target.
This mall offers activities and experiences for the whole family, and many of the events are included with general admission to the center’s shows and exhibits.
16. Swim at Ko Olina Lagoons
There are four little man-made lagoons that can be found near Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa.
They each have their own perfect beach spot, and because of how the rocks are arranged in these areas, it is safe for kids to swim around them without worrying about strong currents or underwater dangers like sharp objects sticking out from beneath sandbanks.
The water here typically isn’t too deep, so you’ll have plenty of sunlight on your skin while soaking wet. Thanks again to those dry conditions—what better way could there really be to feel relaxed after spending some time exploring?
17. Visit Bishop Museum
The Bishop Museum has been around since 1889 and is home to one of the largest collections of artifacts in all of Hawaii.
With 24 million artifacts from across Polynesia, this museum will impress kids who are interested not only in cultural tours but also in activities like Hawaiian storytelling or shows featuring experts on various topics, such as archaeology!
The Science Adventure Center within the museum offers interactive exhibits that are hands-on and kid-friendly, helping children understand Hawaii’s natural environment.
There’s so much more than just history at play here. They even have planetarium sessions where your child can learn about wayfinding (just like in the movie Moana)!
Because it’s indoors, it’s one of the best things to do on Oahu when it rains.
18. Get Malasadas at Leonard’s Bakery
The malasadas, a Portuguese doughnut and an island staple in Hawaii for decades, are kind of like oversized holes that are rolled in sugar.
You can find them at local bakeries (the most famous being Leonard’s Bakery) or stands outside shops with tropical flavors such as coconut cream, mango, and guava.
They definitely taste best when eaten warm. I suggest buying a box and bringing it to eat at the beach.
It’s a fun stop that’s often within walking distance of other eateries and local shops, making it easy to add to your morning itinerary.
19. Go Snorkeling
One of the most popular activities on Oahu is snorkeling. There are tons of snorkeling beaches all over the island, and you can easily rent or buy gear if going for just one day!
You can also book a snorkeling boat tour that gets you out into the ocean where you’ll have the opportunity to see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles and maybe even dolphins!
Snorkeling is a great way for kids to observe underwater world wonders, including coral reefs, tropical fish, and other vibrant sea creatures.
20. Take a Waikiki Submarine Ride
The Atlantis Submarine Tour is a great way for kids and adults alike to get an underwater experience without getting wet.
You can see all kinds of Hawaiian sea life from within this real-life aquarium, including brightly colored tropical fish and cool shipwrecks!
There’s even a short boat ride where you can see sweeping views of the Waikiki coastline.
21. Visit Iolani Palace in Honolulu
Your kids will be blown away when they visit Iolani Palace and see how Hawaiian royalty lived in the 1800s.
With incredible artifacts, furniture pieces from around the country, and displays of historical photos, it’s no wonder that this was one palace that couldn’t be compared!
While you can explore on your own, I highly recommend doing a docent-led tour so you can ask questions and get a much better understanding of the brutal history of how the United States overthrew the Hawaiian government.
Iolani Palace holds deep historical significance, making it one of the best cultural stops on Oahu for older kids and parents alike.
22. Have Breakfast with Mickey Mouse
You can book a Disney character breakfast at Aulani Resort in Ko Olina even if you aren’t staying there.
Not only will your family get to chat with several classic characters, but they’ll also have an experience that’s perfect for kids who love the company of Mickey Mouse.
The food is really good (and plentiful), and there’s an Aunty who plays traditional Hawaiian music. There is usually an opportunity for kids to get up and dance or learn how to play an instrument.
23. Learn to Surf
Learning to surf is one of the most fun things you can do in Oahu. And what better place than Waikiki Beach, one of the most famous surfing spots in the world!
The waves are usually pretty gentle and shallow, which makes it perfect for teaching kids who might not be experienced swimmers or confident riders yet.
These Waikiki Beach surfing lessons offer private coaching, so instructors give each student their own attention
24. Get Souvenirs at the Aloha Swap Meet
There’s a reason why families love to visit the Aloha Swap Meet in Hawaii. You can find some amazing souvenirs, including t-shirts and dresses that will make you feel like royalty while wearing them!
It’s a great place to find matching Aloha shirts and dresses to wear to luaus or for family photos.
They also have a variety of hair accessories, including silk flowers and artificial flower crowns!
We like to give our kids $10 and let them pick out whatever they want. Usually it’s tiki statues, candy, and souvenir toys!
Most vendors offer goods at a reasonable price, which makes it a budget-friendly way to bring home memorable gifts.
25. Visit Dole Plantation
The kids will love visiting the Dole Plantation on Oahu’s North Shore.
They can explore a cute pineapple maze, ride an exciting train called “Pineapple Express,” and taste all kinds of delicious items made from fresh island fruit like pineapples in various forms – including ice cream!
We especially recommend their awesome-looking Dole Whip, which has flavor combinations you never thought possible!
Top Things to Do on Oahu with Kids FAQs
You’ll find tons of fun things to do in Oahu with kids that don’t cost a dime. Try going on a hike, body surfing at the beach, and seeing a free hula show. There are also some cheap things to do on Oahu, like getting shave ice, snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, or exploring Waimea Valley. If you have a rental car, you can explore hidden beaches, scenic overlooks, and local food trucks on your own time and budget.
Many families swear that Oahu is the best Hawaiian island for kids simply because there are SO many attractions and activities for all ages and interests. Some of the best things to do in Oahu with family include riding ATVs at Kualoa Ranch, going ziplining, visiting Pearl Harbor, and exploring the Polynesian Cultural Center.
There are tons of places to go in Oahu that the average tourist doesn’t know about. Mermaid Cove is a hidden gem on Oahu, as is Kahuku Farms and the Byodo-In Temple. You can even try to spot Hawaiian Night Marchers, one of the spookiest things to do in Oahu at night. If you only have a few hours, consider exploring a small beach near your hotel or taking a short walk through Kapiolani Park—both are great ways to experience Oahu without straying far.
Best Things to Do in Oahu with Kids Wrap-Up
Whether you’re looking for what to do in Honolulu, Waikiki, or anywhere else on Oahu with kids, we have you covered!
There are tons of things to see in Honolulu (like Bishop Museum and Iolani Palace) as well as unique things to do in Oahu (like riding an ATV through Kualoa Ranch)!
There are lots of fun things to do on Oahu for kids of all ages!
With our curated list of top picks, your family is sure to enjoy an enjoyable experience filled with fun, learning, and unforgettable memories.
Looking for more Hawaii travel resources? Learn how to plan a trip to Hawaii, my top Oahu travel tips, the best kid-friendly hotels on Oahu, how to book affordable family photos in Hawaii, do you need Hawaii travel insurance, is it worth visiting Hawaii with toddlers, best Hawaiian island for kids, the best Oahu luaus, 9 Best Waikiki Hotels for Families Worth Booking, and my guide to Oahu with kids.
