20 Fun Things to Do on Oahu with Kids of All Ages

Local's Guide: 20 Best Kid-Friendly Adventures on Oahu

Aloha! If you’re visiting Oahu with kids, get ready for endless fun, adventure, and some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. I’ve lived here for years, and as a parent, I know exactly what makes a trip to the islands extra special for little (and not-so-little) travelers. From playing in crystal-clear lagoons to chowing down on local favorites, here are my top 20 things to do with kids on Oahu

.1. Swim and Play at Kahanamoku Lagoon

Located at Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki, this man-made saltwater lagoon is perfect for kids. With calm, shallow waters and no waves, it’s a safe and fun place for young swimmers. Families can rent stand-up paddleboards, kayaks, and aqua cycles, or simply relax on the sandy shore. The lagoon is separate from the ocean, so kids can splash around without strong currents.

• Location: 2005 Kalia Rd, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Getting There: A short walk from most Waikiki hotels; public parking available at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
• Local Tip: Visit in the morning for fewer crowds and cooler weather. Rent a clear-bottom kayak for a fun underwater view.

‍2. Hike to Makapu'u Lighthouse

This 2-mile roundtrip paved trail is a great family-friendly hike with stunning coastal views. The gentle incline makes it doable for young kids, and strollers can easily navigate the path. During winter months (November–April), keep an eye out for humpback whales breaching in the distance. At the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic ocean views and a look at the historic red-roofed lighthouse.

• Location: Makapu’u Point, Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825
• Getting There: A 30-minute drive from Waikiki; limited parking available at the trailhead.
• Local Tip: Bring binoculars for whale watching and arrive early to avoid the midday heat.

3. Explore the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum

This interactive museum is a must-visit for kids who love airplanes and history. Located on Ford Island, it features real WWII aircraft, flight simulators, and immersive exhibits about the attack on Pearl Harbor. Older kids will love trying their hand at a flight combat simulator, while younger visitors can explore vintage planes up close.

• Location: 319 Lexington Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96818
• Getting There: Take the free shuttle from the Pearl Harbor Visitor Center; access to Ford Island is restricted to shuttle passengers.
• Local Tip: Visit in the morning when it’s less crowded and grab a meal at the on-site air-conditioned café.

4. Indulge in Malasadas from Leonard's Bakery

A trip to Oahu isn’t complete without trying malasadas, Hawaii’s take on Portuguese donuts. These deep-fried, sugar-coated treats are crispy on the outside and fluffy inside. Choose from classic sugar-dusted malasadas or filled versions with flavors like custard, chocolate, and haupia (coconut). The bakery is popular, so expect a line—but it’s worth the wait!

• Location: 933 Kapahulu Ave, Honolulu, HI 96816
• Getting There: A 10-minute drive from Waikiki; free parking in the lot or nearby street parking.
• Local Tip: Skip the long lines at the main store by visiting the Malasadamobile food truck in Hawaii Kai.

5. Enjoy a Family-Friendly Meal at Aloha Beer Company

If you’re looking for a laid-back, kid-friendly restaurant with great food, Aloha Beer Company is a fantastic option. Their menu includes handcrafted pizzas, burgers, and local-style dishes, plus a special keiki (kids’) menu. The open-air seating makes it a relaxed spot for families, and parents can sample some of Oahu’s best locally brewed beers.

• Location: 700 Queen St, Honolulu, HI 96813
• Getting There: A 10-minute drive from Waikiki; free parking available in the lot.
• Local Tip: Visit during happy hour (3–5 PM) for discounted food and drinks.

6. Discover Hawaiian Culture at the Bishop Museum

The Bishop Museum is a fantastic place for kids to learn about Hawaiian history, science, and nature through interactive exhibits. The museum features real Polynesian voyaging canoes, a planetarium, and a volcano demonstration where kids can watch lava pour down a model volcano. It’s a fun and engaging way for the whole family to dive into Hawaiian culture.

• Location: 1525 Bernice St, Honolulu, HI 96817
• Getting There: A 15-minute drive from Waikiki; free parking available on-site.
• Local Tip: Check the daily schedule for special events like hula performances and storytelling sessions.

7. Try New Foods on a Chinatown Walking Tour

Exploring Honolulu’s Chinatown is a great way to introduce kids to new flavors and cultures. A walking tour lets families sample local favorites like manapua (steamed pork buns), fresh tropical fruit, and crispy gau gee (fried dumplings). The vibrant markets are full of sights, sounds, and delicious smells, making it a fun adventure for little foodies.

• Location: Chinatown, Honolulu, HI 96817
• Getting There: A 10-minute drive from Waikiki; street parking and public garages available.
• Local Tip: Stop by a fruit stand and let the kids try something new, like lychee, dragon fruit, or starfruit.
  

8. Spend a Day at Ala Moana Beach Park

A favorite spot for local families, Ala Moana Beach Park is a spacious, calm beach perfect for kids. The shallow, reef-protected waters make it a safe place for little ones to swim, and there’s plenty of grassy space for picnics and running around. If the kids need a break from the sand, the playground at Ala Moana Center (right across the street) is a great option.

• Location: 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
• Getting There: A 5-minute drive from Waikiki; large parking lot available.
• Local Tip: Pack a picnic and stay until sunset—the view over the ocean is incredible.

9. Visit the Honolulu Fish Auction

For a unique and educational experience, take older kids (8+) to the Honolulu Fish Auction, the only live tuna auction between Tokyo and Maine. Watch local fishermen unload massive fish straight from their boats, and see buyers bid on over 100,000 pounds of fresh seafood each morning. It’s a fascinating look at Hawaii’s fishing industry and a chance to learn about sustainable seafood.

• Location: 1131 N Nimitz Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96817
• Getting There: A 10-minute drive from Waikiki; reservations required for guided tours.
• Local Tip: The best time to visit is 6 AM when the auction is busiest—grab a breakfast sandwich from a nearby café afterward.

10. Hike Diamond Head Crater

This iconic 1.6-mile roundtrip hike takes you to the summit of Diamond Head, where you’ll get breathtaking views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. It’s a great adventure for families, and though there are some stairs near the top, kids love the sense of accomplishment when they reach the summit. It’s also an ideal activity for jet-lagged kids who wake up early!

• Location: Diamond Head State Monument, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Getting There: A 10-minute drive from Waikiki; reservations required for parking and entry.
• Local Tip: Start early (before 8 AM) to avoid the heat, and bring plenty of water—there’s little shade on the trail.

11. Snorkel at Shark’s Cove (Seasonal)

During the spring, summer, and fall, Shark’s Cove on the North Shore transforms into a crystal-clear snorkeling paradise filled with colorful fish and marine life. Unlike Hanauma Bay, no reservations are needed, making it a convenient spot for families. The tide pools here are shallow, making it a great place for young kids to wade and explore, while older kids and adults can snorkel in the deeper areas.

• Location: Kamehameha Hwy, Pupukea, HI 96712
• Getting There: About an hour’s drive from Waikiki; free parking available, but it fills up quickly.
• Local Tip: Visit in the morning when the waters are clearest, and bring water shoes—the rocky bottom can be sharp.

12. Swim with Fish at Hanauma Bay

One of the most famous snorkeling spots in the world, Hanauma Bay is a protected marine sanctuary where kids can swim alongside tropical fish in calm, shallow waters. The bay’s gentle, sandy shoreline makes it ideal for first-time snorkelers, and lifeguards are always on duty for extra safety. A short educational video is required before entering, teaching visitors how to respect the reef and marine life.

• Location: 7455 Kalanianaole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825
• Getting There: A 25-minute drive from Waikiki; reservations required for entry.
• Local Tip: Book tickets online in advance and bring a rash guard instead of sunscreen—chemical sunscreens harm the coral.

13. Experience Polynesian Culture at the Polynesian Cultural Center

More than just a luau, the Polynesian Cultural Center is an immersive experience where families can explore six different Polynesian island villages, learn to hula, paddle a canoe, and even try traditional fire-starting techniques. Kids will love the interactive demonstrations, canoe pageant, and hands-on activities, while the evening luau and “Ha: Breath of Life” show make for an unforgettable day.

• Location: 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
• Getting There: A 70-minute drive from Waikiki; shuttle service available from select hotels.
• Local Tip: Arrive early and take part in the “Go Native” activities, like coconut tree climbing and spear throwing.

14. Splash at Kuhio Beach in Waikiki

Located in the heart of Waikiki, Kuhio Beach is perfect for families thanks to its rock wall barrier that keeps the waves small and the waters calm. It’s a fantastic place for little swimmers, and the sandy bottom makes wading easy. The beach is also home to the famous Duke Kahanamoku Statue, a great spot for a family photo. On certain nights, you can even catch a free hula show right by the beach.

• Location: Kalakaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815
• Getting There: Walking distance from most Waikiki hotels; limited metered parking nearby.
• Local Tip: Stay until sunset for a breathtaking ocean view, then grab dinner at one of the nearby family-friendly restaurants.

‍15. Treat the Kids to Waiola Shave Ice

A trip to Hawaii wouldn’t be complete without shave ice, and Waiola Shave Ice serves up some of the best on the island. Unlike traditional snow cones, Hawaiian shave ice is ultra-fine and fluffy, absorbing the delicious tropical syrups instead of dripping to the bottom. Kids will love choosing from flavors like lilikoi (passion fruit), guava, and mango, with the option to add a scoop of ice cream or azuki beans for an authentic Hawaiian twist.

• Location: 2135 Waiola St, Honolulu, HI 96826
• Getting There: A 5-minute drive from Waikiki; street parking available.
• Local Tip: Order your shave ice “with condensed milk” for an extra sweet and creamy treat.

16. Adventure at Kualoa Ranch

For families who love adventure, Kualoa Ranch is an unforgettable experience. Known as the filming location for Jurassic Park, Jumanji, and Lost, this 4,000-acre nature reserve offers a variety of activities, including ATV tours, horseback riding, jungle expeditions, ziplining, and movie set tours. Kids will love spotting the real-life landscapes they’ve seen on screen, while parents can soak in the breathtaking views of lush valleys and towering cliffs.

• Location: 49-560 Kamehameha Hwy, Kaneohe, HI 96744
• Getting There: A 45-minute drive from Waikiki; advanced reservations required for tours.
• Local Tip: Book the Jurassic Adventure Tour if your kids love dinosaurs—it takes you deep into the filming locations with cool photo ops.

17. Relax at Lanikai Beach

Considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Lanikai Beach is a postcard-perfect paradise with powdery white sand and calm, turquoise waters. It’s a great spot for a family beach day, whether you want to swim, build sandcastles, or just soak in the stunning scenery. For more adventurous families, rent a kayak and paddle to the nearby Mokulua Islands, which are visible from shore.

• Location: Mokulua Dr, Kailua, HI 96734
• Getting There: A 35-minute drive from Waikiki; limited street parking in a residential area.
• Local Tip: Arrive early (before 9 AM) to find parking and avoid crowds—weekends get especially busy.

18. Play at the Ko Olina Lagoons

These four man-made lagoons on Oahu’s western shore are perfect for kids, offering calm, clear waters with no waves. Even toddlers can safely splash around, while older kids can snorkel, paddleboard, or float on inflatable toys. The lagoons are open to the public, and while they’re near Aulani (Disney Resort), the Four Seasons, and the Marriott, you don’t have to be a hotel guest to enjoy them.

• Location: 92-100 Waipahe Pl, Kapolei, HI 96707
• Getting There: A 45-minute drive from Waikiki; public parking is limited, so arrive before 10 AM.
• Local Tip: Lagoon #4 has the most public parking and is usually the least crowded.

19. Eat at the North Shore Shrimp Trucks

If your family loves seafood, a trip to the famous shrimp trucks on the North Shore is a must! These food trucks serve up fresh, locally farmed garlic shrimp plates, often with sides like rice and macaroni salad. The most famous is Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck, but others like Big Wave Shrimp, Jenny’s, and Fumi’s are just as delicious.

• Location: Various locations along Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
• Getting There: A 60-75 minute drive from Waikiki; free parking at most food truck stops.
• Local Tip: Bring cash—some trucks don’t accept credit cards. The garlic shrimp is amazing, but if your kids don’t like seafood, most trucks also serve chicken or veggie options.

20. Go Fishing at Ali'i Agriculture Farms

For a hands-on, family-friendly outdoor activity, head to Ali’i Agriculture Farms, where kids can try their hand at fishing in a stocked pond. This is a fun way to introduce them to Hawaii’s fishing culture, and the best part? You can cook and eat what you catch! It’s a great mix of relaxation, excitement, and delicious food.

• Location: 91-100 Farrington Hwy, Waipahu, HI 96797
• Getting There: A 30-minute drive from Waikiki; free parking on-site.
• Local Tip: If you don’t want to clean and cook your own fish, the staff will prepare it for you on-site—just sit back and enjoy the fresh catch.

Aloha, Adventure, and Unforgettable Family Fun.

Oahu is the ultimate playground for families, offering endless ways to explore, learn, and soak up the island’s beauty. As someone who has spent years discovering every kid-approved adventure, I can tell you—there’s never a dull moment here. From splashing in hidden lagoons to trekking up scenic trails and indulging in Hawaii’s tastiest treats, every experience is a chance to create lasting memories. So, whether your family craves adventure or just a little beachside relaxation, Oahu has something magical waiting for you.