Everyone remembers the word ohana from Lilo & Stich, representing family. Hawaii is not just a romantic escape, but a haven of family values and unity. The best way to bond? Shared experiences, making family activities key for a memorable trip.
The amazing news is that there’s always something fun for the family close by on Hawaii’s stunning islands. The hotspot for family activities is Oahu, the island with the largest population. It’s home to Honolulu, the state capital, historic Pearl Harbor, and a royal palace from a bygone era.
This enables tourists to move seamlessly from urban to coastal splendor. Also, there’s no shortage of lodgings suited for families from five to twelve per room. Check out top picks from ALG Vacations® Hawaii experts, Blue Sky Tours! Discover our top ten ways to blend nature, adventure, history, and culture into your next Hawaiian family journey.
1. Attend a Luau
Sound a bit familiar? Sure. But it’s still great fun to go to a local cultural event. There, you can enjoy live shows suitable for all ages, amazing skill demonstrations, and a meal of traditional local foods like unique purple poi and delicious pit-roasted pig. A lot of hotels host these events right on their premises. One example is Ko Olina’s Hawaiian Village in Paradise Cove. They turn their location into the perfect luau spot—super handy if you’re traveling with little ones or older family members. But there’s also something extra special about seeking out a top-rated luau beyond the hotel borders at specialized places.
2. Polynesian Cultural Center
Even if you miss the luau at this crucial park, try visiting. Teaching kids about local culture is vital. The Polynesian Cultural Center can help. It lets you explore seven real villages. These villages showcase life in Hawaii and other places like Fiji, Samoa, Marquesas, Tonga, Tahiti, and Aotearoa, otherwise known as New Zealand. It gives your family an understanding of these regions. Don’t rush it, take your time! Every regular ticket is actually a three-day pass. This offers great value as it covers all villages and their interactive activities. A canoe and visitor center tour come with it too.
3. Tour Pearl Harbor & the USS Arizona Memorial
Every U.S. visitor to Oahu should visit this place. It’s a way to show respect for the 2,403 brave soldiers lost on U.S. land in a foreign attack before 9-11. This tragic event pushed the U.S. to join WWII. It set off happenings that permanently altered history. Even better, it’s budget-friendly for families. Entrance to the visitor center and USS Arizona costs nothing, and the boat ride is only $1.50. Guided tours and other museum fees are small, from $7.50 per person to $29 per adult, discount rates for kids.
4. Hike and Bike
Walking lets you experience the world in a new way. That’s why Hawaii’s hiking trails are a hit with everyone, young and old. Slow-walking among trees, plants, and flowers in a tropical rainforest allows you to truly connect with and appreciate nature – stopping to smell the plumeria flowers is a joy. But kids might tire easily. So, a combined hiking and biking tour like this could be ideal. The bike ride portion gives a speedy break after the hike, adding some fun as children as young as 3 pedal through the beautiful mountain region. If you’re a family with older members or adventure-seekers, don’t miss the world’s longest downhill bike ride. Originating from the towering height of 6,700 feet at Haleakala, you get to ride downhill at your preferred speed.
5. Horseback Riding
Love walking on all fours? Gather the family for a horse ride. Gentle horses at various Oahu stables and ranches are ready to guide your family, riders 10 years old and above, on fantastic trails. Check out kid-friendly packages. Like this deal here? Kids aged 10 to 12 ride at no cost when accompanied by their adults.
6. Watch Some Whales
Imagine seeing a whale up close—it’s an amazing experience! Their grand size is overwhelming. Watching them swim, or even just peacefully move next to your boat can bring a big smile to anyone, young or old. Plan your holidays to coincide with their breeding season, and you’ll feel a shared connection with nature.
7. Seek Out Some Sunning Seals
Try repeating that! More than just words, let’s make it reality. Poipu Beach in Oahu ranks high in popularity and it finds fans among endangered monk seals too. Isn’t it unique to spot them in their natural setting? For kids, it’s a wonder-filled occasion. Also, it serves as a learning lesson when a volunteer explains the value of saving species and respecting wildlife by keeping a safe distance.
8. Get in the Water with Oahu’s Natives
Let’s talk about Hawaiian green sea turtles and the extraordinary humuhumunukunukuapua’a, a type of tropical reef triggerfish. And don’t forget about vibrant parrotfish, unique snowflake eels, and scorpionfish! Places such as Poipu, Waiohai, and Turtle Reef offer fabulous snorkeling opportunities in Oahu. But watch your actions! Use sunscreen that won’t harm the reef, leave no waste behind, and respect marine life. Be aware, this includes endangered sea turtles, as well as possible encounters with dolphins and rays.
9. Smooth Sailing
Want to avoid getting wet but still enjoy the sea? Oahu offers plenty of sailing trips that everyone can enjoy. You can take a catamaran to view Waikiki from a new angle. Spend quality time with loved ones on a calming sunset sail. Or begin your day in a peaceful way by choosing a morning cruise when the sea is tranquil. Those worried about seasickness or early birds like grandparents will love this. These journeys are even safe for the smallest members of your family, like babies and toddlers!
10. Helicopter Tour
“Head for the helicopter!” That’s what you can do in Oahu. Why? To get an amazing overhead view of the island. All around you will be its unique scenery: mountains, jungles, beaches. Everyone in the helicopter will be peering through the windows. Just like kids do! The valleys and waterfalls seem even grander when you see them from up high. Not to mention Pearl Harbor and Diamond Head; they stir up so much interest.
Quick tip: Why take on the task yourself when a Pro can plan it for you? Choose ALG Vacations® travel experts. They’re teamed up with reputable Worldstar DMC outings which can enhance any holiday plan. Skip the uncertainty of bad timing, overcrowded trips, or dodgy last-minute bookings. Let a Travel Advisor handle it. They’ll make sure you get there.