6 Family Friendly Things To Do in Oahu, Hawaii
Everyone dreams of visiting the beautiful island of Oahu!
Whether you are planning your next vacation to the island solo, with your significant other, a group of friends, or even with your entire family — there is something for everyone. We have put together some of the most top-rated excursions and places to visit during your trip. Each of the places we have named are family friendly and we hope you get the chance to experience each of them!
Our Top Six Things To Do in Oahu, Hawaii:
Beach Day!
You can’t visit the island without making your first stop at one of our many incredible beaches! If you are wanting to step outside the hustle and bustle of downtown Waikiki, just cruise on over to the lush east side where you will find the clear beach water of Lanikai Beach. This beach will leave you speechless upon arrival and likely make you want to spend majority of the day lounging while soaking in the views. Be sure to pack some snacks, towels, water, reef safe sunscreen, and sand toys for a fun little treasure hunt!
Lanikai Beach : Mokulua Drive Kailua, HI 96734
Photographer: Evan Koenig (@evkoenig)
2. Shave Ice
If you have heard anything about Hawaii, you have probably heard that we are known for our Shave Ice. There is so many places you can visit to indulge in this tasty treat; especially on a hot day! While most visitors gravitate towards Matsumoto Shave Ice located on the famous North Shore I would highly recommend avoiding the extensive line and crossing over to Aoki’s Shave Ice. Aoki’s is locally owned and offers a variety of delicious flavors! Don’t forget to try their Hawaiian Delight — it’s a fan favorite.
Aoki’s Shave Ice: 66-082 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712
Current Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday from 11am - 6:30pm
Photographer: Savanna Nicole (@savanna_nicolee)
3. Firework Show
Fireworks are a beloved tradition on the island and every Friday night The Hilton Hawaiian Village puts on an extraordinary display for the community to kick off the start of an amazing weekend! You’ll want to grab your family, a sweet treat, and head down to Ala Moana Beach Park for an incredible view of the fireworks. The best part? It’s free!
The Hilton Hawaiian Village : 2005 Kālia Road, Honolulu, HI 96815
Ala Moana Beach Park : 1201 Ala Moana Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
Photographer: Evan Koenig (@evkoenig)
4. Polynesian Cultural Center
Are you looking to learn more about the Pacific Islands and their cultures? You’ll become speechless as you make your way through six of the most amazing islands that include Tahiti, Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Aotearoa, and of course Hawaii. Throughout each of these villages you’ll be able to take part in traditional crafts, listen to different stories, learn about their history, follow along to beautiful music, and even taste different dishes. Did you think it couldn’t get better? Just wait until you end your long day with a delicious dinner buffet and luau evening show that will leave you talking about it for years to come!
Polynesian Cultural Center : 55-370 Kamehameha Hwy, Laie, HI 96762
Photographer: Savanna Nicole (@savanna_nicolee)
5. Boat Tour with Captain Max
Now that you’ve made your way to paradise island it’s time to get out on the water! Captain Max boat tours is a one-of-a-kind experience that you won’t want to miss out on. You’ll climb aboard a six seater zodiac boat that will make you feel like you’re getting your own private tour compared to large charters. Captain Max will take you to the famous Turtle Canyon where you’ll get educational information from the snorkel team, equipped with everything you need, and dive right into the beautiful waters right off the coast of Waikiki Beach.
Captain Max Boat Tours : Kewalo Basin Harbor — 1125 Ala Moana Blvd, Pier B, Honolulu, HI 96814
Photographer: Cody Ketchum (@codyketchumphotography)
6. Dole Plantation
Any pineapple lovers out there? This is the perfect place for you! Dole Plantation has fun filled options for everyone in the family. All aboard the Pineapple Express to learn the history of the plantation after strolling through the beautiful gardens that are home to different fruits and flowers as well. If you’re looking for a more exhilarating option you’ll want to make your way to the pineapple maze; be sure to grab a pencil with your ticket to mark your way through the maze. Before you leave head over to their gift shop and snack area where you can purchase everything pineapple (candy, candles, T-shirts, jewelry, etc.) and grab the famous Dole Whip!
Dole Plantation : 64 - 1550 Kamehameha Hwy, Wahiawa, HI 96786
Photographer : Savanna Nicole (@savanna_nicolee)
There is so many memories you can create on the island with each of these experiences! We sincerely hope you are able to make your way to some of these places and have the time of your life. Friendly reminder to keep all areas cleaner than you found them, maintain your distance from island wildlife and respect the native land you are visiting.
Major Mahalo, and Captain Max hopes to see you soon!
