Planning a Hawaii trip with kids can feel overwhelming, but Oahu makes it surprisingly easy. Picture your family swimming beneath a gentle waterfall, spotting turtles from a kayak, or watching a blowhole shoot 30 feet into the air. Parents get their coffee stops, kids get room to explore, and everyone shares a little adventure. To help you skip the stress, we’ve rounded up our Top 10 family activities on Oahu. Plus a few insider favorites. So you can dive straight into making memories.
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Is the Diamond Head hike suitable for kids?
Yes, but bring water and expect steep stairs; ages 6+ usually do fine.
Can you bring strollers to Waimea Valley?
Yes, the paved path is stroller and wheelchair-friendly. Plus, there’s even a trolley option.
What’s the easiest waterfall hike for families on Oahu?
Manoa Falls and Waimea Valley are the top two. Waimea has lifeguards and a swimming area, while Manoa is a more natural rainforest hike.
Do you need a car to reach these family activities?
Where can kids see turtles safely on Oahu?
The calm waters of Anahulu Stream on the North Shore are perfect for spotting turtles while kayaking or paddleboarding.
Rarely do we offer straight-up lists on the Things to do on Oahu Blog, so weʻll jump right to it. But as always, we have included some information you can use if you rent a car or even use the public bus.
10: Favorite new activity on Oahu, Hawaii
We were lucky enough to be invited to check out Kahana Adventures, a brand-new, Native Hawaiian-owned and operated small business. While it’s currently one of the best-kept secrets on the island, that won’t last long. The family has lived in the only intact remaining ahupuaa (traditional land division from mountain to sea) for generations. You can still see kalo fields and a fishpond here today.
9: Fun family hiking activity near Waikiki, Oahu
This lush tropical rainforest hike is just a 10-minute drive from Waikiki, though it’s a 40-minute walk if you don’t take a cab, rideshare, or bike. At the back of the valley, you’ll find the waterfall, familiar from productions like Aquaman 2 and Lost.
Manoa Valley waterfall hike and Lyon Arboretum: The 1.5-mile trail takes about two hours round-trip. The Arboretum just past the entrance makes a great add-on. Be prepared for rain. Manoa gets sudden showers often. Parking is available but paid.
8: Best beach view and scenic lookout
One of the most famous lookouts on Oahu is also one of our favorites: Halona Blow Hole and Eternity Cove Lookout. Kids can stretch their legs while adults enjoy the view of Sandy Beach and the Makapuu ridgeline.
7: Most underrated Oahu family activities
At Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum, families of all ages enjoy exploring WWII-era hangars, near-flying condition planes, and a 360-degree flight simulator. Admission includes audio sets, and the staff are great with questions.
The new Tower Tour is a highlight if you book ahead. Don’t miss Hangar 79, where modern aircraft are being restored. Plus, the original windows still show bullet holes from the December 7th attacks.
6: Most popular living history attraction
Alongside the USS Oklahoma Memorial, this is one of Oahu’s most powerful living history experiences. But make sure to check out our guide with insider tips and tricks for the best way to see Pearl Harbor before you go.
5: Favorite fruit stand on the island
The Hawaiian climate produces incredible fruit, and while roadside stands are everywhere, one hidden gem stands out. Nestled in the foothills of the Koolau mountains, a small family farm and tropical nursery sells exotic plants and some of the island’s best fruit.
4: Most crucial coffee stop on Oahu
We don’t use the word “crucial” lightly. Green World Coffee Farm is our go-to spot (Blueberry Strudel Coffee is a house favorite). Parents will appreciate the free samples, and kids will love the open play space and resident chickens.
Besides coffee, they serve tea, smoothies, pastries, shave ice, and souvenirs. The Dole Plantation is right next door, making it a convenient two-stop outing.
3: Volcanic caldera scenic lookout near Honolulu
About 10 minutes above downtown Honolulu, the Nuuanu Pali Lookout offers sweeping views of the 3.5-million-year-old Koolau Caldera. It’s hard to believe you’re standing inside an ancient volcano, covered now in lush greenery.
2: Most fun family-friendly activity on Oahu
The Anahulu Stream in Haleiwa Town is one of the best places to paddleboard or kayak with kids. Calm waters make it beginner-friendly, and Hawaiian green sea turtles are often spotted along the way.
Vendors rent SUPs, single, and double kayaks. Go early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds; midday has a lively, party-like vibe.
1: Best family activity for all ages and abilities
Waimea Valley on the North Shore is the ultimate family activity. A paved path winds through botanical gardens to a lifeguarded waterfall where you can swim safely. The valley is stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, with a shuttle available for a small fee.
Along the way, you’ll find cultural sites, a cafe, a gift shop, and even a bar. Movie buffs will recognize Waimea from films such as Jumanji 2 and Joe vs. the Volcano, among others.
Honorable Mention: Most famous view in Hawaii
No family list would be complete without Diamond Head Crater. This short but steep hike just outside Waikiki offers panoramic views of the coastline.
The new reservation system has reduced crowds, making the trail feel more relaxed than in years past. It’s a great “down day” activity between busier tours.
From hidden fruit stands and family-run coffee farms to iconic hikes, waterfalls, and world-class historic sites, Oahu offers something magical for every age and energy level. These aren’t just activities, they’re the moments your family will carry home long after the trip.
And if you’d like to take the guesswork out of planning, let Your Hawaii Private Tours guide the way. You get private routes, flexible scheduling, and local experts who know the island inside and out.
We’ll ensure your family experiences the very best of Oahu, safely, comfortably, and with memories to last a lifetime.
