Family Travel Guide to Oahu
Family Travel Guide to Oahu
Oahu is the vibrant center of Hawaii…usually a traveler’s first island they visit!
Famous for honolulu, waikiki beach, and pearl harbor..but we’ll share a few of our favorites on the island of oahu here (and maybe a few tips for the most popular spots!) :
North Shore Adventures
1. Beaches: The North Shore is famous for its legendary surf breaks and stunning beaches. Visit Sunset Beach, Waimea Bay, or Ehukai Beach (home of the Banzai Pipeline) to watch surfers tackle massive waves in winter or enjoy calm waters for swimming and snorkeling in summer.
2. Matsumoto Shaved Ice: Treat your family to a refreshing treat at Matsumoto Shaved Ice in Haleiwa. Choose from a variety of flavors and add-ons like ice cream or azuki beans for a truly Hawaiian experience.
3. Polynesian Cultural Center: Explore the rich cultures of the Pacific Islands through interactive exhibits, traditional performances, and hands-on activities at the Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie. Don't miss the spectacular evening show, "Ha: Breath of Life."
4. Shark's Cove: Snorkel in the crystal-clear waters of Shark's Cove, a protected marine area renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It's an ideal spot for families to explore Hawaii's underwater world.
5. Stay in the North Shore at our favorite : Turtle Bay resort. Read all about it here + then send over an inquiry for assistance with your booking (and to be sure you get all the extra perks!).
Waikiki Beach and Beyond
1. Waikiki Beach: Spend a day at Waikiki Beach, where gentle waves and golden sands are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles. Rent paddleboards or take a family surf lesson to enjoy the iconic Waikiki surf.
2. Diamond Head: Hike to the summit of Diamond Head Crater for panoramic views of Waikiki and Honolulu. The family-friendly trail includes tunnels and stairs, making it an exciting adventure for kids and adults alike.
3. Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium: Visit the Honolulu Zoo to see exotic animals from around the world or explore the Waikiki Aquarium to learn about Hawaii's marine life and conservation efforts.
4. Shopping and Dining: Waikiki offers an array of shopping opportunities, from luxury boutiques to local surf shops. For dining, try Duke's Waikiki for a casual beachfront meal or indulge in Hawaiian-inspired cuisine at Roy's Waikiki.
5. stay at the ritz carlton residences : for a family stay in waikiki, we highly recommend the rc residences - the space alone is worth it! they offer multiple bedrooms and all rooms have kitchen spaces. their infinity pool is stunning! it is also a quick walk to the beach of waikiki.
Ko’Olina Bay
1. Location: Ko Olina Bay is a private gated beach front area home to a few hotels, golfing, and a few shops and restaurants. It is set on a gorgeous, calm bay - perfect for families to settle in and enjoy and beachfront vacation.
2. Stay FOUR SEASONS RESORT : We loved our stay at the FS Ko’Olina - the beach was perfect for small kids to swim and play in. the resort shares a bay with aulani (disney’s resort) but we loved how calm and peaceful the fs was comparative. the four seasons offers a fabulous kids club (complimentary for 5+yrs), a kids pool, and daily activities - many with a focus on the hawaiian culture. reach out to learn more and to hear about our preferred partner perks with four seasons - you won’t want to miss this!
3. Sunsets on the bay : tucked away alongside the four seasons is an amazing ‘secret’ beach — not super secret but you do have to walk through some rocky obstacles to get here. it is the most beautiful vantage point for sunsets!
4. Monkeypod Kitchen : I’d be remiss to not tell you about this restaurant (+ their mai tais!). There are a few locations in hawaii but this one is walkable from the Fs — we loved the relaxed atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating, perfect for families. their renowned farm-to-table concept, featuring locally sourced ingredients and innovative dishes is a highlight. we also highly recommend grabbing a few of their delicious wood-fired pizzas to go and taking them to secret beach for a sunset picnic!
Practical Tips for Family Travel
- Accommodation: Choose family-friendly resorts or vacation rentals in Waikiki or on the North Shore that offer amenities like pools, kids' clubs, and convenient access to beaches and attractions… AHEM, Turtle Bay resort, Four Seasons ko ‘Olina, RC Residences!
- Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for exploring Oahu, especially if you plan to visit multiple regions like the North Shore and Waikiki.
- Timing: Oahu enjoys warm weather year-round, but consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
in Conclusion….
Oahu promises an unforgettable family vacation with its blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and delicious dining options! Whether you're exploring the surf culture of the North Shore, relaxing on the Beach, or sipping mai tais at Monkeypod, Oahu offers endless opportunities for family fun and relaxation amidst Hawaii's tropical paradise.
email today to Plan your family adventure to Oahu and discover why this island is a favorite destination for families seeking sun, surf, and aloha spirit in the heart of the Pacific.
