Family trips are a lot of fun and help you and your children grow closer together while learning about a new place.
Traveling with kids can be difficult when looking for things to do that everyone can enjoy. Below is a list of our go to things to do when visiting Hawaii with the family.
Botanical Gardens
There are more than a handful of botanical gardens all over Oahu but by far out favorite is the Ho’omauhia Botanical Garden.
Not only do they have plants from all over the world including Africa, India, Sri Lanka, Malaysia ect. but going here is completely free! Video of full walkthrough here.
This place is so cool! I for sure know what your family will remember the most about coming here. It wont be all the cool plants but the crazy amount of fish in the Loko Waimaluhia!
Going on a Hike
Now hear me out. A family hike might sound like a terrible idea given the terrain but Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail is so good you can even do it with a stroller. The views are nice and the path is paved the whole way, plus there’s a lighthouse at the end of the trail!
The Trail is open year round and generally takes about an hour. It’s a short uphill paved trail along the sea with gorgeous views of both Hawaii and the Ocean.
Incase you want to take it up a couple notches I do have another hike we love. Now I wouldn’t recommend this one with a 4 and 6 year old but I have seen families do it.
Shout out to the army dad with the 4 year old backpacked onto his back while holding the 6 year old.
The best way to explain this hike is like the Hawaiian stair master. Koko Crater Railway Hike is a set of 1,048 railway steps leading to the top of some of the best view on the island.
Well worth the hike, your legs will be feeling it for the next couple of days. Definitely try doing this hike first thing in the morning.
Scuba Diving for all ages
You’re in Hawaii, the kids want to see the turtles and fish but you don’t want to get wet. Easy! Head over to Waikiki submarine tour by Atlantis.
This 1 hour and 45 minute experience will take the whole family 100 feet under water to see turtles, fishes and so much more.
Going back in time to see dinosaurs
Have you and your kids ever wanted to see dinosaurs in real life? No? Well you’re in luck because Kuala Ranch (Jurassic Park) will show you were the Jurassic Park movies were filmed.
This 400 Acre ranch has so much to see! So many movies have been filmed here. Please note that the little ones have to be at least 3 years old.
Check out the Zebras, Giraffe and so much more at the Honolulu Zoo
42 acre zoo with over 1,200 animals there is surely something to peak the littles ones interest. Right in the heart of Honolulu it’s easily to get to and a lot of fun.
If you can’t wait to see all the cute animals you wont have to. They have over 8 live steam cameras of the animals hanging out.
Check out the second oldest U.S. Aquarium – Waikīkī Aquarium
Don’t want to go under the water to see the fish? No problem! Head over to one of the older aquariums in the U.S. and go under the sea.
Easy, stress free way to spend an hour walking around. Its a good way to see all the fish you might see while snorkeling in Hanauma Bay.
Ride a train while eating some pineapple sorbet at the Dole Plantation
Train rides, getting lost in pineapple mazes and eating pineapple sorbet, what more could a kid want? Only a 45 minute drive from Honolulu it should be on the list for any parent
The food lines can get long so just a head up. They also have more ordering kiosk on the back side of the ones in the front.
Ring a Giant Bell on your way into the Byodo-In Buddhist Temple
As soon as you walk in you’ll be greeted with a sense on serenity. Then you’ll see this really big bell and will have the urge to ring it. Well you’re in luck because you can!
Going to the temple is just so peaceful and great for family pictures. You might even see some swans swimming around, they also have food you can buy so you can feed them.
Is this list of things to do in Hawaii wasn’t enough you’re in luck. I have one with 67 things right here.
BONUS: Polynesian Cultural Center
This has been voted as the #1 paid attraction in Hawaii. About an hour drive from Waikiki you’ll learn about 6 island villages representing the unique island cultures of Hawaii, Fiji, Aotearoa (New Zealand), Samoa, Tahiti, and Tonga villages along with exhibitions and demonstrations.
With your ticket you’ll get an authentic Hawaiian meal and debatably one of the best luaus in Hawaii.
P.S. One of the best things you can do is rent a car and get out of Waikiki and drive around
What are some of your best go to spots to go with the family? Share them with us below!