Hawaii is an amazing place to vacation. It’s a place of great natural beauty, rich culture and diverse ecosystems with so much to see. Many people choose to go on a family vacation to Hawaii, and they need ideas of where to go or what to eat.
Going with a game plan of ideas on what to do will definitely help keep the kids busy and the parents happy. Below is a list of places we’ve gone and enjoyed along with a few that are on our bucket list.
There’s a lot to see on the island so i tried grouping the places by the regions below
South/Honolulu
- Koko Crater Railway Trailhead
Without a doubt one of our favorite hikes. The views are definitely worth the 1,048 steps and takes about 30 – 45 minutes to get to the top.
2. Halona Blowhole Lookout
The drive is almost half the fun of getting here. 20 minute drive outside of Waikiki with a scenic drive down Kalaniana’ole Highway that takes you past Hanauma Bay and Koko Crater.
3. Tantalus Lookout
The best place to catch the sunset right outside of Waikiki. The Grassy hill overlooks Diamond Head and Waikiki.
4. Diamond Head Crater Trail
Make sure to make a reservation as it does get full. The hike to the top takes 40 – 60 minutes each way with a mix of stairs, a paved path and having to go through a tunnel to get to the top. Video of us hiking it here.
5. KCC Farmer Market
Saturday Farmers Market next to Diamond Head. Incredible selection of only Hawai’i grown products. Easily the biggest market in Honolulu.
6. Kaka’oka Farmers Market
Saturday Farmers Market on the Ward Warehouse side of Honolulu, 10 min drive from Waikiki.
7. Waikiki Beach
A lot to do here from just enjoying the water to renting water bikes or a sunset catamaran.
8. International Market Place
Open Air shopping center with large trees growing within the shopping center. A bunch of places to eat, easy to spend most of the day walking around.
9. Ala Moana Center
One of the largest open-air shopping centers in the world. You might get lucky and catch a free show at the Ala Moana Centerstage.
10. Bar Leather Apron
One of the Top 50 Bars in North America, do i need to say more? You’ll have to set a reservation but i’ve gotten lucky just walking up. Somewhat of a speakeasy so hard to find. Here’s a video on how to find it.
11. Sky Waikiki
Had to wait a bit for a table but were lucky to enjoy drinks while the sun set. Live music is nice, views are great but would rather have a drink from Bar Leather Apron.
12. Waiola Shave Ice
Must have with the addition of a scoop of ice cream! Used to be a grocery store but now sells decently priced shaved ice.
13. Leonards Bakery
Known for malasadas and making them since 1952, you can find these at red and white food trucks all over Hawaii. Made fresh you can’t go wrong.
14. Rainbow Drive-In
Serving Hawaiian traditional food since 1961.
15. EP Bar
Good Music and even better drinks! Honolulu’s only listening bar playing some vinyl bangers.
16. Queen Kapiolani Hotel
Built in 1967 walking through the hotel is like walking through a museum. They have some huge trees great for pictures in the back.
17. Matcha Stand Maiko
All Matcha lovers unite! They offer a unique variety of matcha ice cream along with some seasonal flavors. My favorite is the yuzu flavored ice cream.
18. Marukame Udon Waikiki
A bowl of flavor! Can’t go wrong with anything here. They don’t take reservations which we love but lines are always long but well worth the wait.
19. Island Vintage Coffee/ Island Vintage Wine Bar
Are located right next to each other on in the Royal Hawaiian Center. Acai bowls are delicious and the food at Island Vintage Wine Bar is Great. P.S. Mr. 44 has been known to stop by in the past so you know they have some good wine and food.
20. Hanauma Bay
Nature preserve known for having some good snorkeling. They are closed on Tuesdays so i’d recommend showing up early on Wednesday since water would be nice and clean.
21. Ramen Nakamura
Small 20 seat restaurant. Love that its all walk up and they don’t take reservations. Japanese style ramen done right!
22. YogurStory
Might be our favorite breakfast spot. You cant go wrong with the loco moco with pork but they are also known for their Ube Pancakes
23. Helena’s Hawaiian Food
Open since 1946, this can be your one stop shop for simply prepared no frills Hawaiian food. You’ll be able to sample a little bit of a lot
24. Ethel’s Grill
Hole in the wall restaurant thats only open for breakfast and lunch. Good food and the portion sizes are HEALTHY.
25. Cream Pot
Known for their fluffy pancakes Cream Pot does not disappoint. When we went there was already a line before the place even opened. Just a heads up they only accept cash.
26. Miro Kaimuki
Definitely not your every day type of meal but well worth it. You’ll definitely have to make a reservation. The head chef Chris Kajioka also has another restaurant called Papakurts that’s like the Hawaiian In-n-Out that should not be missed
27. PapaKurts
If you’re in the mood for a burger and fries in Hawaii there is no other choice. They are a little hard to find as they moved, you’ll have to go inside the margaritas restaurant to find them. They’ll be next to the bar.
28. Kahala Bay Beach Park
Nice hidden beach close to Diamond Head. Can get crowded at times but i’d prefer it over Waikiki Beach
North Shore
29. Kaena Point
A state park, beach and trail. Its long but the views while walking it are very nice
30. Sunset Beach Park
Nice beach great for sunsets with lots to do around it.
31. Laniakea Beach Turtle Park
Parking might be a little tough but you might get lucky and see a turtle. Don’t get too close though.
32. Kuilima Cove Snorkeling
Great beach for kids and snorkeling. Good spot for people that aren’t experienced snorkelers you’ll just have to keep and eye on the tied.
33. Surf N Salsa
Tried a few Mexican restaurants around the islands but this one is by far our favorite. The Carne asada fries are my go to.
34. Matsumoto Shave Ice
Voted best shave ice on the Island. Would have to agree they did have the best tasting flavors that we’ve had.
35. Kahuku Land Farm
Fruit stand on the side of the road. It is a little pricy but it is all good.
36. Polynesian Cultural Center
Voted the #1 attraction in Oahu. You’ll definitely have to book your tickets well in advance. One of the best luaus on the island. This could be an all day event.
37. Papa Ole’s Kitchen
A lot of food and definitely a place to stop on your way to the Polynesian Cultural Center or to the beach. Can’t go wrong getting food from here, but they do sell out of stuff fast.
38. Paalaa Kai Bakery
Hidden next to a gas station this place is a hidden gem. Get the snow puffies and you can thank me later.
Windward Coast (East)
39. Ahi Assasins Fish Co.
Hard to find spot on the second floor, small and not a sit down place but really good poke. Fresh and locally caught, easily one of the top poke spots on the island.
40. Legacy Horsemanship
Have you ever dreamt of riding a horse while on the beach? Well this is your chance!
41. Crouching Lion Hike
Awesome trail with amazing views, its short but steep…and also “closed”
42. Kuala Ranch (Jurassic Park)
4,000 acre private nature reserve with beautiful mountain views. 24 miles from Honolulu and where many movies were filed including Jurassic Park. They have many different tours from movie set bus tours to ATV ones.
43. Byodo-In Temple
You’ll feel a sense of calmness and serenity come over you as you enter. While you walk around you also have the chance to ring a really big bell.
44. Ho’omauhia Botanical Garden
One of out favorite things to do! The botanical garden has different sections with plants from all over the world. Did i mention this place is FREE. Oh i also made a whole video.
45. Kaniakapu Runins/ Lulumaho Falls
Located off the Pali highway. The ruins used to be the summer palace of King Kamehameha III and Queen Kalama on the island. Somewhat difficult to find and has been closed in the past due to vandalism.
46. Nu’uanu Pali Lookout
With one of the most stunning views of Oahu and only a 5 mile drive it’s well worth the visit
47. Olomana Trail
Very hard and steep trail but you will be rewarded with amazing views. About a 4.5 mile hike that’ll take you 3 and a half hours.
48. Lanikai Beach
Hands down our favorite beach on the island but getting to it is hard as there is no parking nearby. You’ll have to park by the Kailua Boat Ramp and walk over.
49. Lanikai Pillbox
We got up early and did the hike at sunrise. The views are nice but the trail is slippery and the entrance is hidden. You cant park in front of the trail so parking can be a little challenging.
50. Makapuu Point Lighthouse Trail
One of the easier hikes since its paved and about 2 miles roundtrip. Definitely one you could do with the family and kids. You’ll also find a little beach right next to the trail called Alan David Beach and if you’re feeling daring can climb down to the lagoons by the water
51. Royal Hawaiian Golf Club
Nice golf course but you come here for The Olena which is the restaurant inside the golf course. You don’t have to be a member to eat there but call in advance to make sure they are open. Good food and nice views.
52. Morning Brew
They have a couple locations around the island. Serving local coffee and great food. One was next to a Starbucks and everyone was coming here for their coffee.
53. Kailua Farmers Market
Farmers market that happens on Thursday incase you can’t make it to the ones that are on Saturday.
Leftward Coast (West)
54. Ko Olina Beach Park
Multiple lagoons here with a public bathroom. Parking is free but can get hard as the spots fill up fast. A lot of the resorts are around the area so it can get packed. You’ll probably be able to see this beach while you’re landing in Hawaii.
55. Kahe Point Beach Park / Electric Beach
Nice little beach with bathroom and shower. Good spot to go snorkeling, lots of locals come here and go spear fishing and scuba diving.
56. One’ula Beach Park
Definitely more of a locals beach as its not too crowded, we like going here and just watching the people surf. They also have showers and bathrooms which is a plus. Can see Waikiki in the distance.
57. Mele Luau Kopolei Hula Show at Coral Crater
New Luau show inside the Coral Crater adventure park. 45 minute performance with meals included.
58. Coral Crater Adventure Park
Nice place for the family including zip-lining and ATV rides.
59. Chief’s Luau at Wet ‘n’ Wild
Rated as the best luau on trip advisor with fire knife dancing, hula lessons and food!
60. Paradise Cove Luau
Fun experience with the family.
61. Wet ‘n’ Wild Hawaii
29 Acre tropical waterslide park that’ll definitely have your kids tired by the end of the day.
Central
62. Dole Plantation
45 Minute drive north of Honolulu you’ll find the dole plantation. With a maze and train ride along with lots to eat the Dole plantation is a fun stop.
63. Pearl Harbor National Memorial
One of the areas most popular tourist attractions, the landmarks here will be memorable, powerful and speak for themselves
64. Mermaid Caves
Half submerged holes, caverns fill the area making it great to explore and take pictures in. Parking can be a little difficult at times
65. Ko Hana Distillers
Take a tour and enjoy some locally made agricole rum. The $10 tour is more than worth it. Be sure to take advantage of the free shipping to the mainland.
66. Aloha Stadium Swap Meet
The best place to buy any souvenirs you’ll need. So many different vendors here and so much to see. If you want family or couple matching outfits this is the place to get them. I made a video of where to get them here.
65. Young Kal Bee
Hole in the wall Korean cuisine restaurant, that if you know you know. My favorites are the BBQ chicken and the Meat Jun
66. Aiea Bowl
You come for the bowling but stay for the food. Don’t be deceived by a restaurant being inside a bowling alley because the food here is bomb. Have the OX tail soup and you can thank me later. If Guy Fieri and Man Vs Food both came here you know its something good
67. Hana Highway – H3
One of the most memorable drive you’ll take in Hawaii. Cant really explain it, just go.
What are some of your best go to spots on the island? Share them with us below!