Hawaii with Kids: Top 10 Must-Try Activities

Parents often wonder if a destination truly caters to kids, and the last thing they want is bored, restless little ones. But worry not! With a plethora of exciting things to do in Hawaii with kids, your biggest challenge will be fitting all the fun into one unforgettable trip.

Follow along as we list the top 10 activities you shouldn’t miss when traveling to Hawaii with kids.

Whether you’re yearning for high-energy adventures or seeking out low-key, educational experiences, Hawaii delivers it all with a vibrant palette of possibilities. Imagine your children catching their first waves at the serene Waikiki beaches, their laughter filling the air by the tranquil turquoise waters.

Marvel at the astounding beauty of active volcanoes in the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, where the earth comes alive in fiery displays. And when it’s time to snorkel, prepare to dive into a mesmerizing underwater world, surrounded by vivid coral and playful sea creatures.

Each day in Hawaii presents fresh opportunities for exploration, ensuring a memorable experience for the whole family. So, gather your kids, apply some reef-safe sunscreen, and keep reading to say “Aloha!” to the best kid-friendly activities in this Hawaiian paradise!

Dive into the Vibrant Underwater World

During your unforgettable Hawaii vacation with kids, make sure to include the thrilling adventure of snorkeling! Families with toddlers might opt out of snorkeling, but those with confident young swimmers will absolutely adore this ocean escapade.

One of the most kid and family-friendly snorkeling spots is Hanauma Bay in Oahu. Here, you’ll discover an abundance of sea life in the shallow waters. From tropical fish to vibrant coral, and if you’re lucky, the graceful sea turtles gliding by.

In Hawaii, you can enjoy snorkeling at your own pace on public beaches or enhance the experience by booking a family snorkeling cruise. With a variety of snorkeling adventures on Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island, your kids can explore diverse underwater wonders.

For extra expertise, opt for private lessons to elevate your snorkeling experience. Luckily, you can find the best snorkeling tours in Tripster such as:

Discover the Best Family-Friendly Beaches

No family trip to Hawaii is complete without a glorious beach day! Oahu stands as one of the best Hawaiian island to visit with kids, with the world-famous Waikiki Beach gracing its shores.

Golden sands, gentle waves, and a bustling cityscape, oh my! Waikiki Beach holds a special place in the hearts of families because it’s a globally renowned tropical playground. And here’s the icing on the cake – it’s absolutely free!

Immerse yourself in the azure waters, craft intricate sandcastles, or simply soak in the warm Hawaiian sun. Ensure you and your little ones savor a day or two by the oceanside, and you’ll create cherished memories to last a lifetime!

Which Hawaiian paradise will you and your kids discover next? Check out our Best Beach in Hawaii: Your Guide to the Top 12 Places to Explore.

Hanauma Bay Oahu Hawaii — Aerial view of famous Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve with beach and coral reef in Oahu island, Hawaii, United States. Summer time leisure and water sports recreation. Nature scenic landscape.

Soar through the Hawaiian Skies

Families seeking an adrenaline kick on their Hawaiian vacation will find pure delight in the abundant ziplining courses across the islands. From the stunning vistas to the heart-pounding rush and sheer fun, you’ll be eager to return for more once the adventure ends.

Alternatively, a helicopter tour is also one of the best things to do with kids in Hawaii. Especially if your family prefers to savor the island’s scenic beauty from a bird’s eye perspective.

Whether you’re soaring over Kauai’s Na Pali Coast or hovering near the Big Island’s molten lava flows. Hawaii’s landscape reveals its sheer magnificence from above. You won’t want to miss it!

Journey into The Heart of Hawaiian Heritage

When traveling to a new destination, exploring the history and culture of the place is a must. Hawaii offers numerous opportunities for you and your kids to immerse yourselves in Hawaiian culture.

One of the best things to do with your kids on the Island of Hawaii is a visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center in Oahu. Located on the North Shore, this cultural gem features:

luaus,
interactive demonstrations,
hands-on activities,
exhibits,
and an IMAX theater.

Delve deeper into Hawaiian culture at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu, Hawaii’s largest museum dedicated to the history of Hawaii and the Pacific. With hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, it’s an ideal family destination, seamlessly blending education and entertainment.

Plus, don’t forget to include a visit to historic Pearl Harbor in your Hawaiian itinerary. This National Monument provides your kids with the opportunity to learn about the significant events of World War II. Hawaii’s captivating history and culture come to life at these can’t miss attractions.

exterior of ground view of Pearl Harbor National Memorial on Big Island, Hawaii, USA — photo credit: NuSmile via Facebook

Savor the Magic of Hawaiian Luaus

Visiting Hawaii with your kids? Don’t miss the unforgettable luau experience! Each luau is a delightful journey featuring a scrumptious Hawaiian buffet, bewitching traditional dances, and engaging entertainment.

But a luau is more than just a festive feast; it’s a cornerstone of Hawaiian social life and a celebration of rich cultural traditions. Picture your family under the tropical twilight, surrounded by sensory delights.

The melodic sounds of ukulele and slack-key guitar enliven the atmosphere, while hula dancers narrate tales of Polynesian voyages and Hawaiian folklore. So put on your aloha shirts and join the party! A luau is an event your family and, most importantly, your kids will love when visiting Hawaii!

Witness Humpback Whales in Their Natural Habitat

Ever wondered if your children have ever seen a humpback whale in the wild? Well, in Hawaii, depending on the season, they can! Humpback whales typically grace the Hawaiian coast from around December to early May.

Embark on a whale watching cruise during your Hawaii vacation. These educational excursions offer a world of entertainment for the entire family. Your guided cruise includes light refreshments and snacks, informative tour guides, and thrilling whale sightings.

Some cruises even offer underwater hydrophones, allowing kids and adults alike to listen to the spellbinding whale songs. It’s an experience that adds a unique layer to your trip when traveling to Hawaii!

a stunning image of a blue whale flipping through the air in a vast ocean. — photo credit: Kauai Sea Tours via Facebook

Drive the Scenic Road to Hana

Maui shines as one of the best island to visit in Hawaii with kids, offering an ideal mix of adventure and relaxation. When you’re on the beautiful island of Maui, don’t miss the exhilarating drive along the renowned Road to Hana.

This 64-mile journey isn’t just breathtaking. It’s an adventure filled with over 600 twists and turns, along with more than 50 one-lane bridges. Along this scenic route, you’ll discover magnificent waterfalls, black sand beaches, and awe-inspiring coastal vistas.

It’s a fantastic family activity, allowing you to make stops at various points of interest, including state parks. Soak in the natural beauty of Hawaii and embark on unforgettable day trips with Road to Hana tours such as:

aerial view of Hana Highway along coastline in Maui Hawaii, USA — Gorgeous famous road to Hana along the ocean in Maui, Hawaii.

Hit Kid-Friendly Hiking Trails

If you’re seeking an adventure that will leave your kids awestruck. Strap on your hiking boots and head to the iconic Waimea Canyon, often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” Here, you’ll encounter a vast landscape of rugged cliffs, deep valley gorges, and striking red soil, promising an extraordinary view.

For an even more immersive experience, venture into the Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. It’s one of the few places on the planet where you can come face-to-face with an active volcano. Explore the Thurston Lava Tube and witness the power of Mother Nature from the overlook at Halema’uma’u Crater.

When pondering what to do in Hawaii with kids, these natural wonders ensure lasting memories. Don’t forget essentials like water, sunscreen, and snacks for your family’s adventure!

Saddle Up for Horseback Riding Adventures

Giddy up, cowboys and cowgirls! One of the most thrilling activities for your Hawaii adventure with kids is to saddle up and enjoy a horseback ride. It’s a unique way to explore the scenic trails and lush landscapes of the Hawaiian island.

Offering a refreshing alternative to simply hitting the trails on foot. Parents can relish a leisurely horseback journey through the enchanting Hawaiian countryside with Gunstock Ranch: Horseback Riding in Oahu.

Meanwhile, their kids can join in the fun, riding, petting, and feeding horses during Pony Rides for Kids at Gunstock Ranch Oahu. And for the whole family, savor the spectacle of an Oahu sunset on the horizon traversing a stunning mountain trail with the Oahu Sunset Horseback Experience!

Two women and two men racked a horse. — photo credit: Gunstock Ranch via Facebook

Delve into the World of Kid-Friendly Hawaii Hotels

Planning a family trip to Hawaii can be tricky, especially when it comes to finding the right place to stay. Parents have to think about kid-friendly hotels, fun activities, and balancing comfort and cost. It can make the planning process a bit stressful.

This can bring more stress to what should be an exciting and enjoyable planning process. But worry not, because Hawaii offers a range of family-friendly resorts tailored to the specific needs of families like yours such as:

These establishments understand that the secret to a vacation great for families is ensuring fun for the kids and relaxation for the parents. With the right planning and choice, your Hawaiian resort can transform from a mere accommodation into a fun-filled, memorable part of your family sojourn in Hawaii.

a wide shot of the big island where there's a plenty of coconut trees, pool and a huge building — photo credit: Aston Kona by the Sea via Facebook

Explore Hawaii with Kids: Book with Tripster Today!

Hawaii is a living, breathing adventure just waiting for you to dive in. Kids can go snorkeling in clear water, watch whales swimming, hike in beautiful places, or even ride horses on the beach.

Plus, you can discover interesting facts about Hawaii’s history and culture. No matter if your family loves excitement in nature or enjoys learning new things, Hawaii has something for everyone.

Visiting these amazing islands means you’ll have an unforgettable trip with memories that will last a lifetime. So book your Attractions, Hotels, and Vacation Packages with Tripster today!

Rally your keiki crew and embark on an aloha-filled adventure in Hawaii!

Tell Us, What Other Kid-Friendly Activities in Hawaii Did We Miss?

What kid-friendly things to do in Hawaii would you add to our list? Share with us in the comments below!

Written by Archie Villaflores

Over the years, he has won numerous national contests for news and editorial writing, but he has recently discovered that his true passion...

Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids: Top 10 Must-Try Activities