Oahu, the third largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is the most visited; it’s also home to three-quarters of Hawaii’s population. It’s vibrant, busy, and bold! For convenience, families should set up base at one of the kid-friendly hotels near action-packed Waikiki Beach. Two good choices: Hyatt Regency Waikiki, which is a stone’s throw from the beach, Honolulu Zoo and Kapiolani Park; and ResortQuest Waikiki Beach Hotel, with spacious one- and two-bedroom suites and great family package deals. After settling in, it’s time to check out these top five, not-to-be-missed activities on Oahu.
Snorkel at Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve
Swim in warm, emerald-colored waters and snorkel among schools of brilliantly-colored fish—more than 150 species-- that congregate around a horseshoe-shaped reef. The reef, surrounded by coral sand and the sunken walls of an ancient volcano, is now designated a State Underwater Park and Conservatory District. Go early in the morning because the park limits the number of guests who can enter each day, and it sells out fast. Masks, fins, and snorkels are available for rent at the visitor center.
Hike to the Top of Diamond Head
The easy, 1.7-mile roundtrip trail to the top of a volcanic crater remains the most popular trail on Oahu. No wonder: the views from Diamond Head, Oahu’s most prominent landmark, are awesome. The trail is well-maintained, with switchbacks before you reach a set of concrete steps—74 in total. Okay, it’s a bit of a huff and puff but the kids will love what’s at the end: a tunnel! At the end of the tunnel, is the entrance to the Fire Control Station. Take the stairs to the observation deck for one of the finest views in Honolulu.
Visit the Polynesian Cultural Center
This cultural theme park is Hawaii’s number one paid attraction. The 42-acre setting on the North Shore, about 25 miles from downtown Honolulu, showcases the islands of Hawaii, Samoa, Aotearoa (Maori, New Zealand), Fiji, the Marquesas, Tahiti and Tonga. Hands-on activities and demonstrations are held in each island setting, focusing on traditional skills. For example, on Hawaii, the kids can try their hand at lei making and see how taro is harvested and cooked into poi. Or get a temporary tattoo with traditional artwork on the island of Marquesas. There’s music, dancing, and canoe trips, and theater shows, too. Allow a good portion of the day here.
Ride the Surf
What better place to learn to surf, or perfect your skills than in Hawaii?! Surfboarding or wave riding has always been an integral part of Hawaiian culture. Today, some consider Oahu the surfing capital of the world. There are several outfitters in Waikiki Beach and along the North Shore of Oahu offering beginning and advanced lessons to folks of all ages. Surfing legend Hans Hedemann runs The Hans Hedemann Surf School, with offices and classes held at six convenient Oahu locations. Sign the whole family up!
Catch a Movie on the Beach
A stroll along famed Waikiki Beach is always fun. Combine it with Sunset on the Beach, held every Saturday and Sunday night at Queen’s Surf Beach, across from the Honolulu Zoo. Free open air movies are shown on a 30-foot-wide screen, set on the beach. Live music and street food vendors add to the festivities.
There is plenty more to see and do, but families vacationing on Oahu won't want to miss these top five activities.
Pamela Wright - Pamela Wright is a freelance travel writer, specializing in outdoor recreation, adventure, and family travel. As part of the Bair-Wright ...
