Top Family Friendly Things to Do in Waikiki
Planning a family vacation in Waikiki? Get ready for an amazing experience filled with sun, sand, and unforgettable memories. Waikiki, located on the beautiful island of Oahu in Hawaii, offers a plethora of family-friendly activities that cater to all members of the crew. From gorgeous beaches and thrilling water sports to educational cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Let’s dive into the top family friendly things to do in Waikiki!
Head to the Beach
Waikiki Beach is a perfect destination for families. It has gentle waves, dreamy sand, and of course, warm ocean to float in. Spend a day playing beach volleyball with new friends, getting your tan on or building sandcastles with the other kids. Be sure to pack your snorkeling gear (or rent it) and explore the rich world under the sea, encountering exotic fish and maybe even sea turtles (be sure to keep a safe distance away).
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Visit the Honolulu Zoo
Take a walk on the wild side and visit the Honolulu Zoo, located near Waikiki in Kapiolani Park. This family-friendly attraction is home to a variety of worldly animals from all over the globe. The family will love seeing monkeys, bright flamingos, loud creatures and much more. Don’t miss the scheduled educational talks and feeding sessions to learn more about the special animals that call this zoo home.




Explore the Waikiki Aquarium
Located adjacent to Diamond Head, the Waikiki Aquarium offers an immersive experience for families to learn about the diverse marine life of Hawaii. Surround yourself with tanks of rich coral reefs, tropical fish, and unique sea life. The touch pools give children the exciting opportunity to get up close and personal with marine life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the ocean’s wonders. There are also interactive exhibits for the whole family to enjoy. Worried about such a close experience with wildlife? Put your mind at ease knowing that a trusted expert will be there to answer your questions, and ensure that the kids don’t go to wild in the touch pools.
Take a Submarine Adventure
Embark on an extraordinary submarine tour with a local guide! This style of tour allows the whole family to get under the water while keeping dry. Descend into the depths of the Pacific Ocean and marvel at the rich sea life and coral reefs. You never know, you might even even see a shipwreck. It’s an unforgettable adventure that will leave both kids and adults in awe.
Enjoy Water Sports and Activities
Waikiki offers an array of water sports and activities to whet your appetite. If the family is ready to take a break from the beach scene, opt for a kayak rental or paddleboard your way out to the gentle waves. Waikiki is the perfect place to give surfing a try with lessons from experienced instructors. For an even more unforgettable memory, sail on a catamaran cruise. On most of the these short cruises, guests enjoy snorkeling, dolphin watching, and even the chance to see humpback whales during the colder months.




Visit the Bishop Museum
Most people may not consider a historical stop while visiting paradise, but the Bishop Museum should make the list! Immerse your family in the rich history and culture of Hawaii at the Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum. Walk through interactive exhibits and collections that bring Hawaiian artifacts, natural history, and Polynesian cultural heritage to the forefront of this historical experience. The younger members of the family will love the Science Adventure Center. There are many hands-on exhibits and interactive displays that turn a vacation into a fun learning adventure.
Attend a Hawaiian Luau
No visit to Hawaii is complete without experiencing a traditional Hawaiian luau. The whole family will have such an amazing time taking in the scenery, eating authentic Hawaiian dishes, and enjoying hula performances. Cultural activities like lei making and learning to dance the hula are often all part of the experience for the younger members of the family. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourselves in Hawaiian culture and create memories to last you a lifetime.
Thinking of other islands in Hawaii? Read this: 10 Best Things to Do on the Big Island with Kids
Lastly
Waikiki is a paradise for families, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and thrilling adventures. From relaxing on the gorgeous beaches to adventuring in the ocean, there’s no shortage of family-friendly activities in this tropical haven. So, pack your bags, slather on the sunscreen, and get ready for an amazing family vacation in Waikiki. Aloha!



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