Fun Things To Do In Oahu With Kids

Family Activities In And Around Waikiki

Aug 25, 2009 Janis Masyk-Jackson

One of the reasons Oahu is such a popular vacation spot is because there are so many fun activities for families to enjoy.

There are so many things for adults and kids to do in Oahu from fun beach activities, to exploring the jungle, to visiting a whole array of ocean creatures. Animal lovers can enjoy a trip to the Honolulu Zoo and the entire family can have fun at the Dole Pineapple Plantation.

Waikiki Beach With Kids

With its warm, golden sand and sparkling water, Waikiki Beach attracts tourists from all over the world. There are plenty of things for kids to do at Waikiki Beach. Besides splashing and swimming in the water and building sand castles, families can rent rotation devices, kayaks, and snorkeling equipment to add to the fun of the day. The sun is at its strongest from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m., so be sure to have lots of sunscreen.

Surfing Lessons At Waikiki Beach For Kids

Kids as young as seven years old, (who know how to swim,) can learn to surf at Waikiki Beach. Lessons begin on land with instructions before anyone goes out into the water. After learning safety and surfing techniques, students are ready to swim out, hop on the board and begin surfing the waves. There are several companies in the area that offer lessons. Look for their booths at the beach.

Dole Pineapple Plantation In Oahu

A fun filled family day can be had at the Dole Pineapple Plantation. Guests can ride the Pineapple Express, (a narrated train ride through the plantation,) make their way through the Dole Plantation Pineapple Maze, and enjoy a Dole Pineapple Whip. Food and souvenirs are available. The Dole Pineapple Plantation is about a 45 minute ride from Honolulu.

Honolulu Zoo With Kids

For a relaxing afternoon, visit the Honolulu Zoo. Come see the monkeys, giraffes, zebras, and crocodiles. When checking out the birds, don't forget to get a glimpse of the Nene, which is the Hawaiian state bird. Coolers and outside food are allowed so consider adding a picnic to the day. The Honolulu Zoo is located at the corner of Kapahulu Ave. and Kalakaua Blvd.

Things To Do At Kualoa Ranch With Kids

Take an ocean voyage, experience the back-country while maneuvering through a jungle, or take a Movie Sites and Ranch Tour and see where TV shows like Lost and movies like Jurassic Park and Godzilla were filmed. These are just a few of the adventures that await guests at the Kualoa Ranch. Enjoy a single adventure or book a half-day or full day package. Transportation can be included in the packages.

Waikiki Aquarium

Kids will have plenty to talk about when they visit the Waikiki Aquarium. The aquarium has over 3,000 marine animals in their exhibits. Guests can view reef sharks, learn about living corals, and check out octopus, jellyfish and a large assortment of colorful tropical fish. The Waikiki Aquarium is located at 2777 Kalakaua Ave. and is in walking distance of many Waikiki hotels.

Polynesian Cultural Center

A vacation in Oahu wouldn't be complete without spending a day at the Polynesian Cultural Center. Experience the different islands that make up Polynesia through music, games, shows, and interactive activities. The highlight of the day is the evening luau which features an exciting Polynesian Revue. Ticket prices vary depending on which package is chosen.

Atlantis Submarines Oahu

Come face to face with underwater life on an Atlantis Submarine. After boarding, descend 100 feet and experience the beauty of Hawaii's many types of fish along with turtles, coral and even a sunken shipwreck! The submarines are air conditioned for passengers' comfort.

It's best to make reservations in advance. Children must be at least 36 inches in height. Check in is at the Hilton Pier located in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Ali'i Tower.

There are so many fun and diverse things to do with kids in Oahu that it's hard to pick which ones to do! Be sure to check with the different attractions for current rates and times as they can change. Oahu can be hot and humid, so be sure to have lots of water and sunscreen ready.

Readers may also enjoy Oahu's Dole Pineapple Plantation and Starlet Waikiki Ocean Fun & BBQ Cruise In Oahu .

The copyright of the article Fun Things To Do In Oahu With Kids in SW U.S./Hawaii Travel is owned by Janis Masyk-Jackson. Permission to republish Fun Things To Do In Oahu With Kids in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.