Hawaii is one of my favorite places to visit, and Oahu has a special place in my heart. With its year-round perfect weather, lush landscapes, and gorgeous beaches, it’s the ideal destination for a family vacation. Will and I were married on Waialae Beach years ago, and we’ve been fortunate to return to Oahu twice with our kids. Each trip brings new memories and adventures. If you’re planning a trip to Oahu with your family, here’s a fun, laid-back 7 day Oahu trip itinerary filled with unforgettable experiences that you and your kids will love.
Day 1-3: Waikiki and Honolulu Itinerary
Start your one week on Oahu adventure by spending the first 3 nights in Waikiki, the bustling heart of Honolulu. Waikiki is perfect for families who love action and convenience, with plenty of hotels to choose from and easy access to attractions without the need for a rental car. Many hotels are just steps away from the famous Waikiki Beach, which offers soft white sand and calm, shallow waters. For younger children, Kuhio Beach Park is ideal because a break wall keeps the water gentle and perfect for wading and splashing.
One of the best ways to start your trip is by hiking Diamond Head. This iconic volcanic crater provides breathtaking panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean. It’s an exciting and manageable hike for families, though it does require some effort. To make it enjoyable, start early in the morning before it gets too hot. When doing a Diamond Head hike, bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes. Reaching the summit and taking in the sweeping views is an incredible reward.
When it’s time to cool off, head back to Waikiki Beach, with its sparkling water and lively atmosphere. Kids will love playing in the sand, building castles, and watching surfers ride the waves.
If you’re looking for more adventure, consider booking one of the many tours offered in Honolulu. We have done a snorkeling tour and parasailing and both were so exciting.
Another must-visit destination is Pearl Harbor. It’s both educational and deeply moving, with interactive exhibits that will teach you about World War II history. The USS Arizona Memorial, accessible by boat, provides a poignant glimpse into the past. There are free exhibits to walk through but visiting the USS Arizona you will need to purchase tickets. Because Pearl Harbour is a National Park, The Junior Ranger Program is available for kids. It allows children to engage with history through fun activities and earn a badge to remember their visit.
Don’t miss the chance to indulge in a refreshing Hawaiian treat: shave ice. This colorful dessert, literally made, as the name says, of finely shaved ice flavored with syrups. It’s extra delicious on a hot Hawaiian day. Matsumoto’s Shave Ice in Haleiwa on the North Shore is famous, but you’ll find plenty of options around Waikiki.
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Where to Stay in Waikiki
There’s no shortage of hotels in Waikiki. I will say Hawaii is not a budget destination, but there are many different options. We have stayed at all of these and think they were great.
Pacific Monarch Hotel This hotel is nice and clean and was walking distance to the beach. It had a rooftop pool and hot tub and our room had a kitchen to prepare breakfast and some lunches for the day.
Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort This hotel is directly on the beach with a pool. This hotel is beautiful. But being beachfront will cost you a bit more.
Outrigger Waikiki Paradise Hotel This hotel has a pool, is just a couple blocks from the beach and just 1 block from the International Marketplace.
Day 4-7: North Shore Exploration
After enjoying the vibrant energy of Waikiki, it’s time to head to the North Shore for a different vibe. Here, life slows down, and you will get to experience the natural beauty of Oahu. You will need a rental car to explore the rest of the island, as public transportation is limited.
The North Shore is famous for its surf culture and laid-back charm. While the winter months tend to bring massive waves that are best left to professional surfers, there are still wonderful places you can find to swim.
What to do with one week in Oahu?
1.Take a surf Lesson– One of the most memorable experiences on our trip was booking a private group surf lesson with 808 Surf School. The instructor was excellent, he brought us to a great spot with gentle waves and shallow waters that made it ideal for our kids, who were six and eight at the time. To our surprise, they took to surfing better than we did! Watching them stand up on their boards and ride the waves was a highlight of our trip.
2.Eat at food trucks– No visit to the North Shore would be complete without stopping for dinner at the Kahuku food trucks. This roadside attraction offers a variety of delicious options, from garlic shrimp and barbecue to pizza and tacos. The casual outdoor setting, ample parking, and picnic tables make it a relaxed and fun dining experience for families.
3.Waterfalls and nature– One of my favorite spots to visit is Waimea Valley near Waimea Bay, home to lush botanical gardens and a beautiful waterfall. The paved path through the gardens is an easy walk, making it accessible for strollers and young children. Along the way, kids will enjoy learning about Hawaiian culture through hands-on exhibits and traditional games. The staff and volunteers are incredibly friendly and knowledgeable on Hawaiian history and culture. We learned about everything from traditional housing to weapons to children’s games. Take the time to enjoy the history of Hawaii.
The best part is a swim at Waimea Falls, although be warned, the water is cold! Everyone is required to wear a life jacket, which is provided at the site. Bring towels, water, and snacks to enjoy at least half a day of exploration.
There are other botanical gardens on the island as well. I have heard Hoʻ omaluhia Botanical Garden is also beautiful.
4. Find Sea turtles– Sea turtles are a beloved sight in Hawaii, and Laniakea Beach on the North Shore offers a good chance to see them. They are known to be relaxing on the beach or splashing in the waves near the rocks. . Volunteers are present to answer questions and ensure visitors keep a respectful distance. It’s a magical experience to watch these gentle giants in their natural habitat.
5.Dole Plantation– For a taste of local agriculture, head to the Dole Plantation. Kids will love the Pineapple Express train ride, which offers a scenic tour of the plantation and fun facts about pineapples. The garden maze is a fun challenge, and the pineapple-flavored ice cream is a treat you won’t want to miss.
6. Visit a Coffee Farm– Ok, this may be more for mom and dad, but visit a coffee farm. Green World Coffee Farm has delicious coffee, which they roast right on site. You can also take a free farm tour, enjoy free samples of coffee or tea. And the kids will be happy with a treat, as some baked goods are available for purchase.
7. Hiking– Oahu is full of family-friendly hikes, and the North Shore has some great options. Waimea Falls is a perfect introductory hike, but if you’re feeling more adventurous, consider the Lanikai Pillbox Trail or the Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail. Both offer incredible views, but be prepared for some steep sections. Go early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat.
8.Take a Jeep Tour– If you have any Jurassic Park fans in the family, Kualoa Ranch is a must-visit. This scenic area has been the backdrop for many movies, and you can explore it on a Jeep tour. Everyone will be thrilled to recognize spots from the movies while soaking in the amazing landscape.
9. Luau– A trip to Oahu wouldn’t be complete without attending a luau. I have visited The Polynesian Cultural Center and Paradise Cove Luau and both offer immersive cultural experiences with traditional music, hula dancing, and a Hawaiian feast. You can participate in hands-on activities like ukulele lessons and coconut husking, making it both fun and educational. These are a bit pricey but definitely worth it!
10.Beach Time– Finally, be sure to spend plenty of time at the beach. While Waikiki is iconic, there are many other beautiful beaches to explore. Take a road trip and check out Hanauma Bay and Kailua Beach on the south shore! Lanikai Beach is also a stunning option on the North Shore with soft sand and gentle waves.
7 day Oahu travel itinerary sample:
Day 1: Arrive and enjoy the beach at Waikiki, there are a ton of restaurants in the area. You can also check out the International Marketplace for shops, restaurants and Hawaiian dancers performing.
Day 2: Hike Diamond Head in the morning, do a snorkeling tour or try parasailing right on Waikiki Beach in the afternoon.
Day 3:Pick up your rental car and visit Pearl Harbour. Spend your last day in Waikiki at the beach or head up to the North Shore that night.
Day 4: Drive to the North Shore, stop and eat breakfast at Ted’s Bakery and a little treat, try malasadas, like a Hawaiin donut. Spend some time at the beach at Turtle Bay Resort, a short walk from our house rental. For dinner, enjoy the food trucks.
Day 5:Waimea Valley for the morning, plan to spend about 4 hours there. Next, drive to Laniakea Beach and watch the sea turtles. Spend the evening relaxing at the beach and by the pool.
Day 6: Surf Lesson in the morning. Polynesian Cultural Center in the afternoon and evening for dinner.
Day 7: Dole Plantation, Green World Coffee Farm, and Jurassic Park tour. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can do an evening hike or check out one of the other beaches.
Where to stay on the North Shore?
For ultimate luxury right on the beach, stay at the Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay Resort This resort is a fantastic choice for families, offering spacious rooms, pools, and stunning ocean views.
The Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore is another great place to stay . Near the Polynesian Cultural Center and right on the beach.
For a more affordable option, and perhaps to get more bang for your buck, check out a VRBO rental right near Turtle Bay Resort in Kuilima Estates. There is a beautiful pool which my kids loved, and you will get a full apartment. It’s about a 10 minute walk to the beach through the golf course.
A Perfect Mix of Adventure and Relaxation
If you have been wondering what to do in Oahu for a week, I hope this gave you some great ideas! With a balance of outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, and relaxation, this 7 day Oahu itinerary is designed to create unforgettable memories for your family. From the vibrant energy of Waikiki to the serene beauty of the North Shore, every corner of Oahu offers something special. Whether your kids are learning to surf, discovering Hawaiian history, or simply playing in the sand, you’ll treasure the moments spent together in this island paradise.
Check out our beach packing list here, it’s free to download and print!