Ultimate List of Waikiki Activities for Families

The moment you land in Hawaii, it will feel like vacation. Warm ocean breezes, the scent of tropical flowers, and soft sand everywhere set the tone from the start.

Our family keeps coming back to Waikiki over and over because it is perfect for kids and adults. Whether you’re relaxing on the beach, playing in the waves or finding easy activities, everyone can enjoy.

Even when the beach is busy, you’ll always find a spot to spread out, soak up the sun, and make memories that will keep you coming back again and again.

13 Things to Do in Waikiki with Kids

There is no shortage of family friendly activities in Waikiki. Whether you want to hit the beach, explore the culture, or try some amazing food, there’s something for everyone.

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1. Hike Diamond Head

One of our favorite activities is to hike Diamond Head. This volcanic crater offers one of the best views on the island. The hike itself is about 1.6 miles round trip, and while it’s steep in parts, it’s absolutely doable with kids.

Definitely plan to start early before the sun gets too hot. The view at the top is breathtaking, with amazing views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean. Just be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks!

2. Visit Pearl Harbour

Another must-visit spot is Pearl Harbor. It’s an incredible place to learn about history, with interactive exhibits and hands-on activities that will engage your kids.

There are many free areas of Pearl Harbor and also paid parts. Visiting The USS Arizona Memorial is a powerful experience that you can buy tickets for. 

3. Collect your Junior Ranger Badge

As a bonus, Pearl Harbor is a national park, so kids can participate in the Junior Ranger Program, completing an activity book to earn a badge and certificate.

Pearl Harbour is about 30 minutes from Waikiki. To get there you will need to either take a bus, taxi, rent a car or book a tour like this one that has transport included.

4. Waikiki Beach

Of course, you can’t come to Waikiki without spending time at Waikiki Beach. The long stretch of shoreline offers different experiences depending on where you settle in. If you have toddlers or younger kids, Kuhio Beach Park is a great option because a break wall creates calm, shallow water for swimming.

5. Surfing Lessons at Waikiki Beach

If your kids are older and a little more adventurous, you might want to consider booking a Family surf lesson. Waikiki is one of the best places in the world to learn!

We did surfing lessons with our 6 and 8 year olds and they did awesome! All 4 of us loved the experience. You can book a surf lesson on Get Your Guide Here that kids as young as 5 can enjoy!

6. Statues and Hula Show

Right in the middle of the beach near Uluniu Avenue, you can find the famous Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue. He is known as the father of surfing, is 9 feet tall and holds lai’s in each arm.

In this same area of the beach you will find other works of art like “The Stones of Life”. There are public washrooms.

You can also catch the free Kuhio Beach Hula show, check their website for the schedule. Waikiki is also known for their Banyan Trees, check out a huge one right at Kuhio Beach!

7. Try Hawaiian Food

Food is a fun part of the Hawaiian experience, and we always make a point to try some local favorites.

We tried Spam musubi which is a slice of grilled spam on rice, wrapped in seaweed. It definitely sounds unusual, and only my husband liked it, so you’ll have to let me know what you think!

Poke bowls are fresh and flavorful, perfect for a beachside lunch. And you can’t visit Hawaii without having shave ice! A fluffy, ice-based treat with sweet syrups in all kinds of tropical flavors.

One thing we all loved was Malasadas, a style of donuts, which are another delicious treat worth seeking out.

8. International Marketplace

For a change of pace, we love taking a walk through the International Marketplace. This open-air shopping center is a great place to find souvenirs, grab a bite to eat, and just soak in the atmosphere.

It’s beautifully designed with lush greenery and a treehouse-like feel, making it fun for kids to explore. If you are there on a Monday, Wednesday or Friday evening be sure to catch the free O Nā Lani Sunset Stories Hula Show. 

9. Honolulu Zoo

If you’re traveling with kids who love animals, a visit to the Honolulu Zoo is always a hit. Located right in Waikiki, this zoo is home to over 900 animals, including tropical birds, tigers, and even Komodo dragons.

It’s not a huge zoo, which makes it perfect for a leisurely visit with kids without feeling overwhelmed.

10. Polynesian Cultural Show

Another activity you will absolutely love doing is attending a Polynesian Cultural Show. It’s a whole afternoon of fun games, and participating in and learning about Hawaiian culture.

You end the evening with a traditional Hawaiian buffet and Polynesian show of singers and dancers while enjoying a delicious meal. An absolute must in Waikiki!

11. Snorkelling Tour

This snorkel tour includes a boat ride right from Waikiki, all your snorkel gear and a guide. See colourful fish, sea turtles and the reef close up! It’s like a whole other world underwater. Kids as old as 5 can enjoy this tour.

12. Jurassic Park Jeep Tour

Did you know that movies like Jurassic Park and Godzilla were filmed on the island of Oahu? Take an Atv or side by side car through the Hawaiian jungle and check out all the movie sites. This is a really fun way with lots of thrills to spend an afternoon.

13. Parasailing

If you have older kids that are looking for a real thrill, try parasailing! You start in a boat, where they will let you go attached to a rope and a parachute. Children 5 and up can do this but we are waiting till ours are a bit older.

Where to Stay in Waikiki with Kids

With so many hotels in Waikiki, you’ll find plenty of options at different price points. However, Waikiki isn’t really a place known for budget accommodations. That being said, we’ve stayed at a few great spots that were worth every penny:

The Pacific Monarch Hotel is a great 3-star option just three blocks from the beach. It’s clean and comfortable, with a rooftop pool and hot tub that we loved unwinding in after a long day of exploring. The rooms are spacious, and the kitchen area was a huge plus for us, as we could grab groceries and make breakfast before heading out for the day.

If you want to be right on the beach, the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort is a gorgeous 4-star hotel that delivers the ultimate beachfront experience. It has a large pool and stunning ocean views, but beachfront luxury does come at a higher price.

For something a little more central, Outrigger Waikiki Paradise Hotel is another great option. It’s only a couple of blocks from the beach and just one block from the International Marketplace. It has a pool and comfortable standard-size rooms—perfect if you’re looking for a balance of convenience and affordability.

Final Thoughts

Waikiki is an amazing destination for families. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and endless activities, it’s easy to see why so many people fall in love with this part of Hawaii.

Whether you spend your days lounging on the beach, hiking to breathtaking viewpoints, or indulging in delicious island treats, there’s so many things to do in Waikiki with family. 

If you’ve been to Waikiki with kids, I’d love to hear about your favorite activities in the comments below! And if you’re planning a trip soon, feel free to ask any questions.

I’m always happy to guide fellow travelers to make the most of their Hawaiian adventure.

If you are looking to explore the rest of the island, check out this blog post with things to do in Oahu with family which includes a 7 day itinerary.