Oahu is the perfect destination for a family beach vacation. With its warm turquoise waters, soft sandy shores, and endless sunshine, it’s easy to see why so many families choose to visit this Hawaiian island. We have been with our kids and driven around the island scoping out our favorite spots and these ones made the list!
Not all beaches in Oahu are ideal for kids. Some have strong waves, dangerous currents, or lack basic amenities that we parents need when traveling with kids. If you’re looking for kid friendly beaches where your kids can splash, play, and explore safely, we’ve got you covered. Here is your guide to the best Oahu beaches for kids, each offering something unique for travelers of all ages.
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Waikiki Beach – The Ultimate Family-Friendly Beach
When people think of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is usually the first place that comes to mind. It’s one of the most famous beaches in the world, and for good reason. The beaches in Waikiki Hawaii have everything families need like hotels, restaurants, shops, and activities. All within walking distance. While some may find it a bit crowded, I think there’s something fun about the lively energy of this iconic beach. You can sip your morning coffee with an ocean view, kids can dig in the sand or splash in the water, and there’s always something happening around you, from street performers to outrigger canoes gliding by.
For families especially with toddlers, the best part of Waikiki Beach is Kuhio Beach, a section with a breakwall that keeps the water calm and shallow. It’s the perfect place for little ones to wade without getting knocked over by waves. You will also find the famous statue of Duke Kahanamoku at Kuhio Beach. Meanwhile, older kids and teens will love the rolling waves in other sections of the beach, making it a great spot for boogie boarding or even beginner surfing. If your family is up for some adventure, there are plenty of excursions to book right from Waikiki Beach, including snorkeling tours, surf lessons, and even parasailing for the thrill seekers.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Another one of the beaches of Honolulu that is not too far from Waikiki is Ala Moana Beach Park. The location of this beach on the south shore brings golden sand and more calm waters than the North Shore. It is a perfect spot to swim and play in the sand. There is also free parking available.
Where to stay in Honolulu: Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Waikiki Beach Marriott, Ramada Plaza by Wyndham
Turtle Bay Resort – Safe Swimming on the North Shore
Oahu’s North Shore is famous for its massive waves and world-class surfing competitions, making many of the beaches in this area unsafe for young swimmers, especially through the winter months. But there’s one exception at The Ritz-Carlton Turtle Bay Resort. Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you can still visit this stunning beach, which features a breakwall that protects swimmers from rough surf. The swimming area is spacious, with plenty of room for kids to splash and play without worrying about strong waves.
One of the best parts about Turtle Bay is its snorkeling. The calm waters and abundance of tropical fish make it one of the best places to introduce kids to snorkeling. Just bring a snorkel mask or goggles, and maybe a life jacket or floaties and you’re likely to spot colorful fish darting around the rocks. Since this beach is located at a resort, you’ll also find convenient amenities like restrooms, outdoor showers, and restaurants nearby, making it an easy and stress-free beach day for families.
Where to stay on the North Shore Oahu: The Ritz-Carlton Oahu, Turtle Bay, Courtyard by Marriott Oahu North Shore
Laniakea Beach – A Must-Visit for Turtle Lovers
If seeing Hawaiian sea turtles is on your bucket list, Laniakea Beach is the place to go. Located on the North Shore, this beach is famous for the giant green sea turtles that regularly sunbathe on the shore or swim in the rocky waters. We’ve visited a few times and have never missed spotting these incredible creatures up close.
While Laniakea is an amazing beach for wildlife lovers, it’s not the best for swimming, especially during the winter months when the waves are rough. However, it’s still worth the visit to see the turtles. Volunteers are stationed on the beach to protect the turtles and educate visitors about them. They’re always happy to answer questions, and it’s a great learning experience for kids. Just remember—the turtles are protected, so you cannot touch or feed them. It’s important to respect their space while enjoying the experience of watching them in their natural habitat.
Hau‘Ula Beach Park– where we had surf lessons
For families looking for a quieter beach with calm waters, Hau‘Ula Beach Park on the windward coast is a fantastic option. While it has some rocky spots, the shallow water makes it a great place for kids to wade and play. There are also public restrooms, which is always a plus for families.
One of the highlights of Hau‘Ula Beach is that it’s a great spot for learning to surf. We took surf lessons here with 808 Surf School, and all four of us managed to get standing on our boards! The instructors were amazing with kids and made the whole experience so much fun. Whether you’ve always wanted to try surfing or just want to watch others catch waves, this beach is a hidden gem for families looking for a fun and unique experience.
Also don’t miss the wooden beach swings under the palm trees right on the beach!
If you are looking for more east side beaches Oahu has to offer, check out Lanikai Beach, Kailua Beach and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve . Unfortunately we have yet to visit here. But I have heard they are beautiful! There are some of the best beaches in Oahu for swimming here.
Waiʻalae Beach Park – A Hidden Gem Away from the Crowds
If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path beach, Waiʻalae Beach Park is a hidden gem that offers a break from the crowds of Waikiki. This small park features clean, quiet shores, calm waters, and stunning sunset views, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.
Unlike some of the more well-known beaches in Oahu, Waiʻalae Beach Park is not packed with tourists, so you’ll often find plenty of space to spread out and relax. The gentle waters make it a safe choice for little ones to splash along the shore, and the serene atmosphere is perfect for families looking for a more laid-back beach day. There are lots of shade areas and picnic tables too.
Fun fact—this is actually where we got married! So, naturally, it holds a special place in our hearts.
Tips for Visiting Oahu’s Beaches with Kids
While Oahu is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, it is important to be prepared to make your beach days fun and stress-free. Here are a few things to keep in mind when visiting these family friendly beaches Oahu has to offer:
- Check the surf conditions. The waves in Oahu can vary depending on the time of year. The North Shore is known for its massive waves in the winter, while the South Shore (Waikiki area) tends to have gentler waters year-round.
- Bring plenty of sun protection. The Hawaiian sun is strong, and beach days can be long. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, hats, rash guards, and sunglasses to keep your family protected. We learned this the hard way!!
- Have snacks and water on hand. While some beaches have nearby restaurants or food trucks, it’s always a good idea to bring your own snacks, sandwiches, and water, especially if you’re visiting a more remote beach.
- Pack water shoes or Crocs Some beaches, like Hau‘Ula and Laniakea, have rocky areas that can be tough on feet. Water shoes can make a big difference when exploring tide pools or walking on rougher terrain but we did fine with our Crocs if that’s what you have on hand.
- Respect the wildlife. If you’re lucky enough to see sea turtles or other marine life, remember to observe from a distance. Never touch or feed wild animals, as it can harm them and disrupt their natural behavior.
There is no shortage of incredible kid-friendly beaches on Oahu, and when you’re traveling with kids, choosing the right one can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking for a lively and action-packed beach day at Waikiki, a quiet escape at Waiʻalae Beach Park, or an unforgettable turtle-spotting adventure at Laniakea, there’s a perfect beach waiting for your family.
Which Oahu beach would your family love the most? Let us know in the comments! Flying to Hawaii is pretty much guaranteed a long flight! Read this post on SURVIVING LONG HAUL FLIGHTS WITH KIDS to get you fully prepared!
Looking for what other activities you can do in Waikiki? Check out The Ultimate List of Waikiki Activities for Families and This perfect 7 Day Oahu Itinerary
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