5 Can’t-Miss Cultural Activities on Oahu Perfect for Families
The best family vacays? Those that let the kids explore, play and learn with a little fun for parents, too. One of the best spots in the world for family vacays? Oahu. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu has it all, all year-round. We've gathered the five best family-friendly ways to have fun on the island. Let the family (aloha) fun begin!
1) Surf's Up
Perfect Home Base: Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
Surfing is a must when on Oahu, and one of the best spots for both beginners and pros alike is the world-famous Waikiki Beach (which made influencers the Can Family's Top 5 Oahu faves list, too). For both the kids—and kid-at-heart beginners—check out Faith Surf School for surf lessons or catch a wave on an outrigger canoe, one of the only places in the world where you can try this exhilarating ancient pastime.
Insider Tip: Check out the other best family-friendly beaches across Oahu.
2) Get Cultured
Perfect Home Base: Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
Keep the kids active and entertained with a taste of the aloha tradition(s) with Outrigger Reef's culture programs for all ages. Learn to hula dance or make lei together for beautiful family moments, and there are even more options for local-culture fun (think ukulele lessons and Hawaiian woodcarving!).
Insider Tip: After a day of culture with the kids, try an evening under the stars at Kani Ka Pila Grille for live Hawaiian music and a nightcap.
3) Jurassic Adventure
Perfect Home Base: Waikiki Malia by Outrigger
Just over 20 miles from Honolulu, Kualoa Ranch feels worlds away. Take a Jungle Jeep Expedition through the "Jurassic" rainforest where scenes from family-favorite movies like Jurassic World and Jumanji were filmed. Zipline over the beautiful Kaaawa Valley, a.k.a. Hollywood's "Hawaii Backlot," famed for being the backdrop to more than 300 movies and TV shows. Go on an eco-adventure while also giving back with the Malama ka Aina Tour: an experience that gives the family a chance to learn and explore while volunteering.
Insider Tip: Capture all the beautiful moments with these tips to take travel shots like a pro.
4) Museum-ing
Perfect Home Base: Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort
From the planetarium to the storied history of surf—and the largest assemblage of surfboards in the world—Oahu's Bishop Museum is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with the kids to learn about Hawaii from past to present.
Insider Tip: Check out Love & Aloha exhibit in the lobby at Outrigger Waikiki, created in partnership with Bishop Museum.
5) Foodie Family Fun
Perfect Home Base: Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger
One of the best things about Oahu has nothing to do with beautiful beaches or adventure: the food. Known for favorites like loco moco, lau lau, and poke, Oahu has everything from food trucks to five-course fine dining. Try the iconic must-stop Duke's Waikiki (foodie YouTubers Amanda and Felix love the roasted Tristan lobster and coconut-ginger braised seafood and the kids-will-love famous Hula pie) or the colorful acai bowls at Hawaii's most Instagrammed coffee shop.
Insider Tip: You can easily explore Waikiki without a car, especially for sampling the local cuisine.
Book your family-fun adventure now!
