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Heads Up: I sometimes include affiliate links to places I love and trust. Booking through these links won’t cost you extra, and it helps me continue providing free resources to parents like you. Mahalo nui loa, I appreciate you very much!
This travel guide was designed as a best-of-the-best booking resource and pairs well with my free DIY Hawaii Planning Guide. For more on Oahu’s geography, climate, and vibe, check out Oahu With Kids: The Ultimate Guide.
Flights and transport
Flying to Oahu
Daniel K. Inouye Airport (HNL) is the main gateway to Oahu, accommodating inter-island, domestic, and international flights.
Skyscanner has been my go-to travel search engine for years because it’s unbiased and offers the best prices to Hawaii with no hidden fees.
Tip: set up price alerts for specific dates/routes!
shuttles
If you don’t rent a car, a private or shared shuttle service can take you from the airport to your accommodation.
🌺 For a warm island welcome, reserve a flower lei greeting! Some companies even make candy leis for kids.
Renting a car
Oahu is the easiest island to navigate without a rental car, and if you’re staying in Waikiki, it may even be best to opt out of one.
However, Oahu is incredibly diverse. I encourage you to explore other parts of the island for at least a day! Waikiki makes it possible to rent a car for a short time.
Discount Hawaii Car Rental is a dependable company with no hidden fees. They offer discounted rates through all major car rental companies, and there are no prepayment, cancellation, or extra driver fees.
Before you book, read more about how to get around Oahu.
Hotels and Resorts for Families
Oahu has a wide range of family-friendly accommodations.
More of Our Favorites: The Best Family Hotels on Oahu
VRBO is ideal if you’re traveling with a large group or want to enjoy family-friendly conveniences, like a kitchen or washer and dryer
Kid-Friendly Oahu
Tours and Activities
Oahu is famous for its vibrant city life and stunning beaches. Here are my family’s favorite local tours and activities. Tip: If you’re not renting a car, look for tours that offer hotel pickup and drop-off!
Ages 10 and Under
Ages 10 and Above
Free and Inexpensive Activities
Keep Exploring: Things to Do on Oahu with Kids
Best Oahu Luaus with Kids
A luau is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture, food, and storytelling.
Best for Young Kids
Toa Luau at Waimea Valley
Kids 4 and Under are Free!
This reasonably priced luau has two different showtimes (12:30 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.), making it possible to make it back before bedtime!
Engaging pre-show activities include flower lei, fire knife dancing, a kava ceremony, and free admission to Waimea Valley Botanical Garden.
Best for Older Kids
Ali’i Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center
Kids 3 and Under are Free!
This authentic experience has kids in the show, an underground imu oven, and exceptional Hawaiian hospitality.
Admission includes admission to the six interactive island villages and the HA Breath of Life Show.
Alcohol is not allowed at the Polynesian Cultural Center.
Best Oahu Luau in Waikiki
Queens Waikiki
Most Oahu Luaus take place an hour outside Waikiki, but Queens is conveniently located in the International Marketplace Mall.
It’s reasonably priced, and the family-friendly food and entertainment are up to par with those at other luaus on the island.
Family Resources
Traveling with kids can be challenging, but these resources should make your vacation a breeze!
Oahu Babysitting Services
If your hotel doesn’t have a kid’s club, consider hiring a babysitter like Aloha Sitters for an overdue date night!
Oahu Baby Gear Rental
If you know that a high chair, hiking backpack, or Pack ‘N Play will make your life easier, consider renting one and having it delivered from Baby Quip Oahu!
oAHU Family Photography
Book the photo shoot! Trust me, you’ll thank me when Christmas card season rolls around.
Capture your vacation memories with Rachel Robertson Photography! This fun-loving Oahu mama has a natural gift behind the camera and knows just how to put your family at ease.
Best Oahu Spas
No vacation is ever complete without a little “me-time”. Take some time to relax at a spa!
Best Luxury Spa in Waikiki
Moana Lani Spa at Moana Surfrider Resort
Waikiki’s only oceanfront spa does not disappoint! Moana Surfrider Hotel opened in 1901 and is often referred to as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” The hotel and spa are surprisingly fresh, light, and airy.
Use of a dry sauna, whirlpool, and relaxation area are available before your treatment. Upgrade to an oceanfront massage therapy room and receive a private whirlpool with champagne service!
Best Luxury Spa on The North Shore
Nalu Spa at Turtle Bay Resort
Turtle Bay does a great job of staying true to it’s laid back North Shore roots in a luxurious setting. Nalu spa may not offer a ton of amenities, but it cultivates an instant sense of peace.
I recieved one of the best massages of my life while listening to the waves in an outdoor cabana. Guests can also enjoy the sauna, relaxation area, and a complimentary mix of bath salts.
Independent Massage Therapist
Laniwai Spa at Aulnai Disney Resort
Like most Disney Resorts, Aulani can get pretty crazy, and this gorgeous spa provides a luxurious escape from the crowds.
Treatments are followed by access to a large hydrotherapy garden, which includes mineral pools, a reflexology bath, and a cusom salt scrub bar. If you want to make a mommy-and-me date out it, they offer unique spa services just for kids!
