If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do on Oahu, you won’t be disappointed. There are plenty of activities to keep everyone happy, from young children to teenagers. Here are a few ideas:
Hawaii Nautical
Hawaii Nautical is one of Hawaii’s largest ocean-activity providers, with a fleet of vessels island-wide serving harbors across Oahu and the Big Island. Hawaii Nautical’s dive masters respect the ocean and the ecosystem, and follow strict guidelines so that all marine mammals and wildlife are protected. They also honor the host-culture and support the local communities in which they operate.
Every December through March, thousands of Humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Hawaii. Come see these beautiful mammals on an eco-friendly whale watching excursion. They also offer a variety of other activities, including snorkeling, sunset cruises, scuba diving and more. Hawaii Nautical sells top-of-the-line snorkel gear, as well as everything you need to make your beach or pool day the best.
808-234-7245
www.HawaiiNautical.com
Locations in Waikiki, West Oahu, and Kona
Gunstock Ranch
The 400-acre Gunstock Ranch sprawls along the base of the Koolau Mountain Range. If you want to experience Hawaii as a paniolo (Hawaiian Cowboy), this spread will have you kicking up your heels. For over 40 years, the family-owned and operated, fully working ranch has helped riders of all ages channel their inner cowboy.
Trails provide you with breathtaking views spanning from Kaneohe Bay to the North Shore. Among Gunstock’s most unique rides are a monthly sunset ride with campfire, barbecue, and a full moon ride twice a month. Experience hidden gems with a private, fully guided UTV tour. Knowledgeable guides include stories and history of the ‘aina (land) to make the journey come to life.
808-293-2026
www.GunstockRanch.com
56-250 Kamehameha Hwy
Laie, HI 96762
Bay View Mini Putt & Zipline
Located in the lush region of Kaneohe, Bay View Mini-Putt and Zipline has been attracting mini golf lovers and adventure seekers for years. The facility has two 18-hole courses. The Pali Course is situated on the side of the mountain and involves some very exciting, yet challenging holes. The flatter Likelike Course involves the utilization of banks and curves in your mini golfing strategy.
Bay View not only offers mini golf, but is also home to the islands first commercial zipline. This thrilling ride starts in a suspended tree house before gliding along a 400-foot-long zipline. Riders can reach speeds of 25 mph as they marvel at stunning views of Kaneohe. The zipline requirements include a minimum age of 6 and must be 60-250 lbs.
www.bayviewminiputt.com
45-285 Kaneohe Bay Dr.
Kaneohe, HI 96744
Razor Sports
“It’s like real-life Mario Kart!” Experience an adrenaline rush at Razor Sports. With 2 different sized go-karts, both children and adults can experience drifting at either their Ka Makana Ali’i or Pearlridge Center location. Drive and drift forward, backward, sideways, diagonally, and everything in between!
At their Ka Makana Ali’i location, you can have even more fun at the glow in the dark nerf battle arena at Razor Games. They also host parties, fundraisers, private arena close outs, school excursions and more. Party packages include track time, head socks and helmets along with different package upgrades. Ask them about their dual experience party package! Walk-ins are welcome during store hours, but all three venues can be reserved for private parties.
Reservations: 808-388-8844
Pearlridge: 808-485-5007
Ka Makana Ali’I: 808-670-2727
www.RazorDrift808.com
Fire Department Museum & Education Center
Did you know that Oahu is home to the first fire department west of the Mississippi River? Located in downtown Honolulu is the historic Kaka‘ako Fire Station, one of seven fire stations in Honolulu on the National Register of Historic Places. Learn about the Honolulu Fire Department’s rich history and transformation from a Hawaiian monarchy to modernization. The museum is open for free tours every third Saturday of the month, starting at 9AM and lasting 30-40 minutes with HFD fire fighters as tour guides.
808-723-7167
fire.honolulu.gov/requests-for-information
620 South Street
Honolulu, HI 96813
U.S.S. Bowfin
Experience first-hand what it was like to live as a submariner of the past! The USS Bowfin Museum is a National Historic Landmark featuring the restored WWII submarine and a comprehensive exhibit of the history of submarines. The waterfront memorial pays tribute to the 52 U.S. submarines and more than 3,500 crewmen who lost their lives in WWII. Recently, the museum was expanded and interior redesigned with three galleries that document the history of the U.S. Navy’s Submarine Force during WWII, the Cold War, today and into the future. Children three and younger are not allowed on the sub due to safety reasons. They are allowed to visit the museum and mini-theater free of charge. The hours of operation are 7:00am to 5:00pm. The last admission to the submarine is at 4:30pm.
808-423-1341
www.Bowfin.org
11 Arizona Memorial Dr.
Honolulu, HI 96818
Kid’s City
Kid’s City is Hawaii’s first luxury indoor play space for keiki. You will be in awe at their innovative play sections for children 7 months to 13 years old, located at Ward Village or their new location at Ka Makana Ali’i. Kids will jump for joy on the air castle, in the ball pool and pretend play stations, explore the jungle gym, magnetic wall, LEGO wall, toddler room, and state-of-the-art augmented reality interactive drawing spaces. There is play equipment as far as the eye can see suited for children ages 10 months to 13 years. Ask them about hosting special occasions like birthdays & field trips!
Ward Center: 808-888-2700
Ka Makana Ali’i: 808-393-7909
www.KidsCityHawaii.com
Wet ‘n Wild Waterpark
Nestled on 29-acres of lush tropical landscape and natural cliffs, Wet ‘n Wild is Hawaii’s only water-themed amusement park, offering more than 25 exhilarating rides and attractions ideal for families and thrill seekers. While adrenaline addicts can enjoy slides such as Tornado, which catapults riders into a 130-foot-tall funnel and drops them into a swirling splashdown pool, the park also features tamer attractions. The relaxing Kapolei Kooler, a winding lazy river; the Lil’ Kahuna Beach, an interactive children’s area filled with fountains, mini-slides and a dumping water bucket; and Hawaiian Waters, a 400,000-gallon wave pool with four foot swells. Open year round, it will be sure to appeal to both parents and children alike. Ask about their kama’aina deals!
808-674-9283
www.WetnWildHawaii.com
400 Farrington Hwy
Kapolei, HI 96707
