Things to Do in Hawaii With Kids
Hawaiian culture revolves around the concept of ohana (family), and the islands are a fantastic destination for families. Hawaii has plenty to offer – on land and water — whether your Keiki (children) are active, shy, curious, courageous, studious, creative, athletic, or otherwise.
This spot is a perfect getaway for people of all ages because of its rich history and culture, diverse landscape, spectacular views, tropical weather, rich biodiversity, and savory food. A visit to Hawaii is also ideal for parents, thanks to the numerous ways to entertain and engage Keiki.
Here are 7 of the best things to do in Hawaii with kids.
1. Go Stand-up Paddleboarding with a Pup
How can you improve the enjoyment of surfing and stand-up paddleboarding (SUP)? Include a furry companion. A Surf or SUP With a Pup session is available to guests of Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore. The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club in Waikiki, on the south side of the island, is a wonderful home base for people who wish to stay and surf with their dogs – the hotel is dog-friendly and works with SUPDog Hawaii for SUP and surf instruction.
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2. Live the Cowboy Life
Tourists can learn about the history and culture of Hawaii’s native cowboys, known as paniolo, by visiting a functioning ranch. Head to Kahua Ranch on the island of Hawaii for an experiential experience that includes a Hawaiian “talk story,” line dance, roping demonstrations, a sunset BBQ, live music, and an evening around the campfire. On Maui, cowboy culture may be seen at Makawao and the nearby upcountry area, where you can schedule a horseback ride or attend the Makawao Rodeo, the state’s largest paniolo competition if you visit in July. On Oahu, make a reservation for an evening of storytelling, hula, Keiki activities, and a pig roast at the Turtle Bay Stables at the Paniolo P’ina.
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3. Eat Your Way Around Town
It’s difficult to know where to begin when it comes to ono (delicious) foods in Hawaii. You don’t have to go it alone, thankfully. Lanai Tabura, a native Hawaiian chef and comedian, leads Aloha Plate Food Tours, the world’s first Hawaiian food tour, through local cuisines while delivering history and laughter. Private bookings can be personalized, so if your Keiki has a specific need, let us know when you make your reservation.
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4. Experience the Ocean After Dark
On an Anelakai Adventures after-dark cruise off the Kona Coast on the island of Hawaii, you may stargaze and snorkel with manta rays. All ocean activities with this Native Hawaiian-owned tour company are human-powered (no engines are utilized), allowing customers to enjoy the serenity while watching manta rays, plankton, and other marine life swim beneath them. Smaller children and those who choose to stay in the boat are welcome as well; from your seat, you can see the wonderful mantas and marine plankton.
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5. Learn How to Hula
Hula is a terrific method to get everyone moving by combining vital parts of Hawaiian culture such as dance, music, and storytelling. Enquire about on-site hula lessons when reserving a hotel, such as the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko’olina, where La’akea Perry, a Native Hawaiian Kumu hula (hula teacher), conducts an engaging program for children five and up.
6. Try Forest Bathing
Forest bathing can help your children gain confidence and comfort in the outdoors while also developing a connection with nature. Forest bathing is a Japanese wellness practice known as Shinrin-yoku (immersing in the forest atmosphere). Phyllis Look, the originator, and guide of Forest Bathing Hawai’i takes people through a series of sensory-based invitations in an outdoor setting to connect to the land and environment. Parents can book a private two-hour forest bathing session (supported by a guardian) at Lyon Arboretum, or a private three-hour hike and forest bathing at Camp Palehua for youths 12 and above (also followed by a guardian).
7. Paddle the Polynesian Way
An outrigger canoe is a great way to see the ocean. This ancient mode of conveyance employed by the earliest Polynesians to settle in Hawaii is still very much a part of Hawaiian contemporary culture. Discover about the popular water sport and its history while paddling Maui’s shoreline with an outrigger canoe trip from Kaanapali Beach Hotel or Fairmont Kea Lani Maui (free for guests of this resort). Simply register for a paddling and snorkeling tour with Native Hawaiian Nakoaokalani Prejean, a former navigator with the Polynesian Voyaging Society, through the Kaaumoana program at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko’olina. In a four-person outrigger with Kapakahi Tours, smaller groups (three or fewer people) can catch waves near Waikiki. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
