Get ready to swap your daily routine for a sprinkle of sun, sand, and sea turtle sightings! Welcome to our 3-day Oahu itinerary – a tropical treasure chest packed with family-friendly activities. We’re talking beach fun, waterpark splashing, and even a dash of time travel back to ancient Hawaii. So, fasten your seatbelts and put on your sun hats, because a whirlwind of Hawaiian fun is about to start!

This map was made with Wanderlog, a road trip planner app on iOS and Android

Day 1: Starting with a Splash

Visit to Waikiki Beach

View of the Waikiki beach at sunset, Honolulu, Hawaii. Copy space for text
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Start your Oahu adventure with a morning visit to the iconic Waikiki Beach! Bask in the golden Hawaiian sun rays while constructing sandcastles worthy of the island royalty.

Family-friendly water activities (surfing, paddleboarding)

Dad teaches determined daughter to surf in Waikiki Hawaii
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Once you’ve had your sandcastle showdown, it’s time to hit the waves! Whether you’re a surfing superstar or a paddleboarding prodigy, Waikiki Beach offers a playground of family-friendly water activities.

Lunch at a restaurant near the beach

hawaiian bbq plate with mix of chicken katsu, korean kalbi beef short ribs, rice, and macaroni salad
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It’s munch time! Satisfy those growling tummies at a nearby eatery and let the little ones experience the mouthwatering magic of a Hawaiian plate lunch. Having lunch with your kids at MAC 24/7 Restaurant and Bar will be an experience! Not only is the menu bursting with mouth-watering options, but the lively atmosphere will keep your little ones captivated. On the other hand, if a serene, organic vibe is more up your alley, Heavenly Island Lifestyle is a paradise waiting to be discovered. The cafe offers a diverse array of locally sourced dishes that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. Either way, you’re in for a scrumptious, kid-friendly treat right in the heart of Hawaii! Just beware – the mac salad has been known to cause spontaneous hula dancing!

Sunbathing and building sandcastles

Two kid boys building sand castle on tropical beach of Boracay, Philippines
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After lunch, grab your sunblock and your shovels, it’s the sandcastle-building time! Unleash your inner architect while catching some rays and don’t forget to snap a picture of your sandy masterpiece – future generations of beachgoers will sing songs of your legendary sand kingdom!

Family walk along the Waikiki Beach Walk

Sunset at Waikiki Beach in Oahu, Hawaii
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As the sun sets, saunter along the picturesque Waikiki Beach Walk. Known for its vibrant energy, this bustling promenade offers stunning ocean views that will have your little ones oohing and ahhing. Make sure to keep an eye out for the spontaneous hula performances that pop up along the route.

Recommendations for beachfront dining options

After your stroll, it’s chow time! For an unforgettable beachfront dining experience, consider Duke’s Waikiki or Tiki’s Grill & Bar. Both restaurants offer a kid-friendly menu and enchanting live music. Remember to try the local seafood dishes – they’re a reel deal!

Day 2: Cultural and Historical Adventures

Visit to the Polynesian Cultural Center

Luau performances
© Polynesian Cultural Center

Rise and shine, little explorers! Today we’re heading over to the Polynesian Cultural Center. Get ready to be whisked away on a whimsical journey through the rich heritage of the Pacific Islands. Expect hands-on activities galore, where kids can learn about the island’s history, culture, and traditions in the most fun and interactive ways. From hula dancing to fire-making demonstrations, it’s a feast for young curious minds. Buckle up for a cultural adventure that’s equal parts educational and entertaining!

Lunch at the Hukilau Marketplace

An entrance/exit to Hukilau Marketplace
© Polynesian Cultural Center

Brace your taste buds for a luau of flavors as we launch at the Hukilau Marketplace! With delicious cuisine fit for a king (or a little prince and princess!) and an atmosphere that screams “Aloha!”, it’s an eatery not to be missed.

Exploring nearby attractions (Laie Point, beaches)

Oahu Island Laei Point, near the North Shore
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Once our tummies are delightfully full, we’ll journey on to explore the nearby attractions. We’ll soak up the breathtaking views at Laie Point and maybe even spot a monk seal lounging on one of the secluded beaches. Remember to pack your camera – these are moments you’ll want to treasure forever!

Luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center

PCC Luau
© Polynesian Cultural Center

As the sun sets and the cool breezes of the Pacific bring a refreshing end to your day, it’s time for the ultimate island experience – a luau at the Polynesian Cultural Center! Imagine the delight on your kids’ faces as they watch the skilled performers twirl fire batons, dance hula, and tell stories of the islands through song.

Traditional Polynesian performances for the family

PCC Luau
© Polynesian Cultural Center

Prepare to be mesmerized by traditional Polynesian performances that will take you on a journey through our rich heritage. With vibrant costumes, heart-pounding drum rhythms, and captivating storytelling, this is an evening that will have the whole family tapping their toes and swaying in their seats! Don’t forget to join in when the crowd gets up to learn the Hukilau dance. Who knows? You might just discover a talent for hula you never knew you had!

Day 3: Nature and Wildlife Encounters

Trip to the Honolulu Zoo

Flamingo
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Be prepared to come face-to-face with everything from rambunctious monkeys to elegant flamingos. It’s a jungle out there and we’re going to explore it! Honolulu Zoo hosts a variety of kid-friendly animal encounters and exhibits. Ever wanted to feel the soft fur of a bunny or the scaly skin of a reptile? Now’s your chance! And keep your eyes peeled for the zoo’s special events – you might just get to feed an elephant or help a zookeeper!

Picnic lunch at Kapiolani Park

Kapiolani Park Bench - Diamond Head
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Once you’ve waved goodbye to our furry and feathery friends at the zoo, it’s time for a relaxing picnic lunch at Kapiolani Park. Make sure to pack your favorite snacks, because nothing beats a good ol’ family picnic on a sunny Hawaiian afternoon. And hey, don’t forget the sunscreen!

Visit to the Waikiki Aquarium

Colorful Copperband Butterfly Tropical Fish Chelmon rostratus Waikiki Oahu Hawaii.
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After the bellies are full and spirits high, dive into the underwater world at the Waikiki Aquarium. Get ready to meet some of the most vibrant and fascinating inhabitants of the deep blue sea! This is going to be an afternoon to remember, folks! So, let’s get moving and explore the fantastic marine life Hawaii has to offer.

Dinner at a Family-friendly Restaurant

As the sun begins to set, gather for a delightful dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Just a hop, skip, and a splash away, you’ll find Lulu’s Restaurant in Waikiki, a family-friendly paradise of palate-pleasing delights! With its festive atmosphere and a menu that caters to all, Lulu’s makes you feel like part of the ohana. But wait, there’s more! If you’re in the mood for a more laid-back, toes-in-the-sand kind of dining experience, the Barefoot Beach Cafe is just the ticket. Serving up delicious meals with a side of panoramic ocean views, it’s a place where memories are made. So grab those flip-flops and come hungry! Children’s menus? Check. High chairs? Check. An unforgettable mealtime experience? Double check!

Sunset views and family photo opportunities

Happy family - father, mother, baby son walk with fun along edge of sunset sea surf on black sand beach. Active parents and people outdoor activity on summer vacations with children on Bali island
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Kick off your shoes and head to Kuhio Beach to catch the breathtaking Oahu sunset. This is the perfect time for those cherished family photos. So, let the golden hues of the setting sun serve as your backdrop and create memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Family Fun is Around Every Corner in Oahu!

And there you have it, folks! That’s your three-day, fun-filled, family-friendly adventure on the paradisiacal island of Oahu wrapped up. We’ve hopped across sun-kissed beaches, embraced the rich Hawaiian culture, and marveled at the stunning natural beauty. Oh, and let’s not forget the flavorful feasts and the heartwarming Aloha spirit! As you pack up those suitcases, remember, you’re not just taking back colorful leis and cute hula dolls. You’re also carrying a lei of cherished moments, laughter, and stories shared under the Hawaiian sun. So, until next time, a hui hou (until we meet again) Oahu!