10 Things to Do in Waikiki with Kids

Chief’s Luau on Oahu stands out as a top-choice evening of Hawaiian fun, offering an all-you-can-eat dinner buffet and traditional Polynesian entertainment in a spectacular setting that features a 50-foot backlit cascading waterfall. Hosted by the humorous and talented Chief Sielu, kids are treated to an interactive experience filled with laughter, Polynesian music, hula, the Maori haka, and a breathtaking fire knife dance.

This exclusive small-group tour ensures a personal and unforgettable adventure in the bay’s serene, wildlife-rich waters. Enjoy the convenience of skip-the-line access and personalized guidance to prime spots for encountering vibrant tropical fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles.

As you glide along the coast, take in stunning panoramic views of Waikiki Beach, the city’s skyline, and the majestic Diamond Head Crater, all while the sun sets in a spectacular display of colors.  With a capacity of 26 passengers and lifeguard-certified crew members ensuring safety, the Mana Kai offers a relaxing and memorable way to watch the sunset off Waikiki.

This tour offers an exclusive view of the ocean’s depths, home to Hawaiian green sea turtles, vibrant tropical fish, and reef sharks, through large portal windows. Designed for comfort and style, the Atlantis Submarine adventure is an unparalleled experience, allowing more time on the ocean floor than is typically accessible to scuba divers. Ideal for families and those seeking an alternative to snorkeling or diving, it includes a scenic boat ride to the dive site, where you can explore sunken ships and airplane wrecks that have become bustling marine habitats.

Swim alongside Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, colorful coral reefs, and tropical fish, with a chance to spot spinner dolphins on the morning cruise. Regardless of your snorkeling experience, you’ll be guided through the beautiful marine landscape, equipped with all necessary gear. The Spirit of Aloha enhances the experience with onboard amenities like unlimited soft drinks, a full bar with special drink prices, and a deluxe vessel featuring a modern indoor cabin and a lounging net for soaking up the sun.

Beginning with a fascinating stroll through the Museum of Curiosities, guests are introduced to the magical and historical ties between Hawaii and England through captivating stories and enchanting tricks. The experience crescendos in the main theater, where world-class magicians weave a tapestry of illusion, humor, and awe, recreating the intimate and spellbinding salon performances of yesteryear.

As the evening unfolds, your captain will illuminate the underwater viewing portals, allowing you to witness the nocturnal sea life beneath the waves before directing your attention skyward to the spectacular fireworks display. This cruise offers a remarkable opportunity to enjoy the beauty of both the ocean’s depths and the starlit Honolulu sky, making it an ideal adventure for guests of all ages.

Comfortably adapt to wearing and swimming with a mermaid tail, all while capturing your transformation through photos and videos. With personalized guidance, you’ll receive expert tips on mermaiding techniques at your own pace, including the option to use a flotation device for ease with the monofin. The adventure continues with a snorkeling session in a nearby reef, where your guide will document your graceful, mermaid-like swimming through the underwater world.

Dive into the exhilarating world of surfing with Surf HNL’s Waikiki Surf Lesson at Ala Moana Beach Park, a unique and exciting way to spend your vacation in Waikiki. The experience is designed to safely introduce you to open-ocean surfing, enhancing your performance while minimizing injury risks, all under the guidance of fun and expert instructors.