Looking for the best things to do in Honolulu with kids in 2025? This family-friendly travel guide covers beaches, hikes, aquariums, and animal attractions—based on real experiences and perfect for planning your Oahu vacation with children.
1. Waikiki Beach – The No-Fail Starter
After a 6-hour flight, the only thing our kids wanted was water. Waikiki Beach delivered.
Shallow, warm, safe—this beach is ideal for toddlers and big kids alike. We laid down a towel, pulled out sand toys, and watched the kids lose themselves in the waves while we finally relaxed.
Stay nearby if you can. Proximity means fewer meltdowns and more spontaneous fun.
- Best time: Early morning
- Nearby hotels: Hilton Hawaiian Village, Outrigger Waikiki
- Cost: Free
2. Honolulu Zoo – Educational Without Feeling Like It
We didn’t expect much. Then our 5-year-old spent 20 minutes staring at a tree kangaroo, totally engaged.
The zoo isn’t huge, which is a plus when you’re pushing a stroller or managing nap schedules. Highlights include elephants, reptiles, a playground, and several shaded paths.
- Admission: Adults $19, Kids $11
- Time needed: ~2 hours
- Best age range: 2–10
3. Diamond Head Crater – A Mini “Adventure Hike” for Kids
Hiking with kids sounds chaotic—but this trail made us rethink everything.
Our 7-year-old reached the summit with only two snack stops and declared, “This is the coolest mountain ever.” It’s short, paved for most of the way, and the views at the top are worth every “Are we there yet?”
- Trail distance: 1.6 miles round trip
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Cost: $5 per person, $10 parking
Tip: If your itinerary includes physical activities, consider buying family travel insurance that covers injuries or cancellations.
4. Waikiki Aquarium – A Calm, Interactive Escape
It rained the afternoon we visited, but honestly—it worked out.
This small, quiet aquarium is perfect for winding down. There’s a monk seal pool, coral reef tanks, and a glowing jellyfish room.
No overstimulation, no rush—just slow-paced discovery.
- Cost: Adults $12, Kids $5
- Duration: ~1 hour
- Walkable from: Most Waikiki hotels
5. Atlantis Submarine Tour – 100 Feet Underwater Without Getting Wet
A real submarine takes you down below the surface to see coral reefs, tropical fish, and even a shipwreck.
Our 9-year-old called it “the best ride of my life.” It’s not cheap, but this is the kind of experience your kid will talk about for years.
- Price: Adults $139, Kids $59
- Time: 60 minutes
- Requirement: Children must be at least 36 inches tall
6. Sea Life Park – Up-Close Animal Encounters
Want to feed sea turtles? Watch dolphins leap? Touch a stingray?
Sea Life Park offers all of this with scenic ocean views and guided programs that keep kids engaged. It’s not a huge park, but that’s what makes it doable for families with younger children.
- Admission: Adults $44.99, Kids $34.99
- Shuttle: Available from Waikiki
- Duration: Half-day
7. Bishop Museum – Science, Volcanoes, and Zero Boredom
We thought this would be a quick in-and-out museum stop.
Instead, our kids spent 40 minutes inside a simulated lava tube. Then they moved to a wave-energy experiment, followed by a stargazing show in the planetarium.
This isn’t just history—it’s science, culture, and fun rolled into one.
- Admission: Adults $28.95, Kids $20.95
- Highlights: Volcano lab, Hawaiian navigation, planetarium
- Best for: Ages 6+
8. Kakaʻako Waterfront Park – A Quiet Break from Busy Days
Sometimes you just need space.
This park offers huge grassy fields, paved paths for scooters, and stunning views of the coastline. We brought a blanket, takeout from nearby SALT at Kakaʻako, and let the kids run free while we caught our breath.
- Cost: Free
- Best time: Sunset
- Nearby food: Brick oven pizza, poke bowls, smoothies
9. Waiola Shave Ice – The Ultimate Local Treat
Our kids didn’t want to leave Hawaii. But when we asked what they’d miss most, it wasn’t the beach—it was the shave ice.
Waiola is famous for its fine, fluffy texture. Add mango syrup, a scoop of ice cream underneath, and chewy mochi on top, and you’ve got a melt-proof reward after a long, hot day.
- Cost: $4–6
- Location: 2135 Waiola Street
- Pro tip: Go mid-afternoon to avoid lines
10. Waikiki Trolley – Touring Without the Whining
An open-air trolley takes you across Honolulu’s top destinations, from Iolani Palace to Ala Moana Center to Diamond Head. It’s more fun than a rental car and saves little legs from long walks.
We used it as our unofficial tour guide and our backup plan for “we’re too tired to figure out the bus.”
- Pass: Adults $45, Kids $20
- Routes: Scenic, Shopping, Cultural, and Dining
- Value: Excellent for families without a rental car
Final Thoughts
A Honolulu vacation in 2025 doesn’t need to be overplanned, overpriced, or overwhelming. Stick to these family-tested, parent-approved activities, and you’ll find that even the most skeptical traveler (looking at you, grumpy middle child) will leave with a smile.
Planning to visit Maui or Kauai next? Our complete Hawaii family itinerary guide is coming soon.
FAQ: Things to Do in Honolulu With Kids (2025)
Is Honolulu safe and suitable for young children?
Yes, especially in areas like Waikiki. Most attractions are stroller-friendly and staffed.
When is the best time to visit with kids?
April–June and September–November offer great weather and smaller crowds.
Can you do Honolulu on a budget with kids?
Yes. Many of the best experiences (beaches, parks, public museums) are free or inexpensive.
Should I book family travel insurance for Hawaii?
Absolutely. It’s especially useful if you’re doing outdoor activities or visiting during storm season.
Where should families stay?
Look for Oahu resort packages near Waikiki with kitchenettes and pools, like Aston Waikiki or Embassy Suites.
For the latest travel updates and safety guidelines, visit the official Hawaii Tourism Authority site.