5 Can’t-Miss Cultural Activities on Oahu Perfect for Families

The best family vacays? Those that let the kids explore, play and learn with a little fun for parents, too. One of the best spots in the world for family vacays? Oahu. Known as "The Gathering Place," Oahu has it all, all year-round. We've gathered the five best family-friendly ways to have fun on the island. Let the family (aloha) fun begin!

1) Surf's up

Perfect home base: OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort
Surfing is a must when on Oahu, and one of the best spots for both beginners and pros alike is the world-famous Waikiki Beach. For both the kids—and kid-at-heart beginners—check out Faith Surf School for surf lessons or catch a wave on an outrigger canoe, one of the only places in the world where you can try this exhilarating ancient pastime.

Insider tip: Check out the other best family-friendly beaches across Oahu.

2) Get cultured

Perfect home base: OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort
Keep the kids active and entertained with a taste of the aloha tradition(s) with OUTRIGGER Reef's culture programs for all ages. Learn to hula dance or make lei together for beautiful family moments, and there are even more options for local-culture fun (think ukulele lessons and Hawaiian woodcarving!).

Insider tip: After a day of culture with the kids, try an evening under the stars at Kani Ka Pila Grille for live Hawaiian music and a nightcap.

3) A night at Cirque du Soleil ʻAuana

Perfect home base: OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beach Resort
Add a little wow to your family’s Oahu itinerary with Cirque du Soleil ʻAuana, a one-of-a-kind show created just for Hawaii. Blending world-class acrobatics with Hawaiian storytelling, music and hula, this immersive performance brings the islands' culture to life in a way that’s exciting for kids and captivating for adults. Expect dazzling visuals, jaw-dropping moments and a story that celebrates the spirit of Hawaii through movement and artistry. It's the kind of night out that feels both entertaining and meaningful – a signature experience that connects your family to the destination in a whole new way.

Insider tip: Book early and plan dinner in Waikiki before the show for an easy, family-friendly evening.

4) Museum-ing

Perfect home base: OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Paradise Hotel
From the planetarium to the storied history of surf—and the largest assemblage of surfboards in the world—Oahu's Bishop Museum is the perfect place to spend an afternoon with the kids to learn about Hawaii from past to present.

Insider tip: Take some time to wander the property and discover the hotel’s curated collection of artwork by local artists scattered in rooms and throughout the public spaces.

5) Foodie family fun

Perfect home base: Waikiki Beachcomber by OUTRIGGER
One of the best things about Oahu has nothing to do with beautiful beaches or adventure: the food. Known for favorites like loco moco, lau lau, and poke, Oahu has everything from food trucks to five-course fine dining. Try the iconic must-stop Duke's Waikiki (the kids-will-love famous Hula pie) or the colorful acai bowls at Hawaii's most Instagrammed coffee shop.

Insider tip: Dine to the soundtrack of Waikiki with these top live music spots in Waikiki! 

Book your family-fun adventure now!