Nestled among beautiful beaches and big-city attractions, Prince Waikiki is a destination designed for every member of your family, blending upscale island bliss with kid-sized fun. Our vibrant neighborhood offers a diverse mix of all-ages activities in the sun and shade, and when you’re ready for rest, you’re never far from the relaxed rhythm of island life at our ocean view oasis.

Discover some of the best things for families to do on Oʻahu. If you can’t fit them all into one trip, don’t worry — a first-time visit is bound to become a new family tradition.

Family-Friendly Beaches

A quick stroll from Prince Waikiki is the world-famous Waikiki Beach — a sunny day must-see. From sunbathers to surfers and sandcastle builders, this two-mile stretch of sand comes alive every sunrise with locals and visitors alike. And while its soft white sand is considered Oʻahu’s busiest beachfront, the waters are exceptionally calm, making it the perfect place for little ones to safely splash in the surf. Waikiki Beach also offers plenty of aquatic activities for families searching for more thrill than chill, from surf lessons to snorkeling adventures and paddle boarding excursions.

Want to stay close to your home away from home? Ala Moana Beach Park is the playground of Oʻahu beaches, featuring tennis courts, bike paths, shaded picnic tables, concession stands, and a half-mile of sandy shore. It’s a genuine urban oasis located a short walk from Prince Waikiki, where families gather to watch the sunset over the ocean and swim in gentle waters. 

Families searching for a quieter beach day will find endless natural beauty at Waimanalo Beach and Kailua Beach. Less popular with tourists, these pristine Oʻahu scenes make breathtaking backdrops for memorable vacation photos.

Swim With Spinner Dolphins

When it comes to unforgettable family experiences, swimming with dolphins tops many bucket lists. Embark on the excursion of a lifetime with Dolphins and You, beginning with a one-hour shuttle ride to Waianae Harbor before venturing out to sea. As you prepare to set sail, you’ll learn a traditional Hawaiian E Ho Mai chant to ask the sea gods for safe travel and abundant dolphins.

On the ocean, your tour guides double as onboard entertainers as you make your way to Oʻahu’s West Coast in search of spinner dolphins, known for their acrobatic spinning skills and long snouts. On this excursion, it’s estimated that tourgoers have a 90% chance of sharing the waters with these magical creatures. After getting acquainted with some local dolphins, the boat cruises to one of Hawaii’s most stunning coral reefs. Here, you can snorkel with tropical fish, sea turtles, manta rays, and sometimes even whales.

For a relaxing dip without the dolphins, Prince Waikiki’s kid-friendly saltwater pool and hot tub overlook Honolulu’s skyline and the shimmering Pacific Ocean.

Diamond Head Crater Hike

Up for a trek? Oʻahu is a hiker’s haven, and one of the island’s most iconic routes is surprisingly kid-friendly. Part of the Koʻolau Range of volcanoes, Diamond Head Trail (known as Lēʻahi, meaning “brow of the tuna” in Hawaiian) is a 350-acre crater at the edge of Waikiki’s coastline. It was created by an eruption that took place around 300,000 years ago.

Today, it’s one of Oʻahu’s most popular trails — and for good reason. From its lookout point, hikers can look down at Waikiki, across Honolulu, and out toward the majestic Waianae Mountains. On an especially clear day, it’s possible to see all the way to Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Maui. You might even spot a humpback whale in the ocean below if you’re really lucky. A roughly 40 to 60-minute walk from start to finish, it’s an accessible hike that older kids will enjoy as much as the adults. The trail’s captivating history adds another layer of wonder to this local legend, featuring a huge lighthouse, dark underground tunnels, and military bunkers that require a flashlight.

Even a short hike can work up an appetite. Plan a post-adventure dinner at 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar, where little ones five years and younger eat for free, and kids 6 to 10 years old receive 50% off. Enjoy fresh, island-inspired menus, cocktails crafted to perfection, and ocean views.

Honolulu Zoo & Waikiki Aquarium

Want to take a walk on the wild side? Discover a whole new world a short, seven-minute drive from Prince Waikiki. Located within Kapiʻolani Park, Honolulu Zoo is a 42-acre sanctuary with over 1,200 animals, including several endangered species. From giraffes, Sumatran tigers, and elephants to dozens of reptiles, amphibians, and birds, it’s a place to get closer to nature and connect with each other. The Honolulu Zoo also offers a children’s petting zoo, food court, and playground, making it a worthwhile day trip for families with little ones.

A few blocks from the Honolulu Zoo is the Waikiki Aquarium, where kids will love diving into discovering the aquatic life of the Pacific. Overlooking a living coral reef, the aquarium’s 13 exhibits offer the opportunity to spot over 3,500 marine animals, including sea dragons, giant clams, octopuses, and jellyfish. It also provides interactive family-friendly classes for hands-on fun.

An Afternoon of Arts

Fun in the sun is a guarantee on an Oʻahu vacation, but our island is an art lover’s paradise, too. Honolulu is the epicenter of Hawaii’s creative and cultural scene, with many museums and galleries just steps from the coastline. Art is also at the heart of Prince Waikiki, with several local works displayed right here in our lobby.

Once you’ve explored our collection, spend an afternoon strolling through the Honolulu Museum of Art, featuring more than 60,000 pieces in some of the city’s most beautiful buildings. Older children and teens with a budding appreciation of the arts will love Family Sundays, featuring engaging activities for kids of all ages and entertainment around the museum. No matter which day you visit, Prince Waikiki guests always receive 2 for 1 admission.

Plan Your Family Getaway at Prince Waikiki

Sweeten your Prince Waikiki stay and book with one of our special offers or vacation packages. Enjoy more space for the whole family in one of our suites and receive every third night free, plus dinner on us. Or, receive your fourth night free when you book any of our ocean view accommodations.