Highly recommended hotels in Oahu for families

A fun, surf-themed hotel located directly across from Waikiki Beach. Families enjoy the free beach gear rentals, rooftop pool, and live Hawaiian music in the evenings. The location makes it easy to walk to nearby attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and Kapiolani Park.

What families like: Prime location across from the beach, Free beach gear rentals, Fun Hawaiian-themed atmosphere, Kid-friendly dining nearby

Potential cons: Rooms are small, Can be noisy, No major resort amenities

A massive beachfront resort set on 22 acres, featuring five pools, a waterslide, and a man-made saltwater lagoon that’s perfect for young children. The resort hosts Friday night fireworks and cultural activities like hula dancing and lei making. With a variety of on-site restaurants, shopping, and family-friendly entertainment, this resort offers something for all ages.

What families like: Huge resort with lots of activities, Lagoon ideal for young swimmers, Many on-site dining options, Fireworks every Friday

Potential cons: Very large property with lots of walking, Can feel crowded, Some older rooms need updates

A family-friendly high-rise resort with oceanview rooms, a large pool deck, and interactive cultural activities. Located right across from Waikiki Beach, it offers easy access to surfing lessons and beach fun. The hotel also has a Hawaiian cultural center with storytelling, lei making, and ukulele lessons.

What families like: Spacious rooms, Great location across from the beach, Cultural activities for kids, Large pool deck

Potential cons: Resort fee required, No direct beach access, Pool area can feel crowded

Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this historic beachfront resort provides an elegant yet family-friendly atmosphere. Families can enjoy the private beach section, complimentary beach toys, and Hawaiian cultural activities. The resort also hosts live Hawaiian music and storytelling nights.

What families like: Beautiful beachfront location, Private beach area, Cultural experiences for families, Luxurious accommodations

Potential cons: Expensive, Can get crowded, Some rooms feel outdated

A budget-friendly family resort directly across from Waikiki Beach, offering incredible ocean views. The hotel has kid-friendly dining options, a pool with cabanas, and free beach gear rentals. Families can enjoy the nearby Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium, both within walking distance.

What families like: Affordable oceanfront hotel, Free beach gear rentals, Close to family attractions, On-site food options

Potential cons: Rooms are small, No on-site kids’ club, Basic amenities

Located on the North Shore, this secluded resort offers families a mix of adventure and relaxation. Activities include horseback riding, snorkeling, surfing lessons, and kid-friendly hiking trails. The calm waters at nearby Kuilima Cove make it a great spot for young swimmers. Families can choose from standard rooms or spacious oceanfront villas with kitchens.

What families like: Beautiful and uncrowded beaches, Great for adventure activities, Large family-friendly villas, Excellent dining options

Potential cons: Expensive, Far from Honolulu’s main attractions, Fewer kid-specific activities than some resorts

A family-friendly resort with two pools, a large fitness center, and direct access to Waikiki Beach. The resort is located near the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium, making it perfect for families looking for nearby attractions. The on-site restaurants offer kid-friendly menus, and the oceanfront fire pits make for fun family evenings.

What families like: Convenient location, Great pools for families, Close to family attractions, Spacious rooms

Potential cons: Not directly on the beach, Resort fees can add up, Some rooms have limited views

A beachfront resort in central Waikiki, combining family-friendly amenities with Hawaiian cultural experiences. Kids can participate in lei making, ukulele lessons, and storytelling sessions. The family-friendly pools, on-site dining, and proximity to shopping and entertainment make this a convenient choice for families.

What families like: Excellent location, Family-friendly cultural activities, Direct beach access, Large suites available

Potential cons: Can be noisy due to central location, Beach area is small, Some rooms could use updates

Known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” this historic beachfront resort blends classic elegance with modern family-friendly amenities. Families can enjoy direct beach access, complimentary beach chairs, and afternoon tea on the veranda. The resort offers cultural activities like hula lessons and lei making, making it a great mix of history and family fun.

What families like: Prime beachfront location, Beautiful historic architecture, Cultural activities for kids, Afternoon tea experience

Potential cons: Expensive, Some rooms are small, Beach area can get crowded

A modern, upscale resort with large family-friendly suites offering panoramic ocean views. The kids’ infinity pool and family cabanas provide a relaxing atmosphere, while the location near Ala Moana Beach Park is perfect for families looking for calmer waters. The resort also features complimentary bikes, making it easy to explore nearby attractions.

What families like: Spacious and modern rooms, Beautiful infinity pool, Close to shopping and beach parks, Excellent service

Potential cons: Not directly on Waikiki Beach, Limited on-site kids’ activities, Pool can be small for larger families

A stylish boutique resort located near Ala Moana Beach Park, offering family-friendly suites with kitchenettes. The lagoon-style pool is perfect for young children, and families can enjoy nearby shopping and beaches. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great alternative to crowded Waikiki resorts.

What families like: Chic and modern design, Great location near shopping, Family-friendly suites, Quiet atmosphere

Potential cons: No direct beach access, Smaller pool area, Limited kid-specific activities

A spacious villa-style resort in Ko Olina, offering full kitchens, multiple pools, and a quiet beachfront lagoon. Families can enjoy the kids’ activity center, snorkeling, and paddleboarding. The resort is located near Aulani, so families can enjoy Disney experiences without the Disney price tag.

What families like: Large villa-style accommodations, Quiet and private beach, Family-friendly pools, Close to Aulani

Potential cons: Far from Waikiki, Dining options are limited, Can be pricey

A luxurious, secluded resort just ten minutes from Waikiki, offering an exclusive and peaceful atmosphere. The Dolphin Quest experience allows families to interact with dolphins in a private lagoon. The kids’ club offers Hawaiian-themed activities like ukulele lessons and hula dancing. The resort’s private beach ensures a quiet, relaxing experience.

What families like: Quiet and private beach, Dolphin encounters on-site, Excellent kids’ club, Spacious rooms

Potential cons: Expensive, Limited dining options, Far from Waikiki

A modern yet budget-friendly hotel with beautiful Diamond Head views and a relaxed family-friendly vibe. Located near Kapiolani Park and Waikiki Beach, it offers a rooftop pool, kid-friendly dining, and cultural events like ukulele performances.

What families like: Great value for families, Stunning Diamond Head views, Rooftop pool, Close to family attractions

Potential cons: No direct beach access, Fewer on-site activities, Can get crowded

A boutique-style hotel in Waikiki with a unique retro Hawaiian design. It offers family-friendly poolside cabanas, complimentary shave ice, and fun amenities like Polynesian-inspired games. The location near Waikiki Beach Walk makes it easy for families to explore.

What families like: Stylish boutique hotel, Family-friendly atmosphere, Free shave ice, Close to shopping and dining

Potential cons: Smaller property with limited amenities, No direct beach access, Pool is on the smaller side

A hidden gem on Oahu’s east side, offering a quiet, nature-filled escape for families looking to explore beyond Waikiki. Features include kayaking, snorkeling, fishing, and private boat tours, making it great for adventurous families. The resort also offers kitchenettes in rooms and a complimentary continental breakfast.

What families like: Peaceful, nature-filled location, Great for outdoor activities, Kitchenettes in rooms, Away from crowds

Potential cons: Far from Waikiki, Limited dining options, No sandy beach

A lively, family-friendly resort featuring a large oceanfront pool with a waterslide and an infinity pool with stunning Waikiki Beach views. The Helumoa Playground pool area has water fountains and a fun atmosphere for kids. The resort also hosts outdoor movies and cultural activities.

What families like: Amazing infinity pool, Central Waikiki location, Great family pool with waterslide, Kid-friendly dining options

Potential cons: Can be very busy, Expensive parking, Beach area is small

A luxury beachfront resort known for its tranquil atmosphere and spacious suites. While not as kid-focused as some resorts, the calm beach and excellent service make it a great choice for families looking for a peaceful retreat. The on-site restaurants provide kid-friendly dining options, and the staff goes above and beyond to accommodate families.

What families like: Quiet and luxurious, Beautiful beach views, Excellent service, Large rooms

Potential cons: Expensive, Less family-focused activities, No waterslides or kids’ club

A small boutique hotel with a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Located just one block from Waikiki Beach, it offers complimentary beach gear, spacious rooms, and a pet-friendly policy. Families love the complimentary morning coffee and juice bar.

What families like: Cozy and family-friendly, Close to the beach, Free beach gear, Quiet atmosphere

Potential cons: No on-site pool, Limited resort amenities, Small property

A condo-style hotel with large suites, full kitchens, and a playground area, making it one of the most affordable and convenient family-friendly options in Waikiki. Families love the rooftop recreation deck, which includes a pool, hot tub, tennis court, and BBQ grills.

What families like: Spacious suites with kitchens, Great rooftop play area, Close to the beach and zoo, Budget-friendly

Potential cons: Older building with basic decor, No direct beach access, Limited on-site dining

A budget-friendly, all-suite hotel with full kitchens and spacious accommodations, making it ideal for larger families. Located a few blocks from Waikiki Beach, it offers easy access to family-friendly attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and Kapiolani Park. The hotel also provides beach gear rentals and a rooftop BBQ area.

What families like: Affordable family suites, Full kitchens in every unit, Close to beach and zoo, Great for extended stays

Potential cons: Not directly on the beach, No major resort amenities, Basic decor

One of the best all-suite hotels for families, offering complimentary breakfast and a family-friendly pool with a sundeck. Located within the Waikiki Beach Walk area, the hotel provides easy access to restaurants, shopping, and the beach. Suites include kitchenettes, making it convenient for families traveling with kids.

What families like: Free breakfast, Spacious suites with kitchenettes, Family-friendly pool, Close to Waikiki Beach

Potential cons: No direct beach access, Limited resort amenities, Can get noisy