If you’re planning a trip to Oahu with kids, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. While it’s tempting to focus only on flight prices or hotel deals, your accommodations will shape your experience—especially when you’re traveling with kids. From meal times to nap breaks, beach access to late-night ice cream runs, your base matters.
The good news? Oʻahu is incredibly family-friendly. Unlike Kaua‘i or the Big Island—where visitors often split their trip between regions—Oʻahu is easy to explore from just one home base, thanks to well-connected highways and reasonable drive times (most under 1 hour). That means you can pick one place to stay and still access the whole island without packing and unpacking.
With its warm aloha spirit, swimmable beaches, and kid-friendly activities, Oʻahu is one of the best Hawaiian islands for families. But with so many regions to choose from—Waikīkī, the North Shore, Ko Olina, Kailua—where should you stay with kids?
This guide breaks down the best areas to stay in Oʻahu for families, highlighting what makes each region unique, what types of families they suit best, and key travel tips for a stress-free island adventure.
Why Your Oʻahu Home Base Matters
While it’s tempting to choose a hotel based on price or convenience, your accommodation plays a bigger role than you might think. It’s where you’ll recharge after long beach days, enjoy family meals, and unwind with the kids. You might spend up to half your vacation in or near your hotel—so choosing the right location can make or break your trip.
Fortunately, Oʻahu’s highway system makes most of the island accessible within an hour’s drive, so you don’t need to hop between hotels like you might on Kauaʻi or the Big Island. That said, each region of Oʻahu offers a very different vibe, pace, and experience.
For additional context and information, you can also take a look at our ranked lists.
Highly recommended hotels in Oahu for families
Amazing Hawaii – best beaches in Oahu ranked
Fun things to do with kids in Oahu
Best Places to Stay in Oʻahu with Kids
Waikīkī (Honolulu) – Best for First-Time Visitors & Convenience
Why families love it:
- Walkable access to restaurants, shops, and beach parks
- Tons of hotel options across every budget
- Kid-friendly attractions like the Honolulu Zoo and Waikīkī Aquarium
Waikīkī is the most popular area on Oʻahu—and for good reason. Families love how easy everything is: no car needed, sandy beaches just steps away, and endless dining options (yes, even picky eaters will be happy!). Hotels often offer amenities like pools, kitchenettes, and babysitting services.
Keep in mind: It’s busy and touristy, so if you’re looking for quiet seclusion, this might not be your spot.
North Shore – Best for Surf Culture & Laid-Back Adventures
Why families love it:
- Wide open beaches and fewer crowds
- Laid-back surf-town vibe
- Great snorkeling and turtle spotting
The North Shore is all about slow mornings, beach days, and local plate lunches. In winter, it’s famous for its big surf (best watched from a distance with young kids), but in summer the waves mellow out, making it great for swimming and snorkeling. Perfect for adventurous families who want a more off-the-beaten-path stay.
Good to know: Fewer hotels here—most visitors stay in vacation rentals or boutique inns.
Kailua & Lanikai (Windward Side) – Best for Beach-Loving Families & Active Kids
Why families love it:
- Gorgeous, soft-sand beaches with gentle waves
- Laid-back local vibe with easy access to hikes and nature
- Less touristy than Waikīkī
Kailua is a great choice for families who want to experience the “local” side of Oʻahu. It’s home to two of the island’s best beaches—Kailua and Lanikai—both calm, beautiful, and perfect for sandcastle-building and swimming. You’ll find charming vacation rentals and small inns rather than big hotels here.
Tip: Book early—accommodations here fill up quickly.
Ko Olina (Leeward Coast) – Best for Resort-Style Comfort & Young Kids
Why families love it:
- Safe, calm lagoons ideal for toddlers
- Family-friendly resorts with pools, kids’ clubs, and beach access
- Disney’s Aulani Resort is here!
Ko Olina is the go-to for families who want an all-in-one vacation. The calm, protected lagoons are perfect for little ones, and the resort area is built for relaxation. Think: lazy river, beachfront dining, and sunset strolls without leaving the property.
Good to know: You’ll want a rental car to explore the rest of the island, as Ko Olina is more isolated than other regions.
West Side (Leeward Coast beyond Ko Olina) – Best for Seclusion & Sunsets
Why families love it:
- Remote beaches and golden sunsets
- Fewer tourists and more nature
- Budget-friendly vacation rentals
For families who really want to get away from it all, the more remote areas of the Leeward Coast offer hidden beaches and stunning views. It’s not as built-up, but that’s the charm—think tidepool exploration and long drives through dramatic mountain scenery.
Note: You’ll need a car, and amenities like restaurants may be a bit of a drive.
Final Tips for Choosing the Best Family Stay in Oʻahu
- Traveling with toddlers? Look for walkable beaches and resorts with pools and cribs available.
- Got teens? Consider places with access to hikes, surf lessons, or shopping.
- Want to split your stay? Spend a few nights in Waikīkī and then a few in a quieter area like Kailua or the North Shore to get both convenience and calm.
Staying in Waikīkī with Kids – Everything Families Need to Know
Waikīkī is the heart of Honolulu and the epicenter of tourism in Hawai‘i—and for good reason. Backed by the iconic Diamond Head crater and stretching along a long, sandy beach, this bustling neighborhood is packed with family-friendly accommodations, easy transportation, and more kid-approved activities than you can count. If you’re looking for convenience, comfort, and access to everything, Waikīkī may be the perfect home base for your Oʻahu adventure.
Why Families Love Staying in Waikīkī
✅ Easy Access to Everything
Waikīkī has the highest concentration of hotels and resorts in all of Hawaiʻi, giving you endless options—from budget-friendly condos to full-service resorts like the Hilton Hawaiian Village or Moana Surfrider. Many offer kids’ programs, babysitting, or even free meals for children. Activity desks and tour kiosks are everywhere, making it easy to plan outings without stress.
✅ Beach Days Made Simple
Waikīkī Beach isn’t just one beach—it’s actually eight different stretches of sand, some with break walls perfect for beginner swimmers and little ones. Kuhio Beach, also called “The Ponds,” is one of the best for young kids because of its calm, protected waters. Older kids might love surf lessons at Queen’s Beach, where many first-time surfers catch their very first wave. Read our guide to Queen’s beach.
✅ Endless Activities
From outrigger canoe rides and stand-up paddleboarding to hula shows and torch-lighting ceremonies (free at Kuhio Beach three nights a week!), there’s always something happening in Waikīkī. Families can walk to the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikīkī Aquarium, or explore 500-acre Kapiʻolani Park for a picnic or shady break from the beach.
✅ No Car Needed
Waikīkī is walkable and packed with transport options: trolleys, buses, Biki bike rentals, rideshares, and even pedal cabs. If you’re staying here, you might not need a car at all—saving on both rental fees and parking, which can be expensive (more on that below!).
✅ Tons of Food Options
Feeding picky eaters? No problem. Waikīkī has everything from poke bowls and shave ice to pizza, pancakes, and kid-friendly chains like McDonald’s, Subway, and Cheesecake Factory. Parents will find plenty of upscale dining and cocktails too—just be sure to book popular spots like Duke’s or Hula Grill in advance.
✅ Entertainment and Culture
Luaus, magic shows, musical performances, and cultural experiences like lei-making or ukulele lessons are widely available. Waikīkī’s stage shows—like Blue Note Hawaii—often have kid-friendly times or themes, and the area is home to cultural gems like the Kuhio Beach Hula Show and even a statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing.
What to Consider Before Booking Waikīkī
While Waikīkī has a lot to offer, it’s not for everyone. Here’s what families should know:
❌ Crowds and Noise
Waikīkī sees more than 70,000 visitors a day. While that means tons of energy and amenities, it also means packed sidewalks, long restaurant waits, and limited elbow room on the beach. If you’re looking for peaceful, secluded vibes, you may want to head to a quieter corner of Oʻahu.
❌ Parking and Traffic Headaches
Resort parking can cost $40+ per night, and traffic in and out of Waikīkī is often slow, especially during rush hour. If you plan to explore other parts of the island, you’ll need patience—or a solid transit plan.
❌ Not Ideal for Toddlers
Parents of very young children might find Waikīkī a bit stressful. The streets are busy, green space is limited outside of Kapiʻolani Park, and strollers can be tricky to maneuver on crowded sidewalks. That said, many hotels are stroller-friendly and close to calmer beaches like Kuhio or Sans Souci.
❌ Expensive Eats and Upscale Stores
While there are budget options, many Waikīkī restaurants and shops cater to the luxury traveler. Think $25 lava flows and Chanel storefronts. Ala Moana Center (a short bus ride away) and Kuhio Avenue do offer more budget-friendly choices, though.
❌ Feels Less “Local”
Waikīkī can sometimes feel more like a resort strip than authentic Hawaiʻi. But nearby neighborhoods like Kapahulu and Chinatown (both a short drive or Uber away) offer a deeper taste of local food, history, and community events.
Nearby Family Highlights
- Waikīkī Aquarium – Great for young kids to learn about reef life in a compact, stroller-friendly space.
- Honolulu Zoo – Home to giraffes, tigers, and a shaded playground; perfect for a half-day trip.
- Diamond Head Hike – Adventurous families with older kids will love the panoramic views from the top.
- Kapiʻolani Park – Wide-open lawns for kite flying, picnics, and burning off energy.
- Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve – Epic snorkeling, but be sure to arrive early and make a reservation!
Should Families Stay on the North Shore of Oʻahu? A Complete Guide for Parents
When families think of visiting Oʻahu, Waikīkī usually tops the list. But for those looking for a more relaxed, scenic, and nature-connected experience, Oʻahu’s North Shore is a destination worth serious consideration. Known worldwide for its legendary surf culture, stunning beaches, and laid-back lifestyle, the North Shore offers a different pace of Hawaiian life—one that many families find refreshing.
In this guide for parents, we’ll walk through what it’s like to stay on the North Shore with kids, including the pros and cons, nearby activities, food stops, and tips for choosing accommodations. If you’re planning a Hawaiʻi trip and wondering where to stay with your family, this post is for you.
What Makes the North Shore of Oʻahu Great for Families?
The North Shore is everything Waikīkī is not: no high-rises, no wall-to-wall crowds, and no round-the-clock noise. Instead, visitors will find wide, uncrowded beaches, small towns, and natural beauty at every turn. While the North Shore is famous for its massive winter surf, families will be happy to know there are plenty of safe and swimmable beaches during calmer months.
Laid-Back Vibe and Natural Beauty
The North Shore’s rural character is a huge draw for families who want to experience Hawaiʻi at a slower pace. Small beach towns like Haleʻiwa and Pupukea offer a local feel and family-friendly environments. Roads are lined with fruit stands, food trucks, and surf shops, and the mountains and beaches are never far away. You won’t find much nightlife—but that’s part of the appeal for families with young kids.
Incredible Beaches for Exploring
The region is lined with white-sand beaches that stretch for miles. During summer months (May–September), many beaches are calm and ideal for young swimmers and snorkelers. In winter, massive surf rolls in, drawing pro surfers and spectators—but swimming conditions can be unsafe for children.
Some beaches to explore:
- Waimea Bay: A scenic beach perfect for sandcastles and sunbathing; older kids love the cliff-jumping rock when conditions are calm.
- Shark’s Cove: A top snorkeling spot in the summer with tide pools for young children.
- Sunset Beach: Ideal for picnics and sunset watching.
- Laniakea Beach: A popular spot to see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking onshore.
For more snorkeling tips around the island, check out our Oʻahu snorkeling beaches guide for families.
Family Activities on the North Shore
The North Shore is an adventure playground for families. Whether your kids are animal lovers, budding surfers, or just need to run around, there’s no shortage of fun here.
Surfing and Snorkeling
Older kids and teens can take beginner surf lessons at several family-friendly schools in Haleʻiwa. In the summer months, snorkeling is excellent, especially at Shark’s Cove and Turtle Bay. Read our review of Shark’s Cove.
Horseback Riding and Ziplining
Families staying at Turtle Bay Resort can book horseback rides along the coast or head for a zipline adventure through the lush mountain forests.
Waterfall Hikes and Swimming Holes
If your kids like hiking, take a short drive to Waimea Valley for a paved nature walk leading to a waterfall swimming hole. The area also includes botanical gardens and cultural exhibits.
Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch
For educational entertainment, the Polynesian Cultural Center offers immersive cultural experiences through hands-on exhibits, canoe rides, and a family-friendly luau. Just down the road, Kualoa Ranch—famous for being a Jurassic Park filming location—offers ATV tours, petting zoos, and movie site tours that older kids especially enjoy.
Where Families Can Stay on the North Shore
Accommodations on the North Shore are far fewer than in Waikīkī, which is both a plus and a minus. There’s just one large resort, a few boutique hotels, and plenty of vacation rentals.
Turtle Bay Resort
This is the only full-scale resort on the North Shore. It offers spacious rooms, multiple pools, dining options, a spa, kids’ activities, and easy beach access. Families looking for a hassle-free stay with resort amenities often choose Turtle Bay as their base.
Vacation Rentals and Condos
If you’re seeking space and flexibility, vacation rentals are a great option. Families can find beachfront cottages, bungalows, and homes along the coast or in nearby towns like Haleʻiwa and Pupukea. These often include full kitchens and more room for kids to play.
What to Eat on the North Shore with Kids
Dining on the North Shore is delicious, casual, and surprisingly affordable. Most meals are served from food trucks, roadside stalls, or casual cafés—great for picky eaters and parents who want quick, low-stress meals.
North Shore Shrimp Truck Video Review!
- Giovanni’s Shrimp Truck in Haleʻiwa: Famous for garlic shrimp plates.
- Romy’s Kahuku Prawns & Shrimp Hut: A quieter, local-favorite alternative to Giovanni’s.
- Matsumoto Shave Ice: An iconic North Shore treat that kids of all ages will love.
- Ted’s Bakery: Don’t miss the chocolate haupia pie.
Pros and Cons of Staying on the North Shore with Kids
Benefits for Families Visiting O‘ahu’s North Shore
✅ Spacious Beaches with Room to Run, Play, and Relax
- Pro: The North Shore offers vast, uncrowded beaches perfect for families to enjoy, from Sunset Beach to Waimea Bay. These wide beaches provide plenty of space for sandcastle building, kite flying, and simply relaxing. With room to spread out, kids can enjoy running along the shoreline without feeling crowded.
- Pro: Family-friendly beaches like Laniakea also offer calm waters ideal for swimming and safe beach play, complete with shaded areas for picnics and rest.
Read our snorkeling review at Waimea Bay.
✅ Laid-back, Quiet Towns Perfect for Early Bedtimes
- Pro: The North Shore’s relaxed pace provides families a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Honolulu and Waikīkī. The quiet towns of Hale‘iwa and Waimea Bay are great for keeping to a family-friendly schedule, ensuring easy bedtimes and downtime after a fun-filled day.
- Pro: This area is perfect for those seeking a break from the city’s noise, offering quieter nights and more intimate family experiences.
✅ Summer Months Bring Ideal Conditions for Snorkeling and Swimming
- Pro: From April to October, the waters on the North Shore calm down, creating the perfect conditions for safe swimming and snorkeling. Beaches like Shark’s Cove are ideal for families, offering clear waters and vibrant marine life that children can safely explore.
- Pro: The calm waters provide a relaxing environment for families to enjoy ocean activities, from swimming to wading, without the dangerous surf that typically defines this region.
✅ Activities like Ziplining, Horseback Riding, and Cultural Sites Are Nearby
- Pro: Families can enjoy a variety of exciting activities, such as ziplining over lush landscapes or horseback riding along scenic trails. Cultural sites like the Byodo-In Temple allow families to explore Hawaiian history and traditions in a fun, interactive way.
- Pro: These activities cater to families with diverse interests and age groups, ensuring everyone, from children to adults, can participate and learn together.
✅ Easy Access to Sea Turtles and Kid-Friendly Wildlife Viewing
- Pro: The North Shore is a great spot for wildlife viewing, especially Hawaiian sea turtles, which are often spotted at Laniakea Beach. Kids will love the opportunity to see these majestic creatures up close in their natural habitat.
- Pro: Additional family-friendly wildlife experiences include snorkeling with tropical fish in the Pūpūkea Marine Life Conservation District, offering an exciting way for children to learn about marine life.
Things to Consider When Visiting the North Shore
❌ Limited Accommodations Mean Planning Ahead is Crucial
- Con: While the North Shore offers a quieter, more intimate experience, families will find fewer hotel options. Most accommodations are small inns or vacation rentals, which can offer a homier feel and closer access to beaches.
- Con: The limited availability of accommodations means that booking early is essential to secure a stay during the busier seasons. If you prefer full-service hotels or larger resorts, you’ll need to consider staying closer to Honolulu or Waikīkī.
❌ Winter Waves Can Make Ocean Swimming Unsafe
- Con: The North Shore’s world-famous surf breaks are typically too dangerous for casual swimmers during the winter months (roughly November through March). Families visiting during this period should be cautious about ocean activities, as high waves can make the waters unsafe.
❌ Distance from Honolulu and the Airport (About 1–1.5 Hours)
- Con: The North Shore is about 1 to 1.5 hours away from Honolulu and the Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. If you’re staying here, plan for a longer commute when heading to the airport or Honolulu for day trips. While the drive along the scenic Kamehameha Highway is beautiful, it can add time to your travel plans.
❌ Nightlife is Minimal—Many Restaurants Close Early
- Con: The North Shore’s quiet, laid-back vibe means nightlife is minimal. Many restaurants and local businesses close early, so if you’re looking for vibrant evening activities or late-night dining options, you may need to head south to Honolulu. For families, however, this can be a positive, ensuring early evenings.
❌ Traffic on the One-Lane Kamehameha Highway Can Be Slow, Especially on Weekends
- Con: The Kamehameha Highway, which connects the North Shore to the rest of the island, is a one-lane road in many areas. On weekends, this can lead to slow traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons. Families planning excursions or beach days should allow extra time to get to and from their destinations.
The North Shore of O‘ahu offers an incredible family-friendly destination with spacious beaches, natural beauty, and a relaxing atmosphere. While it’s a perfect spot for families seeking outdoor adventures and quiet relaxation, there are some logistical challenges to consider, such as limited accommodations, winter surf conditions, and long commutes from Honolulu. With a bit of planning, families can enjoy the best of what the North Shore has to offer while ensuring a memorable and stress-free vacation.
Is the North Shore Right for Your Family?
If your family values nature, outdoor activities, and a quieter pace, the North Shore may be the perfect base for your Oʻahu vacation. It’s best suited for families with older children who can handle longer drives, love being outside, and are excited to explore. Families with toddlers may prefer staying closer to amenities in Waikīkī or Ko Olina.
Final Tips for Parents Visiting the North Shore
- Visit in summer for the safest ocean conditions.
- Book lodging early—options fill up quickly.
- Stop at a grocery store in Haleʻiwa if staying in a rental.
- Avoid mid-day weekend drives due to traffic.
- Pack reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, and reusable containers for beach days.
Family-Friendly Travel Guide to O‘ahu’s East Coast (Windwardside)
When planning a family vacation to O‘ahu, the East Coast, or Windwardside, offers a stunning alternative to the bustling crowds of Waikīkī. Known for its striking landscapes, quiet towns, and endless outdoor activities, the East Coast of O‘ahu is perfect for families looking for a relaxed, nature-filled experience. From the majestic Ko‘olau Mountains to the tranquil, white-sand beaches of Kailua and Waimānalo, this area is one of O‘ahu’s best-kept secrets.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything families need to know about staying on the East Coast of O‘ahu, including the best things to do, where to stay, and what to expect during your visit.
Should Families Stay on Oʻahu’s East Coast? Pros and Cons for Parents
The East Coast of Oʻahu, also known as the Windward Side, offers a slower-paced, scenic, and family-friendly alternative to busier areas like Waikīkī. With long white-sand beaches, lush mountain backdrops, and small-town charm, it’s a strong contender for families wondering where to stay on Oʻahu with kids.
Here’s what parents need to know when deciding whether the East Coast is the right home base.
Top Reasons to Stay on Oʻahu’s East Coast with Kids
✅ Beautiful, Kid-Friendly Beaches
Kailua Beach and Waimānalo Beach are two of the most family-friendly beaches on the island. These stretches of soft sand offer calm, swimmable waters, making them ideal for children of all ages. Lifeguards, nearby facilities, and plenty of shade make them great for all-day visits.
✅ Scenic Natural Backdrop
The dramatic Koʻolau Mountains tower behind the beaches, creating one of the most picturesque settings on the island. It’s the kind of view that turns a simple beach day into a memory.
✅ Outdoor Activities for All Ages
Families can kayak to the Mokulua Islands off Kailua, hike the Lanikai Pillbox Trail for panoramic views, or explore jungle-like areas around Kāneʻohe. There are also tidepools and calm coves for younger kids to explore.
✅ Quieter Towns and Less Commercial Development
Unlike the hotel-heavy scene in Waikīkī, the Windward side is mostly residential. Towns like Kailua and Waimānalo feel safe, quiet, and walkable—ideal for families who value a more laid-back pace. Grocery stores, playgrounds, local restaurants, and bike rentals are all easily accessible.
Things to Consider Before Booking a Stay on the East Side
❌ Less Predictable Weather
The trade winds on this side of the island often bring clouds and occasional rain showers. While this keeps the scenery lush and cool, it also means families may need to be flexible with outdoor plans.
❌ Limited Nightlife and Evening Options
Parents looking for late-night dining or entertainment will find fewer options here. Kailua has a handful of restaurants and breweries, but most places close early. This can be a plus for families with young kids—but a downside for parents hoping for date nights.
❌ Few Large Hotels or Resorts
The East Coast doesn’t have major hotel chains or full-service resorts. Most accommodations are vacation rentals, small inns, or Airbnbs. If your family prefers hotel amenities like room service, kids’ clubs, or on-site pools, you may want to look elsewhere.
Where to Stay on the East Coast of O‘ahu
Despite the limited number of large hotels, families can still find comfortable accommodations on O‘ahu’s East Coast. Vacation rentals, small inns, and boutique properties are popular in this area. Many families opt for a vacation rental in Kailua, which is close to the beach and has all the conveniences you’ll need for a relaxing stay.
Best Accommodation for Families:
- Vacation Rentals: There are many family-friendly homes, condos, and bungalows available for rent. These offer the space and privacy needed for families to enjoy their vacation together. Look for properties near Kailua Beach or Lanikai Beach for easy access to the water.
- Small Inns and Boutique Hotels: While there are no large resort-style hotels, there are several small inns and boutique accommodations that offer a more intimate stay. These are often located near the beaches and provide a cozy atmosphere for families.
Fun Family Activities on O‘ahu’s East Coast
The East Coast of O‘ahu is a paradise for active families, offering plenty of opportunities to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities. Here are some of the top things to do with kids on this side of the island:
1. Beaches for Swimming and Relaxing
- Kailua Beach: Known for its calm waters, Kailua Beach is a perfect spot for young children to swim and play. The gentle surf makes it one of the safest beaches for families to enjoy the water together.
- Lanikai Beach: Often considered one of the most beautiful beaches on O‘ahu, Lanikai Beach offers crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand. It’s also great for swimming and relaxing, with two small offshore islands that provide an excellent kayaking destination. Read our snorkeling review of Lanikai Beach.
- Waimānalo Beach: A less crowded option with beautiful scenery and clear waters, Waimānalo Beach is perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.
2. Outdoor Adventures and Hikes
- Lanikai Pillbox Hike: This relatively easy hike offers stunning views of Kailua and Lanikai Beach. The hike is family-friendly, though it’s best suited for older kids or families with teens.
- Makapu‘u Point Lighthouse Trail: This easy-to-moderate hike offers breathtaking views of the coastline and leads to a picturesque lighthouse. It’s a great way for families to enjoy the outdoors without venturing too far from the beach.
- Olomana Trail: For more adventurous families, the Olomana Trail offers a challenging hike with incredible views of the Windward Coast.
3. Kayaking and Water Activities
- Kayak to the Mokes: From Kailua Beach, families can rent kayaks and paddle out to the Mokulua Islands (known as the Mokes). This is a fun and active way to explore the waters and get up close to the islands.
Dining and Shopping in Kailua
When it comes to dining, Kailua offers a variety of family-friendly options. For breakfast or lunch, stop by a local café or enjoy some shave ice. Kailua also has several casual restaurants and food trucks where families can enjoy a meal after a day at the beach.
Dining Recommendations:
- Buzz’s Original Steakhouse: Known for its delicious seafood and casual atmosphere, Buzz’s is a great place for families to enjoy a laid-back dinner.
- Nico’s Kailua: This restaurant serves up fresh, local fish and has a great view of the marina. It’s perfect for a family dinner after a day of adventure.
For shopping, explore the quaint shops in Kailua Town, where you’ll find everything from local art galleries to surf gear. Stop by Lanikai Brewing for a refreshing drink and enjoy the laid-back vibe of the area.
Nearby Highlights and Excursions
The East Coast is also home to several nearby attractions that are worth exploring during your stay:
- Makapu‘u Lighthouse and Beach: This scenic spot is great for a family hike and a visit to the lighthouse.
- Kualoa Ranch: Take a family tour of this iconic location, famous for its role in movies like Jurassic Park. You can explore the ranch via ATV tours, horseback riding, or even a boat tour.
- Kahana Valley State Park: Perfect for families looking to explore the natural beauty of O‘ahu, this park offers hiking, camping, and picnicking opportunities.
- He‘eia Fishpond: Visit this historic fishpond in Kāne‘ohe and learn about Hawaiian culture and traditional aquaculture.
Final Thoughts: Is the East Coast of O‘ahu Right for Your Family?
The East Coast of O‘ahu offers an unforgettable experience for families seeking a blend of natural beauty, outdoor adventure, and a quieter atmosphere. While it may not have the nightlife or extensive resort options of Waikīkī, the East Coast’s beaches, scenic views, and variety of activities make it an excellent choice for families who enjoy a more relaxed, nature-focused vacation.
Families will appreciate the laid-back vibe, with everything from hiking and kayaking to beach days and exploring local attractions. Whether you’re looking to unwind on the beach or embark on exciting outdoor adventures, the East Coast of O‘ahu has something for everyone.
For more family-friendly destinations on O‘ahu, check out our guides on best beaches for families in O‘ahu and top family hikes on O‘ahu.
Should Families Stay on Oʻahu’s West Coast? A Guide to Ko Olina and the Leeward Side
When planning a family vacation to Oʻahu, choosing the right area to stay is a major decision. While many families default to the popular Waikīkī area, there’s another option that offers a completely different experience: the West Coast, also known as the Leeward Side. Centered around Ko Olina, this region delivers a quieter, more luxurious alternative—ideal for families seeking resort-style comfort, calm beaches, and consistently sunny weather.
But is it the right fit for your family? This guide breaks down the pros, cons, and key considerations for parents thinking about staying on Oʻahu’s West Side.
Where Is Oʻahu’s Leeward Coast and What Is It Like?
The Leeward Side of Oʻahu stretches along the island’s western coastline, flanked by the dramatic Wai‘anae Mountains and a dry, sunny climate. Unlike the bustling South Shore, the west remains relatively undeveloped in terms of tourism—except for Ko Olina.
Ko Olina is a master-planned resort community designed with visitors in mind. It’s home to four man-made swimming lagoons, luxury resorts (including the Disney Aulani), restaurants, shops, and an 18-hole golf course. While the rest of the Leeward Coast is mostly residential, Ko Olina offers a contained, resort-style environment ideal for families.
Why Families Choose Ko Olina: Benefits of Staying on the West Coast
Staying in Ko Olina offers a number of distinct advantages for parents looking for a quieter, more structured vacation. Here’s what makes it family-friendly:
✅ Four Man-Made Lagoons
These sheltered swimming areas are calm, shallow, and protected—perfect for young children learning to swim. A beach boardwalk connects all four lagoons, great for morning walks or evening stroller rides.
✅ Family-Oriented Resorts
The area is home to several top-tier resorts, including Disney’s Aulani Resort, Four Seasons, and Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club. Each of these caters to families with pools, kid-friendly activities, and amenities like childcare services and on-site dining.
[Check out our post on snorkeling at the Ko Olina Lagoons for families →]
✅ Wide Range of On-Site Activities
From waterslides to luau dinners, snorkeling to paddleboarding, resort-based entertainment is abundant. Many families never leave Ko Olina during their stay, thanks to the self-contained experience.
✅ Consistently Sunny Weather
The Leeward Side is the driest part of Oʻahu, making Ko Olina a reliable choice if weather is a concern. Rain is rare, and blue skies are the norm.
✅ Low-Crowd Environment
Compared to the crowds in Waikīkī, Ko Olina feels spacious and serene. Even during peak travel seasons, the beaches and resorts absorb guests without feeling packed.
✅ Convenient Shuttle and Bike Share
Getting around within Ko Olina is easy. A free shuttle connects the resorts, lagoons, shops, and golf course, while a bike-share program allows for casual rides.
✅ Sunsets
Families can end each day watching uninterrupted Pacific Ocean sunsets—a simple but unforgettable daily moment for parents and kids alike.
✅ High-Quality Dining Options
There’s something for every appetite. Fine dining options include Roy’s and Mina’s Fish House, while Island Country Market offers affordable take-out meals, groceries, and snacks.
What to Keep in Mind: Drawbacks of Staying in Ko Olina
As appealing as Ko Olina can be, it’s not the right fit for every family. Here are the downsides to consider:
❌ Luxury-Only Price Point
There are no budget accommodations in Ko Olina. All resorts are geared toward luxury travelers, and rates reflect that. Expect to pay more than you would in Waikīkī or on the North Shore.
❌ Limited Cultural Exposure
Ko Olina is a curated resort zone. Families looking for authentic Hawaiian neighborhoods, local eateries, and natural scenery may find it overly commercial or detached from real island life.
❌ Isolated Location
Ko Olina is not centrally located. Driving to popular attractions like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, or the North Shore will take time—often 45 minutes to over an hour. During weekday rush hour, traffic into Honolulu can be heavy.
❌ Flight Path Noise
Depending on wind conditions, planes may fly overhead frequently, especially during the day. It’s not usually disruptive inside the resorts, but it’s something to be aware of for light sleepers or nap schedules.
❌ Lack of Nightlife
Once the sun sets, things get quiet. While that’s a benefit for families with early bedtimes, parents looking for evening entertainment or walkable nightlife will find options limited.
Who Ko Olina Is Best For
Families with Young Children
The protected lagoons, resort amenities, and structured activities make Ko Olina ideal for parents of toddlers and young kids. There’s little need to leave the area, and everything is stroller- and nap-schedule-friendly.
Luxury Travelers
Families looking for a full-service, pampered experience will appreciate the Four Seasons and Marriott Ko Olina, with high-end dining, spa services, and golf.
Disney Fans
Disney’s Aulani Resort is a big draw on its own. From character breakfasts to interactive kids’ programs, it’s a hit with younger children and a strong reason to choose Ko Olina over Waikīkī.
What to Do Near Ko Olina
While Ko Olina has enough to keep families entertained, a few attractions nearby are worth visiting:
- Kahe Point Beach Park (Electric Beach): A popular snorkeling spot just a short drive north
See our guide to snorkeling at Electric Beach with kids. - Wai‘anae Boat Harbor: Launch site for dolphin and whale-watching tours
- Paradise Cove Luau: A family-friendly Hawaiian luau experience right within Ko Olina
- Wet’n’Wild Hawaii Water Park: Located in nearby Kapolei, this is one of Oʻahu’s few large-scale amusement options for families
Final Takeaway: Is Ko Olina Worth It for Families?
For many families, Ko Olina is the ultimate “easy button” for a relaxing Hawaiian vacation. It’s clean, organized, beautiful, and designed to accommodate families of all sizes. Just be prepared for the price tag, and know you’ll be spending most of your time within the resort area.
Read our snorkeling guide for Ko Olina.
For additional context and information, you can also take a look at our ranked lists.
Highly recommended hotels in Oahu for families
Amazing Hawaii – best beaches in Oahu ranked
Fun things to do with kids in Oahu
For detailed visitor info, check out the Wikivoyage page on O’ahu.
