Phylicia StitzelIf you’re heading to Waikīkī with your kids, you’ll need to know the best things to do with kids in Waikīkī. Here you will find a place where you can enjoy some “classic Hawaii” experiences (aka beach and sunsets!) and still have easy, stroller-friendly, kid-approved activities within a few blocks. It’s one of the best “family basecamps” on Oʻahu—especially if you want a trip that feels relaxing and full of those core-memory moments.
Below is a family-tested lineup of the best things to do with kids in Waikīkī, including the must-do Honolulu Zoo, beach activities that don’t require a second mortgage, budget-friendly ideas, a memorable splurge at Dolphin Quest Oahu, and exactly where to eat—whether you’re cooking in your rental or heading out.
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Start With the Classics: Waikīkī Beach Activities Kids Actually Love
Waikīkī Beach is one of those rare places where the beach is both iconic and practical for families. The water tends to be calmer than many other beaches on the island, and the vibe is “yes, your kid can be loud here.”
Beach activities that hit every age range
Sand + shoreline play (aka the forever favorite)
Bring a small collapsible bucket set or buy one at a local shop and lean into the simplest joy: sand castles, moat engineering, and “look what I found!” shell hunts.
Bodyboarding + gentle wave play
If your kids are old enough to handle a boogie board, Waikīkī can be a fun place to try it. For younger kids, you can keep it simple with knee-deep water, floaties, and supervised splash time.
Sunset “core memory” walks
Waikīkī at golden hour is basically nature’s mood lighting. Stroll the promenade, let the kids chase waves, and grab a shaved ice or snack (more on food below).
Parent pro tips for a smoother beach day
- Go early for calmer energy and easier sand setup.
- Pack a light blanket or sand mat, plus snacks and a spare outfit.
- If you’re visiting during peak sun hours, consider a UV shirt + hat combo for kids (it’s the easiest way to avoid sunscreen battles every 45 minutes).
Don’t Skip It: The Honolulu Zoo With Kids
Let’s be real: a zoo near the beach is a parenting win. The Honolulu Zoo sits right by the edge of Waikīkī (near Kapiʻolani Park), making it an easy half-day adventure that feels “big” without being exhausting.
Why families love it
- It’s walkable from many Waikīkī hotels and rentals.
- It’s outdoorsy and open-air (translation: kids can move their bodies).
- It’s a great way to break up beach days—especially if you’re traveling with a toddler who needs variety.
Know before you go
The zoo is open daily with last entry mid-afternoon (grounds closing later), so it’s ideal for a morning visit before naps or a relaxed early afternoon outing.
Family strategy:
Make it a “yes day” on a budget:
- Let each kid pick one animal they’re most excited about.
- Do a quick scavenger hunt: “Find an animal with stripes,” “Find an animal that lives in trees,” etc.
- End with a snack break and let them “rate” the day like tiny critics.
A Free, Fun, and Very Hawaiʻi Memory: Ukulele Lessons at Ukulele Pūpūa
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly activity in Waikīkī that feels distinctly Hawaiian, this one is an absolute gem—especially with kids.
Tucked inside the Sheraton Waikīkī, Ukulele Pūpūa offers free ukulele lessons that are perfect for families. No prior experience required, no pressure to perform, and no expectation that your kids will suddenly become tiny island musicians (although…don’t be surprised if they ask for a ukulele afterward).
The lessons are short, approachable, and designed to be fun. Kids love the hands-on element—actually doing something rather than just watching—and parents love that it introduces Hawaiian music and culture in a relaxed, welcoming way. Even younger kids can strum along and feel like they’re part of something special.
Why this is such a win for families
- It’s free (yes, really)
- It’s indoors, making it a great midday break from the sun
- It introduces kids to Hawaiian music in an accessible way
- It creates a memory that feels uniquely tied to Hawaiʻi—not something you could do anywhere
This is one of those activities kids will randomly bring up months later—“Remember when we learned the ukulele in Hawaiʻi?”—and those are the moments that quietly make a trip unforgettable.
A Quick Win Nearby: Waikīkī Aquarium (Budget-Friendly + Air-Conditioned Recovery)
If you need a break from sun and sand—or you’ve got kids who love ocean life—Waikīkī Aquarium is a smart add-on. It’s close to Waikīkī and is one of those “just the right size” attractions: engaging, educational, and not overwhelming.
The aquarium’s posted hours and admission pricing make it one of the more budget-friendly kid activities in the area.
Best for: rainy mornings, post-beach cool-downs, toddlers who need a calmer pace, and kids who want to see reef life up close.
Free + Cultural: Kuhio Beach Hula Show
Want a “we’re in Hawaiʻi” moment that doesn’t cost a thing? The Kūhiō Beach Hula Show is one of the best free family-friendly cultural experiences in Waikīkī. It’s scheduled on Tuesdays and Saturdays in the early evening (weather permitting).
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Make it kid-friendly:
- Bring a snack and arrive early for a better spot.
- Set expectations: “We’re going to watch respectfully,” then give little kids a wiggle break after.
- Treat it like a gentle cultural intro—beautiful music, movement, and a calm way to end the day.
Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Waikīkī With Kids
Waikīkī can be pricey, but family fun doesn’t have to be. Here are options that keep the magic high and the spending reasonable.
1) Kapiʻolani Park picnic + playground vibes
Grab food from the market (next section) and make a picnic. This is one of those underrated “this is what my kids will remember” moments: simple, unstructured joy.
2) Beach day, upgraded (for cheap)
Instead of booking a big excursion every day, create a “beach adventure menu”:
- Shell hunt challenge
- Wave-jump contest
- Sandcastle showdown
- Sunset photo mission (kids “direct” the photos—trust me, it’s hilarious)
3) Sunset stories + treat
Let kids pick a snack (shaved ice, fruit, or something from the market) and do a short family “best moment of the day” share while the sun goes down. Low cost, high emotional return.
If You Have a Kitchen: Waikiki Market Is a Game-Changer
Whether you’re in a rental property, a suite, or just want to stop buying every single meal out, Waikiki Market is your secret weapon.
It’s more than a grocery store—it’s set up with prepared food stations and local favorites, which makes it ridiculously convenient for traveling families: grab poke, local plates, rice, bakery items, and more, or stock up on easy breakfast and beach snacks.
Why this matters for family travel:
- You can do cheap breakfasts (yogurt, fruit, pastries) and save your dining budget for one or two nicer meals.
- You can build simple dinners that kids will actually eat.
- It makes snack emergencies a non-issue (if you know, you know).
Bonus: there’s validated parking info listed by the market, which is helpful if you’re driving.
The “Core Memory” Splurge: Dolphin Quest (Worth Planning For)
If your family is the “we’ll remember this forever” type (and honestly—who isn’t?), Dolphin Quest Oahu is the kind of experience kids talk about for years.
Where it is + why it’s doable from Waikīkī
It’s located at The Kahala Hotel & Resort (just east of Diamond Head), so it’s not a long trek from Waikīkī. They note it’s open daily and the lagoon is viewable, which is great if you want to stop by even if you’re not doing a full program.
What makes it feel like a “core memory”
This is not just “look at dolphins from far away.” Depending on what you book, you can have close interaction and guided learning with marine mammal specialists. It’s structured, memorable, and exciting in that “I can’t believe we did that!” way.
Budget reality + how to plan
Dolphin programs range widely in price depending on length and exclusivity; there are premium family options, including private group experiences. All Dolphin Quest guests receive parking validation for up to four hours (helpful if you’re driving).
Family tip:
If you’re going to spend on one big experience, plan a lighter-cost day around it:
- Grab breakfast from the market first
- Do a beach morning
- Dolphin Quest in the afternoon
- Easy dinner back in Waikīkī
That way it feels like a full “highlight day” without stacking multiple expensive activities.
Where to Eat in Waikīkī With Kids
Now for the part parents care about deeply: feeding everyone without drama. Here are the specific spots you asked for, plus how to make each one work with kids.
If you want something convenient and flexible: Piko Kitchen + Bar
Piko Kitchen + Bar is located at Waikiki Market, and it’s positioned perfectly for families because you can pair it with groceries and grab-and-go options.
Why it works for families:
- Easy to pop in after the beach
- Convenient if you’re already doing a market run
- Flexible vibe (breakfast through dinner)
For pizza night: Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar
Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar is one of those “everyone wins” dinner spots because pizza is the universal family currency. Their site lists daily service windows for breakfast, lunch, happy hour, and dinner.
Family move:
Go early, share a couple pizzas, and let kids split a simple side. Save dessert for a sunset walk.
For an upscale-but-still-family-friendly dinner: Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Waikiki
If you want one special night that feels a little fancy—without being too precious—Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Waikiki is a classic pick in Waikīkī (located at Royal Hawaiian Center). OpenTable notes the dress code leans casual/smart-casual, which helps for families who don’t travel with a suitcase of formalwear.
How to make this work with kids:
- Make it an early reservation (less wait, calmer dining room)
- Order family-style where possible (kids love “sharing bites”)
- Give kids a “fancy night” job: choosing a mocktail/special drink, or helping pick sides for the table
Great 3-Day Waikīkī “Do Less, Remember More” Plan
If you want a simple structure that doesn’t feel like you’re speed-running the island:
Day 1: Beach + Free Culture
- Morning: Waikīkī beach time + sand play
- Afternoon: snack + chill time
- Evening: Kūhiō Beach Hula Show (free)
Day 2: Zoo + Picnic
- Morning: Honolulu Zoo
- Lunch: picnic or casual meal
- Afternoon: park time + early bedtime (because travel with kids is still travel)
Day 3: Market + Dolphin Quest Highlight Day
- Morning: Waikiki Market breakfast + supplies
- Midday: easy beach time
- Afternoon: Dolphin Quest core memory moment
- Dinner: pizza at Appetito or a relaxed meal at Piko
Waikīkī Is Family-Friendly for a Reason
Waikīkī is one of the easiest places in Hawaiʻi to do family travel well because it gives you:
- Beach days that don’t require complicated logistics
- Walkable attractions like the zoo and aquarium
- Budget-friendly wins (free hula show, picnic culture, market meals)
- And a few “big moments” (hello, Dolphin Quest) that turn into lifelong memories
Our trip to O’ahu was one of the greatest trips I’ve taken with my kids. The balance between outdoor adventures, food, culture and sunshine beaches is what made this trip one that will stay with us for years to come.
