3-Day Itinerary for Families Visiting Oahu | Lanikai Family Photographer

I have the perfect 3-day itinerary for families visiting Oahu, and I’d love to share it with you as a mom with 2 little ones from the island of Oahu.

Planning a trip to Oahu with your family? You’re in for an unforgettable adventure! With its stunning beaches, rich cultural history, and endless outdoor activities, Oahu is a dream destination for first-time visitors. But with so much to see and do, crafting the perfect itinerary can be overwhelming and you don’t want to go to the wrong areas.

In this 3-day itinerary, we’ll guide you through the best family-friendly activities, must-see attractions, and delicious dining spots that will make your trip to Oahu both exciting and stress-free. Whether you’re snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, exploring historical landmarks, or simply soaking up the island vibes, this guide will ensure you make the most of every moment. Let’s dive in! 🌴☀️

Key Takeaways

Hotel: Stay in Waikiki for convenient access to locations in Honolulu, and the east side so you do not have to fight traffic driving in from Ko’olina.

• Day 1: Stay in Waikiki & explore the nearby areas
• Day 2: North Shore Adventure – Visit scenic beaches, turtles, watch surfers (in the winter), and discover the laid-back side of Oahu.
• Day 3: East Oahu Fun – beautiful beaches, hiking, and great places to eat

Day 1: Waikiki & Adventure Around Honolulu

Mix and match these options for the perfect 1st day in Honolulu!

Day 1 options

• Sunrise: Waikiki Beach morning stroll along ocean, Hanauma Bay
• Morning/afternoon: Hanauma Bay, USS Arizona Memorial, Ala Moana Center (largest outdoor mall), OR Diamond Head hike ( CLICK HERE to check for announcements about open/close times)
• Evening: Dinner with an ocean view at Monkeypod Kitchen (try to be seated next to the glass window by the ocean! its gorgeous- don’t miss the pies)

DAY 1 SUNRISE

A sunrise walk along Waikiki beach is a great option (the colors in the ocean can be very beautiful), or enjoy the pool at your resort! If you’re staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, or the Sheraton Waikiki, these two resorts have amazing pools for kids.

You could also book a sunrise session for your 1st full day in Hawaii. Convenient locations include spots in Waikiki, Kahala Beach, Sandys Beach, Kailua or even Lanikai Beach (as shown in the images on this post).

If you are booking a photo session with a photographer, I recommend scheduling your session at the beginning of your trip- sunburns haven’t happened yet, you can reschedule if necessary, and you are likely still jet lagged so a sunrise session is actually perfect all around.

You also have the rest of the day and don’t need to worry about getting ready after a long day of activities for sunset photos…which is part of the reason why kids get so cranky in the afternoon if they’re on vacation. The time difference can make a late photo session more difficult. Check out this blog post to learn more about why kids might do better in the morning vs. at sunset.

TIPS ABOUT WAIKIKI

Waikiki Beach: Keep in mind if you want to go in the water you’ll want to ask a local where there is a spot without too much coral. Near the Hilton Hawaiian village there is a lot of rocks, so be sure to stay closer to the pier for less rocks.

Restrooms in Waikiki: Do not use public restrooms in Waikiki, and while Waikiki can be great since there are a lot of shops and restaurants, venturing outside of Waikiki is HIGHLY recommended. I recommend only staying in Waikiki to have easier access to certain locations WITHOUT all of the traffic that you’ll get coming from Koolina.

DAY 1 LATE MORNING/AFTERNOON

If you’re feeling adventurous, spend the morning and afternoon snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, one of the island’s most beloved marine sanctuaries. Be sure to reserve your time slot ahead of time to secure your spot.

After your morning stroll, or your photo session, you could also head to your hotel to change and lace up your hiking shoes to tackle the iconic Diamond Head Trail. This family-friendly hike rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of Honolulu from the summit. Pro tip: Check the trail’s website for announcements about changes in open or close times to ensure smooth planning (CLICK HERE for updates).

Alternatively, you could head to Pearl Harbor National Memorial. This must-visit historical site offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. The USS Arizona Memorial and the Battleship Missouri provide a glimpse into World War II history. Be sure to reserve tickets in advance!

For a slower paced afternoon or if you have time, you could also head to the mall for lunch, shopping and a cultural performance at Ala Moana Center, the largest open-air shopping mall in the US. Enjoy the mix of local and international food options while browsing stores or catching a 20 min free Hula performance at 5pm – my girls love this!

DAY 1 EVENING

End the day with a memorable dinner or drinks at Monkeypod Kitchen while overlooking the ocean at sunset. Request a table near the glass window to enjoy stunning ocean views while savoring locally-inspired dishes. And don’t leave without trying their famous pies—trust me, it’s the perfect way to wrap up your first day on the island!

Day 2: North Shore Adventure

If you’re renting a car, the North Shore could be a fun adventure! Be sure to start EARLY before the rush of morning traffic around 630am. Use your jet lag to your advantage.

Options for Day 2

• Morning: Teds Bakery for breakfast, Waimea Valley hike/waterfall
• Midday: Turtle watching at Laniakea Beach or snorkeling at Shark’s Cove, Shrimp truck lunch, Stortos, Waialua Bakery (cookies)
• Late Afternoon: Scenic drive back towards Turtle Bay with a fruit stand stop in kahuku

Day 2 Morning

Start your North Shore adventure with a hearty breakfast at Ted’s Bakery, a local favorite known for its famous pies and hearty breakfast plates. After fueling up, you’ll have to back track a little, but it is worth it for Teds! You will want to head to Waimea Valley for a family-friendly hike through lush greenery that leads to a spectacular waterfall where you can take a refreshing swim. I hear there are also activities now (post-covid) which would be fun! – we have not done Waimea since covid, but hope to sometime soon!

Day 2 Mid-day

For midday fun, hit the beach at beautiful Waimea bay, visit Laniakea Beach to watch Hawaiian sea turtles basking on the sand. Keep in mind, many tourists visit this beach, and it causes traffic in the area because cars must stop for you to cross. Please be aware of this and ALWAYS SAY THANK YOU by raising your hand and waving. SHARE YOUR ALOHA.

You could also go snorkeling at Shark’s Cove, known for its crystal-clear waters and tide pools. This is an alternative to snorkeling at Hanauma. Both are excellent choices for experiencing North Shore’s natural beauty. Be sure to not go out if there are huge waves, or if you are not comfortable. Always ask a local if you are not sure. Pro tip: don’t leave your keys or belongings in the bushes, or your car may not be there when you return.

After you hit the beach, since you had a big breakfast, you could stop to have late lunch at a shrimp truck (try Giovanni’s or Fumi’s), which is popular, or check out Storto’s Deli for massive, freshly-made sandwiches and don’t forget to ask for papaya seed dressing! It is the best. Finally, don’t forget to stop at Waialua Bakery for their delicious cookies and other homemade baked goods! Its a must-do when we visit the north shore. It is closed on Sundays so keep that in mind when planning!

Day 2 Late Afternoon

In the late afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive back toward Turtle Bay through the east side, with a stop at a roadside fruit stand for fresh coconuts, papayas, or bananas. The perfect way to end your North Shore day. This drive back to Waikiki will be beautiful and you will also pass the Ko’olau mountains near Kualoa ranch.

Day 3: East Oahu Fun

Options for Day 3

• Morning: Sunrise photo session at Lanikai Beach with Marissa HB Photography.
• Midday: Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail hike.
• Afternoon: Kalapawai cafe and picnic at Waimanalo Beach. Visit Halona Blowhole before heading back.
• Evening: Dinner in Waikiki

DAY 3 Morning

Option 1: Start your final day hiking up to Lanikai Pillboxes in the morning just after the sunrise so it is bright enough for you to see.

Option 2- You could do a sunrise photo session at Lanikai Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Families staying in Waikiki will find it to be a more convenient drive if they are staying in Waikiki vs. Koolina if they are planning on a photo session on the east shore like Lanikai beach. Lanikai is so pretty with its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and postcard-perfect sunrise views.

Option 3- You could also drive to Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail for a morning hike with breathtaking coastal views. In the winter, you might even spot humpback whales! This walk is stroller friendly.

DAY 3 Afternoon – if you’re still in Lanikai, I recommend getting takeout sandwiches at Kalapawai cafe. Everything is so ono (yummy) there. You could walk to Kailua beach and enjoy a picnic on the grass.

Wrap up your day by driving further south and visiting the Halona Blowhole, near Hanauma bay – a dramatic natural formation where waves shoot water high into the air. Always be aware of the waves in the ocean as it can be life threatening and do not go in or near if you are not comfortable and do not know the area. You can view the blowhole from the scenic point on the side of the road.

Day 3 Evening

Dinner at Liliha Bakery in Alamoana, Fete, Pig and the Lady, Istanbul, Moku Kitchen are all solid options. You can’t go wrong!

Conclusion

Oahu offers the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and culture for families visiting for the first time. With this 3-day itinerary, you’ll experience iconic landmarks, breathtaking natural beauty, and unforgettable family moments.

Be sure to capture your trip with a sunrise photo session at Lanikai, Waikiki, Kailua, Turtle Bay, Kahala Beach, or at Aulani in Koolina! as memories of this tropical paradise deserve to last forever. Pack your bags, grab some sunscreen, and get ready for an incredible Hawaiian getaway. Aloha, and happy travels! 🌺✈️

FAQs

What’s the best time of year to visit Oahu with kids?
Oahu is great year-round, but the best time for families is April to June and September to November when crowds are smaller, and the weather is perfect.

Do I need to rent a car for this itinerary?
Yes! A rental car makes it easier to explore beyond Waikiki and visit places like the North Shore and East Oahu.

How do I book a sunrise photo session at Lanikai Beach?
Reach out to Marissa HB Photography ahead of your trip to book a session. Sunrise spots fill up fast, so it’s best to plan early.

Is Lanikai Beach suitable for kids?
Absolutely! The calm, clear waters and soft sand make it a perfect spot for families with children.

Do I need to book Hanauma Bay tickets in advance?
Yes, Hanauma Bay requires advance reservations to manage crowd levels and protect the marine environment.