5-Day Oahu Vacation Itinerary | Turtle Bay Family Photographer

If you’re planning a trip to Oahu and staying at or near Turtle Bay Resort, you’re in for an unforgettable island adventure! The North Shore offers a perfect blend of relaxation, outdoor activities, and breathtaking scenery, making it an ideal location for families. While you’ll have access to world-class amenities at Turtle Bay, you’ll also want to explore the island’s top attractions.

This 5-day itinerary is designed to maximize your time, balancing adventure and relaxation while keeping the logistics stress-free.

Turtle Bay Family Photographer

Day 1: Settle In & Explore Turtle Bay

After arriving at Turtle Bay Resort, take the first day to relax, explore the resort, and ease into the island lifestyle.

Morning: Arrival & Resort Exploration

Check-in at Turtle Bay Resort and take in the stunning oceanfront views.
Explore the resort grounds, take a stroll along the beach, and grab a quick lunch at Lei Lei’s Bar & Grill.

Afternoon: Pool & Beach Time

Spend the afternoon at the Turtle Bay Resort pools, which feature a kid-friendly area and oceanfront lounge chairs.
Walk over to Kawela Bay, a hidden gem with calm waters, perfect for families with young kids.

Evening: Sunset Dinner at the Resort

Have a sunset dinner at Beach House by Roy Yamaguchi, an upscale yet relaxed oceanfront dining experience with fresh seafood and tropical flavors.
End the night with stargazing on the beach—North Shore skies are incredibly clear!

Day 2: North Shore Adventure

Oahu’s North Shore is famous for its beaches, surf culture, and laid-back vibes. Today, you’ll explore the best of this beautiful region.

Morning: Photo Session at the North Shore & Waimea Valley Walk/Hike

Book a family photo session in advance with Marissa HB Photography for photos in front of The Turtle Bay Resort or at another nearby beach. Sessions here are done at sunrise, which allows you the rest of the day! We scheduled this on Day 2 so that the jet lag works in your favor. Hawaii is often 2-3+ hours BEHIND the rest of the US/Canada.
Visit Waimea Valley for a family-friendly hike through a lush botanical garden leading to Waimea Falls, where you can swim in a waterfall!

Midday: Turtle Watching & Shrimp Trucks

Stop at Laniakea Beach (Turtle Beach) to see Hawaiian green sea turtles basking in the sun.
Grab lunch at a famous North Shore shrimp truck (Giovanni’s or Fumi’s) for some delicious garlic shrimp.

Afternoon: Snorkeling at Shark’s Cove

Head to Shark’s Cove, one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. The tide pools here are great for kids!
Alternatively, visit Sunset Beach to relax and enjoy the North Shore’s stunning coastline.

Evening: Scenic Drive & Dinner

Take a scenic drive through Haleiwa, stopping at Matsumoto’s Shave Ice for a refreshing treat.
Enjoy dinner at Stonefish Grill before heading back to Turtle Bay.

Day 3: East Oahu Exploration & Sunrise Photos

Start your day early with an unforgettable sunrise photo session at Lanikai Beach before exploring the Windward side of Oahu.

Morning: Sunrise Photos at Lanikai Beach

Book a family photo session with Marissa HB Photography at Lanikai Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Grab breakfast at Cinnamon’s in Kailua, known for its guava chiffon pancakes.

Midday: Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail & Hanauma Bay

Hike the Makapu’u Lighthouse Trail, a scenic, family-friendly hike with breathtaking coastal views.
Snorkel at Hanauma Bay, a marine sanctuary with colorful fish and calm waters (make reservations in advance!).

Afternoon: Waimanalo Beach Picnic

Pick up a plate lunch from Ono Steaks & Shrimp Shack and enjoy a beachside picnic at Waimanalo Beach, known for its soft white sand and clear waters.

Evening: Return to Turtle Bay & Relax

Head back to Turtle Bay Resort for a relaxing evening by the pool or beach.
Have dinner at Lei Lei’s or order room service for a low-key night.

Day 4: Honolulu & Pearl Harbor Day Trip

Spend the day in Honolulu, exploring Pearl Harbor, Waikiki, and Diamond Head.

Morning: Pearl Harbor Visit

Get an early start and drive to Pearl Harbor National Memorial.
Visit the USS Arizona Memorial and Battleship Missouri (book tickets in advance).

Midday: Lunch & Waikiki Beach Time

Have lunch at South Shore Grill near the Honolulu Zoo
Take the kids to the Honolulu Zoo or Hike Diamond Head

Afternoon: Diamond Head Hike

If your family is up for it, hike Diamond Head Crater for one of the best panoramic views of Honolulu.

Evening: Sunset & Dinner in Waikiki

Enjoy sunset cocktails and dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen in Waikiki—try to sit near the ocean-view windows!
Drive back to Turtle Bay Resort for a well-earned night of rest.

Day 5: Relax & Resort Activities

For your last day, take it easy and enjoy everything Turtle Bay Resort has to offer.

Morning: Horseback Riding or Surfing Lessons

Go on a horseback ride along the beach with Turtle Bay Stables.
If you prefer, book a family surf lesson—the North Shore is home to some of the world’s best waves!

Midday: Poolside Lunch & Spa Time

Have a poolside lunch at The Point while enjoying the ocean views.
Parents can book a spa treatment at Nalu Spa, while kids can enjoy the resort’s activities.

Afternoon: Final Beach Time & Packing

Spend your last afternoon at Turtle Bay’s Beach, soaking up the sun and making the most of your final hours in paradise.
Grab some last-minute souvenirs from the resort gift shops.