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The 15 Best Resorts Oahu for Families
The beautiful island of Oahu is a top destination for families and couples alike. Today we’ll discuss the best resorts Oahu for families.
Oahu, known as the “Gathering Place,” is a beautiful Hawaiian island that attracts families worldwide. With its pristine beaches, stunning natural scenery, and abundance of family-friendly activities,
Oahu is the perfect destination for families looking for a relaxing and adventurous vacation. In this blog post, we will explore the best resorts in Oahu that cater to families and offer an unforgettable experience for parents and children.
You don’t *need* a car on Oahu, but it’s a great option to get out and explore, and as a Hawaii Travel Agent, I highly recommend it. You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. Some people say you don’t need a rental car on Oahu, which is true! However, if you truly want to explore the island, I recommend having a rental car.
Is Oahu the best island for families?
Before we get to the best resorts Oahu for families, let’s discuss a few resorts that Oahu can be the best island in Hawaii for families:
- Oahu offers a great mix of city and nature experiences, which means there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.
- The island has some of the best beaches in Hawaii, with calm waters and facilities that cater to families with children.
- Oahu has various family-friendly attractions, including the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium, and the Polynesian Cultural Center.
- The island has a wide range of accommodation options suitable for families.
- Oahu has a great food scene with many child-friendly options, from casual eateries to fine-dining restaurants welcoming families.
- The island has a well-developed transportation system that makes it easy for families to move around and explore different areas.
- Oahu is home to several kid-friendly hiking trails that offer stunning views of the island’s natural beauty.
- The island has a rich cultural history that families can explore at sites such as Pearl Harbor and the Bishop Museum.
- Oahu hosts several family-friendly events throughout the year, such as the Honolulu Festival and the Hawaii Food and Wine Festival.
The 15 best Oahu resorts for families
Now let’s get to the best Oahu resorts for families, listed in no particular order. Many of the best Oahu family resorts are in Waikiki, but some, like the first on this list of the best Oahu resorts, are outside of busy Waikiki.
Turtle Bay Resort
There aren’t many resorts on the North Shore of Oahu. Turtle Bay Resort is the only true family-friendly resort on this part of the island. Several movies have been filmed at this resort, including Forgetting Sarah Marshall.
The unlikely location doesn’t mean you must pass on luxurious amenities during your stay. Luxury amenities are in the rooms and throughout the resort.
I recommend staying in one of the ocean villas for your family vacation. Those villas have the space your family will need for this time away from home. However, any of the rooms offer gorgeous ocean views.
The kids will love playing in the tide pools. Sea turtles will be nearby to add to the fun! You won’t need to go to the Honolulu Zoo or the Waikiki Aquarium. The kids can feed the tropical fish and turtles at the hotel. There are parrots for the kids to talk to there as well.
The entire family will love all the fun activities at this resort. You can all take surf lessons. Or head out on a hike or horseback riding adventure. My favorite is an outrigger canoe tour.
There are also tennis courts you can use to compete against each other. And if you don’t play tennis, take the time to learn!
The Polynesian Cultural Center is a great place to visit to learn more about the cultures on the Hawaiian Islands.
Adults will love the championship golf courses at this resort. Each one will offer the challenges you desire while playing a round in paradise.
While you’re here, don’t forget to check out 25 things to do in Haleiwa.
Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa
One of the newest Oahu family resorts is Aulani. You can choose to stay in one of the standard rooms or villas that offers all the modern amenities like home.
The villas offer a full kitchen, private bedrooms, and a washer and dryer. All the guest rooms have flat-screen TVs and floor-to-ceiling windows.
Little kids will want to visit with the Disney characters walking around. Adults, and older children, will prefer spending the day at the lazy river or attending the party at the swimming pool.
Send the younger kids to Aunty’s Beach House when you do the adult things. This is Aulani’s kid’s club. You must pre-register for your children to attend. So, a little planning is necessary.
The entire family can go on a scavenger hunt. Movie nights are fun, too, as is stargazing at the beach. Your family might not be in the mood for yoga on the beach at sunrise. Maybe you can go by yourself??
Sheraton Waikiki
Do you want to stay near the heart of Waikiki while on your family vacation in Oahu? If you said yes, then the Sheraton Waikiki should be at the top of your list!
There are more than 1,600 rooms within the 31 stories. The spacious rooms include a family room that overlooks the city. Although, the large luxury room may be a better option for families with older children. No matter which room you choose, they all offer spectacular views.
This is one of the few kid-friendly hotels that can be found directly on the world-famous Waikiki Beach. The downside is there isn’t much beach area left. So, you won’t be setting up your beach chairs too close to the hotel.
This ideal location does have a few pros. When you are not at the hotel or the beach, you have options. Walk along the streets filled with shops and restaurants.
The kids will love learning to make leis, take ukulele lessons, and share all the other Hawaiian cultural lessons each day. They also won’t be able to resist spending time at the Helumoa Playground and swimming.
You may want to take advantage of the kid’s club too. This will allow you to get a little downtime in the adults-only outdoor pool. Or you can listen to live music or get a workout in at the fitness center.
Kahala Hotel & Resort
The Kahala Hotel and Resort is only about 10 minutes from Waikiki Beach. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the beach. You can also take the shuttle to many of the nearby popular attractions.
Every guest room at this Hawaiian resort has a spacious kitchen. This will be perfect if you want to prepare food in your room. Or you need to keep doling out the snacks to hungry kids during your family vacation.
Oh, and don’t worry. There are plenty of restaurant options on-site if you don’t feel like cooking one night.
There are two swimming pools at Kahala Hotel and Resort. One of them is strictly for kids. Therefore, it will be easy for your kids to make new friends during your stay.
Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop when staying at the Kahala Hotel and Resort. They offer items made by local artisans. This is one of the best places to purchase unique Hawaiian souvenirs.
Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club
This is one of the best Oahu resorts for families outside Honolulu. You may prefer staying at this luxury hotel if you want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
The villas offer full kitchens. You can easily prepare a few meals in them during your Oahu family vacation. Not that you have to, but you have the option. Trust me; I won’t judge you if you don’t cook at all!
The whole family will love the man-made lagoons, pool area with water slides, and waterfalls at Marriott Ko Olina Beach Club.
Your kids will love the mermaid swimming lessons. Aqua bingo is a great option for a family fun-filled afternoon.
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort
One of the best hotels on Waikiki Beach is the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa. It’s one of my personal favorites in Waikiki!
The spacious rooms offer families views of the beach, mountain, or city. I love booking the King Family Ocean Suite because it offers 1,000 square feet of space. As well as a few extra perks.
A breakfast buffet is offered every morning. Talk about a wonderful way to feed a few hungry mouths.
The steak and seafood restaurant offers meals out on the terrace. This way, you don’t miss any of the beautiful views during your Oahu vacation.
During the day, the kids can head to the kids’ club. There they can participate in activities that will have them learning about Hawaiian culture.
You can relax in one of the hot tubs. Or go to the spa while the kids are occupied.
Family time can be spent at the beach, swimming, and making sandcastles. Or you can have fun at the outdoor pool with other families.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort
Hilton Hawaiian Village is the largest Hilton hotel in the world. There are more than 3.000 rooms for you to choose from for your stay. Although, you probably won’t spend much time in your room. There are too many other incredible things to do here!
Start your visit by heading over to the man-made lagoon. This lagoon offers easy access to the water. Young children can run in and out of the water all day long. Plus, your family won’t need to deal with the crowds at Waikiki Beach.
Other kid-friendly amenities include five swimming pools and waterslides. One of the pools is considered a super pool. It is 10,000 square feet and can be found right off the beach.
The kids will even have fun with all the other daily activities. Watch them play the ukulele. Learn how to hula with them. Enjoy learning new things as you all laugh and have fun!
Maybe drop them off at Camp Penguin. Yes, this is at an additional cost. However, think of the water activities you can do in the Pacific Ocean as they are playing with new friends.
The family can gather on Friday night to watch the fireworks light up the sky. Or attend the on-site luau.
Royal Hawaiian Hotel
Out of all the best family resorts in Oahu, the Royal Hawaiian Hotel is always at the top of the list. This amazing resort offers perks other resorts don’t.
You will discover great restaurants, live entertainment, a relaxing spa, and beautiful lush gardens during your stay. You also experience all the amenities at the Sheraton Waikiki next door. That includes the two pools, water slide, and kids club.
This is the perfect place for a kids-free family vacation. You get the fun for the kids at a nearby hotel and get the quieter ambiance here.
Talk about a win-win for everyone!
Take advantage of one of the weekly Diamond Head hikes. Or take hula lessons together as a family. You may even prefer to relax on your private lanai one afternoon as the kids are napping right inside!
Four Seasons Resort Oahu
When it comes to real estate in Hawaii, nothing beats the Ko Olina development in Oahu. This development is a quick 30-minute drive from Honolulu. And the Four Seasons Resort Oahu is right next door.
Every guest room offers floor-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views. Add in the private lanais, and you will quickly discover you are in your home away from home.
This is one of the best Oahu resorts for educational activities for the kids. Yes, they can head to the kids’ program every day. However, they can also get a kid-friendly manicure and facial at the spa.
Talk about an amazing way to have a girl’s day with your daughters!
Of course, if you have boys, you won’t want them to feel left out. Head down to the beach to snorkel amongst marine life. Go swimming in the pools or walk along the shoreline. Choose something they will want to do and enjoy every moment.
At mealtime, choose one of the on-site restaurants. Each one offers child-friendly foods. You will even find buffets for those nights when no one can agree on what should be eaten for dinner.
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort
Exploring Diamond Head Crater during your vacation? Staying at Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort might be your best option. This resort is right next to the Diamond Head Crater.
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort is also close to Pearl Harbor.
Although, you may not ever want to leave your private lanai to check out the nearby attractions. The guest rooms offer beach-style decor to keep you in a beachy mood. They are perfect for naps after a day of exploring the island.
You won’t need to worry about feeding your family when staying at this best Oahu resort. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from. And they all serve family-friendly cuisine.
You may find yourself in one of the two pools when you are not out exploring or tackling the surf break on the beach.
Prince Waikiki
You won’t be able to resist standing at the windows in your room at Prince Waikiki. The floor-to-ceiling windows allow you to see stunning views of the island. Add in the little luxurious touches, and your family will fall in love with this Oahu resort.
Your days can be spent at one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Or you can relax at the pools while the kids swim.
Head to the spa for a little downtime. Or relax in your room while reading a book.
When it comes to dining, you have plenty of options at Prince Waikiki. Grab a coffee in the morning to hold you over until everyone is awake and ready for breakfast. Head to a different restaurant for lunch and dinner. Each meal will have you amazed and wanting more.
Of course, you don’t need to dine out at all. Order room service and have delicious cuisine brought straight to your room.
You can’t go wrong with the outdoor activities at this family-friendly resort. Friday night fireworks are the most popular. However, you can choose any other beach activities you know your family will love.
Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel
The Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel is one of the best resorts for families on Oahu. The spacious rooms have modern furnishings. You will also discover plenty of modern amenities your family couldn’t live without. Add in the views; you may never want to check out of this resort!
In the morning, head to the beach for a walk. Or complete a workout at the fitness center.
The prime location means you can explore the area and participate in numerous cultural activities. I can help you plan various tours and activities during your stay.
And at night, take advantage of the on-site restaurant for all your dining needs.
Moana Surfrider – A Westin Resort & Spa
The very first hotel in Waikiki was the Moana Surfrider. Many things have changed at this family resort since the doors opened in 1901, including becoming a Westin property. And yet, you can still see lots of its historic charm.
All the guest rooms at this resort are spacious. However, the rooms within the Tower Wing offer the most space for traveling families. Each room offers a long list of amenities. So, your family won’t need to go without during your time away from home.
You may take hula dancing lessons when your family is not at the beachfront pool—or snorkeling in the ocean and making leis.
The oceanfront restaurant is perfect when you need a meal right away. And parents can get a break by sending their kids to a supervised program. That might be the perfect time to head to the spa for a treatment. Or have that romantic afternoon walking hand in hand along the shoreline.
Best Resorts Oahu for Families
There you have it, the best resorts in Oahu for families. Did your favorite Oahu family resort make the list? If not, share it in the comments below.
More Oahu travel tips
Want even more ideas for things to do during your Oahu vacation? Check out:
- The 21 best beaches in Oahu
- The 17 best waterfalls in Oahu
- 30 free things to do in Oahu
- 2-Day Oahu Itinerary
- The 30 best beaches in Hawaii
- What is the best luau in Oahu in 2023?
- The best Oahu snorkeling
Although I am a Hawaii Travel Agent, I am only taking on a few clients per month. You can contact me if you’d like more information. I recommend starting with my Hawaii travel guide if you plan to DIY your vacation!
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