Hawaii Bucket List: 40 Kid-Approved Adventures in Paradise

Hawaii is truly heaven on Earth – a magical place full of bucket-list worthy adventures. Our connection to the islands runs deeper than the average tourist, with many generations of family ties. The two of us have been visiting the islands frequently since we were kids, collectively amassing dozens of trips between us. Now that we’re parents, we love venturing back with our brood of 5. We’re beyond excited to share our favorite adventures with you, in what we’ve compiled as our kid-approved Hawaii bucket list. So, grab your aloha shirts, pack those flip-flops, and join us on an island-hopping extravaganza that’ll have everyone grinning from ear to ear!

10 Adventures on Oahu for Your Hawaii Bucket List  

1. Go snorkeling to see Hawaii’s serene seascapes  

Dive into underwater wonders that’ll leave the kids wide-eyed and amazed. 

Hanauma Bay is the most famous place on Oahu to snorkel but it comes with a price. It’s gotten so popular that you now have to reserve a ticket in advance. Hanauma Bay’s gentle waves are ideal for the whole family and you’ll glide alongside vibrant marine life in a tranquil aquatic paradise. And Shark’s Cove? No sharks here, just a shallow natural pool filled with vibrant sea life waiting to be discovered by your budding marine biologists. 

But Three Tables is our personal favorite. A real hidden gem! You’ll be immersed in a marine wonderland adorned with intricate coral formations and an array of tropical fish. We think it’s one of the best beaches on Oahu.  

2. Learn to surf where the sport was born:  

Whether you’re a total newbie or ready for the big waves at Pipeline, Oahu’s legendary waves have something for the whole family. No Hawaii bucket list is complete without an attempt at surfing.

If the bustling energy of Waikiki beckons, join a surf lesson amidst iconic beachfront hotels. With the iconic Diamond Head as your backdrop, you’ll learn the art of riding the waves from seasoned instructors who’ll have you standing up and riding the surf in no time. Waikiki is a great place for beginner lessons year-round. Don’t forget to snap a pic with the statue of Duke Kahanamoku – the godfather of surfing.

For something more laid back, head to Chun’s Reef on the North Shore for a quintessential Hawaiian surf experience. Feel the rush as you ride gentle rollers and catch your very first wave. Even our 9-year old was able to stand up and ride the waves. He was so hooked after one lesson he wanted to quit school and move to Hawaii to be a surfer!  

The only downside is that North Shore is only good for beginners in the summertime. In the winter, it transforms into a big wave surfers mecca. Fun to watch, though! 

3. Paddle up a jungle river in Haleiwa 

Navigate the tranquil waters of the Anahulu River on a paddleboard, embracing a sense of calm that only nature can provide. As you glide gently through the lush surroundings, soak in the beauty of the North Shore’s landscape, where swaying palm trees and vibrant flora set the stage for an idyllic paddleboarding adventure. The calm waters mean smooth sailing for the kiddos.  

As we paddled under the bridge and upriver, our kids’ imaginations ran wild. It felt like a real-life Jungle Cruise! No hippos or headhunters – but we did see a sea turtle pop his head up to say hello. This Oahu hidden gem is one of our favorite must-do activities in Hawaii.

We brought our own inflatable paddleboard from home but you can rent one from Blue Planet Adventure Company.

4. Experience movie magic at Kualoa Ranch:  

Welcome…to Jurassic Park! Not to mention the filming location of Godzilla, Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle, Kong: Skull Island, Lost, George of the Jungle, Mighty Joe Young, and 50 First Dates to name a few. If you’re a movie-lover, you’ll want this at the top of your Hawaii bucket list. Whether you choose to ride horses, UTVs, or a basic tour bus, your family will feel like the stars of their own epic adventure. We opted for the Half Day Package because it was the best one without an age minimum. We were able to take all our kids, including the baby, on a catamaran cruise around Kaneohe Bay followed by a bus tour of the movie sites around the ranch.

5. Immerse yourself in the islands at the Polynesian Cultural Center:  

The Polynesian Cultural Center in Laie is a living museum that beckons you to explore the diverse cultures of the Pacific islands. From the rhythmic hula of Hawaii to the fierce Maori haka, each cultural presentation weaves a narrative that celebrates the uniqueness and interconnectedness of Polynesian traditions. It’s a fun, interactive way to get your kids to learn about cultures different from their own! 

6. A History Lesson Like No Other at Pearl Harbor  

I was worried my kids would find Pearl Harbor boring, but it was honestly one of their favorite things to do on Oahu. They were fascinated by the exhibits, learning the history of the war, and seeing real-life submarines and battleships. As you step onto the USS Arizona Memorial, you’ll feel a profound connection to the past, honoring the lives lost during the attack on December 7, 1941. The USS Missouri, known as the “Mighty Mo,” stands nearby, a symbol of the war’s end.

7. Learn about Hawaiian History at Iolani Palace:  

Did you know that the only royal palace on American soil is located on Oahu? That fact alone makes it worth adding to your Hawaii bucket list. This architectural gem was the home of Queen Liliuokalana, Hawaii’s last monarch. But it’s also a great place to learn about Hawaiian history. When most people conjure up images of Hawaii in their heads they think of grass skirts and thatched roof huts, so they may be surprised to see this European-style palace with opulent furnishings and decor.

9. Hike a volcano 

Koko Head

For little adventurers with energy to spare, Koko Head’s railway stairs are a feat they’ll love conquering. If climbing 1,000 steps straight up a mountain doesn’t sound fun, then maybe you and your kids would prefer the more moderate Diamond Head, best known as the iconic backdrop for Waikiki Beach. Explorers once thought they found diamonds on the slopes of the volcanic crater. Eventually they discovered it was actually crystals in the lava rock that were completely worthless. But somehow the name stuck. Your modern-day treasure hunt will be rewarded with views of the sprawling cityscape of Honolulu and Oahu’s south shore.  

10. Ho-omaluhia Botanical Gardens 

Nestled on the island’s windward side in Kaneohe, this lush haven is a family favorite that won’t break the bank. The Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens are a great place to learn about various plants and flowers native to Hawaii and from all over the world. There are multiple short, kid-friendly hikes to explore the gardens and soak in captivating views of the Ko’olau Mountains. We liked it so much we went back twice on our most recent trip!

Looking for more ideas? Check out these 23 things to do on Oahu with kids.

10 Adventures on Kauai for Your Hawaii Bucket List

Kauai is my favorite place on Earth, let alone Hawaii. The Na Pali Coast is the most stunning place I’ve ever seen! There’s so much to see and do beyond what’s on this list so check out our 7 day Kauai Itinerary for Families. But at least make sure to add the stuff below to your Hawaii bucket list!

1. Hike the Kalaulau Trail to Hanakapiai Falls

I put this one first on the list above all others because it is hands down my favorite hike I have ever done, anywhere in the world. To say it is mind-blowing simply is an understatement. If this isn’t on your Hawaii bucket list, why are you even going to Hawaii? Unfortunately, this is not a kid-friendly hike and it is quite strenuous so I wouldn’t recommend taking the kiddos until they’re teenagers.

At mile 1, after ascending steep trails with sheer drop-offs, you’re rewarded with amazing views of the famous Na Pali Coast. At mile 2, you arrive at Hanakapiai Beach. Just admire it from afar and don’t go for a swim – signs warn about the numerous deaths that have occurred in the dangerous tides here. Then you trek 2 more miles through bamboo forests and across streams until you finally reach the massive 400-foot tall waterfall.

2. Sail the Na Pali Coast

Anchors aweigh, adventurers! Set sail on an extraordinary voyage along the Na Pali Coast, a stretch of coastline that defies description with its towering cliffs and dramatic vistas. The sheer cliffs and emerald valleys will seem like a storybook come to life, making this a Hawaii bucket list experience you’ll never forget.

We’ve sailed with Blue Dolphin Charters on multiple occasions and highly recommend them! True to their name, we were treated to dolphins swimming and jumping in our wake each time.

3. Ride the train at the Kilohana Plantation

All aboard the family fun train at! This Hawaii bucket list experience is Kauai’s answer to the Dole Plantation on Oahu. As the Kilohana Plantation Railway sets off, you’ll all be transported through time, immersing yourselves in the history of the island and its rich agricultural heritage. It’s still a working plantation, so you’ll get to see all kinds of different fruit trees – coconut, mango, papayas, guava, and more. But the real treat? Feeding the pigs. Our kids couldn’t stop giggling at the hungry little guys.

4. Drive to Wailua Falls

Wailua Falls rose to fame in my parent’s generation thanks to the 70s TV show “Fantasy Island”. The majestic double waterfall was featured during the opening credits. One of the reasons Wailua Falls gained fame is its accessibility.

Unlike some waterfalls that require strenuous hikes to reach, Wailua Falls can be admired from a convenient viewpoint right off the road. This accessibility has made it a popular stop for tourists, allowing everyone to experience the wonder of a Hawaiian waterfall without extensive trekking. This makes it an especially great activity for families with young kids.

5. Take a boat ride to the Fern Grotto

Fun fact: the Wailua River is the only navigable river in all of Hawaii. For native Hawaiians, the Wailua River was a sacred place, serving as the site of royal residences, spiritual ceremonies, and cultural gatherings. One of the most iconic places to visit along the river is the Fern Grotto.

Accessible only by boat, the Fern Grotto is a natural lava rock cave adorned with hanging ferns and tropical plants. Visitors are treated to some live music at the grotto, which creates an enchanting experience that combines nature and Hawaiian culture. My grandparents got married on Oahu and visited this place on their honeymoon. They brought the entire family back here in 2015 after being married for 58 years.

Your kids will feel like explorers as you glide along the Wailua River, and the grotto’s natural beauty will make them think they’ve entered a tropical fairy tale.

6. Kayak the Wailua River to Secret Falls

If you’re the active, adventurous type, you’ll definitely want to add this to your Hawaii bucket list. The other really popular thing to do along the Wailua River is to kayak to Secret Falls. The secret is out but because you really have to work to get there, you still may get lucky enough to have the falls to yourself. Save this one for the older kids, though. Might be a little much for little ones.

Arriving at Secret Falls, the feeling of accomplishment and the sight of the cascading waterfall will make this an unforgettable experience. You can rent a kayak or take a tour from Bring Me a Kayak.

7. Drive Waimea Canyon

Calling all road trip aficionados! Don’t miss driving through Waimea Canyon, aptly nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. You can opt for numerous lookouts to simply gaze at the vastness of this geological masterpiece, where shades of red and green meld into a stunning kaleidoscope.

Or you can choose one of several hikes to venture deeper into the canyon to see its hidden wonders.

Word to the wise: keep the snacks handy for pit stops to avoid hangry meltdowns. There’s nowhere to buy food once you start up the long canyon road.

8. Take a helicopter ride over the Na Pali coast

Is riding in a helicopter on your bucket list? No better place to finally do it than in Kauai! I tagged along with my in-laws on this one and left the kids back at the hotel with Brittany. Someday when they’re a bit older, I’ll bring them along for the ride.

We opted for the Jurassic Falls tour from Island Helicopters. There are many helicopter tour options but this is the only one that lands at the waterfall from Jurassic Park, the one from the scene where they arrive at Isla Nublar. The pilot even plays the Jurassic Park theme song as your arrive in the valley and land at the site to add to the magic.

The fun doesn’t stop there. Next you’ll soar over the red & green cliffs of Waimea Canyon before heading over to the rugged coastline of the Na Pali Coast. It’s a Hawaii bucket list experience that’s truly jaw-dropping.

9. Cliff jumping at Shipwreck Beach

Shipwreck Beach is a beautiful, uncrowded gem near Poipu. It had its 15 seconds of fame in the movie Six Days, Seven Nights when Harrison Ford jumped off the cliffs here to escape some pirates. The cliffs are 35-40 feet tall so it’s not for the faint of heart. But if you’re an adrenaline junky, then be sure to add this to your Hawaii bucket list.

But maybe just let the kids watch from the safety of the shore. For families, the cliff just makes for a pretty backdrop to a relaxing beach day. When we were there last, we were lucky enough to see a pod of dolphins from the shore. I grabbed my paddleboard and hurried out to greet them, which was one of the coolest moments of our Kauai trip.

10. Tubing through old sugar cane canals with Backcountry Adventure

Last on the list is a unique adventure that’s still on my Hawaii bucket list. I opted to splurge on the helicopter ride instead so I’m saving this one for next time. Kauai Backcountry Adventures offers an experience like no other on the island – a mountain tubing tour. Kids must be at least 43 inches to participate, which means probably age 5 or so and up is OK. The whole family will love the excitement of gliding on gentle waters, floating through old sugar cane canals, and passing through tunnels. You’ll really get to soak in the island’s history from a whole new perspective.

10 Adventures on Maui for Your Hawaii Bucket List

Our hearts go out to the people in Lahaina who lost their homes and loved ones in the 2023 fire. Such a devastating tragedy! We love Maui and the Hawaiian people and feel that people continuing to visit will support them and help them rebuild. There are thousands of businesses that rely on tourism and they can’t help their fellow Maui residents if they also lose their livelihoods.

When you do visit, just be sensitive to their pain and suffering. Consider bringing items to donate, volunteering your time, and be sure to stay away from Lahaina. That side of the island will reopen to tourists someday soon.

In the meantime, everything on this list is on the Kihei & Hana sides of the island. You’ll see that Maui is still worth visiting! In the future when Lahaina rebuilds, we’ll be sure to add back the best activities on that side of the island.

1. Ride scooters to the Iao Valley

Iao Valley is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. There are well-maintained trails that lead through the valley, offering opportunities to explore the tropical rainforest, discover hidden waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the vibrant flora and fauna that thrive here. The trails vary in difficulty but we love the paved trail to the Iao Needle Lookout Trail because it’s perfect for our little ones.

Adding to the adventure, we opted to get their via scooter (the kids rode with grandma and grandpa in the van). Renting a scooter is always one of our favorite ways to get around the island when we visit. We like Maui Moped Rentals in Kihei. Whether you ride a scooter or not, be sure to include Iao Valley on your Hawaii bucket list.

2. Take a day trip to Paia town for seafood, sea turtles, and waterfalls

Ready to shop till you drop? Paia town offers a treasure trove of boutiques and galleries that your kids will adore exploring. From funky finds to unique souvenirs, this Hawaii bucket list shopping spree promises more than just trinkets – it’ll bring back smiles and memories of good island vibes. And be sure to stop at the Paia Fish Market for some of the best seafood on the island. Lots of people consider Paia the start of the Road to Hana, but there’s so much to do and see that we recommend #2-4 on this list as a separate excursion from your Road to Hana day.

No trip to Hawaii is complete without a sea turtle sighting and there’s no better place on Maui to see them than Ho’okipa Beach, just a few minutes away from Paia. Mid-afternoon and sunset are the best times to catch them. Sometimes there are a dozen or more turtles sunbathing all at once! Your kids will be awe-struck as they witness these graceful creatures in their natural habitat.

Unleash your family’s inner explorers with a hike to Twin Falls. Located just 15-20 minutes past Paia town, you can easily pair this with your shopping spree & turtle-viewing expedition. It’s 1.8 miles round trip but there is relatively little elevation gain, so kids of all ages can easily do it. This enchanting trail leads you through lush forests and ends at a cascading double waterfall. Your kids will love the chance to dip their toes in the refreshing pools beneath the falls and maybe even give the rope swing a try (assuming it didn’t just rain like it did when we went).

3. See a red sand beach at Oneuli Beach

Hidden gem alert! I had read about a black sand beach near Kihei when I was planning our trip. It was not easy to find, let me tell you. You can easily locate it on the GPS but the turnoff from the main road is not well-marked and the dirt road is not well maintained. But that makes it feel all the more adventurous.

Oneuli Beach is one of the most unique beaches on the island with a blend of black & red sand against the backdrop of a big lava rock cliff. Good luck finding it but you won’t regret trying!

4. Boogie boarding at Makena Beach

Surf’s up, little wave riders! Makena Beach is the ultimate playground for boogie boarding, where your kids can ride the big-ish waves with laughter and glee. Within Makena State Park, you’re looking for Big Beach (you’ll probably want to avoid the clothing-optional Little Beach). It’s a beautiful stretch of shoreline near Kihei & Wailea that will provide endless hours of sun tanning and wave riding entertainment.

5. Eat breakfast at the Kihei Caffe

Start your day the delicious way! Kihei Caffe (no, that’s not a typo) serves up mouthwatering breakfast delights that’ll have your kids hopping out of bed in excitement. Think of your traditional breakfast but done Hawaiian style. From fluffy macadamia nut pancakes to hearty pork fried rice or Hawaiian loco moco, this Hawaii bucket list dining experience promises not just a full belly lots of smiles.

6. Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Resort

No Hawaii bucket list is complete without a luau. Not only is it a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s rich cultural heritage but they all come with delicious food. While there are many options to choose from, the Te Au Moana Luaua is one of the best.

Te Au Moana translates as “the ocean tide”, which is fitting because part of the magic of this experience is being outside cliffside at the Wailea Beach Marriott. Your kids will be mesmerized by the in-ground pork cooking ceremony, live music with hula dancers, and of course the always-thrilling fire dancers.

7. Watch the sunrise on top of a volcano

Prepare for a sunrise experience like no other at Haleakalā National Park in Maui! Imagine standing atop a volcano, surrounded by the ethereal beauty of the dawn. As the sun rises over the crater’s edge, the sky is painted with hues that defy description. It’s a moment of pure magic that’s worth the early wake-up call. But come prepared to bundle up – it’s surprisingly cold at elevation. Lots of companies do bike ride tours, so if you’re feeling more adventurous, try biking down from the summit instead of simply watching the sunrise.

8. Drive the Road to Hana and eat Halfway to Hana banana bread:

The Road to Hana is one of the most famous road trips in the world – one that should be high on your Hawaii bucket list. What makes it so unique is that within a 68-mile span, there are over 600 curves and 59 bridges. It takes between 2.5 – 5 hours to get from Paia to Hana, depending on how many stops you make along the way.

We discovered the app Shaka Guide when we last visited and highly recommend it. It will tell you stories and cool facts along the way, with a GPS-guided tour of all the best places to stop. One must-do stop? Fuel up with some Halfway to Hana bread – a mouthwatering treat that you won’t soon forget.

9. Visit a black sand beach

Waianapanapa State Park is a stunning coastal gem located along the Road to Hana. Waianapanapa’s black sand beach is a sight to behold. The jet-black sand is created from the volcanic activity in the area, and it contrasts beautifully with the lush green vegetation and the turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean. The park offers a playground of sea arches and lava tubes as well as several well-maintained, kid-friendly trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints.

10. Hike the Seven Sacred Pools

The Road to Hana can mean a lot of time in the car, which can be tough to handle for little kids. We made it to Wainanapanapa’s black sand beach and turned around. We missed out on Seven Sacred Pools, sadly. As much as I really wanted to hike the bamboo forests of the Pipiwai Trail and play in the mesmerizing waterfalls of the Seven Sacred Pools, it was another 45 minutes farther away. But it looks incredible and someday I’ll go back to check this off my Hawaii bucket list!

Looking for more ideas? Check out our 7 day Maui itinerary!

10 Adventures on the Big Island for Your Hawaii Bucket List

Full disclosure, I’ve only been to the Big Island twice. Once as a kid and once as an adult on a multi-island cruise. I haven’t spent as much time there as I have on the other islands. I know Oahu, Maui, and Kauai inside and out. But most of the things on this list are things I’ve researched to add to our family’s own Hawaii bucket list but have yet to experience them ourselves. Hoping to take the kids next time we go to Hawaii, though!

1. Visit Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is the big draw to visit the Big Island – a Hawaii bucket list essential. Imagine your kids gazing in awe at steaming craters and lava tubes. It’s not just a lesson in geology; it’s a chance for kids to witness the raw power of nature and ignite their curiosity about the world around them. Hawaii’s volcanoes are still active, so If you’re lucky, you might even get to see a live eruption and lava flow.

2. See the tiki gods at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park:

Venture into the past at Pu’uhonua o Honaunau National Historic Park, where tiki gods tell tales of ancient Hawaii. This vibrant park is a time capsule that transports you back to a time of chiefs, warriors, and sacred traditions. Your kids will be captivated by the carved figures and sacred grounds, connecting with the island’s rich history. I visited this place as a kid and still remember it! I was fascinated by tiki statues for years afterwards.

3. Stargazing at Mauna Kea

People are always surprised to learn that Mauna Kea boasts an incredible elevation of nearly 14,000 feet. If you counted from the base of the sea, it would be technically taller than Mount Everest. It even occasionally gets some snow! Who knew, right? Because of the pristine, unpolluted Hawaiian air and the high elevation it’s an out-of-this-world place to see the night sky. So grab your little astronomers for a night of celestial wonder with Mauna Kea Summit Adventures. It’s a Hawaii bucket list experience that’ll leave your kids dreaming of distant galaxies.

4. Go night snorkeling with manta rays

Dive into a night of wonder as you snorkel alongside graceful manta rays. Ages 6 and up can participate and watch as these gentle giants glide through the ocean’s darkness. The boats light up the water, attracting the plankton that the huge rays feast on. It is sure to be a Hawaii bucket list experience that will fill them with awe and a deep appreciation for the ocean’s mysteries.

5. Kayak to the Captain Cook monument

Channel your family’s inner explorers with a kayaking adventure to the Captain Cook monument. Captain Cook was the first European to set foot in Hawaii in 1778. His arrival made a lasting impact on the history and culture of Hawaii. Besides seeing his monument, the crystal-clear waters of Kealakekua Bay are great for kayaking and snorkeling.

6. Liliuokalani Gardens

Located in Hilo (the windward, lush side of the Big Island), the Liliuokalani Gardens offer a peaceful escape where your kids can explore winding pathways and serene ponds.These serene Japanese-style gardens are named after Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of the Kingdom of Hawaii. The 30-acre garden is a beautiful tribute to Japanese culture and aesthetics, as well as a testament to the enduring spirit of Hawaii’s history.

7. Visit a green sand beach

There are only four green sand beaches in the world and one of them is located on the Big Island. That makes Hawaii’s Green Sand Beach, also known as Papakolea Beach, a rare natural wonder worthy of inclusion on your Hawaii bucket list. This dazzling color comes from olivine, also known as peridot when of gem quality, a mineral found in the volcanic rocks nearby. Over time, these tiny gems create a beach that’s unlike any other. You’ve got to see it to believe it – a beach that’s not just sandy, but strikingly green!

8. See some spectacular waterfalls near Hilo:

There are three easily accessible falls near Hilo that are worth a visit: Ranbow Falls, Akaka Falls, and Kahuna Falls. Rainbow Falls get their name from the rainbows that often appear in the morning light. It’s just a quick 2-minute walk to the overlook from the parking lot.

Standing at a towering 442 feet, Akaka Falls is a sight to behold. As you explore, you’ll be treated to not just one, but two magnificent waterfalls – Akaka and Kahuna Falls. Both are conveniently reachable via a paved trail that winds through lush rainforest. It’s a nature lover’s paradise you won’t want to miss!

9. See sea turtles on a black sand beach

Looking for a truly unique beach experience in Hawaii? Look no further than Panalu’u Beach, where the sands are as black as night. This iconic black sand beach on the Big Island is not only visually striking but also home to some vibrant marine life. It’s a great place to witness green sea turtles basking in the sun on this captivating beach!

10. Swim with the dolphins at Hilton Waikaloa Village

When we venture to the Big Island on our next trip, we’ll be staying at the Hilton Waikaloa Village. Imagine swimming with dolphins in a lush lagoon, exploring waterfalls and waterslides, and relaxing on pristine beaches. From golf courses to spas, this resort is a slice of paradise with a side of adventure.

Hawaii Bucket List Final Thoughts

We hope this helps you plan an amazing dream vacation to Hawaii – our favorite place on Earth. Mahalo for reading!

Our family is on a mission to experience the best affordable, kid-friendly adventures in the US help other families create lasting memories in the process. You can follow us on Instagram @theminivanbucketlist or download our free printable Utah Bucket List for a list of the top kid-friendly adventures in our home state of Utah.