The best view of Oahu is at the Diamond Head State Monument, 761 feet above sea level. Though the hike is semi-strenuous and takes around 1-2 hours to complete, it’s worth it for the experience and the view.

Grab a water bottle, snacks, and sturdy shoes and trek the 1.5-mile hike to the summit of Diamond Head State Monument. Children will love the view and looking at the sea, city, and inland forests from this stellar viewpoint.

This nature preserve is where you’ll find all types of marine wildlife and be able to see the best of Hawaii under the sea. You can relax under a palm tree and build sandcastles in between dips to the sea. Best of all, the coral is shallow so children can see fish without having to swim out too deep. You’ll need to know how to float or at least have a paddle board. No standing on the coral. Strap on your snorkels and prepare to see technicolor fish living among vibrant corals.

Hawaii is known for its stunning waterfalls – and few are more beautiful than Manoa’s. Children will love exploring the trails leading to the falls and seeing all the wildlife along the way. Walk the 1.6-mile round-trip trail among banyan trees to Manoa Falls and admire the cascades. Perfect for any families. Signs warn not to swim due to bacteria in the water – but many visitors risk it and jump in anyways.

Known for being one of the biggest waves in the world and a site for many iconic surf contests, the Banzai Pipeline is a must-see for families interested in surf culture. There is plenty of sandy space and a grassy area to post up at for the day. When the waves are huge, watch some of the world’s most skilled surfers have the ride of their lives.