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Embracing Aloha with Family Adventures in O'ahu, Hawaii

Writer's picture: NicholeNichole

Join us for unforgettable family adventures as our crazy crew embraces the spirit of Aloha, explores O'ahu's stunning landscape and celebrates its rich cultural heritage


Adventure is in Our Souls

Why O'ahu?

One of the first decisions we had to make when planning our Hawaiian adventure, was which island to visit. There are 137 officially recognized islands in Hawaii, including 8 major islands (Hawaiʻi, Maui, Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi, Oʻahu, Kauaʻi, and Niʻihau). Of these 8, only 4 are accessible for tourists (O'ahu, Maui, Kauaʻi, and Hawaiʻi). Each of these islands offers amazing opportunities for adventure, so we decided each needs its own separate visit to properly explore. Buttercup had just studied Pearl Harbor, so we opted to visit O'ahu first.


O'ahu is graced with gentle tropical breezes that create a serene atmosphere, perfect for capturing the essence of Hawaii's natural beauty. There is a lush greenery that blankets the hills and valleys, with diverse flora, including swaying palm trees, colorful hibiscus flowers, and sprawling ferns, adding layers of texture and color. Its vibrant landscape is dramatically enhanced by its volcanic formations, which are scattered throughout the island. The contrast between the rugged volcanic rock and the soft, sandy beaches creates a striking visual dynamic that is quintessentially Hawaiian. The island's coastline is dotted with breathtaking beaches, each with its unique charm, ranging from the famous Waikiki Beach with its lively atmosphere to the more secluded and tranquil shores of Lanikai and Kailua.


Our Family Adventures in O'ahu, Hawaii

We enjoyed 8 unforgettable days on O'ahu, the third largest island in Hawaii and the location of the state's capital, Honolulu. From the moment we arrived on this island, we felt its magic. There was a special spirit and cultural respect we experienced from the Hawaiians. They genuinely embody the incredible spirit of Aloha, which we soon realized was not just a greeting, but a way of life.


Adventure is in Our Souls
Hilton Hawaiian Village Map

We based our adventures from the Hilton Hawaiian Village, nestled on a sprawling stretch of pristine beach in vibrant Waikiki. This resort is nothing short of a paradise, truly a "village" in every sense — it’s enormous! With multiple towers housing thousands of rooms, a plethora of tantalizing restaurants, and an array of enticing shopping options, there’s never a dull moment! As Hilton Diamond members, we were treated to an incredible upgrade: an oceanfront balcony on the 19th floor of the Rainbow Tower (room R1911)! While the room itself was cozy, the breathtaking view of the waves crashing against the shore was nothing short of spectacular! Imagine waking up to the sound of the ocean and the sight of a golden sunrise painting the sky! We visited in late September, so the resort was pleasantly uncrowded. There were however several families, so the girls had a blast making new friends, splashing in the waves, and building sandcastles together.


Note, a labor strike at HHV started the morning of our third day, so the vibe around the resort had changed dramatically when we returned from our North Shore adventure. Bars and services had stopped, and the picketing continued from 7 am until 10 pm. It was a pretty big disappointment, but luckily our resort beach days were mostly behind us by that point. We were largely off-property for the remainder of our stay.


Day 1 – A Long Day of Travel Then Unwinding in the Hawaiian Sun

We began our journey to O'ahu with a direct flight from Atlanta to Honolulu Airport. This 10 hour flight was long and exhausting, but we all managed to catch a little sleep during the journey. We arrived at 1:30 pm local time, so we needed enough energy to push through the first day and adjust to the time change. Ultimately, no push was needed ... the thrill of landing in paradise washed over us as soon as we stepped off the plane! We quickly found our pre-arranged car service with Charley's Taxi, and were off on the 20 minute drive to HHV through the scenic streets of Honolulu.


After a fast check-in, we quickly changed and set off to explore the beach! Just steps from our elevator, the allure of the Pacific Ocean called to us. We spent most of the afternoon splashing around, crafting sandcastles, and soaking up the Hawaiian sun.


As evening fell, we settled in for dinner at Aoki Teppanyaki Hibachi -- one of Buttercup's favorites! The meal was excellent, perfectly embodying what one anticipates from a Hibachi experience. On our way back to the room, we picked up some rafts, sand toys, and a body board at the ABC store. Satisfied, full and pretty tired, we opted for an early bedtime.


Day 2 – Relaxing in Waikiki & Visits from Rocky the Monk Seal

Our first full day of adventures in O'ahu started with an exhilarating beach discovery! As we awoke, something unusual caught our eye—a long, mysterious object nestled in the sand. Curiosity piqued, we joined the growing crowd of onlookers gathering around this intriguing sight. To our amazement, we discovered that it was none other than Rocky, the Hawaiian Monk Seal! Each evening, this charismatic seal makes her grand entrance onto the shores of HHV, claiming her spot for a well-deserved slumber. Rocky isn’t just any seal. She has become a beloved ambassador for her species after making headlines for giving birth to her first pup right in the heart of Waikiki back in 2017. With a personality as vibrant as the island itself, Rocky seems to thrive in the spotlight, showing no fear of the people who come to admire her. Each night of our visit, she returned to her sandy sanctuary, and every morning, she gracefully glided back into the sparkling ocean, leaving us in awe of nature's wonders. What a thrilling start to our Hawaiian escapade!


We spent the day soaking up the glorious Hawaiian sun, enveloped in the vibrant atmosphere of paradise! The ocean outside of HHV sparkled like a thousand diamonds, inviting us to dive in and swim among the waves. The thrill of splashing around in the pool added to our excitement, as laughter echoed in the air. We decided to explore the lagoon, but to our surprise, it was a bit chilly! The brisk water sent shivers down our spines, and the slimy bottom was an unexpected twist that left me eager to go back to the ocean. Despite that, the day was filled with joy and unforgettable moments under the radiant Hawaiian sky!


Before dinner, we strolled around Waikiki. As we wandered along the streets, we were greeted by a delightful surprise: a flurry of wild chickens strutting through the vibrant landscape. These feisty fowls, a quirky hallmark of the area, owe their existence to a fascinating history. Once domestic chickens, they were released from old sugar plantations when the industry faced decline, and what began as a few feathered friends has blossomed into a thriving feral population. The aftermath of hurricanes like Iniki only added to their ranks, as the storms wreaked havoc on chicken coops, sending countless birds into the wild to flourish. Now, they roam freely, adding a unique charm and a dash of unexpected excitement to the enchanting atmosphere of Waikiki!


For dinner, we made reservations at Hula Grill Waikiki, a delightful oceanside restaurant. The atmosphere was perfect as we watched the sunset transform the sky into a canvas of vibrant colors. We couldn't resist saving room for dessert, and the famous Hula Pie exceeded our expectations, making it a sweet ending to a perfect day.


On day three, we set out to explore the iconic North Shore of O’ahu with Kevo's Beach Bus, led by our guide Kevin. What drew me to this tour was its claim that “we’re the tour for those who don’t like tours”. It sounded like the perfect fit for our adventurous crew. The tour was largely based on outside of the box adventure, which was perfect! I have included a summary below, or follow along here for our complete review of our time with Kevo's Beach Bus.


Our adventure kicked off at Green World Coffee Farms, and then continued to the legendary Pipeline Beach. While we missed the thrilling winter surf contests, the late September sun gifted us with pleasantly swimmable waters. Pipeline Beach was high on my list of “must-sees,” and I knew it would be the perfect stop for our adventure. With the backdrop of the stunning ocean and the thrill of the surf culture, this place was everything I had dreamed it would be!


After an awe-inspiring time at Pipeline Beach, we set our sights on the iconic Waimea Bay, a true gem nestled in Haleiwa on the North Shore, right at the mouth of the majestic Waimea River. This spot is legendary for its exhilarating cliff jumping, drawing thrill-seekers from all around! Waimea Bay offers a range of heights that cater to jumpers of every skill level. Whether you're a novice or a daredevil, there's something for everyone! From heart-pounding 5-foot leaps to adrenaline-pumping 20-foot drops, even our fearless friend Spider Monkey found her perfect jump!


Our adventures then took a bucket list-worthy turn as we arrived at the Laniakea Beach, famously known as Turtle Beach! This paradise isn't just a feast for the eyes; it's a vibrant feeding and sunbathing haven for the majestic Hawaiian Sea Turtles, or honu. As true animal lovers, witnessing these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat was nothing short of magical!


Our next stop was the Anahulu River area, renowned as one of the most popular kayaking spots on North Shore Oahu, thanks to its typically calm waters and easy access. It's an ideal playground for beginners and those seeking a leisurely, sun-soaked paddle. The entrance to the Anahulu River is marked by the iconic Rainbow Bridge, a local favorite for adventurous bridge-jumping! On our return trip, we couldn't resist the thrill and joined in on the fun, leaping into the sparkling waters below. Just a little further down the river, we stumbled upon a rope swing that Dustin and Buttercup eagerly tried out, adding a splash of adrenaline to our paddle boarding adventure!


Then it was time for a local lunch at Tsue’s Farm. The air was filled with the tantalizing aroma of famous North Shore shrimp and an array of other mouthwatering local dishes that danced on our taste buds. The girls ventured into the farm, where they were able to feed the friendly tortoises.


After lunch, anticipation bubbled as we headed to our next thrilling destination: the Dole Plantation! There, we indulged in the iconic and refreshing Dole Whip, a perfect treat to cool us down and sweeten our adventure!


We made an unexpected stop at the Aloha Tower Marketplace, where the vibrant atmosphere was alive with the hungry birds and vibrant fish. It turned out to be an unforgettable highlight of our tour, especially for Buttercup!


We wrapped up our North Shore adventure with an invigorating yet somewhat daunting swim at Kakaako Waterfront Park. We took group photos at this location, but due to the waves and water depth, the girls and I exited the water fairly quickly.


In all, our crew still raves about Kevos’ Beach Bus Tour and ranks it up among our best tours – which is saying a lot since we have taken countless tours during our adventures!!!  Follow along here for our additional detail and my complete review of our time with Kevo's Beach Bus.


We dedicated our fourth day to exploring the breathtaking Kualoa Ranch, nestled on the vibrant eastern coast of O'ahu. From the towering mountain cliffs to the shimmering waters of Kaneohe Bay, Kualoa Ranch is a paradise renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. We selected the self driving / non-narrated UTV tour. I have included a summary below, or follow along here for our complete review of our time at Kualoa Ranch.


Upon our arrival at Kualoa Ranch, we were greeted with a warm welcome speech that set the tone for the day. After the welcome speech, we made our way to the back of the main building, eager to locate the starting point of our UTV tour. After donning our safety gear, we received an crash course on how to navigate the UTVs. Once we were loaded into our rugged vehicle, we set off on a 2-hour UTV tour that whisked us through expansive green valleys and up breathtaking mountainous paths, discovering iconic film locations and narrowly escaping our encounter with the lingering Jurassic residents.


Kualoa Ranch, often referred to as Hollywood's "Hawaii's Backlot," has appeared in numerous films shot at the ranch over the past 60 years, reaching an audience of over a billion people. And it is easy to see why -- the views were nothing short of spectacular! We explored filming locations from blockbuster hits like Jurassic Park and 50 First Dates. Kualoa Ranch has been the backdrop for over 70 Hollywood movies since the 1950s, including epic films such as Jumanji, Kong: Skull Island, Jurassic World, and Pearl Harbor. Not to mention, iconic TV shows like Hawaii Five-O, Magnum P.I., and LOST have all showcased the breathtaking landscapes of Kualoa.


While the exhilarating ride through such diverse landscapes was a rush, the girls were irresistibly drawn to the horses upon our arrival. If I could turn back time, I would probably choose to embark on the horseback riding tour instead. I believe it would have engaged the girls even more. Although Dustin and I found the movie sites fascinating, the girls were less enthusiastic about them, longing instead for the thrill of riding through the lush terrain on horseback.

Adventure is in Our Souls

After our return transfer, we concluded our day of mountainous adventures with dinner at Lulu’s Waikiki. The casual atmosphere and ocean views made it an ideal spot to reflect on our adventures. The restaurant's seafood recommendations were spot-on, leaving us satisfied and happy.


Day five was an exhilarating highlight of our trip! We began our day with an early morning visit to the breathtaking Hanauma Bay for some snorkeling. Hanauma Bay operates a reservation system that requires advance ticket purchases, which can be purchased through the on the Department of Parks and Recreation website or through their transportation provider Hanauma Bay Snorkel Adventure.  I have included a summary below, or follow along here for our complete review of our time at Hanauma Bay.


The moment we finished the safety video, excitement surged through us as we made our way down the hill to the lower level and plunged into the world of snorkeling. The underwater experience was nothing short of mesmerizing as we swam among vibrant, colorful fish. It truly felt like we had stepped into an underwater paradise, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of brightly colored fish dancing through the crystal-clear waters! Snorkeling in Hanauma Bay was an absolutely breathtaking experience! While I anticipated a more "showy" living reef, the vibrant array of fish darting around me was nothing short of mesmerizing!


Our return transfer was set for 12 noon, which turned out to be the ideal time for our adventurous crew. It gave us the perfect window to explore both sides of the bay, play in the soft, warm sand, and sneak out of the park before the crowds fully descended. What an exhilarating day filled with underwater exploration and unforgettable memories!

 

Day 5 Part 2 – Chief’s Luau

Adventure is in Our Souls

That evening, we attended Chief's Luau. This was a last-minute change from the HHV luau, as we were uncertain if it would still occur due to the workers' strike. I reserved the Royal Experience and round-trip transportation via their website the day prior. The Royal Experience includes front-row seating, a fresh flower lei greeting, three mai tais, and a souvenir gift (a beach towel). I have mixed feelings about the value of the premium experience, primarily because our transportation provided by the luau arrived over an hour after the celebration began and just before dinner commenced, causing us to miss all the interactive cultural activities and the Imu ceremony. After discussing with the company, I can confirm they adjusted their transportation schedule to accommodate the horrendous Waikiki traffic.


After we were rushed through the lei greeting and pre-show photo opportunity, we were escorted to our seats. Despite the very rocky start, we were hopeful for what was to come. Dinner commenced almost immediately upon our arrival, which was a bit overwhelming as we barely had time to settle in and take in our surroundings. We found ourselves seated on the far right side of the stage, which offered an okay view of the performance. While we could see some of the action, it was clear that the vantage point was not ideal, especially considering the higher price tag we had paid per person for this experience. It left us wondering if perhaps we should have opted for a different seating arrangement that might have provided a more central and immersive view of the show. However, the rest of the night unfolded beautifully. The food served was not only plentiful but also very good, showcasing a delightful array of flavors that celebrated the culinary traditions of the islands. Each dish seemed thoughtfully prepared, reflecting the rich heritage of Polynesian cuisine, and we found ourselves savoring every bite.


The highlight of the evening, of course, was the show itself, which turned out to be nothing short of amazing! The performers brought the stage to life with their vibrant costumes, mesmerizing dances, and captivating storytelling, all of which deeply resonated with the essence of Polynesian culture. As we sat there, we thoroughly enjoyed immersing ourselves in the vibrant traditions of Polynesian culture.


The rhythmic drumming, the enchanting melodies, and the intricate choreography transported us to a different world, allowing us to appreciate the beauty and depth of these age-old customs. The energy of the performers was infectious, and we felt ourselves swept up in the celebration, clapping along and cheering for the talented individuals who poured their hearts into the performance. It was a night filled with joy, laughter, and a profound appreciation for the rich cultural tapestry that Polynesia has to offer, leaving us with lasting memories that we would cherish for years to come.


Day 6 – Pearl Harbor

Adventure is in Our Souls

We approached a more solemn day by visiting Pearl Harbor. This historic site carries profound importance, offering families a chance to reflect on the events of WWII. On December 7th, 1941 the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service surprise attacked the United States naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii Territory, which was the impetus for the United States to join the second world war. The base was attacked by over 300 Imperial Japanese aircraft (including fighters, level and dive bombers, and torpedo bombers) in two waves, launched from six aircraft carriers. All eight U.S. Navy battleships were damaged, with four sunk. All but the USS Arizona were later raised, and six were returned to service and went on to fight in the war. What most people don’t know is that the official name of the memorial is called World War II Valor in the Pacific and it’s a national monument.