20 min

Top 5 Kid Friendly Hikes on Oahu Hawaii's Best: Travel Tips, Guide and Culture Advice for Your Hawaii Vacation

    • Places & Travel

Get Episode Show Notes Here:  --> hawaiisbesttravel.com/episode64 --

What to Know Before Hiking in Oahu
Go Early: Oahu’s hiking trails can be busy, hot, and tough to find parking forCall Ahead: Find out weather and trail conditions before heading out with your familyBe Prepared: Check the clothing and packing lists below to have a safe, comfortable outingProtect Belongings: Don’t leave valuables in your car and have a backpack that is comfortable and secure while hikingFollow Rules: Stay on the trail, and avoid taking risks for photo ops or thrill-seekingLeave No Trace: Stow trash in backpacks, plan restroom trips and leave the trail better than you found itKNOW YOUR LIMITS: That includes your family. Though these hikes are some of the more "family-friendly" hikes on Oahu, they can still be challenging and require physical endurance. Please, know your limits.1. Waimea Falls
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, this all-ages trail takes you through lush gardens and historical sites before revealing a spectacular 30-ft waterfall and swimming area. The entirely paved trail is perfect for strollers, and its gradual slope, numerous benches, and shuttle service allow for rest and snack breaks. Owned by a Native Hawaiian governing entity, the valley is steeped in history. Featuring cultural presentations and displays from local artisans during the day. And when you reach the waterfall, lifeguards and life jackets make swimming safe for kids and adults alike.

2. Manoa Falls Trail
Another waterfall hike awaits outside Honolulu, where Manoa Falls offers a more rugged journey through shaded rainforest terrain. Beginning with breathtaking views of the Manoa Valley, the 1.7-mile unpaved trail passes through bamboo groves and diverse vegetation, including the Lyon Arboretum, home to over 5,000 plant species. You’ll want sturdy shoes or boots, and consider hiking poles - rainfall can make the path slippery in spots - and baby carriers are recommended! The shade and wet, humid air attract mosquitos, so repellant spray or wipes also come in handy. Know your limits. This is an easier hike, good for families with older kids, but can be very wet and slippery. If in
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Hungry Root Meal Service (30% off first order)
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Buy me a coffee Travel with Aloha
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Send us your Hawaii questions Instagram Facebook Travel Group Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Music, Ukulele and Chill, by Coby G (used with permission)
Music, Aloha Friday, by Clay D (used with permission)

Get Episode Show Notes Here:  --> hawaiisbesttravel.com/episode64 --

What to Know Before Hiking in Oahu
Go Early: Oahu’s hiking trails can be busy, hot, and tough to find parking forCall Ahead: Find out weather and trail conditions before heading out with your familyBe Prepared: Check the clothing and packing lists below to have a safe, comfortable outingProtect Belongings: Don’t leave valuables in your car and have a backpack that is comfortable and secure while hikingFollow Rules: Stay on the trail, and avoid taking risks for photo ops or thrill-seekingLeave No Trace: Stow trash in backpacks, plan restroom trips and leave the trail better than you found itKNOW YOUR LIMITS: That includes your family. Though these hikes are some of the more "family-friendly" hikes on Oahu, they can still be challenging and require physical endurance. Please, know your limits.1. Waimea Falls
Located on the North Shore of Oahu, this all-ages trail takes you through lush gardens and historical sites before revealing a spectacular 30-ft waterfall and swimming area. The entirely paved trail is perfect for strollers, and its gradual slope, numerous benches, and shuttle service allow for rest and snack breaks. Owned by a Native Hawaiian governing entity, the valley is steeped in history. Featuring cultural presentations and displays from local artisans during the day. And when you reach the waterfall, lifeguards and life jackets make swimming safe for kids and adults alike.

2. Manoa Falls Trail
Another waterfall hike awaits outside Honolulu, where Manoa Falls offers a more rugged journey through shaded rainforest terrain. Beginning with breathtaking views of the Manoa Valley, the 1.7-mile unpaved trail passes through bamboo groves and diverse vegetation, including the Lyon Arboretum, home to over 5,000 plant species. You’ll want sturdy shoes or boots, and consider hiking poles - rainfall can make the path slippery in spots - and baby carriers are recommended! The shade and wet, humid air attract mosquitos, so repellant spray or wipes also come in handy. Know your limits. This is an easier hike, good for families with older kids, but can be very wet and slippery. If in
Support the Show.
Self-Guided Island Tours
Change the way you see Hawaii

Hungry Root Meal Service (30% off first order)
Personalized meal and grocery service straight to your door.

Support the Show
Buy me a coffee Travel with Aloha
Pono Pledge Traveling to Hawaii Responsibly Connect
Send us your Hawaii questions Instagram Facebook Travel Group Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.
Music, Ukulele and Chill, by Coby G (used with permission)
Music, Aloha Friday, by Clay D (used with permission)

20 min