51 things to do in Honolulu with teenagers

As the vibrant capital of Oahu, Honolulu, with its teenagers, offers an array of exciting experiences for families. What makes it even better for parents and teens is that the island’s top activities are conveniently situated close to the heart of Honolulu.



Discover the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation for your family vacation on this Hawaiian gem.





Table Of Contents

Know before you go. Our top Hawaii travel tips Where to stay in Honolulu with teenagers Hawaii apartment alternatives for your stay Getting to Hawaii How to get around Hawaii Weather in Honolulu Hawaii Hawaii for international visitors Travel accessories for teenagers Get the Go City Honolulu Pass Things to do in Honolulu with teenagers Waikiki Beach – Honolulu beach fun for teens Dolphin & Turtle Swim Take a scenic helicopter flight over Oahu Boat Ride to View Wild Humpback Whales Things to do in Honolulu with kids – Scavenger Hunts Bee Farm EcoTour  Horseback Ride in Kahuku Parasail Over The Pacific  Jet skiing – Teen-friendly attractions in Honolulu Luau at the Waikiki Aquarium Zipline Through The Trees Try Scuba diving Rage Rooms Shark Cage Observation  Go on a submarine – Things to do in Honolulu for teens Waikiki Trolley Hop on hop off tour Surf Lesson – Honolulu vacation ideas for families with teenagers Honolulu Museum of Art  Offshore fishing adventure Pearl Harbor   Kualoa Ranch   Diamond Head Hike  Stand-up paddleboard The Byodo-In Temple Camping KA WA‘A Luau at Aulani Disney Resort Beach at Aulani Resort  Family fun adventures in Honolulu- Segway Tour Ghost tour Things to do in Honolulu with teenage girls – High Tea Spa and massage for mum and daughters Amusement Arcades in Honoulul for teens Wet N Wild Hawaii Lasertag in Honolula with teenagers Experience culture through food Full-day tour of Oahu with teens Coral Crater Park The most Instagrammable shots in Oahu. Professional photoshoot in Oahu Annual events in Oahu Hawaii that teens will love Street Art in  Pin Bowling in Honolulu with teenagers Axe Throwing in Honolulu Bike riding in Honolulu Family holidays in Honolulu – Going to the cinema Escape rooms in Honolulu for teens Shopping in Honolulu with teens Free things to do in Honolulu with teens Fun restaurants in Honolulu for teens. Rock Island Cafe Hard Rock Cafe  Street food in Honolulu Frequently asked questions about Honolulu Where are the best places to stay in Honolulu for teenagers More travel inspiration for your trip to the USA





Know before you go. Our top Hawaii travel tips



Travelling to Hawaii with teens can be such an enriching experience for the whole family, and Honolulu is one of the top family destinations in the United States of America. Did you know that Hawaii is home to the world’s largest plantation of pineapples?



Hawaii comprises eight main islands, with the most popular being Oahu. Oahu is known for its vibrant city life, iconic Waikiki Beach, historic Pearl Harbour, and cultural attractions like the Polynesian Cultural Centre.



Outdoor adventures for teens in Honolulu at Waikiki


Visitors looking to explore Hawaii further also choose to visit Maui. It is famous for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and the breathtaking Road to Hana Drive.



Big Island (Hawaii Island) is also popular with its diverse landscapes, including active volcanoes at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and amazing stargazing atop Mauna Kea.



Knowing travel tips and information about your destination is crucial, as it can greatly enhance your family’s travel holiday experience. Having information on the best places to stay, how to get around the city, which currency to use, and more is extremely important.



Our know before you go tips allow you to plan your itinerary effectively, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable trip to Ohau, Hawaii, with teens.



Where to stay in Honolulu with teenagers



Great vacations with teens start with some great vacation planning. When you are planning a trip to Hawaii with teens, you’ll never be short of options for your family’s accommodations. In Hawaii, you’ll find a range of hotels, apartments, and hostels for families on holiday.



You will be sure to be able to find something to fit singles, couples, families, and groups on every budget on your family trip to Hawaii.




Luxury Resorts:

The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort : Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this historic resort offers a beachfront location, multiple pools, fine dining, and family suites.



Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa: Perfect for families, it features a water park, a kids’ club, and spacious villas.





Mid-Range Hotels:

Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa : Offers beach access, multiple pools, a fitness centre, and family-friendly rooms.



Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa : Located near the beach, it has pools, dining options, and family connecting rooms.





Budget-Friendly Options:

Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki : A budget-friendly choice with a pool and family suites.



Holiday Inn Express Waikiki : Offers affordable rates, complimentary breakfast, and is within walking distance to the beach.






If you’re not keen on any of our picks below or have specific needs for your teen travel holidays, we recommend using Trivago and Kayak to find the best prices in Hawaii for your family vacation.



Hawaii apartment alternatives for your stay



If you prefer home-away from home-style accommodation on your holiday with teenagers in Hawaii, then an apartment is the best choice for you on your family vacation.



There are so many options for singles, families, and budget-friendly options in Hawaii as well. You can search VRBO for tourist-class apartments in cities worldwide.



If you’re looking for something a bit fancier,  discover Plum Guide’s   exceptional luxury apartments, handpicked for their stunning views, prime locations, and indulgent amenities. With meticulous quality checks and a focus on unique experiences, they offer the perfect blend of luxury and comfort. Experience the extraordinary and create unforgettable memories in these truly special accommodations.



Getting to Hawaii



Hawaii is renowned as one of the top family destinations in the United States of America. Being an island, there are only a few ways to access Hawaii; the best way is via plane, and another way is during a shore excursion from a cruise ship.



Hawaiian Airline Boeing 717 at Honolulu International Airport



You can fly into Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), formerly known as Honolulu International Airport. The Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL) is the largest airport in the State of Hawaii and is located in Honolulu on the island of Oahu. You can book an airport transfer straight to your hotel door.

If your flights have a long stopover, or you just want to relax before your trip, you should consider getting a lounge pass with Priority Pass. Priority Pass has access to airport lounges all over the world. Search now for your lounge pass .






How to get around Hawaii



When planning your island-hopping adventure, consider a combination of these transportation options based on your preferences and the destinations you want to explore.






Oahu offers The Bus, a comprehensive public bus system operated by Oahu Transit Services, connecting key areas, attractions, and neighbourhoods across the island.



It’s affordable and convenient, with different pass options for varying durations. Additionally, the Waikiki Trolley is a popular hop-on-hop-off system in Waikiki, catering to tourists and covering attractions and shops through multiple lines.



Renting a car is a popular and convenient option for exploring each island at your own pace. Most major car rental companies have offices at the airports, making it easy to pick up and drop off the vehicle.



Having a car allows you to access remote areas, scenic drives, and hidden gems that might not be easily accessible by public transportation.



Organised tours are a great way to experience specific attractions or activities on each island without worrying about transportation logistics.



Many tour companies offer excursions such as snorkelling, hiking, or visiting cultural sites. Some tours include transportation from your accommodation, making it a hassle-free option for exploring.



Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate on some islands, providing an alternative to traditional taxis. However, availability might vary, especially in less populated areas.



Weather in Honolulu Hawaii



Hawaii enjoys a year-round tropical climate with warm temperatures. Winters are cooler, with average highs of 78–80°F and lows around 65–68°F. Bring some winter layers and rain gear.



Spring warms up with highs of 78–82°F and lows of 66–69°F. Summers are hot, with highs of 84–89 °F. Pack accordingly and bring lightweight attire, sun protection , and swimwear.



Overall, Hawaii’s weather is pleasant year-round, so it’s best to pack light and comfortable clothing suitable for tropical climates.



Hawaii for international visitors



International travel to the Hawaiian Islands requires a bit more thought. You will need to buy a travel insurance policy for your holiday to Honolulu.



Medical care is not cheap and if you want good quality care it will cost you a fortune if you don’t have travel insurance.



The official currency of Hawaii is the United States Dollar. If you use your bank account from home, you will be stung with high transaction fees, while your mobile phone calls will all be charged at an internation rate.



These are just some of the things you need to think about on a vacation with teens .




For International travellers, travel insurance is a must get a quote through Insurance Masters and don’t go home with a huge bill for medical expenses.



Do you need a visa to visit Hawaii? The country of The United States may require you to have a visa or an ETA (Electronic travel authorisation) to enter the country. You can check and buy these documents at iVisa .



Load a Revolut Travel Money card with United States dollars for your visit and save on transaction fees.



Make phone calls with an international sim card that you can buy before leaving home or buy a voucher for a virtual e-sim for your mobile phone.

A 4G pocket Wi-Fi modem is essential for accessing the internet. You can rent a pocket modem that you can pick up at the airport or your hotel, alternatively buy a pocket modem that you can use on all future trips with your phone, tablet or computer.





Make sure you grab a VPN for your trip. SurfShark VPN has plans available from one month to one year to help keep your data safe from hackers and malware while travelling.




Travel accessories for teenagers



For teenagers, travelling can be a fun and exciting experience. However, there are a few things that they need to take into account in order to make the trip as comfortable and safe as possible. One of these is ensuring that they have the necessary travel accessories.




Powerbank   to keep phones going



Action camera



Foldable jewellery case for girls



Bluetooth travel speaker



Compression packing cubes for luggage





Lightweight daypack



Travel Journal



Travel neck wallet



Wearable super soft travel blanket



Scarf with hidden pockets for money & cards









Get the Go City Honolulu Pass



Get digital delivery of the Go City Honolulu Pass to your device for easy use when you visit Hawaii with kids. The Honolulu Go City Pass offers the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which is brilliant when you are vacationing with teens.



There are so many things to do in Hawaii for teens and you can save on admission to 40+ top local attractions and tours including snorkelling and the Missouri Memorial. Multi-day entry passes such as this are great for families visiting Boston.   Book your pass, which ranges from 1 day to 7 days.




Things to do in Honolulu with teenagers



Travelling with teenagers can be a unique and rewarding experience. Teenagers often have their own interests and preferences when it comes to travel, making it important to plan a vacation that caters to their needs.



In this article, you will find plenty of options to keep teenagers engaged and entertained while on vacation.



Waikiki Beach – Honolulu beach fun for teens



Enjoy a fantastic day on Oahu with teens by visiting Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. The beach offers safe and gentle waters for swimming, making it one of the best family activities in Honolulu for teenagers.



Teens, families and friends enjoying Waikiki Beach


Try water activities like surfing or paddleboarding, relax on the wide sandy shore, and explore the vibrant dining and shopping scene. Waikiki will quickly become one of your teenagers’ favourite spots in Honolulu.



Don’t miss the beautiful sunset views and cultural entertainment in the evenings . Safety is crucial, so keep an eye on your teenagers and be mindful of ocean conditions for a memorable day in Oahu with your family .



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Dolphin & Turtle Swim



What better place to explore marine life than with your teenager, who loves animals? Snorkel with dolphins (fun-loving, sensitive creatures) and take in the views while you swim with sea turtles as well! A summer memory that will live on for years to come.



Take a scenic helicopter flight over Oahu



Soaring over the coastline of Hawaii and taking in the beautiful views of Honolulu and Waikiki is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.



Family-friendly activities in Honolulu


Going up high on a panoramic helicopter flight and seeing everything from the stunning beaches to Mt. Olomana can be one of the most exciting things to do in Honolulu with teens.



This is the ultimate in teen adventure activities in Honolulu. You can even take a helicopter to the big island of Hawaii with teens.



Boat Ride to View Wild Humpback Whales



For teenagers who love animals, a boat ride to see the whales, one of the largest animals in the world, is ideal!



Things to do in Honolulu for teens


Hop on a boat and cruise the calm waters off Oahu in search of whales. You will enjoy the views of wild humpback whales as they emerge from the water.  Book your trip today.



Travelling with teens and not sure what all the travel with teens essentials are? Read our full guide right here!



Things to do in Honolulu with kids – Scavenger Hunts



If you are looking for great vacation ideas for teens, then look no further than a family scavenger hunt .



There are quite a few different scavenger hunts to do in Honolulu for families. Instead of a traditional sightseeing tour, get to know the city in a unique way with a scavenger hunt.



On your hunt, you will discover both popular and lesser-known sights of the city as you solve clues and tackle challenges to complete the adventure. Scavenger hunts are completely unique things to do in Honolulu with teenyboppers.



Bee Farm EcoTour 



Get ready to wear protective gear for your next adventure at the Bee Farm ! An experience that will leave your teenager wanting to taste more, literally. As they learn about how honey is made and sample the many different honey’s.



Horseback Ride in Kahuku



A group of 12 will embark on a 1.5-hour horseback ride in Oahu’s countryside. Your teenager will enjoy the ride along the mountains and the ocean. This is a great way to connect with the horses 1 on 1 and enjoy the island of Hawaii.



Parasail Over The Pacific 



Teenagers oftentimes seek thrill and adventure , and that’s the reason we decided to put parasailing on the list!



Parasailing Over the Ocean in Hawaii, View from Up in the Sky


Fly over the ocean at 500 ft. (either solo or with someone else) and take in the views.



A parasailing adventure takes about an hour from start to finish doing this activity, with an option for photos and videos in the package as well.



Jet skiing – Teen-friendly attractions in Honolulu



Jet skiing is a great way to get your adrenaline fix . The thrill of the speed and the excitement of the action make it a popular choice for those looking for an adventure.



The company or tour guide will make sure you are familiar with the throttle, steering, and brake controls before taking off. Jet skiing can be a lot of fun and one of the most memorable experiences you will be talking about for a long time to come.



Luau at the Waikiki Aquarium



Experience the best Luau in Hawaii, perfect for families seeking a Hawaii cultural experience! Enjoy live music, hula lessons, and electrifying performances showcasing Polynesian cultures .



Teen-friendly attractions in Honolulu, including experiencing a Luau


Dive into traditional Hawaiian and Polynesian activities like hula and ukulele lessons, coconut leaf headband weaving, and more. Conveniently located at the Waikiki Aquarium, your ticket includes free admission (valid for 14 days).



Enjoy signature dishes that give you a true taste of the islands. Featuring a diverse menu, including vegetarian options. This luau promises an unforgettable cultural and culinary journey for the whole family.



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Zipline Through The Trees



An exhilarating experience where your teenager can strap onto a harness and zip line through the trees on the island of Oahu. This is something different that you can do on the island besides water activities. There are a number of different zip lines available to try on your trip.



Try Scuba diving



How about scuba diving , an epic underwater adventure in Waikiki? With two shallow reefs to dive on , you’ll explore Hawaii’s marine world up close.



Scuba diver exploring tropical dive site and finning over bottom


The experienced tour operators will provide all the gear and expert guidance.



Don’t forget swimwear, a towel, and waterproof camera gear for those unforgettable snapshots. It’s an incredible opportunity to swim with fish, marvel at vibrant coral reefs, and create lasting memories with your teens.



Rage Rooms



Rage rooms are cool things to do in Honolulu with teens. These unique spaces provide a safe and exciting outlet for teenagers to release stress and frustration by smashing objects like glassware and electronics.



It’s a fun and memorable , physically engaging, and unconventional experience that offers stress relief, burns off energy, and fosters bonding among friends while ensuring a controlled and safe environment.”



Shark Cage Observation 



Set sail and head to the depths of the ocean for an encounter with sharks ! Your teenager will rave about this to friends when they get back to school. You’ll definitely be the “cool parent”. Your child will be submerged underwater in a large cage with snorkelling gear.








Go on a submarine – Things to do in Honolulu for teens



Discover one of the top things to do in Oahu with teenagers: an exciting undersea adventure on Atlantis XIV, the world’s largest hi-tech passenger submarine.



One of the best Honolulu vacation ideas for families with teenagers


Dive 100 feet below the surface, encounter marine life, explore sunken wrecks, and learn about coral and reef ecosystems in a safe and spacious setting, offering a memorable and educational experience for families. Book your submarine experience today.



Waikiki Trolley Hop on hop off tour



A Hop-On Hop-Off tour is a great way to get an overview of the city, especially in a bustling destination like Honolulu.



Enjoy a ride on a traditional trolley


The carefully curated bus route takes you to all the Honolulu attractions , allowing you to see everything from Waikiki Shopping Plaza to the Honolulu Zoo and the Halona Blow Hole.



It’s a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photos with your family, and the convenience of the tour bus allows you to get out and visit all the top tourist spots in Honolulu for families. It’s essential to consider sun protection when sitting outside during the journey, so you don’t get burned.



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Surf Lesson – Honolulu vacation ideas for families with teenagers



What better place to take a surf lesson than in Hawaii?



Preparing for a surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach


This will make a great Hawaiian memory for your teenager, and they’ll get to be one with the ocean. They can also do a group surfing lesson, which would be a fun way to interact with other teenagers.



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Honolulu Museum of Art 



Experience the Museum of Art with the many exhibitions taking place. If your teenager is one who loves the arts, then this is a perfect way to see some Hawaiian art that might not be possible to see elsewhere. There’s also art by Van Gogh, Picasso, and Warhol,l to name a few. The beautiful courtyards are a great place to take in the views.



Offshore fishing adventure



Offshore fishing in Hawaii is a thrilling adventure that you and your teenagers will undoubtedly enjoy. Hawaii’s waters are teeming with a variety of game fish, making it a prime destination for anglers.



To make the most of your offshore fishing experience, consider booking a charter tour . You’ll typically have the option to choose from half-day or full-day fishing trips. Knowledgeable captains and crew members will guide you to the best fishing spots.



Pearl Harbor  



Visiting Pearl Harbor with your teenagers is a captivating historical journey. Start with the