Kid-Friendly Oʻahu Hikes and Tide Pools

If your family wants a taste of adventure during your trip, Oʻahu offers plenty of hikes and tide pools that are safe and exciting for keiki. These experiences mix gentle exercise with opportunities to connect with Hawaiʻi’s unique landscapes and marine life.

Tide Pools for Families

• Baby Makapuʻu Beach – Protected, clear and shallow tide pools with sandy bottoms provide a great hangout for kids. There’s little shade so bring your reef-safe sunscreen and an umbrella.

• Shark’s Cove (North Shore) – Despite the intimidating name, Shark’s Cove is a family favorite in summer when the water is calm. On calm days, you’ll find kids exploring the shallow tide pools. Bring aqua socks if you have them, as the volcanic rocks and edges surrounding the pools are sharp.

• Makapuʻu Point Lighthouse Trail – A paved, 2-mile roundtrip trail on Oʻahu’s southeast coast. Families love the wide path (stroller-friendly) and the breathtaking views of the coastline. In winter months, kids may even spot humpback whales.

• Mānoa Falls Trail – Just outside Honolulu, this lush rainforest walk (1.6 miles roundtrip) leads to a stunning 150-foot waterfall. The shaded trail is manageable for children, though shoes that can handle mud are recommended.

• Waimea Valley – More than just a hike, this cultural park in the North Shore offers a paved botanical garden walk to a waterfall where swimming is allowed. Families can go at their own pace, and the educational stops make it both fun and enriching.

Tips for Families

• Visit tide pools at low tide for the best experience.

• Spend your first 15 minutes observing the beach and the water before going in. If there are no locals in the water, it might be too rough. Always supervise children closely as waves can be unpredictable.

• Teach keiki how to be responsible around fragile ecosystems by not disturbing marine life or removing shells.