If you’re looking for an adventure-packed family vacation, Hawaii is definitely the place to be. With its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters, and an array of water activities, it’s an ideal destination for families with kids. But with so many water activities available, it can be challenging to decide which ones are best for kids. To help make your planning easier, we’ve rounded up some of Hawaii’s top water activities that are perfect for kids.
Snorkeling
Hawaii is known for its breathtaking marine life, and snorkeling is one of the best ways for kids to experience it. Snorkeling is easy to learn, safe, and a lot of fun. Children can experience the beauty of the underwater world up close, while parents can rest easy knowing their kids are safe in shallow waters.
Some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii include Hanauma Bay, Kailua Beach, and Wailea Beach. These beaches offer calm waters, clear visibility, and abundant marine life. Many snorkeling tours also cater specifically to families with kids and provide all the necessary equipment.
Surfing
If your kids have a bit of adventure in their blood, surfing could be the perfect water activity for them. Surfing is a quintessential Hawaiian experience and an excellent way for kids to develop their balance, coordination, and strength.
There are many surf schools in Hawaii that offer lessons for kids of all ages and skill levels. One of the most popular beaches for surfing lessons is Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. With its gentle waves, sandy bottom, and breathtaking views of Diamond Head, it’s an ideal spot for kids to learn to surf.
Stand-up Paddleboarding
If your kids are too young for surfing, stand-up paddleboarding is a great alternative. It’s a fun and easy water activity that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Kids can paddle along calm coastal waters, explore hidden coves, and even spot marine life below them.
Some of the best places to try stand-up paddleboarding in Hawaii include Hanalei Bay in Kauai, Waikiki Beach in Oahu, and Makena Beach in Maui. There are also many tour operators that offer family-friendly stand-up paddleboarding lessons, so you can learn the basics together.
Kayaking
For another family-friendly water activity in Hawaii, consider kayaking. Kayaking is a fun way to explore Hawaii’s coastlines, rivers, and bays, and it’s a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the stunning views.
One of the best places to go kayaking in Hawaii is Kailua Beach on Oahu. With its turquoise waters and offshore islands, it’s a great spot for a family kayak adventure. You can also try kayaking in the calm waters of Hanalei Bay in Kauai or Kealakekua Bay on the Big Island.
Water Parks
If your kids love water activities but aren’t quite ready for surfing or kayaking, Hawaii has plenty of water parks that are perfect for families. Some of the best water parks in Hawaii include Wet’n’Wild Hawaii, Hawaiian Waters Adventure Park, and the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa.
These water parks offer a plethora of activities, from splash pads and water slides to wave pools and lazy rivers. They also offer plenty of options for younger kids, so the whole family can enjoy a day of fun in the sun.
Final Thoughts
Hawaii offers a wide range of water activities that are perfect for kids of all ages, interests, and skill levels. From snorkeling and surfing to stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking, there’s no shortage of adventure to be had in Hawaii’s crystal clear waters. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for an unforgettable family vacation in Hawaii!