For the Kids: The Haute 5 Family-Friendly Venues in Honolulu

Famous for the beautiful sunsets and surfing is Waikiki Beach. It is also a family-friendly spot to take children for a day at the beach. There is much to keep them occupied and the water is calm along the inside – making it a perfect spot to get the little ones in the water. Many Honolulu residents take their kids here to teach them to surf as the waves are gentle. You can actually stand waist deep in the water and push them on the rolling waves.

The Waikiki Aquarium is very kid friendly and often hosts birthday parties for kids. It is educational and they have many interactive exhibits for the kids to learn about the ocean and fish. The volunteers are very friendly and encourage interaction among the children.  www.waquarium.org

Another popular place with local residents and visitors is Kapiolani Park in Honolulu. Gracing the slopes of Diamond Head, this 300-acre park is ideal for the little ones to run around on the grass and go nuts! It is the best family-friendly spot for a picnic and is often the venue to many children’s birthday parties on the weekend. It is an ideal place to fly a kite and there is hourly metered parking along the perimeter of the park. The park is located at the east end of Waikiki and home to the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Shell which hosts outdoor concerts and festivals.

One of Honolulu’s hidden gems is the Honolulu Elks Club. Located on the desirable shores of Waikiki Beach, this is a fantastic spot for families. There is a pool, ocean access, parking, bathrooms, food and a bar! What more could a parent need? In fact they hosted a children’s Ocean Fest last month for families to take canoe rides and try Stand Up Paddling. This is where I take my 3 year old Godson. The Honolulu Elks is a private club.

For musical children, the Sheraton Waikiki Resort is offering Kid’s Ukulele lessons. Children age’s five to twelve can enroll for classes with Mr. Bruce Shimabukuro, every Tuesday from 11 to 11:30 a.m. The cost is $45 which includes ukulele rental, lesson and autograph. Call 808.931.8086 to reserve a spot. www.sheratonwaikikiresort.com