Hawaii can be an exciting and intriguing place to visit for people of all ages. However, family vacations to Hawaii require proper planning in order to experience a pleasant and memorable trip.

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Hawaii family vacations have become increasingly popular over the past decade, as more and more vacationers are opting for domestic travel, but still wish to visit an area that offers a tropical and exotic atmosphere. Each Hawaiian island has unique characteristics of its own, and one must discover the benefits and advantages of each in order to determine which one will best suit the needs of his or her family.

Kauai Valley

Some families choose to visit all the Hawaiian Islands while on vacation; however, unless one can devote a minimum of three weeks to the vacation, this may result in an itinerary that will prove a bit too ambitious. It does little or no good to plan so many activities that the vacation becomes stressful and hectic, rather than a time of relaxation and enjoyment. Instead, it is wise to select one or two islands in which to enjoy the majority of the vacation, and only add a third if the trip will be longer than two weeks in duration.

Oahu

Oahu is the island that attracts the largest number of tourists each year. An especially good choice for families with children, Oahu offers a vast array of activities and attractions to appeal to vacationers of all ages. Waikiki is Hawaii’s most famous beach and is the area in which most visitors to Oahu spend the majority of their vacation. Almost all of the attractions in Waikiki are within walking distance of most hotels and resorts, making it a highly convenient location for a family vacation. The beach itself is a major attraction; however, families can also enjoy visits to the Honolulu Zoo, the Waikiki Aquarium, the Damien Museum and the celebrated Arizona Memorial.

The Honolulu Zoo is Hawaii’s largest zoo and is famous for its “Tropical Rain Forest” and “African Savanna” displays. Those who visit Oahu when the moon is full can experience the zoo’s “Moonlight Walk” attraction–a once a month special feature that visitors have enjoyed for many years.

Waikki

The Waikiki Aquarium–America’s third oldest marine aquarium–features a variety of programs, exhibits, and displays which focus on the aquatic life of the Pacific Tropics.

Through a visit to the Damien Museum one can discover interesting facts about the life of Father Damien, a man devoted to several noteworthy causes who became world famous for his work with patients afflicted with Hansen’s disease–a form of leprosy.

The Arizona Memorial is an attraction that most families place on their “must-see” list. Tickets can now be purchased in advance, which was not formerly possible, and one can choose to casually view the monument or participate in a guided tour.

Any of the aforementioned attractions can be both fun and educational, making Waikiki an excellent choice for Hawaii family vacations.

The Main Island

The island of Hawaii, sometimes referred to as “the big island’ is the perfect choice for nature drives and sight seeing. This island offers the perfect backdrop for a vast array of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, or parasailing.

Hiking is also extremely popular on the big island, as there are many spectacular mountains and trails that provide a unique and interesting avenue through which one can view Hawaii’s outstanding scenery. Traditional Hawaiian dancers and flame swallowers entertain families on a daily basis throughout the island, making it a great place in which to indulge in one of kind performances that will be remembered for many years.

Dinner cruises and live entertainment are very popular here as well, therefore, families who enjoy a wide variety of daytime activities, but also wish to indulge in nighttime entertainment, should give considerable thought to a family vacation on Hawaii’s main island.

Book early & Save: Maui air + 4 nights from $652

The most essential part of planning family vacations to Hawaii is allowing adequate time to decide where to stay and what activities and attractions will most appeal to each family member. Trying to plan activities at the last minute can result in frustration and wasted energy. For most families, a Hawaiian vacation is a once in a lifetime experience, therefore, adequate time spent on its efficient planning will make it a vacation that will be remembered forever.