Unforgettable Things to Do in Hawaii with Teens (They’ll Actually Love!)

Planning a Hawaii trip with teenagers and worried they’ll spend the whole time on their phones?

I get it. As a dad of three (ages 9, 13, and 15), I’ve experienced Hawaii with my kids at every stage, and honestly, the teen years have been the most fun.

Few places mix adventure, culture, and natural beauty like the islands, but keeping teens engaged takes more than pools and beach days.

This guide breaks down the best ways to see Hawaii with teenagers, from hiking Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island to snorkeling with manta rays, ziplining through Kauai’s rainforests, and catching real waves on Oahu’s North Shore.

You’ll discover which island fits your family best, the exact resorts where teens actually want to hang out, and insider tips on volcano tours that won’t bore anyone.

Whether your crew craves adrenaline-pumping adventure or Instagram-worthy sunsets (or both), you’ll find practical tips here to create a Hawaii vacation your teens will rave about for years. Ready to turn “Do we have to?” into “Can we do that again?” Let’s go!

Best Hawaiian Island to Visit With Teens

Oahu brings instant action for teens. Surfing lessons at Waikiki Beach, history at the USS Arizona Memorial, and boogie boarding on the North Shore all sit within easy reach. Honolulu hums with hotels, shops, food trucks, and late-night bites that keep the energy high.

You won’t even need a rental car here if staying in Waikiki; the bus and Waikiki trolley make getting around simple. Resorts like Aulani Disney Resort and Royal Hawaiian offer luxury without breaking your budget.

Crave wilder adventure? The Big Island draws teens in with real lava, hikes to waterfalls, and snorkeling at night with manta rays.

According to 2025 data, over 100 manta rays now frequent the Kona coast, making it one of the most reliable places on Earth to see these gentle giants. Volcanoes National Park feels almost otherworldly, especially when the craters glow after dark under lava flows.

Kauai’s dramatic cliffs on the Nāpali Coast beg for photos, while Maui shines for all-around resort luxury.

Think snorkeling Molokini Crater or watching sunrise above the clouds on Haleakalā. Each island offers something bold for teens; it all depends if your crew craves adventure, epic nature trails, endless waves, or just chilling poolside at a top resort.

According to the Hawaii Department of Business, visitor spending in Hawaii reached $1.97 billion in June 2025, with travelers now spending an average of $258 per person per day, showing that families are increasingly investing in quality experiences.

Hawaii (The Big Island): Best for Adventure-Seeking Teens

Want to give your teens real bragging rights?

The Big Island delivers. Volcanoes, black sand beaches, wild rainforests, and non-stop action that even the most phone-obsessed teen can’t ignore. Every turn brings a new adventure they’ll actually talk about later.

Top Big Island Sites with Teens: Volcanoes National Park, Mauna Kea, Waipio Valley

You want jaw-dropping nature and those family moments that stick. These top Big Island sites will get teens off their phones and into the real action.

• Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park to see actual volcanic activity, bubbling steam vents, and walk through a massive lava tube. The Kilauea Iki Trail, a 3.2-mile loop, takes you into the heart of an active volcano where you can see the crater still steaming.
• Head up Mauna Kea for stargazing at nearly 14,000 feet. The sunsets here turn everything gold, and you can spot star clusters with world-class telescopes. Bring jackets, even if it’s warm at sea level.
• Hike Waipio Valley for sweeping views of tall cliffs and lush rainforest. The steep drive down leads to a black sand beach and wild horses roaming below.
• Stop by Akaka Falls State Park for a quick half-mile trail with towering 442-foot waterfalls crashing down moss-covered cliffs. Easy walk, epic photos.
• Take the Pololu Valley Trail for a short but challenging one-mile hike ending at a black sand beach surrounded by mountains covered in green ferns.
• Ride bikes past old lava flows or plan a day trip to Papakolea Green Sand Beach. It’s a 5.5-mile roundtrip trek with wild ocean sights at every step.
• Tour local museums or grab Hawaiian shave ice on your way back from a waterfall dip. Teens might roll their eyes until the first taste.

I’ve walked these trails with my own guests over the years. Trust me, laughter echoes louder than any Instagram alert out here.

Top Things To Do on the Big Island with Teens: Volcano bike tour, snorkel with manta rays, green sand beach hike

The Big Island packs bold adventure into every corner. These experiences are perfect for teens craving something different.

• Pedal through Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on a guided bike tour, rolling past steam vents and recent lava flows for that up-close volcano experience you can’t get from a car.
• Night snorkeling with manta rays at Keauhou or Kona Coast sets hearts racing. Manta ray tours typically spend about 30 minutes in the water, and with over 100 identified manta rays now documented in the area, your chances of seeing these gentle giants are over 80% according to tour operators who track sightings year-round.
• Visit Papakōlea, the legendary green sand beach, after a 5.5-mile roundtrip hike. The rare green sand comes from olivine crystals, making it one of only four green sand beaches worldwide.
• Brave the Captain Cook Trail, a 3.7-mile roundtrip hike down rugged cliffs to Kealakekua Bay. Pack snorkel gear for clear waters teeming with tropical fish. This bay ranks as one of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii.
• Challenge legs on the trail to Makalawena Beach, a 2.7-mile walk on rough lava rock. This slice of paradise rewards travelers with calm water, great snorkeling, and fewer crowds than most other Big Island beaches.
• Book an ATV tour in North Kohala or at Umauma Experience. Ride through waterfalls, hidden valleys, and old sugarcane fields. Check age rules because some rides are only open to older kids or teens.
• Try stand-up paddleboarding in calm bays like Kailua or venture onto gentle surf breaks to test balance. Local instructors make it easy to learn, even if everyone is brand new to the board.
• Take in the power of Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa from an overlook or short hike. Catch sunset or star-gazing tours at the summit, where night skies are so clear it feels like you could touch the stars.
• Snag fresh poke bowls or malasadas from a roadside food truck after your day outdoors. Teens hungry from big adventure need real local flavor. Find the best in Hilo’s market or Kona’s food scene.
• Snap epic photos over Waipi’o Valley’s cliffs or ride horses along the rim, where misty air mixes with deep green views. Pure Big Island beauty your family will talk about for years.

Planning these big island activities keeps even hard-to-please teens engaged, wide-eyed, and asking for more each day.

Where to Stay with Teens on the Big Island: Fairmont Orchid, Mauna Lani, Four Seasons Hualalai

You want a great place to stay on the island of Hawaii with your teens. These top resorts offer cool pools, tasty restaurants, and fun for the whole family. Take it from me, these places make your Hawaii vacation smooth and stress-free.

• Fairmont Orchid has teen-friendly pools, calm beaches, and easy snorkel adventure access. Resort rooms include daily cleaning, big comfy beds, and perfect sunset views. Teens love trying paddle boarding or joining hula lessons right on-site.
• Mauna Lani gives you a mix of Hawaiian culture and adventure activities. Walk the ancient fishponds or grab bikes to ride along the lava fields. Family villas come with kitchens and laundry machines for sandy swimsuits after beach days.
• Four Seasons Hualalai has a saltwater pool with turtles swimming nearby. Try out their stand-up paddle boards or hit the sports club courts together. Teens will rave about surfing lessons at Kūkio Beach Club next door.
• Kona Village stands out with its green ideas; 8,000 solar panels power the property and stays focus on zero-waste goals. The open-air breakfast restaurant has local fruit to fuel your hiking plans each day.
• Mauna Kea Beach Hotel shines with one of Hawaii’s best beaches for boogie-boarding and snorkeling. Direct beach access means you can start mornings watching dolphins play offshore. Grab burgers at Hau Tree grill after shell-hunting with teens.
• Residences at each of these resorts give you more space, private pools, and even kitchens to cook family meals together. These options work well for longer stays or hungry growing teens.
• All properties offer easy ways to book volcanoes national park tours or arrange Big Island hiking outings. Whether you want whale watching or stargazing atop Mauna Kea mountain, these resorts handle details for you.

With these choices on the island of Hawaii, your family vacation will be full of smiles. Enjoy the best beaches, big adventures, and time together on your trip to the Big Island.

Kauai (The Garden Island): Best for Scenic Hiking & Natural Beauty

Kaua’i is the perfect island if your teens love winding jungle trails, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and cliffside views that will stick in their memory forever.

Keep reading for ways to turn every hike into pure adventure.

Top Sites on Kauai with Teens: Nā Pali Coast, Waimea Canyon, Hanalei Bay

Kauai’s wild beauty will captivate your teen’s attention. From towering cliffs to epic waterfalls and golden crescent beaches, each spot here feels straight out of a movie.

• Hike the famous Na Pali Coast, which stretches 17 miles with no road access. Trek part of the Kalalau Trail from Kee Beach for dramatic views only seen on foot or by air or sea.
• Cruise along the coast in a helicopter for an aerial look at mountains, valleys, and gorges that drop into turquoise water below. Even the most screen-focused teens will stay glued to the windows.
• Explore Waimea Canyon, known as “The Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” stretching 14 miles long, 1 mile wide, and over 3,600 feet deep. Hike the Awaawapuhi Trail or Pihea Trail for expansive views and photo opportunities.
• Drive through Kauai’s Tree Tunnel before heading south to Poipu Beach. It’s a magical start to any island outing and prompts every traveler to pause for a quick family selfie.
• Paddle a kayak up jungle streams toward hidden waterfalls on Kauai’s north side or venture down to Hanalei Bay for boogie boarding on shore breaks with mountain backdrops.
• Walk Hanalei Pier at sunset as local surfers catch their last wave of the day with misty mountains in the distance. Observe a waterfall tumbling right into town after rainfall.
• Experience Mahaulepu Heritage Trail starting from Shipwreck Beach. At just four miles long, this hiking path hugs cliffs and offers wild ocean views ideal for adventurous families.
• Sign up for ziplining above the treetops near Koloa Town. Laughter comes easily while flying past palms and seeing Kauai from above.
• Book a snorkeling tour off Hanalei Bay if your crew wants clear water filled with honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles), tropical fish, and possibly spinner dolphins joining you in play.

As someone who connects with visitors through my podcast, I consistently see teens become excited here more than anywhere else in Hawaii.

Adventures with Teens on Kauai: Helicopter tours, kayaking the Wailua River, ziplining

You want action and sights on Kauai that will keep your teens excited. These activities deliver with no dull moments.

• Soar on a helicopter tour for views of the Nā Pali Coast and Jurassic Falls, spots that you cannot reach by car or trail. These flights offer a bird’s-eye look that teens will rave about for years.
• Paddle a kayak along the Wailua River to Secret Falls, a trip loved by families seeking a Hawaiian adventure. The water is calm, making it easy for first-timers, and reaching the waterfall feels like an epic quest.
• Book a tubing trip with Kauai Backcountry Adventures, where you float through old sugarcane canals built long ago. Teens love the mix of history, water, and just enough thrill for everyone.
• Try ziplining at Koloa Zipline, which offers five or eight lines with ocean views and jungle runs. These ziplines work for both cautious beginners and bold risk-takers alike.
• Saddle up for horseback riding along the north side of the island. Ranches near Hanalei Bay let you cross streams and ride under green cliffs.
• Tour the island by ATV on muddy backroads near Waimea Canyon or Princeville. This is an easy way to see wild spaces teens crave.
• Cycle downhill on a guided 13-mile ride from Waimea Canyon’s rim to the sea, catching sweeping island views along the way while feeling the rush of the wind.
• Go snorkeling any day at Poipu or Koloa Landing since these beaches are hotspots for sea turtles, colorful fish, and sunbathing between swims.
• Book spots for popular activities early. Tours like tubing or ziplining fill up fast in the busy season, so planning ahead makes all the difference for your family trip.
• Chat with local guides about other adventurous options great with teens, including river kayaking and 4WD tours deep into Kauai’s wildest valleys.

Where to Stay on Kauai with Teens: Grand Hyatt Kauai, Westin Princeville, Kukuiula Lodge

Kauai has some great places for families with teens. Pick a spot that fits your style, lets you get outdoors, and keeps your crew close to the best fun.

• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa is packed with family-friendly perks like lazy river pools, saltwater lagoons, and waterslides. Teens can join paddleboard yoga or just grab a snack from the poolside grill between surf sessions at Poipu Beach.
• The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas sits on scenic cliffs at Kauai’s north shore. Multi-room villas let everyone stretch out. Full kitchens make feeding hungry teens simple after exploring Hanalei Bay or hitting an ATV tour near Princeville.
• Lodge at Kukui’ula offers luxury rentals with two or three bedrooms, ideal for bigger families or groups traveling to Hawaii together. Full kitchens, golf carts for cruising around, and direct access to water sports set you up for memorable days outside.
• Vacation rentals close to Lihue Airport put you minutes from restaurants and Safeway supermarkets as soon as you step off the plane. This cuts down drive time and helps hungry teens settle in fast. Spots like Hanalei Bay Resort also offer easy beach access.
• Properties with kitchen space make family travel smoother. Think breakfast before hiking Waimea Canyon or quick snacks after ziplining near Wailua River.
• Some resorts like Hanalei Bay Resort give direct access to pristine beaches on the North Shore, plus water sport rentals so no one misses out on paddleboarding or snorkeling.
• Check out condos in Poipu too if your group wants resort comforts but more room. These are popular with visitors who want extra bedrooms along with easy beach entry on their Hawaiian vacation.

My own experiences have taught me that families laugh loudest after a big day outside on Kauai. There’s nothing quite like seeing teens light up after spotting sea turtles bobbing right by the beach.

Oahu (The Gathering Place): Best for Surfing, Culture & Nightlife

Oahu hums with the beat of surf culture, late-night eats, and music echoing from Waikīkī to Kaka’ako.

Grab your board or hit the city. This island pulses with activity from Diamond Head Crater to Duke Kahanamoku’s turf.

Top Things To Do with Teens on Oahu: Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach

Your trip to Oahu with teens is about to get very exciting. These spots mix adventure, history, and classic Hawaiian fun all in one island.

• Hike the Diamond Head Summit Trail, which climbs 560 feet with stunning views at the top. Entry costs $5 per person and $10 for parking, and as of September 2024 you’ll need to reserve online.
• Visit Pearl Harbor’s Visitor Center and museums for free. Tours of the USS Arizona Memorial cost only a $1 reservation fee and include a moving film followed by a boat ride that lasts 45 minutes.
• Grab the Deluxe Audio Tour at Pearl Harbor for an extra layer of storytelling, priced at $20.99 for ages 13 and older, or $14 for children aged 4 to 12.
• Catch waves together through surfing lessons right on Waikiki Beach, famous for its soft sand, gentle breaks, and Duke Kahanamoku’s surf legacy.
• Go snorkeling in Waikīkī‘s clear water or try stand-up paddleboarding. Boards are easy to rent along the beachfront and you’ll spot colorful fish close to shore.
• Take time to explore Iolani Palace. Built in 1882, it offers fascinating guided tours showing how Hawaii’s monarchs lived before statehood.
• Cruise out on a catamaran from Waikīkī Beach in the late afternoon. Watch surfers tackle Banzai Pipeline waves while your crew laughs under golden skies.
• Drop into shops near Kalakaua Avenue or seek out fresh poke bowls after beach time. The area buzzes with energy day into night.
• Relax under swaying palms at Hilton Hawaiian Village as teens hit up pools or head out across Duke’s Lagoon on kayaks or aqua bikes.
• Snap family selfies near Diamond Head Crater then cool off with shave ice. Nothing beats chilly mango syrup running down your arm after a hot hike.

Each activity gives you and your teen stories worth retelling back home, even if their favorite word that week is “whatever.”

Family Adventures on Oahu: Parasailing, Kualoa Ranch, surf lessons

Oahu bursts with action, perfect for teens who crave thrill, stories, and the sun. I’ve seen families light up here, from Waikiki’s waves to wild rides above the sea.

• Glide high above Waikiki with Hawaiian Parasail, where rides soar for eight wild minutes. Catch sweeping island views and salty wind in your hair, feeling like a hero in an action flick.
• Explore Kualoa Ranch, famous for movie magic like Jurassic World. Kualoa Ranch spans 4,000 acres and has served as a filming location for over 200 movies and TV shows. Teens can pick from wild ATV safaris, zippy e-bikes, horseback fun, or see sets from Jumanji and Kong Skull Island. The Best of Kualoa Experience package starts at $124.95 and includes three 90-minute tours plus a complimentary buffet lunch.
• Learn to surf with friendly local instructors at Waikiki, Canoes, or White Plains Beach. Spots fit all skill levels, whether you’re catching your first wave or showing off.
• Head to Wet’n’Wild Water Park in Kapolei, Hawaii’s only water park. Teens rush down slides, float the lazy river, and race to the next splash, making every minute count.
• Ride the North Shore waves at the Banzai Pipeline. In winter, watch the pros during the legendary surf competitions, where swells can tower over ten feet.
• Try a sunset catamaran sail along Waikiki Beach. This easygoing trip mixes golden light, calm seas, and maybe even a dolphin show. Teens snap photos nonstop.
• Paddle out to Kaneohe Sandbar on a kayak or paddleboard, but catch it at low tide. Smooth catamaran tours are also a hit for teens who want a gentler adventure.

Oahu always brings energy, from historic sites and wild ranch rides to big surf and unforgettable sunsets. Teens stay busy, curious, and smiling every step along the way.

Where to Stay on Oahu with Teens: Aulani Disney Resort, Royal Hawaiian, Turtle Bay Resort

Finding the right place to stay on the Island of Oahu can make your family trip go from good to great. Top picks for travelers with teens include spots that mix adventure, comfort, and a splash of local color.

• Aulani Disney Resort in Ko Olina brings massive pools, water slides, and daily Lū’au shows. Teens get their own beach areas and organized activities like paddleboarding lessons.
• The Royal Hawaiian stands proud on Waikiki Beach since 1927 and earns its nickname “Pink Palace.” Direct beach access means quick dips between exploring shops along Kalākaua Avenue with your teens.
• Turtle Bay Resort sprawls over 1,300 acres on the North Shore. Surfing classes at world-class breaks like Laniakea Beach or horseback riding along lush trails will thrill teens who want action.
• Moana Surfrider sits right on Waikiki’s white sands as a classic Outrigger hotel pick. Multi-bedroom suites give everyone space after long days hitting Pearl Harbor Historic Sites or hiking up Diamond Head.
• Four Seasons Ko Olina near Aulani offers oceanfront rooms plus family-friendly pools. Privacy options for parents and teens make it easy to take a break from each other when needed.
• Multi-bedroom apartments from waikikibeachrentals.com put you steps from Hanauma Bay’s snorkeling or Makapu’u Lighthouse hikes without breaking the bank. These are perfect if you value extra space on your vacation to Hawaii.
• Booking two adjoining rooms at major resorts keeps both adults and teens happy with privacy but still close enough for sunrise walks on Kā’anapali sand or late-night shave ice pit stops.

You’ll find everything you need for traveling to Hawaii with teens. From surfing legends to famous historic spots, all wrapped up in these amazing places to stay within Oahu’s best resort zones.

Maui (The Valley Isle): Best for All-Around Resort Luxury

You’ll find no shortage of cool resort pools, sandy beaches, and big adventures on the island of Maui.

Think sunrise over a volcanic crater or a lazy afternoon at Grand Wailea. Either way, teens won’t want to leave the Valley Isle.

Top Sites with Teens on Maui: Haleakalā, Road to Hana, Molokini Crater

Teens crave real adventure, and Maui packs the thrills. Big volcanoes, epic drives, and wild ocean trips will keep their energy high.

• Haleakalā National Park is home to a 10,023-foot volcanic summit where sunrise glows above the clouds. Secure a spot ahead of time for sunrise tours as space fills up fast.
• Road to Hana, also called the Hana Highway, covers 64 miles packed with over 600 winding curves through rainforests and past waterfalls. Start early; a round trip with stops can take up to 9 hours and often works best if you stay overnight near Hana.
• Molokini Crater sits off Maui’s coast and only boats can reach it. This sunken volcanic crater is known for snorkeling and diving thanks to its super clear water and colorful fish.
• Stop at Wailea Beach for views of Lanai Island and Molokini Crater in the distance while catching some waves or swimming.
• Head to Kapalua Bay Beach for great snorkeling or try Makena’s Big Beach if your crew wants more space to boogie board or swim in crystal blue waters.
• Drive parts of the Road to Hana with teens who like daring turns. There are scenic lookouts by waterfalls and lava tubes along this famous stretch.
• Book a helicopter tour for shots over the crater or lush areas near Hana that most never see from the ground. Some tours even circle back across volcanic peaks that erupted long ago.

My years exploring Maui’s trails taught me this: teens feel alive on these spots, especially after seeing sunrise at nearly two miles above sea level or jumping into turquoise waters off a boat near Molokini Crater.

Adventures with Teens on Maui: Ziplining, whale watching, snorkeling

Ziplining, whale watching, and snorkeling pack big fun into a Maui trip with teens. Excitement and nature blend with a splash of culture and adventure.

• Fly down the five-line Haleakala Zipline course. Guides share stories about Hawaiian conservation and legends. It’s thrill, learning, and wow moments in one ride.
• Spot massive humpback whales on a catamaran tour from Lahaina or Maalaea Harbor, January through March. Two-hour excursions often include snacks, lively guides, and jaw-dropping views of these giants breaching.
• Snorkel at Molokini Crater, a volcanic island off the coast. Most tours provide gear, beginner lessons, and even lunch. Clear waters here mean bright fish and maybe a sea turtle sighting.
• Head to Kaanapali Beach for windsurfing or jet skiing. Local operators rent equipment right on the sand, turning a normal day into high-speed fun.
• Take a stand-up paddleboard or canoe tour from Wailea resorts. Guides point out sea life and share fun facts about Maui’s shores.
• Book a guided bike tour down from the slopes of Haleakalā. Zoom along scenic roads while soaking in the epic island views. It’s part thrill ride, part sightseeing.
• Try the Ho Olei Villas at Grand Wailea for a place to unwind after adventure. Private pools, kitchens, and plenty of room mean everyone can chill or play as much as they want.

Where to Stay on Maui with Teens: Grand Wailea, Four Seasons Maui, Hana Maui Resort

Splashing out on Maui with your teens? You’ll want places that mix fun, adventure, and chill time. Here’s where to land for an epic island stay.

• Grand Wailea treats families with ten pools and a huge lava tube slide. Your crew will love the Tarzan swing and the massive water playground, making every day a pool day. The resort recently completed a $300 million renovation and now features 844 freshly updated rooms. According to recent reviews, the resort maintains an 8.8 out of 10 guest rating, with travelers particularly praising the pool complex.
• Book a private cabana early at Grand Wailea for shaded comfort near all the pool action. Demand runs high during school breaks, so lock one down as soon as you can.
• Ho Olei at Grand Wailea gives you villas with kitchens, washers, dryers, and space for everyone. Ideal for longer stays or if you want to save on eating out.
• Four Seasons Maui makes life easy with oceanfront rooms just steps from the sand in Wailea. Teens get access to game rooms and e-bike rentals, along with guided snorkeling trips teeming with sea turtles.
• Daily cleaning and kids’ clubs at these resorts give you downtime while your teens try paddleboarding or join organized activities around the grounds.
• Hana Maui Resort sits far from busy areas, surrounded by forest trails and open views of the Pacific Ocean. Yoga classes are set up weekly; there’s even a three-hole golf course if sports are your thing.
• The spa at Hana Maui Resort offers quiet relaxation after exploring spots like Haleakalā or driving the Road to Hana. Every suite or villa has spacious layouts perfect for unwinding together.

Great big island resort options exist elsewhere in Hawaii too, but on Maui those looking for luxury and active exploration will find plenty of joy right here.

FAQs for Hawaii With Teens