So, you’re heading to Oahu with the family and want to make sure it’s an absolutely unforgettable trip? Lucky for you, you’ve found this blog, then! Every day, we watch families just like yours discover the magic of the island as they experience the water like never before. While we’re certainly going to cover the incredible underwater adventures we offer, this won’t be a totally self-serving blog. As locals, we also know what our own families enjoy doing and what our guests tell us they’re including in their visit. With all these ideas, you’ll be set for an incredible Oahu family vacation in no time! Let’s stop wasting time and get right to the good stuff!
Snorkeling Like You’ve Never Seen It
Let’s get rid of the idea that snorkeling has to be done at the water’s surface with goggles and a breathing apparatus stuck in your mouth. At Island Water Sports Hawaii, we’ve revolutionized the activity with our Submarine Scooters. Not only are sub-scooters more comfortable than other methods of snorkeling, but you don’t even have to know how to swim to enjoy this activity!
That’s all thanks to the unique diving bell technology and electric-powered propulsion the scooters use. To mount the scooter, our team will carefully help you dip under the water and into the helmet. They’ll place you exactly where you need to be and use hand signals to verify you’re set before releasing you. As you float down into the clear waters of Maunalua Bay, you’ll be mesmerized by the abundant marine life. Hawaiian green sea turtles, sea stars, and vibrant tropical fish are all around. You may even see the occasional ray, octopus, or dolphin!
The scooters remain tethered to the boat at all times, and our team stays in the water with you, pointing out unique species and making sure you feel safe every second. The sub-scooter tour lasts 2 hours with a 20-minute scooter ride.
The rest of the journey consists of the scenic boat ride out to the diving spot, time spent relaxing on the sun deck of our 50-foot power catamaran, or enjoying swimming or traditional snorkeling while others in your group have their turn on the scooters.
Rated one of the top visitor attractions in Oahu, we’re the only submarine snorkeling operator on the island, and the fun doesn’t stop at sub-scooters. We have several water adventures—some that even let you slice through the water like a super dolphin!
Sea-Bob Super Dolphins
Our Sea-Bob excursion is made for those who crave adrenaline and have a need for speed. You can perfect dives, twists, and harrowing underwater flips when you take these eco-friendly propulsion packs for a spin. Pair the Sea-Bob tour with the Sub-Scooter tour and get the best of both worlds: Calm rides for the scenic viewers, and fast thrills for the adventurers.
After your tour, add on bumper tubes or banana boat rides for a wild, kid-friendly finish to the day. Regardless of which adventure is right for your family, a day on the water is never the wrong choice in Oahu.
Island Water Sports Hawaii Tours at a Glance
Sub-Scooter and Sea-Bob Tours
- 2-hour tour with 20-minute scooter ride or 45-minute Sea-Bob ride
- Monday – Saturday (Closed Sunday)
- Tours offered from 9 AM – 11 AM and 12 PM – 2 PM
- Must be 10+ years old, under 350 lbs., and not pregnant
- $180 for Sub-Scooter/Snorkel Tour | $242 for Sea Bob/Snorkeling Tour
Banana Boat Rides
- 20-minute ride
- Seven days a week
- Every half hour from 8:30 AM – 4 PM
- Must be 4+ years old
- $59
Bumper Tube Rides
- 15-minute ride
- Seven days a week
- Every half hour from 8:30 AM – 4 PM
- 6 passengers per ride
- Must be 4+ years old
- $59
Landmark Sites Worth the Visit
Oahu, Hawaii, has so much to see, and planning family travel itineraries can feel overwhelming. If you want to narrow it down, these landmark sites are worth it:
Waikiki Beach – As one of the most famous beaches in the world, you’ll be mesmerized by the bright white sand and crystal blue water. In summer, the gentle surf is great for those traveling with kids. You can swim, stroll along the shore, sunbathe, and spend hours enjoying the scenery.
Want a more local vibe? Ala Moana Beach Park is one mile from Waikiki. Protected by a barrier, the waters are great for little ones. This quieter beach is less commercial and offers a more peaceful beach day. Grab some malasadas from Leonard’s or a shaved ice and enjoy the water at your own pace.
Waimea Valley – Take a tour through the gorgeous 150-acre botanical gardens at Waimea Valley and see beautiful plants, flowers, and cascading waterfalls. Your tour will take you past traditional Hawaiian homes and shrines. You can catch hula shows at the amphitheater or spend time with resident artists as you watch them create unique Hawaiian pieces. Full of educational wonders, this is popular for both kids and adults.
Diamond Head – Get a bird’s eye view of Honolulu when you hike the popular Diamond Head Crater. Formed roughly 300,000 years ago from a single eruption, the crater is a sight to behold. Older kids and teens will have no problem with the hike, but if your kids are under 3, it may not be suitable. Allow 1 to 1.5 hours to complete the 1.6-mile round-trip trek.
- Reservations are required
- Non-Hawaii Residents pay $5 (Non-Hawaii resident vehicle entry is $10)
- Open daily (except Christmas and New Year’s) 6 AM to 6 PM with last entry at 4:30 PM
Pearl Harbor – Full of history and awe, Pearl Harbor is a bucket list stop for US visitors to Oahu. If you’re here in December, it’s even more somber as the anniversary is honored. Tour the USS Arizona Memorial, the Battleship Missouri, and the Aviation Museum.
Kid-Friendly Activities Parents Love Too
Dole Plantation – Ride the Pineapple Express, try to navigate the Pineapple Maze, grab lunch at the Plantation Grille, and finish the day with a garden tour.
North Shore – Visiting in the winter? Don’t miss the chance to go whale watching along the North Shore. The Hawaiian humpback migration is the largest in the world, occurring between November and May, with the majority of sightings taking place from December to April.
Honolulu Zoo – With a focus on tropical ecosystems and a large collection of Pacific Island species, the Honolulu Zoo delivers an experience unlike those on the mainland. Be sure to stop by the indigenous species exhibit!
Traditional Hawaiian Luau – Perfect for the end of your vacation, no trip to a Hawaiian Island is complete without experiencing a traditional luau. Fire dancers, kalua pig, hula, storytelling, and much more all await. There are plenty to choose from on Oahu—be sure to ask your Island Water Sports Hawaii boat captain for their recommendations!
But if you forget to ask because you’re having too much fun, the Toa Luau is a wonderful option.
The money goes directly back into the community. The luau is smaller and more intimate, but still offers all the flair. And! You can purchase a package that comes with entrance to Waimea Valley, combining one of our earlier recommendations. It’s a win-win!
Book Your Oahu Family Vacation Activities Today!
Armed with all this info, we hope you’re feeling confident and ready to embark on a truly magical Oahu family vacation. And we hope you make Island Water Sports Hawaii part of your visit! To explore our tours more closely or book your excursions, be sure to check out our website. Our team is standing by to handle all your reservation needs and answer any questions you may have.
Submarine Scooter and Snorkel Tour | Sea-Bob and Snorkel Tour | Scooter and Sea-Bob Tour
