Looking for the best things to do in Hawaii with teens? 

Well, you’re in for a treat! 

We’ve collaborated with fellow travel bloggers to ensure that you are getting the best recommendations for what to do in Hawaii with teenagers on the islands of Maui, Kauai, Oahu, and The Big Island. 

In Maui, buckle up for an exhilarating Napali Coast Boat Tour and Whale Watching experience. Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a memory that will stick with your teens long after the trip ends. 

If your trip to Hawaii includes the lush island of Kauai, we have several recommendations including kayaking the Wailua River to Secret Falls. 

The Big Island offers several beach recommendations, including a unique hiking experience as you trek to the mesmerizing Green Sand Beach. 

Finally, on Oahu, your trip will certainly include a visit to the Pearl Harbor Memorial, home of the USS Arizona. Beyond that important monument, we have several suggestions for more unique experiences including a plunge into the mystical Mermaid Caves. 

This guide is not a compilation of touristy activities. It is the result of collective wisdom from passionate travelers who’ve uncovered the gems of Hawaii and shared them so you and your teen can have an exciting journey.

So let’s go! 

Kauai

1. Kayaking Wailua River

A 3 Tickets Please Recommendation

Kayaking the Wailua River to discover the mesmerizing Secret Falls is a hands-on, teen-approved experience. 

If you are looking for a guided kayak tour of Kauai, the trip to Secret Falls is one of the most popular on the island.

Or you and your teen can ditch the tour guide and DIY your own kayak trip to Secret Falls.

If you opt to do it without a guide, your teen can take the wheel (or paddle, in this case) of their adventure. All it takes is a bit of pre-planning – grab a kayak, secure a car for transport, and you’re set for one of the most fun activities on the island.

The journey kicks off with a fairly easy 2-mile kayak ride, weaving through the lush landscapes of the Wailua River. It’s not just about the destination; it’s about the journey – and the paddle is full of lush scenery. After beaching your kayak, gear up for a short 30-45 minute hike, unveiling the hidden paradise of Secret Falls.

Why is this perfect for teens? It’s the sweet spot between adventure and independence. They get to captain their own kayak, explore the river, and take a scenic hike – all without the guidebook. 

Kayaking the Wailua River to Secret Falls is not just an activity; it’s an adventure, making it a top pick among the best things to do on Kauai.

2. Waimea Canyon

By Sam from Travel Hawaii with Us

If you are planning a trip to Kauai with teens, you will want to visit the Waimea Canyon on the island’s rugged west side! Called the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” the canyon is one of the island’s greatest natural wonders. Not only is the view of the canyon amazing from the many lookouts throughout this state park, you can also hike to get up close to its brilliant colors.

One of the most popular hikes in Waimea Canyon State Park is the moderate trail to the top of Waipo’o Falls, the 800-foot waterfall that cascades down the wall of the canyon. The 3-mile loop trail is perfect to do with active teenagers and offers spectacular views into the canyon. Although you cannot see the waterfall on this hike, you do end at the top of the falls, where there is a small cascade (perfect for Instagram!) that flows into a plunge pool.

If your teenagers are avid hikers, there are many other moderate trails in adjoining Koke’e State Park to try!

You’ll want to rent a car in Kauai for the scenic drive to Waimea Canyon. The drive is pleasant and not so long that it drags if you visit from the island’s south shore or east side.

On your way back, treat your teens to Hawaiian shave ice at JoJo’s in Waimea!

3. Helicopter Tour

By Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Hands down, one of the best things to do in Hawaii with teens is to take a helicopter tour of the NaPali Coast in Kauai. Home to some of the most stunning landscapes in the world, this adventure is perfect for the whole family!

This excursion on the island of Kauai is not an inexpensive one, but a bucket list adventure, for sure. Take a helicopter or small plane and fly into the Waimea Canyon, also known as the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. The massive canyon is home to stunning waterfalls, and if you’re lucky, you’ll be surrounded by rainbows on the Garden Isle as well.

After seeing the canyon, you’ll fly over the stunning NaPali Coast. This rugged coastline where the mountains meet the ocean is unlike any other in the world. The multi-colored landscape is beautiful and a fun tour that any teen will love!

 A helicopter tour is one of the best reasons to book a trip to Kauai, especially if you are debating whether to visit Maui vs Kauai. The tour is best booked in advance, especially if you have a group larger than 4 as the helicopters and small planes don’t hold many people. 

 Be sure to have a motion sickness remedy available for anyone with air sickness. Wear dark colors to help reduce reflections in your photos.

4. Bike the Island

Another 3 Tickets Please Recommendation

Pedal into the heart of Kauai’s beauty with a Kuai bike rental adventure that promises teens an unforgettable taste of island life. Kauai boasts great bike rental spots scattered across its picturesque landscapes, but for the crème de la crème experience, we’ve got two top recommendations: Ke Ala Hele Makālae and the sun-soaked haven of Poipu.

Ke Ala Hele Makālae, translating to “the path that goes by coast,” is a must for those craving a leisurely ride with spectacular ocean views. This paved 8-mile Kapaa bike path is divided into two scenic sections, inviting teens to bike, stroll, or even blade along the picturesque coastline. It’s not just a ride; it’s an immersion into the breathtaking nature of Kauai.

If the south part of the island is on your radar, Poipu is your go-to destination for a beachside biking escapade. Picture this – cruising along the shoreline, feeling the ocean breeze, and soaking in the tropical vibes. Don’t miss the chance to pedal towards Spouting Horn, a fantastic spot for whale watching. 

Renting bikes on the island of Kauai is more than a mode of transport; it’s a gateway to exploration. We loved it so much, we put it on our 3-day Kauai itinerary. 

Whether gliding along the Kapaa bike path or beachside in Poipu, teens can enjoy the freedom and thrill of a two-wheeled adventure. 

5. NaPali Coast Boat Tour

By Samantha of Continuous Roamer

A boat ride along the NaPali Coast on the island of Kauai is one of the best things to do with teens in Hawaii. The views along this adrenaline-fueled journey are incredible and there is also plenty of food and drink to keep teenagers entertained and happy.

Teens looking for the biggest thrill will enjoy the raft boat tour, where you will feel the crash of the waves and go into caves. If a family member often gets seasick, it is best to book a large catamaran so you will glide over the waves. The water is usually calmer in the morning, plus you have a better chance of seeing dolphins during morning trips.  

You need to book a tour to experience the Na Pali Coast by boat because the ocean conditions can be temperamental, and you need the guidance of an expert to confirm that the conditions are safe. I recommend booking Capt Andy’s, which has a range of tours, such as snorkel and BBQ tours, raft tours, and sunset cruises.

Tours start in Eleele in Southwest Kauai. It is challenging to explore Kauai without a car because public transportation and taxis are sparse, so make sure you have rented one for your entire trip. There is free parking at the port where your tour begins.

Maui

6. Road to Hana

By Samantha Oppenheimer of Find Love and Travel 

Maui is the perfect location to visit with teens simply because of the vast number of nature-filled activities to enjoy. Driving the road to Hana in particular, is one of my favorite Maui activities, and I always recommend it! 

The drive begins in Paia Town and throughout the drive you’ll find many scenic spots and attractions. From black sandy beaches to waterfalls and lava tunnels, this is an epic adventure for all of the family to enjoy! 

Some of the best locations include Twin Falls, Mt. Haleakala, Three Bears Falls, and the Hana Lava Tube. There are also plenty of opportunities to stretch your legs, go for a hike, and fully embrace the outdoors.

And of course, even while you are in your car, you’ll see some pretty incredible views.

When it comes to driving the road to Hana, if you feel comfortable driving, you definitely should! Driving ensures that you can take the day at your own speed and see all the sites that most interest you. Alternatively, however, you can book a guided tour. 

Do plan the locations that you want to see ahead of time. You’ll be surprised at how quickly the day passes when you’re spending a lot of time driving to and exploring all of the different destinations.

If you don’t have a rental car, don’t worry. You can also take the road to Hana through a tour. 

7. Snorkeling Molokini

Recommended by Nikki of Inspired Routes

One of the best things to do in Hawaii with teens is a snorkeling tour of the Molokini Crater. Located off the southern coast of Maui, this is a unique experience your teenage children will love!

Snorkeling tours from Maui are fun for the whole family. With beautiful scenery on the open water while traveling via catamaran to your destination, teens will love the break from the island – and the possibility to see wildlife. On board the boat, most tours offer food and beverages.

Once you arrive at the Molokini Crater, your family can get their snorkeling gear on and enjoy snorkeling. This is an active tour and teens will love exploring the waters near Molokini, looking for reef sharks, sea turtles, and a variety of fish.

Several companies offer snorkeling tours, and whether you’re staying in West Maui or Kihei, it’s easy to get to the marina where you will depart for your tour. Just be sure everyone wears mineral sunscreen to abide by Hawaii law and protect marine life. And of course, if anyone gets motion sickness, make sure to have your remedy available for your boat trip.

8. Learn to Surf

By Laynie of Wanderlayn

If you’re looking for an activity that the whole family will enjoy on the Valley Isle, consider learning to surf in Maui! Surfing has been part of Hawaiian culture for centuries and this island is one of the best places in the world to learn – and a great activity for adventure-seeking teens!

Everyone is sure to enjoy the adrenaline rush of riding the waves, especially when it’s paired with Maui’s beautiful surroundings. Teens are also more likely to pick up surfing easily and even develop a lifelong hobby. Just imagine all the amazing places you and your teen can surf all around the world! 

Lessons are definitely a good idea if you’ve never surfed before, especially as a seasoned instructor will be able to choose the right beach and examine the conditions to make your Hawaii surfing experience unforgettable. 

Some of the best places to surf in Hawaii are on Maui and you won’t have to go far to find the perfect spot to hit the water. The surf town of Paia is a popular option along the north shore of the island because it’s close to the airport in Kahului, but you can probably find great surfing conditions within walking distance of your accommodation around the island!

Surf lessons and board rentals are available at the many surf shops located throughout Maui, and you can also book lessons online.

9. Whale Watching

By Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

A whale-watching tour in Maui offers an unforgettable experience for teens that’s both fun and educational. While there are several options for whale-watching adventures in Maui, hands down the most Eco-friendly and ethical is The Pacific Whale Foundation. 

The Pacific Whale Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the protection and conservation of whales, dolphins, and other marine life in the Pacific Ocean. They offer opportunities like whale watching to educate the public about the importance of protecting these beautiful creatures and their habitats.

Onboard every ship is a certified marine naturalist who provides fascinating insights into the behaviors and life cycle of whales while also educating the group on ocean conservation. During the tour, the marine naturalist may even put a microphone in the water so you can hear the whales calling to each other — it’s an amazing experience for the whole family. 

The organization offers tours from the Maʻalaea Harbors, which is about a 30-minute drive from Lahaina. Transportation isn’t provided; you will need a car.

The tour is approximately two hours long, and it’s important to note that children under 7 years old aren’t allowed. After your adventure, head to Kihei for a bite to eat; there is good diversity, including a couple of Maui’s best vegan spots.

10. Day Trip to Lanai

By Jen of Thrifty Northwest Mom

Looking for a unique activity to do with teens while visiting Maui? Then head to the island of Lanai for a day trip! The island of Lanai is less than 40 miles away from the west side of Maui.  The passenger ferry to Lanai takes an hour and makes 2 trips a day to the island. 

Lanai is renowned for its gorgeous beauty, pristine beaches and seclusion. While the island is over 140 square miles in total size, it has only 30 miles of paved roads and around 3000 inhabitants.  

Hulopo’e Beach is a short, 10-minute walk from the ferry and is known as one of the best beaches in the country. It’s a wide, expansive beach with soft sand and a protected bay of gorgeous, blue-green water. 

This protected bay offers some of the best snorkeling on the islands and is perfect for teens. Be sure to check out the tide pools on the eastern side for a wide variety of unique sea life. In the winter, watch for humpback whales swimming into the bay. Dolphins are a frequent visitor to the bay in the summer months. 

Need a break from the beach? Take a taxi into town to visit the Lanai Cat Sanctuary, a teen favorite. This outdoor location is home to more than 600 cats who are anxious for attention – and available for adoption. Head into Lanai City for lunch and enjoy the boat ride back to Maui at the end of the day (you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous sunsets in the winter months).

Big Island

11.Hike to Green Sand Beach 

By Katie and Tom of Trekking the Dream

If you’re looking for the perfect family adventure on Hawaii’s Big Island, Papakolea’s Green Sand Beach offers an experience you won’t find anywhere else. This geological wonder on the island’s southern coastline combines excitement and education with breathtaking natural beauty.

Papakolea’s charm lies in its intriguing green sand resulting from the mineral olivine mixed with the volcanic basalt from which the island is made. As one of only four Green Sand Beaches in the world, the distinctive colour of the sand is an instant conversation starter. If your teens like seeking out the extraordinary, they will find themselves captivated by the unusual hues that paint the shoreline.

Self-drive is a great way to get to Papakolea and will take around 90 minutes from Kona and 1 hour 45 minutes from Hilo. The trail starts at the South Point Car Park which marks the start of the 2.5-mile hike. Here, an enterprising local will likely offer you an expensive, and illegal, lift to the beach in their rickety 4×4. Politely decline and instead enjoy the 1 hour hike along the orange sand trail, remembering to wear sunscreen and take plenty of water; there is no shade until you get to the beach.

Beyond being a geological curiosity, Papakolea’s Green Sand Beach is a perfect place to take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters. It’s safer to stay close to the shore as there are no lifeguards and there can be strong currents.

The ancient volcanic crater surrounding the beach allows older kids to explore and take in the stunning panoramic views of the coastline.

Papakolea Green Sand Beach combines geology, culture and excitement in a perfect package that both you and your teens will love!

12. Punalu’u Black Sand Beach

By Constance Ray of A Well-Read Wanderer

Another activity sure to keep your traveling teenagers happy on the Big Island of Hawaii is a visit to Punalu’u Black Sand Beach. This is a cool destination for several reasons. First, the black sand. Hawaii’s big island is the newest of the Hawaiian islands and is still highly volcanic, so it’s expanding year to year as new lava flows add to the land. 

One of the results of all this new lava flow is multiple beaches like Punalu’u that are black sand – and I’m talking about literally jet-black, coal-colored sand. It’s an amazing and memorable experience to visit. While Punalu’u is not the only black sand beach on the big island, it is one of the best places to spot endangered sea turtles, or honu. You can bring snorkel gear and try to swim out to them, but odds are you’ll be able to spot some without leaving the beach, either in the water or basking in the sun. 

Understand that all species of sea turtle are protected under Hawai’i Revised Statutes, and it is ILLEGAL to touch or get near a sea turtle in Hawaii. If you are visiting the islands, it is absolutely essential to follow this rule to respect and protect Hawaiian wildlife like the majestic sea turtles. 

The Punalu’u Black Sand Beach is easy to reach by car, so there’s no tour needed. It’s located on the southeastern shore of the Big Island near a camping site, which is another activity you could consider with your teens. You can make Punalu’u a stop on your way to Volcanoes National Park or to Hilo, which is home to some amazing Big Island bookstores. 

As there are a lot of jagged volcanic rocks at Punalu’u, make sure you bring protective swim shoes! 

13. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

By Lucy and Dan at Thoroughly Travel

Located in the south of Big Island, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a large national park and one of the best attractions for teens in Hawaii. Featuring volcanic landscapes and panoramic viewpoints, Hawaii Volcanoes National Park makes for an epic day out for the entire family.

Visits to the park usually start at the Kīlauea Visitor Centre. From here you join the Crater Rim Drive, stopping to see sulphur banks, steam vents, and the impressive Kīlauea Caldera. 

Be sure to stop off and walk through Thurston Lava Tunnel, a long tube that was forged by lava 500 years ago. Then join the Chain of Craters Road as it winds its way through petrified lava fields to the Pacific Ocean, ending in an impressive sea arch.

Hiking is one of the most popular things to do in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. 

The 1.4 mile walk to Pu’uloa Petroglyphs is fairly easy and rewards hikers with 23,000 carved images of cultural and historical importance. 

Those looking for a longer hike can take the moderately challenging Kīlauea Iki & Crater Rim Trail which traverses down into the crater itself. If your visit is timed with a volcanic eruption, you can actually see lava within the park. 

If you’re looking for something extra special, you can also fly over the park in a helicopter – an experience kids are sure to remember for the rest of their lives.

Day tours to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park are available to book but most visitors drive through the park themselves. 

The entry pass is valid for 7 days so it can be a good idea to put aside multiple days to see everything in the park. The park is open 24/7 but may be closed during an eruption – current safety information can be found on the official website.

Oahu

14. Hiking Diamond Head

By Paula Gaston of Gone With the Gastons

Hiking to the top of Diamond Head Crater is one of the best family activities on Oahu. The views are majestic. You can see the beautiful Makapuu Lighthouse, the turquoise water of the Pacific Ocean, and the city of Honolulu with all its high-rises all from this hike.

The Diamond Head (or in Hawaiian, Lē‘ahi) crater was formed from the eruptions of the Koʻolau Volcano about 300,000 years ago. The crater is shaped like a bowl with a sunken center.

The trail to the crater’s summit is about 1.6 miles long. Even though half the trail is uphill, the hike is not too hard. The total time of this hike is about 2 hours. 

At the end of the trail, you won’t only get amazing scenic views, but you can also explore the dark tunnels of an old military base and a World War II bunker. Along the hike up, you can see plenty of plants and birds.

Diamond Head State Monument is located only about a fifteen-minute drive from Waikiki, and it is easy to get there by bus, rideshare, or rental car. 

Reservations ARE required as it is a fairly popular park. The entrance to the park for non-residents is $5 per adult and kids get in free.

15. Mermaid Cave

By Annie of Your Friend the Nomad

Take your teens off the beaten path to a place that truly feels like it’s straight out of a mermaid movie — Mermaid’s Cave on Oahu.

These picturesque sea caves are located on Oahu’s leeward side, just north of Electric Beach next to Nānākuli Beach Park.

To reach the caves, follow the instructions on this Mermaid’s Cave guide and drive about 45 minutes north of Honolulu to Nānākuli Beach Park. The sea caves are just a short walk away from the park, hidden beneath volcanic rocks. 

Whether your family members climb into the caves or just observe them from above is dependent on the tides and your own personal preference. 

A small ‘beach’ appears at the top of the main sea cave at low tide. If you so choose, you can climb down about eight feet to this beach to watch the turquoise blue water glisten in the sunlight, and perhaps take a swim.

However, it is important to check the local tide charts and to watch the waves for a bit before going in, especially if no one else is there. Keep in mind that if you climb in, you must be able to climb back out. Climbing out is a little bit of a scramble, but nothing too difficult if you are able to lift your own body weight or have any basic rock climbing experience.

While cliff jumping into the water here is popular amongst local teenagers, I would advise against it since it can be difficult to tell how deep it is. 

There are no tours to the Mermaid Caves, so you will need your own rental car to drive there. It’s also helpful to bring water shoes to protect your feet when climbing in and out of the caves.

16. Dole Plantation

By Mayuri Patel from Fernwehrahee 

One of the most popular things to do with teens in Oahu is visit to Dole Plantation. Hawaii is famous for its Pineapple farms and plantations. Visiting Dole plantations is a fun experience. 

Entrance to the grounds is free and there are many things to do here. The Plantation is home to the world’s largest maze according to the Guinness World Records. Enjoy this pineapple-shaped maze as a fun family activity!

Explore the plantation’s beautiful gardens to learn about various tropical plants, including pineapples, with a guided tour. The star attraction is a scenic train ride around the plantation. You and your teens will learn about the history of pineapple cultivation in Hawaii and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding fields.

There is a souvenir store where you can buy Pineapple-themed souvenirs and local products. Don’t miss the world-famous Dole whip — a popular pineapple soft-serve ice cream — at the end of the visit. The Dole Plantation has family-friendly activities suitable for all ages!

While entry to the plantation grounds is free, some activities, like the Pineapple Garden Maze and the Pineapple Express Train Tour, do have separate admission fees.

The Dole Plantation is situated in Wahiawa, about a 40-minute drive from Waikiki in Honolulu. You can also reach the plantation via public bus from Honolulu but it will take more time! 

17. Polynesian Cultural Center

By Elizabeth of Tall Adventure Fam

If you are visiting Oahu, Hawaii with teens, making a stop at the Polynesian Cultural Center is a must! Our kids love learning about history and culture when we travel, such as the sod houses at the Skogar Museum in Iceland, and the Polynesian Cultural Center is phenomenal.

The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is broken into six “villages” representing the different islands of Polynesia. Each village has activities, games, demonstrations, and a cultural show. Learn how to throw a traditional spear from Tahiti, try poi from Hawaii, or try your hand at starting a fire with a stick and coconut husks like they do in Samoa. The whole experience is very hands-on and engaging for all members of the family.

There are many different ticket packages available for the PPC. There is basic entrance and you can add on a luau or the Ha: Breath of Life Show if you would like. You can also have a tour guide take you around to all the villages, but we enjoyed the freedom of going at our own pace with the basic entrance ticket.

The PCC is located on the North Shore of Oahu. If you are staying in Waikiki, it is possible to get there by bus if you don’t have a car. There is also an option to book transportation through the PCC when you purchase your tickets with the option of a direct motor coach or a Circle Island Tour before going to the PCC.

When you purchase a ticket for the PCC, you can use it for two consecutive days at no additional cost. You can spend all day there and not get to experience everything, so it is nice that you have the option to come back if time allows.

Conclusion: Hawaii with Teens

As we wrap up our exploration of the best things to do in Hawaii with teens, it’s clear that the islands offer a kaleidoscope of experiences, each more captivating than the last. 

Everyone knows about Oahu’s famous Waikiki Beach and Hanauma Bay, but our list has over a dozen travel experts’ best recommendations for the best Hawaiian islands experiences for teenagers and the best things to do with your teen.

From the vibrant marine life spotted during a Napali Coast Boat Tour in Maui to the hidden treasures unveiled while biking the Ke Ala Hele Makālae in Kauai, a Hawaiian vacation is truly a paradise for families seeking adventure.

In this collaboration of recommendations, we’ve aimed to capture the essence of Hawaii’s diverse landscapes and thrilling adventures. 

One of our best travel tips for and with teens is to choose adventurous places – and Hawaii perfectly fits that bill.

Whether it’s the soothing rhythm of the ocean or the awe-inspiring heights of volcanic craters, each moment spent on these islands makes for great adventures in Hawaii with teenagers.