Waimea Valley (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Waimea Valley?
What makes it 86% Kids-Friendly: Ages 4–12 can play Hawaiian lawn games, craft leis, and swim with free life vests under lifeguard watch; paved trail, shuttle, and rest spots reduce walking strain.
![[4K] Waimea Valley in North Shore Oahu Hawaii - Walking Tour](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/KjjlA7NTSYg/hqdefault.jpg)
Positives:
- Stroller-friendly paths: The paved, gentle trail is smooth for strollers or wagons, making it easy to navigate with little ones.
- Lifeguard-supervised swim: Trained lifeguards provide free life vests and watch over the waterfall pool for safe family swims.
Challenges:
- Possible trail slipperiness: Stone steps and garden paths can become slippery after rain; sturdy shoes are recommended.
- Limited shade in some areas: Parts of the trail have little cover; bring hats and sunscreen to protect children.
What is Waimea Valley?
- A 1,875-acre botanical garden and cultural preserve nestled in the prehistoric Waimea Valley on Oahu’s North Shore
- A living museum of Native Hawaiian heritage featuring reconstructed villages, ceremonial temples and ancient petroglyphs
- A tropical landscape of over 5,000 plant species set against the backdrop of a 45-foot waterfall at the valley’s head
What is so special about Waimea Valley for with kids?
- Paved garden trail leads to a lifeguarded waterfall swim.
- Hands-on Hawaiian games and crafts for kids aged 3–12.
- Free guided botanical tour highlights native plants.
- Shaded hula shows bring Hawaiian culture to life.
- Stroller-friendly and wagon rental options ease child transport.
Recommended visit duration: 3-4 hours
Why 3-4 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for the garden walk, waterfall swim, cultural crafts, tours, and rest stops with children.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Waimea Valley
Scenic Waterfall Walk & Swim:
Follow the paved ¾-mile trail through botanical gardens to Waimea Falls and swim under the 45 ft waterfall in a lifeguarded pool.
Tip: Bring water shoes and a change of clothes. Life vests are free; parents must accompany young children.
Keiki Cultural Crafts & Games:
Visit Kahua Pāʻani to play traditional Hawaiian games like ʻUlu maika and make simple leis with resident artisans.
Tip: Arrive early to join craft stations before they fill. Ask staff for age-appropriate game demos.
Na Laʻau Hawaiʻi Botanical Tour:
Join the daily 45-minute guided walk at 12:30 PM to spot bright blooms and learn about native and tropical plants.
Tip: Let kids rest on benches along the route. Pack small snacks to keep energy up.
Amphitheater Hula Performances:
Watch kahiko and ʻauana hula on select weekends at 11 AM and 1 PM under a shaded palm-leaf thatch.
Tip: Check the online schedule before your visit. Arrive 10 minutes early for best seating.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Waimea Valley
- Early arrival: Get to the valley at opening time to secure parking, avoid crowds, and join early crafts sessions.
- Pack refillable bottles: Use the free water stations along the trail to keep everyone hydrated without buying multiple bottles.
Reviews of Waimea Valley
Lorna White
We were in a group of 6 that booked the Kipahele Tour, riding on a covered oversized golf cart. Our driver/guide's name is George. His tour around the Valley and to the waterfall is outstanding! George is a Hawaiian history buff, all about the area. His tour around the Valley is about an hour long. He tells the Hawaiian story as we meandered through the various spots. We highly recommend this tour...
Shani Tennenholtz
Such an amazing place! Very fun to explore Please bring cash! There are many nice people along the trail that share with you their music or art. They are all amazing at what they do and are so talented. They only take tips in cash though.
carine
Opening hours are 9 am to 4 pm. Closed on mondays. Price is 25$ which is totally overpriced. It is a 3 km entirely paved walk. You can pay a shuttle 10$ one way. So if you have difficulty to walk you are paying 45$… Overwise it is a 30/45 mins walk. The park is beautiful to reach the cascade. I think you can call to check the recent rain fall as the cascade flows depends on it. Some people go and ...
Kristy Jones
Beautiful botanical grounds, some cultural sites, an easy paved path to the waterfall, some optional side paths with stairs to see even more of the beautiful plants. Entry to the waterfall is large uneven rocks, I recommend wearing water shoes and not for anyone with mobility issues.
David Correll
FYI - if you are going here to see the waterfall, you’ll be disappointed. It cost us about $70 (family of 3) to enter the park. (Free parking). We knew the waterfall was not really running due to lack of rain. It’s about a .80 mile walk to the falls. All paved paths for the most part. There are a few areas which you should divert off to explore the various plants and flowers. They have some demo...
When is the best time to visit Waimea Valley (Hawaii, United States)?
Visit between April and October for fewer rain showers. If you come in winter, pack a lightweight rain jacket and expect muddy patches.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| 2 Adult admissions (age 13+) | USD 52 |
| 1 Child admission (age 4–12) | USD 18 |
| Wagon rental | USD 10 |
| Snacks and drinks | USD 20 |
| Total Estimated | USD 100 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Waimea Valley
Address: 59-864 Kamehameha Hwy, Haleiwa, HI 96712, USA
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About Waimea Valley
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+1 808-638-776610 BEST nearby Activities
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