Itinerary feedback for family trip in January

Question

Family of four visiting Kauai & Oahu for 6 nights each (kids are teens). Enjoy beaches, snorkeling, viewpoints and history. We’ve visited Maui a couple times and the Island of Hawaii. Itineraries posted on each island board. Looking for feedback and tips please!

Answer

It sounds like you have a great mix of interests for your Kauai and Oahu trip! Since you've visited Maui and the Island of Hawaii already, you're probably familiar with some of the island's highlights, but there are plenty of unique things to experience on Kauai and Oahu as well. Below, I’ve provided feedback and a few tips to help fine-tune your itinerary for a memorable family vacation.

Here’s a quick overview of what to expect on each island and some tips for maximizing your time:

Kauai (6 nights)

Kauai is perfect for scenic views, outdoor activities, and exploring nature. Since your family enjoys beaches and viewpoints, you'll love the lush landscapes and dramatic coastlines.

Waimea Canyon – Don't miss this "Grand Canyon of the Pacific." A trip up to the canyon will give you breathtaking views of the island, and there are multiple scenic stops along the way. If you're into hiking, the Canyon Trail is a good option.
Na Pali Coast – You can take a boat tour along the Na Pali Coast, which offers some of the most incredible coastal scenery in Hawaii. There are also helicopter tours available if you're looking for a different perspective. However, boat tours are often more family-friendly for teens!
Hanalei Bay – This is one of the most iconic beaches on the island, great for snorkeling, swimming, and sunbathing. The surrounding mountains create a picture-perfect backdrop, and there are plenty of shops and restaurants nearby.
Wailua Falls – A short drive from Lihue, this waterfall is easy to access and provides great photo opportunities. It’s a beautiful spot to visit after a day of exploring other parts of the island.
Kokee State Park – If your teens enjoy nature walks, head to Kokee for hiking trails, amazing viewpoints, and the opportunity to see native flora and fauna.

For snorkeling, the beaches at Poipu are excellent, especially for beginner snorkelers, while Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach) is more ideal for experienced snorkelers due to its deeper waters and coral reefs.

Oahu (6 nights)

Oahu offers a mix of urban experiences, historical sites, and world-famous beaches. It's an island that can cater to a range of interests, from cultural attractions to outdoor adventures.

Waikiki Beach – A must-visit, especially for first-time visitors. It’s great for beginner surfers, and you can rent boards, take a lesson, or just enjoy the beach. The area is also home to many restaurants and shops.
Diamond Head – A popular hike that offers panoramic views of Honolulu and Waikiki. It’s not too difficult, making it great for teens and families. The hike takes around 45 minutes to an hour to complete.
Pearl Harbor – A visit to Pearl Harbor is a powerful experience, offering historical context about World War II and the attack on Oahu. Be sure to visit the USS Arizona Memorial and the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. It's an educational experience your kids will likely remember for a long time.
North Shore – Known for its big waves and laid-back vibe, the North Shore offers great beaches for surfing, swimming, and relaxing. Don’t miss the famous Waimea Bay, Sunset Beach, and the Banzai Pipeline. In January, the waves will be at their largest, so it’s a prime time for watching professional surfers.
Kualoa Ranch – A fun place for a family outing, this ranch offers ATV tours, horseback riding, and excursions to famous movie filming locations (like Jurassic Park). Teens will likely enjoy the adventure and unique activities here.

For snorkeling, Oahu’s Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve is one of the best places on the island. It's a protected marine area with abundant marine life and calm waters, perfect for families and teens looking to get into snorkeling.

In terms of logistics, both islands have a lot to offer, and with your rental car, you'll be able to cover the distances more easily. I would suggest balancing your time between adventure and relaxation to keep the teens engaged and not over-scheduled. You can also consider setting aside a day on each island for a more relaxed itinerary where you focus on the beach, snorkeling, and local eateries. Make sure to plan some down time for the family to just enjoy the surroundings and recharge.

General Tips:

Book popular activities and tours (like Pearl Harbor, helicopter tours, or boat tours) in advance, especially since you’ll be traveling in January, which is a busy time.
If you plan to hike in some of the more remote areas (like Waimea Canyon or along the Na Pali Coast), be sure to bring sturdy footwear and water, as some of these areas can be challenging.
For a more authentic experience, try local food like plate lunches, poke bowls, and shave ice. Kauai has great food trucks, while Oahu offers more variety with street food and restaurants.

With this mix of activities, your family is sure to have an unforgettable trip to both Kauai and Oahu!