Teens can be a tough crowd, and a lot of parents struggle to keep them happy and engaged while on vacation. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Hawaii with your teenagers that you’ll want to do too, keep reading, because we have the inside scoop.

Things to do in Hawaii with Teenagers

Instagram-Worthy Options

Most teenagers are glued to their devices, and a sure-fire way to perk them up are activities that they can filter, upload and share to their social media. Bonus points for lots of likes.

Hikes

Choose hikes that are the perfect balance of natural beauty and exertion. Not too easy, not too hard. Our recs are Diamond Head, Manoa Falls, Makapu’u and Lanikai Pillboxes.

Kahana Bay Beach Swing

Go for the swing and stay because this is one of the prettiest beaches on Oahu. Located on Oahu’s mystical eastern side, it is well worth the trip.

Black Sand Beaches

The most famous black sand beach in Hawaii is Punalu’u, on the Big Island. If you’re on Maui, check out the black sand beach in Waianapanapa State Park, near Hana. The sand isn’t as jet black as Punalu’u, but it’s still a must-see.

A worthy mention is the green sand beach, Papakolea, on the Big Island. This beach requires a 2-mile hike or 4WD.

Horseback Riding

Check out Kualoa Ranch on Oahu’s windward side. They offer horseback riding, movie location tours and a secret beach.

Teenage Thrills

Things to do in Hawaii with teenagers that will break a sweat, and maybe even crack a smile. You’ll be sure to make memories of a lifetime with these fun activities.

Snorkeling

If you’re on Maui, book a Molokini Crater snorkeling excursion. Swimming in a flooded, extinct volcanic crater in the Pacific is cool…right? On Oahu check out the Windward Sandbar and Snorkel, on the Big Island opt for an evening swim and snorkel with manta rays.

Zip Lining

Zip line courses of varying lengths and scenery can be found on all the main Hawaiian Islands. Top tier, as the teenagers say these days.

Surfing Lessons

Schedule a family surfing lesson on Waikiki Beach. There will be plenty of laughs and memories. If your teen already knows how to surf, you can rent a board right on Waikiki Beach.

Helicopter Tour

Do you want to see waterfalls, mountains, valleys, beaches, volcanoes? Hawaii has it all! Cool points for a doors-off helicopter ride.

Just Hanging Out

Check out these spots for all the vibes.

Volcanoes National Park

If you’re on the Big Island, this is the thing to do in Hawaii with teenagers! Give this blog post a read for an in-depth exploration of Volcanoes National Park.

Sandy’s Beach

This one comes courtesy of my favorite teens in the world, my niece and nephew. Located on Oahu, just past Hanauma Bay and Halona Blowhole, this beach is happening with Hawaii teenagers. Although popular for bodysurfing and bodyboarding, exercising extreme caution is a must. The shorebreak can be very powerful, and Sandy’s is nicknamed “Broke Neck Beach” for a reason. It’s still a fun place to hang out and watch the show.

Ala Moana Shopping Center

It makes my inner 1980’s kid happy that teenagers still like to hang out at the mall. This one is located right outside Waikiki and is where Hawaii teens go to see and be seen.

From Sunup to Sundown

On Maui, watch the sunrise over Haleakala Crater, and on the Big Island check out the heavens atop Mauna Kea. Either way, you’ll leave them speechless.

We hope you’ve found some fun things to do in Hawaii with teenagers! Many, if not most, of these things are included in our all-inclusive Hawaii vacation packages. Let us handle the planning and scheduling for you, so you can focus on spending this precious time with your family. Contact us to start the adventure of a lifetime!