Oahu Family Activities for the Thanksgiving Holiday
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to slow down, reconnect with family, and reflect on everything you’re grateful for — and there’s no better place to do that than on the island of Oʻahu. 🌺
While much of the U.S. braces for chilly weather and crowded airports, Oʻahu welcomes families with sunshine, calm ocean waves, and a spirit of aloha. November in Hawaiʻi means comfortable temperatures (around 80°F), vibrant cultural experiences, and endless opportunities to make lifelong memories together.
Whether you’re traveling with little ones, teens, or grandparents, Oʻahu has plenty of family-friendly adventures that blend nature, culture, and fun. Here are some of the best family activities to enjoy this Thanksgiving, featuring unforgettable experiences from And You Creations.
Why Visit Oahu During Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving week is one of the sweet spots of the Hawaiʻi travel calendar — right before the busy Christmas rush but after the slower early fall season. You’ll find a great mix of lively island energy and relaxed family vibes.
- 🌞 Perfect Weather: Expect warm, breezy days ideal for snorkeling and hiking.
- 🌴 Fewer Crowds: Beat the December holiday traffic and enjoy easier bookings for tours and attractions.
- 🍽️ Island-Style Feasts: Many Waikiki and North Shore resorts host special Thanksgiving buffets and luaus.
- 🚐 Convenient Family Tours: And You Creations offers door-to-door pickups, making it easy to travel with kids or older family members.
Whether you want to celebrate on the water or explore lush rainforests, Oʻahu is the perfect family destination for your Thanksgiving break.
Watch Wild Dolphins on a Family Friendly Ocean Adventure
Tour: Dolphins and You
If your family loves the ocean, there’s no better way to celebrate Thanksgiving than by watching Oʻahu’s most playful locals — the Hawaiian spinner dolphins — in their natural habitat. 🐬
The Dolphins and You tour takes you out to the turquoise waters of Oʻahu’s west coast, where you can witness pods of wild dolphins gracefully swimming and leaping through the waves. Our crew follows all NOAA guidelines to ensure that the experience is safe, sustainable, and respectful to marine life.
While the dolphins remain free in their ocean home, guests can enjoy snorkeling nearby reefs, relaxing on the deck, and taking part in a traditional Hawaiian chant that honors the sea. Families especially love the fun onboard atmosphere — complete with upbeat music, cultural sharing, and plenty of photo opportunities.
Everything about the tour is designed with comfort and safety in mind, from professional guides and lifeguards to high-quality snorkeling gear and transportation from Waikiki.
It’s a day filled with gratitude, connection, and awe for nature — and many families say it becomes the highlight of their Hawaiʻi vacation (and maybe even a new Thanksgiving tradition!).
Explore Waimea Valley on a Scenic Waterfall Hike
Tour: Nature and You Waimea
Looking for a peaceful yet educational outing? Head to Oʻahu’s famous Waimea Valley, where lush botanical gardens meet Hawaiian culture and history.
The Nature and You tour takes families through the breathtaking valley on a gentle, paved trail surrounded by native plants, birds, and cultural sites. Your guides will share fascinating stories about ancient Hawaiian traditions and the sacred significance of this area.
At the end of the trail, a beautiful waterfall awaits — and yes, you can swim right beneath it! Kids love this refreshing dip, and parents love the photo opportunities.
The tour also includes a stop at Green World Coffee Farm for a mini breakfast and at Dole Plantation for some pineapple ice cream, making it a well-rounded day trip perfect for Thanksgiving weekend.
Snorkel with Sea Turtles at Waikiki Turtle Canyon
Tour: Turtles and You
There’s something magical about seeing a Hawaiian sea turtle glide gracefully through the crystal-clear waters of Waikiki. The Turtles and You tour lets families experience that wonder firsthand with a guided snorkeling adventure at Turtle Canyon, one of Oʻahu’s most famous marine spots. 🐢
This eco-friendly cruise is perfect for families and guests of all ages. Professional guides and lifeguards ensure everyone feels safe and confident in the water, while the crew shares fascinating insights about Hawaiʻi’s marine life and ocean conservation.
You’ll often see not only honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) resting or swimming nearby, but also colorful reef fish and vibrant coral ecosystems. It’s a fun, educational, and heartwarming way to connect with nature — a true expression of gratitude for the ocean during Thanksgiving week.
Between snorkeling sessions, guests can relax on deck, enjoy upbeat Hawaiian music, and even take part in a short hula or chant to celebrate the spirit of aloha.
Other Family Friendly Things to Do During Thanksgiving Week
Beyond AYC’s tours, Oʻahu offers endless options for families to explore together:
- 🐘 Honolulu Zoo & Waikiki Aquarium: Great for younger kids and located right in Waikiki.
- 🏖️ Beach Picnic at Ala Moana or Kailua: Pack a Thanksgiving lunch and enjoy the view.
- 🎉 Holiday Luaus: Many resorts host Thanksgiving-themed luaus with Hawaiian music, hula, and a buffet feast.
No matter your family’s interests, Oʻahu’s mix of outdoor fun and cultural learning makes it easy to fill your Thanksgiving itinerary with joy.
What to Expect – Weather, Packing, and Travel Tips
- Weather: November averages around 80°F with light trade winds and occasional rain showers (especially on the North Shore).
- Packing Tips: Reef-safe sunscreen, swimsuits, hats, and light layers for cooler evenings.
- Book Early: Tours fill up fast during Thanksgiving week.
- Transportation: All AYC tours include convenient Waikiki hotel pickup, saving families the stress of driving.
Pro tip: Plan your water activities early in your trip, as ocean conditions can vary throughout the week.
This Thanksgiving, trade the crowded dining table for palm trees, ocean breezes, and laughter under the Hawaiian sun.
Whether you’re swimming with dolphins, hiking through a rainforest, or watching sea turtles glide by, Oʻahu offers countless ways to celebrate gratitude with the people you love most.
At And You Creations, we believe that connecting with nature and each other is what true aloha — and Thanksgiving — are all about.
