Aulani, Sheraton, Royal Hawaiian HHV

Question

We are going to OAHU for the first time during Christmas time with our two tweens (11 and 12) and trying to figure out what hotel to stay. Staying 5 nights. We plan and doing a whale watching boat trip and visit Pearl Harbor and

the remaining days doing beach/pool time.

Friends have recommended Aulani but we are torn whether to stay that far (and it’s the highest price) or choose a hotel in Waikiki. HHV looks pretty kid friendly but the Sheraton/Royal Hawaiian look like maybe a better location? Kids want a beach with some waves not necessarily a lagoon.

Thanks,

Answer

It's exciting that you're planning your first trip to Oahu! The island has so much to offer, especially during the holiday season, and finding the perfect place to stay is key to making the most of your visit. Since you’re traveling with tweens and have planned a mix of activities like whale watching, Pearl Harbor, and beach/pool time, it sounds like you’ll want a hotel that balances convenience, comfort, and fun for your family.

Aulani: Aulani is a beautiful resort, but it is located in Ko Olina, about a 45-minute drive from Waikiki. It is on the higher end price-wise, but it is one of the best family resorts in Oahu, especially for kids. The resort is Disney-themed, which is a huge draw for families, and it offers a variety of activities tailored for tweens and teens. Some of the highlights include:

Amazing pools with a lazy river, water slides, and a snorkeling lagoon.
Character meet-and-greets and kids' clubs for fun and entertainment.
Private beach with calm waters, though not ideal for kids who want waves to play in.
Multiple dining options, including kid-friendly menus and signature restaurants.

While Aulani offers a fantastic vacation experience, it's a bit more isolated compared to Waikiki, which means you’ll need to drive to see other attractions on the island. If you’re willing to pay the premium for a more resort-style experience with plenty of activities for the kids, Aulani is an excellent choice, but keep in mind that it may be a bit far from other Oahu attractions like Pearl Harbor and the downtown area.

Waikiki Hotels (Sheraton, Royal Hawaiian, HHV): Staying in Waikiki has the advantage of being close to many popular attractions, restaurants, shops, and the beach. These hotels are right in the heart of the action, and you’ll be able to explore much of what Oahu has to offer without needing to drive far. Here’s a breakdown of the options:

Sheraton Waikiki: A fantastic family-friendly hotel with a great location right on Waikiki Beach. It has direct beach access and plenty of activities for kids, including a pool, water slide, and a prime location for surfing lessons. The Sheraton is also just a short walk from Waikiki’s shopping and dining areas, so it's convenient for families who want to explore. While the beach here is beautiful, the waves can be a little more gentle compared to the more active surf spots, but it's still a great spot for your kids to enjoy the ocean.
Royal Hawaiian (Pink Palace): One of the most iconic hotels in Hawaii, the Royal Hawaiian is located right on Waikiki Beach, with excellent ocean views. It’s more upscale and has a historic feel. The beach here is also great for families, although it can get crowded during the holidays. The Royal Hawaiian offers a more luxurious experience but still has family-friendly amenities like a pool and easy access to the beach. The waves here can be a bit bigger, but they are generally safe for kids to play in. If your kids like the idea of waves, this might be a great option.
Hilton Hawaiian Village (HHV): HHV is another excellent option for families with tweens. It’s a large resort with a variety of pools, a lagoon, and direct access to Waikiki Beach. The hotel has numerous dining options and plenty of activities to keep your kids entertained. The resort's location is a bit more spread out, so there is a lot to explore, but it can be a little more commercial compared to other hotels in the area. The beach here is beautiful and has waves for your kids to enjoy, though it may not be as calm as Aulani’s lagoon.

Comparison of Locations: If you’re looking for more beach time and want to experience the iconic Waikiki vibe with your kids, a hotel in Waikiki might be the better choice. Waikiki is vibrant, offers plenty of family activities, and is centrally located for visiting Pearl Harbor, the Honolulu Zoo, and hiking trails like Diamond Head. On the other hand, Aulani offers a quieter, more exclusive experience but requires more travel to reach other attractions on the island. Here’s a quick comparison:

Waikiki Hotels: Close to shops, restaurants, Pearl Harbor, and other Oahu attractions. Beach can have gentle waves for kids but may also be busy and crowded during the holidays. Lots of family-friendly activities available.
Aulani: More resort-like with water slides, lazy river, and Disney magic for the kids. However, it’s farther from other Oahu attractions and might require more driving.

Conclusion: For a first visit to Oahu with kids, if you want a blend of relaxation, beach/pool time, and easy access to attractions, staying in Waikiki (at either the Sheraton, Royal Hawaiian, or HHV) is a great option. It’s more convenient for exploring the island and offers a variety of experiences for families. However, if you’re looking for a more resort-style vacation where you don’t have to leave much, Aulani is a fantastic choice—but it’s a bit farther from other key Oahu attractions.

Whichever you choose, you’re sure to have a wonderful time in Oahu, and both options offer great amenities for your family to enjoy!