Free Children Activities on Oahu, Hawaii

Whether you live (or are visiting) the windward or leeward side of Oahu, there are numerous free, kid-friendly activities throughout the island.

Various libraries throughout Hawaii offer a Children Storytime session on specific days of the week, geared toward a certain age range.

In addition to a weekly storytime, some libraries may also offer craft time, puzzle time, or other kid-friendly activities.

Visit the Hawaii State Public Library System for locations, dates, times, and contact information.

The Hokule`a Voyage of Discovery Indoor Play Area is located in Windward Mall.

Inspired by the Hokule'a, a replica of a voyaging canoe used by the Polynesians, the indoor "soft" play area allows kids 42" and under a place to expend their energy while parents observe them from the surrounding seating area.

Footwear must be taken off (shoe cubbies are provided) and a hand-sanitizer dispenser is readily available at the entrance/exit of the play area.

Windward Mall Indoor Play Area: 46-056 Kamehameha Highway, Kaneohe, HI 96744, 808-235-1143

The following shopping centers have designated days and times dedicated to kids. On the specified days, kids can enjoy kid-friendly entertainment (e.g. clowns) or participate in arts & crafts, face painting, and other activities.

Mililani Shopping Center: Keiki Monday Clown Show

Pearlridge Center: Keiki Tuesdays

Kahala Mall: Toddler Time (Wednesdays)

Contact the participating shopping centers for more details.

Ho`omaluhia Botanical Gardens is often called a hidden gem.

Located on the windward side of Oahu, Ho`omaluhia offers more than just a place to learn about plants and flowers.

Ho`omaluhia is popular for duck-feeding, fishing, and even camping.

The vast grounds allow plenty of room for picnics and play, but visitors should heed the meaning of Ho`omaluhia, a "place for peace and tranquility," and be respectful of others around them.

Ho'omaluhia Botanical Gardens:45-680 Luluku Road, Kaneohe, HI 96744; 808-233-7323

The Oahu Urban Garden Center was created to help educate the general public about plants and flowers.

They offer gardening classes and school tours, and there are several gardens created specifically for children, such as the The Animal Garden, which is home to plants with animal names, and the Butterfly Garden, which is full of plants that attract butterflies.

Kids can learn all about different plants and their uses, walk through a hedge maze, and discover how some of their favorite fruits and vegetables are grown.

Oahu Urban Garden Center: 955 Kamehameha Highway, Pearl City, HI 96789; 808-453-6050

Whether it's through play, nature, crafts, or stories, the above lists just a few examples of free activities for kids that you can find on Oahu.