What do you think of Waimea Valley on Oahu?

[kelly3kids]

We will be at Aulani in a couple weeks. We are going with my in laws and want to see what people think about Waimea Valley. Last time our family of 5 went we hiked and did things that would help little boys get their energy out. This time we will have our in laws and while they are in really good shape most of the hiking trails might be too much. We were thinking about keeping it pretty easy and checking out Waimea Valley. We have been to Oahu several times but haven't had a chance to check think out.

 

[WLodgeLizard]

We did Waimea a couple days ago. It is a 3/4 mile walk to the falls. There is a paved road. It does have a couple of hills. You can also take a shuttle. There are small trails off the main path too.

The gardens are amazing. We kept saying how beautiful everything looked and smelled. The falls at the end is nice. Not too spectacular, but fun. The current is pretty strong to swim to the falls. The water is a little chilly and is brown.

Our DS11 was a little bored at first. He enjoyed the falls, once he got used to the water. He was more into the gardens on the walk back.

Overall, I would recommend it.

 

[vikequeen]

We visited on our trip in March. My kids (DS9 and DS11) really liked it. They were very into the gardens and the historical village. They swam briefly, but water was cold. We made sure to arrive right when it opened. It was nice to have a quieter, more solitary walk up. It was getting quite busy by the time we walked back. But the walk was relatively easy. I would recommend as well. We would go back

 

[njmeisje]

It's a beautiful walk on a paved drive. For a small $ they could take a shuttle to the end and still enjoy the scenery.

 

[kelly3kids]

This is great. Thank you. I feel like this is what I needed to know and I know they can walk the whole thing without a problem but the hiking would have been an issue. I think my three boys 11, 9, and 6 will like it too. Thank you for the tip to get there when it opens.

 

[happymommy]

I lived on Oahu for 3 years, and yet first time I went was 3 years ago on a trip back, LOL! We moved away 18 years ago, but go back to Oahu every other year now for at least 2 weeks. Funny when you live there some stuff you just miss somehow!

It isn't strenuous, and they do provide a little shuttle for those that need to take it easy (our one older friend took it as he was on medication and needed to take it easy).

One tip also the we didn't do but should have: please get some good bug spray and use it first. I rarely get mosquito bites (they love my husband but often don't seem to bite me) and we were a little bitten up on our ankles and legs. I had read to use it but ignored the warning. You can pick some up at Target or Walmart, and it's worth it!

Also, there is limited concessions, and the kids & I got thirsty. Best to bring a little softsided cooler in the car with water if you can. I think we bought a hot dog and some juice IIRC.