Oahu Playgrounds | The Best Park in Oahu!

Family-friendly Oahu

Oahu has a lot going for it in the outdoor fun department. It has a diverse array of family-friendly beaches, family-friendly hikes, and outdoor spaces. Sadly, decent playgrounds are not on that list. Oahu playgrounds are typically installed in waves which means you have the same play structure at every park. It also means they fall apart at roughly the same time. One by one, our beloved local playgrounds disappeared.

But there’s good news…

New Oahu Playgrounds Installed

About the time you were wrapping gifts and humming Christmas tunes last year, a new wave of playgrounds was quietly being installed. Fifteen structures in total were completed with a few more on the horizon. The structures are identical, but at least they’re different from the old orange and blue models. The intention was to build a durable structure built to last 20+ years. The focus was on structures that improve upper body strength, which apparently is lacking in American children (you can add me to that list). The playgrounds look like this –

Are the New Oahu Playgrounds Fun?

If your children are part monkey like mine, they’ll love it. Every surface is made for climbing, hanging, and sliding. Textures and odd angles add interest and force kids to get creative. Spinning cups are another new addition but beware – they can spin crazy fast. Kids wander over, tentatively attempt a spin, and get sucked into an inescapable vortex. Some kids love that part, others emit screams of despair.

Age level is the biggest drawback of the new Oahu playgrounds. The structures are meant for older kids (8 and above) who seem to use playgrounds much less than their younger counterparts. The new structures are tall with many openings. If you have a toddler or preschooler, you may find yourself running around the base of the tower trying to keep them safe. Also, I overheard some complaints about the lack of a traditional slide or swings and I agree. Why couldn’t they have included those in the design?

Although I miss the old swings and playground at Nuuanu, I’m happy to have a playground again. You can find the complete list of new Oahu playgrounds here.

Beyond the playground – the best park in Oahu

Beyond the playground you will find a peaceful, tropical park dripping in greenery. Nuuanu Valley Park reigns supreme as the best park in Oahu with its cool breezes and ample shade from towering monkeypods. Run down the grassy hill to climb trees and explore giant banyan roots. It’s one of my favorite non-beach locations for family photo sessions.

Want More Ideas for Family Fun after visiting the best park in Oahu?

Ready for more adventure after visiting the Nuuanu playground?  Try a quick nearby hike that’s a family favorite. For more ideas sign up for the Little Bird Post below to receive monthly updates on family adventures on Oahu.