Kualoa Ranch

No single activity on Oahu delivers the wow factor that Kualoa Ranch does. Spread across 4,000 acres of valleys, mountains, and coastline on the windward side of the island, this working cattle ranch has become one of Hawaii's most iconic destinations — and for good reason. It's the filming location for Jurassic World, Jurassic Park, Kong: Skull Island, Lost, Hawaii Five-0, and over 70 other productions.

Walking these valleys with kids who recognize the scenery from their favorite films is genuinely magical.

For families, the choice of activities is almost overwhelming: Movie Sites Bus Tours, Horseback Riding, Zipline Adventures, ATV rides, E-Bike tours, Jungle Expeditions, and more. The Movie Sites Tour is the essential experience — a narrated bus journey through the valley filming locations with stops at iconic spots. It's suitable for all ages and typically runs about 90 minutes.

Older kids and teens will go wild for the zipline and ATV experiences, which take them through the same valleys at speed with spectacular views of the Ko'olau Mountains. Horseback riding through the valley floor is a more relaxed option that works well for kids aged 7 and up.

Kualoa Ranch is not cheap — budget carefully and choose 1–2 activities rather than trying to do everything in one day. Many families return on a second visit to try different experiences. The on-site cafe serves Hawaiian-inspired lunch, making it easy to build a full-day adventure without leaving the ranch.

This is one of those experiences families talk about for years afterward. Book well in advance, especially during summer and holiday periods when tours sell out weeks ahead.