Planning a Hawaiian vacation to the beautiful island of Oahu? Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with kids, or bringing extended family along, making sure you’re fully prepared can make all the difference in creating a fun, relaxing, and memorable getaway. To help, we’ve put together a thorough, family-friendly packing checklist that covers everything you’ll need for your sun-soaked adventure—from beach essentials to tropical-ready clothing and eco-conscious personal care items.
Essential Travel Documents
- Plane tickets or confirmation emails (digital or printed)
- Valid driver’s license or passport (especially for car rentals)
- Travel insurance paperwork
- Hotel or vacation rental confirmations
- Copy of itinerary and emergency contacts
Clothing and Accessories
Daywear
- Breathable T-shirts and tank tops
- Casual shorts and lightweight skirts
- Swimsuits and rash guards for kids and adults
- Flip-flops and comfortable walking sandals
- Sun hats or wide-brimmed hats
Evening and Dinner Wear
- Casual dresses, polos or button-down shirts
- Light sweater or jacket (some evenings can be breezy)
Activewear
- Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers (for Diamond Head or Manoa Falls hikes)
- Leggings or quick-dry athletic shorts
Beach and Water Gear
- Beach towels or quick-dry travel towels
- Snorkel sets or goggles (many beaches are family-friendly for snorkeling)
- Water shoes (helpful for rocky beaches and tide pools)
- Dry bag for keeping electronics and valuables safe
- Floatation devices for younger children
- Sand toys if you’re bringing little ones
- Compact beach umbrella or shade tent (some rentals include these)
Sun Protection
- Reef-safe sunscreen is a must—Hawaii law bans sunscreens that contain harmful chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate because they contribute to coral bleaching. Choose a mineral-based, non-toxic product. Coco Botanicals offers a family-safe, mineral-based sunscreen that is not only great for your skin but also certified Reef Safe and environmentally friendly.
- Aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion
- Sunshirts or UV-protective cover-ups for extended beach days
- Sunglasses with UV protection (and kid-sized pairs, too!)
Toiletries and Health
- Toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss
- Shampoo, conditioner (eco-friendly travel bottles encouraged)
- Bug spray (especially useful for hiking or evening outings)
- Basic medications (ibuprofen, allergy meds, motion sickness tablets)
- First aid kit: band-aids, antiseptic wipes, tweezers
- Reusable water bottles
Baby or Toddler Essentials (if applicable)
- Diapers, swim diapers, wipes
- Portable high chair or clip-on seat
- Travel crib or pack-n-play (check if provided by your accommodation)
- Favorite snacks and toys
- Lightweight stroller suitable for beach or walks
Tech and Entertainment
- Chargers for all electronics
- Portable power bank
- Camera for capturing memories
- Headphones for flights or quiet downtime
- Books or e-readers for beach reading
- Tablet or downloads for kids’ entertainment on flights or evenings
Optional but Helpful Additions
- Reusable shopping/tote bags (for groceries or beach gear)
- Cooler bag for island picnics or beach outings
- Travel laundry detergent if you plan to wash clothes
- Ziplock bags for wet swimsuits or snacks on-the-go
Pro Tips for Families Visiting Oahu
- Start early when visiting popular spots like Waikiki or Hanauma Bay
- Many beaches have lifeguards and restrooms—check before heading out
- Pack light but plan to layer—weather can change quickly in the mountains
- Keep a small daypack ready with essentials (snacks, sunscreen, wipes) for island adventure days
- Make dining reservations if traveling during peak seasons
A well-packed suitcase means more time soaking up the sun and savoring every moment with your family. Oahu is an island full of beauty, culture, nature, and joy—packing smart ensures you never miss a beat. Prioritize your health, your family’s comfort, and the island’s well-being with thoughtful, eco-friendly products like Coco Botanicals Sunscreen to enjoy paradise responsibly.