Aloha Kids

Experiencing Hawaii, Family Style

By Elisa Ast All

, making the event all too real. Visitors from around the world quietly contemplate the USS Arizona Memorial, which spans the mid-portion of the sunken battleship.

For fun on the water, climb aboard the Outrigger Catamaran ladder and sail out to sea. This sailing vessel departs at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. and has a special sunset cruise at 5 p.m. Meet the captain in front of the Outrigger Reef hotel and sail for one and a half hours past Diamond Head. Flying fish will appear above the wake of the boat, and panoramic views of Molokai Island and Waikiki are visible for you to enjoy.

Spend a breathtaking day at Sea Life Park, where Hawaii's marine life comes alive in a dazzling display that entertains kids and adults alike. Situated just 15 miles from Waikiki on Oahu's scenic Makapuu Point, Sea Life Park is a world-class marine attraction based between the majestic Koolau Mountain Range and breathtaking Makapuu Beach. Come see dancing dolphins, singing sea lions and performing penguins in this unforgettable sea of fun. Movie buffs may recognize this blue wonderland from the film 50 First Dates.

The Dole Plantation is another interesting sight. Open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. is the World's Largest Maze. Tromp on nearly 2 miles of red dirt paths lined with colorful Hawaiian plants in search of six hidden stations. Each station has a stencil that families must slide their maze card under and stamp. Prizes are given to those who complete their card and get to the finish line in the fastest time. Afterward, treat yourself to a delicious pineapple-whip ice cream and walk through the free informational display about the garden of pineapples from around the world. There is a 20-minute, narrated train ride on the Pineapple Express.