4 Family Friendly Hikes on Oahu!

by Erika OrdonezIn reality summer is all year around here in Hawaii. We have an advantage compared to other countries and states to explore our Oahu island home all year around! There are endless adventurous and exciting activities to do to stay healthy and active. It is important for us to teach our kids that being active is fun whether it is a sport, running outside, walking to the store or simply going on a family day adventure.Hawaii has so much to offer that we don’t have to pay to experience. Exploring outside gives us the opportunity to learn about nature such as the smell of flowers, the fruit that grows on trees and the different animals that live outside.Being healthy is also a huge factor to consider in our everyday living. We need a healthy lifestyle to prevent serious medical health risks such as diabetes, obesity, decreased blood circulation, and etc. If our children begin now, new good habits will be easy to maintain and establish.So my top 4 hikes in Hawaii are:1.   Kalihi Ice Ponds Hike :: This one is short and easy to find. The road is paved most of the way. It is secluded and not many people know about this hike. At the end of the hike there is a big beautiful waterfall that you can jump from. There is space to swim and watch people jump from the waterfall. Close your eyes and absorb the natural music of the waterfall.2.    Ka’ena Point Trail Hike :: This is a long, but beautiful hike.  Take sunscreen because it is not shaded. The reward at the end of the hike includes seals sleeping and resting.3.    Botanical Gardens :: There are many places to walk through and learn about the amazing plants, flowers and trees native to our Hawaii home. (Manoa Falls Botanical Gardens, Ho’omaluhia Botanical Gardens, and Foster Botanical Gardens).4.    Aiea Loop Hike :: Another long, but straight, path to find. If you keep your eyes open you will see a World War II airplane. A bonus - a great history lesson!Lets incorporate more active and life learning lessons rather than sitting at home all day playing video games. The world is an amazing journey to discover and why not do it with people we love!