Hawaii is one of my absolute favorite tropical destinations, offering a complete package of beaches, incredible restaurants, diverse shopping, challenging hikes, and so much more. As the 50th and final state to join the United States, the island chain of Hawaii masterfully blends stunning beaches, rugged natural landscapes, rich Polynesian culture, and a vibrant food scene. This unique combination makes it one of the premier vacation spots globally. When planning your trip, knowing exactly Where To Go In Waikiki is key to unlocking this paradise.
Waikiki, the famous beachfront neighborhood of Honolulu on the main island of Oahu, serves as the primary gateway, home to the international airport. While undeniably popular and bustling with tourists, its popularity is well-earned. Waikiki presents an abundance of experiences, from swimming and snorkeling in crystal-clear blue waters to staying at world-class resorts and indulging in high-end shopping. But the appeal of this vibrant district stretches far beyond the surface.
Waikiki Beachfront with Diamond Head in the background – Essential for deciding where to go in Waikiki
Discovering Where To Go In Waikiki and Beyond
Waikiki and its surrounding areas on Oahu offer a dazzling array of activities catering to every interest. From iconic natural landmarks to historical sites and local experiences, there’s no shortage of places and adventures to explore. Let’s dive into some of the most compelling destinations when considering where to go in Waikiki.
Hike Diamond Head Crater
Dominating the Waikiki skyline, Diamond Head is an unmistakable landmark and a must-visit for anyone deciding where to go in Waikiki. This iconic crater provides a breathtaking natural backdrop to the bustling beaches below. For the adventurous soul seeking unparalleled panoramic views, a hike to the summit of the crater is highly recommended.
The trail is a 1.6-mile round trip classified as moderate, involving a 560-foot elevation gain. Along the ascent, you’ll encounter fascinating insights into the crater’s geological formation and its military past, including old bunkers and a navigational lighthouse. If you visit during whale season (roughly December to April), keep an eye out for whales playing in the ocean below – a truly spectacular sight. The trail can get hot and crowded, so starting early in the morning is the best strategy for a cooler trek and fewer people.
Panoramic view from the top of Diamond Head showing Waikiki and the coast
Pro tip: If your hike is on a Saturday morning, make sure to stop by the KCC Farmer’s Market nearby for delicious local treats and refreshments after your climb. It’s a great way to sample local flavors.
Relax and Recharge at Kapiolani Park
For those seeking stunning views of Diamond Head without the strenuous hike, Kapiolani Park is the perfect alternative. This expansive green oasis has been a beloved spot in Waikiki since 1870, offering a tranquil escape from the urban energy. It’s an ideal place to simply stroll, relax, and soak in Hawaii’s natural beauty. The park’s wide-open spaces provide a fantastic vantage point for photographing the majestic crater.
A favorite local activity is grabbing some delicious take-out to enjoy a picnic in the park. Consider picking up spam musubi from Musubi Café Iyasume or a classic plate lunch from the legendary Rainbow Drive-In. These local eateries offer quintessential Hawaiian comfort food perfect for an al fresco meal. If timing works out, you might even catch a live music performance at the Waikiki Shell outdoor concert venue located within the park. While outside food isn’t allowed inside the concert venue, enjoying a picnic before or after a show is a wonderful experience.
Walking path through Kapiolani Park with Diamond Head in the distance, a pleasant place where to go in Waikiki
Explore the Honolulu Zoo
Located adjacent to Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo is a fantastic family-friendly option when considering where to go in Waikiki. It holds the unique distinction of being the only zoo within a vast 2,383-mile radius, housing a diverse collection of animals from various global habitats. Here, you can encounter everything from American Alligators and Komodo Dragons to sloths and numerous bird species.
For a deeper dive into the lives of the zoo’s inhabitants, guided tours are available, including Morning Safari Tours and Twilight Tours offering unique perspectives. Just outside the zoo’s entrance, you’ll find “Art on the Zoo Fence,” an open-air gallery showcasing the vibrant work of local Hawaiian artists – a perfect spot to find a unique souvenir.
A sloth happily eating a flower bouquet at Honolulu Zoo
Visit the Waikiki Aquarium
Also nestled within Kapiolani Park is the Waikiki Aquarium, a treasure trove of marine life native to the waters surrounding Oahu and the broader Hawaiian Islands. Visiting the aquarium is an excellent way to learn about the delicate ecosystems and fascinating creatures that call these waters home.
Person feeding fish in an outdoor pool at the Waikiki Aquarium, showcasing marine life where to go in Waikiki
The aquarium features several captivating exhibitions, including living reef displays, coral farms, and collections of native Hawaiian aquatic plants. You’ll get up close views of intriguing animals such as seahorses, sea dragons, Hawaiian monk seals (a critically endangered species), and various jellyfish species. It’s an engaging and educational experience suitable for visitors of all ages, offering a different perspective on the natural wonders of Hawaii compared to the beaches.
Stroll and Shop along Kalakaua Avenue
If you want to be right in the heart of the action, a visit to Kalakaua Avenue is essential when deciding where to go in Waikiki. Stretching over three miles from Kapiolani Park to Ala Moana, this bustling street is considered the pulse of Waikiki. While it has a distinctly touristy vibe, it’s undeniably fun and offers a concentrated hub of activity. The avenue is lined with high-rise hotels, countless restaurants, large shopping malls, unique boutique stores, and the ubiquitous ABC Stores – perfect for picking up sunscreen, beach gear, snacks, and any forgotten essentials.
Key shopping and dining destinations along Kalakaua Avenue include the Royal Hawaiian Center, situated right in the middle of Waikiki. Beyond luxury retailers like Tiffany & Co. and Saint Laurent, it also serves as a cultural hub offering free hula, ukulele, and lei-making lessons.
The International Market Place, a modern open-air retail and dining complex, offers a mix of higher-end stores while retaining a beloved open-air food court under its large banyan tree. For a sophisticated evening, head to a rooftop bar like SKY Waikiki Raw & Bar for spectacular panoramic views and excellent food and drinks. Waikiki Beach Walk is another open-air area featuring local brands, diverse dining options like Ruth’s Chris and Yard House, and the renowned Roy’s Waikiki for Asian-fusion cuisine.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the free live hula performances at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, a wonderful cultural highlight right on the beachfront.
Swim and Snorkel with Sea Turtles
While Waikiki’s land-based attractions are plentiful, the allure of its beaches is undeniable. When choosing where to go in Waikiki for ocean fun, you have several excellent options, including Royal Hawaiian Beach, San Souci Kaimana Beach, Fort Derussy Beach, Southern Waikiki Beach, and Duke Kahanamoku Beach. These beaches are known for their beautiful, clear waters and accessible coral reefs teeming with vibrant tropical fish in dazzling blues, oranges, and yellows. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter Hawaiian green sea turtles gracefully gliding through the water.
Please remember: Observing sea turtles is a privilege, and they should never be touched or disturbed in their natural habitat. Simply admire them from a respectful distance.
Two sea turtles swimming in the clear blue ocean off the coast of Hawaii
Waikiki beaches are generally well-protected by offshore reefs, resulting in relatively shallow and calm conditions perfect for swimming and snorkeling, especially for families. Be sure to use reef-safe sunblock to protect both your skin and the delicate coral reef environment. If swimming with turtles is high on your priority list, consider booking a dedicated tour that takes you to known turtle hotspots around Oahu for a higher chance of encountering these magnificent creatures up close.
Take a Surf Lesson
Hawaii is undeniably the most iconic destination globally to learn how to surf. If you’ve always dreamed of riding a wave, Waikiki Beach is the perfect place to take a lesson. The gentle, rolling waves in front of Waikiki make it an ideal spot for beginners to get their feet wet and experience the thrill of catching their first wave. Numerous surf schools and board rental companies are available right on the beach, particularly near the famous bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the legendary Hawaiian swimmer and surfer.
If surfing feels a bit too daunting, paddleboarding is another popular and much easier activity to enjoy on the calm Waikiki waters. It’s a great way to get out on the ocean, get some exercise, and enjoy fantastic views of the coastline.
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Surfboard rental kiosk on Waikiki Beach, a popular spot for lessons and rentals
Ride on an Outrigger Canoe
For a unique cultural and adventurous experience on the water, hop on an outrigger canoe. While I haven’t personally tried this yet, it’s a highly popular activity that offers a different perspective of Waikiki from the ocean. Outrigger canoes are modern descendants of ancient Hawaiian vessels used for fishing and travel, characterized by their distinctive outrigger float that provides stability.
Joining an outrigger canoe ride allows you to experience the thrill of “surfing” a wave back to shore without the need for extensive balance training. Paddlers work together with a guide to paddle out beyond the break, then catch a wave back to the beach. As you paddle through the exceptionally clear water, you can often see colorful marine life swimming below. These rides typically last between 10-45 minutes, depending on the waves and group dynamics, and usually involve catching 2-3 waves. You can rent canoes, paddleboards, and surfboards, or book lessons through services located along Waikiki Beach.
People surfing a wave in a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe off Waikiki Beach
Shop and Relax at Ala Moana Center
While technically not within the official boundaries of Waikiki, Ala Moana is easily accessible, often within walking distance, and definitely worth including in your plans for where to go in Waikiki’s vicinity. Ala Moana is a vibrant neighborhood boasting a renowned shopping center, an expansive park, and a beautiful, calm beach. The Ala Moana Shopping Center is a destination in itself, perfect for spending an afternoon browsing.
Expansive Ala Moana Shopping Center in Honolulu, a popular retail destination near Waikiki
It features a vast array of stores, from major department stores to high-end boutiques, catering to every shopping need. The center also houses an outstanding international food court offering a diverse selection of cuisines, making it a great spot for a casual and delicious meal. Just a short walk from the mall, you’ll find Ala Moana Beach Park and Beach. This area offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to Waikiki and is particularly well-suited for swimming and snorkeling due to its protected bay, with minimal waves making it ideal for children.
Sunset Cocktails at Moana-Surfrider
For an iconic Waikiki experience, stroll along the beachfront and find a spot under the magnificent banyan tree at the historic Moana-Surfrider hotel. This majestic hotel, affectionately known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” was built directly on the beachfront in 1901 and retains its original elegance. The massive banyan tree in its beachfront courtyard is almost as famous as the hotel itself.
You don’t need to be a guest to enjoy the hotel’s dining options, particularly the bars and restaurants overlooking the sand and the Pacific Ocean. Sitting here with a cold drink as the sun dips below the horizon is one of the most perfect ways to cap off a day exploring where to go in Waikiki. It offers an unparalleled vantage point for people-watching and soaking in the quintessential Hawaiian sunset ambiance.
Street view of the elegant Moana Surfrider hotel in Waikiki
Find a Child-Friendly Beach Spot
If you’re traveling with family and seeking a calm beach with virtually no waves, the Diamond Head end of Kuhio Beach is an excellent choice. Situated in front of the Aston Hotel, this section of the beach is less crowded than central Waikiki and features calm waters thanks to the protection offered by the Waikiki Wall, a popular walkway extending into the ocean that also provides fabulous views back towards the shore.
Calm waters at Kuhio Beach, like a swimming pool and ideal where to go in Waikiki with family
This area also offers convenient access to casual dining options like burger bars. While Waikiki offers family-friendly sections, Oahu is ringed with dozens of incredible beaches, each with its own character. Whether you’re interested in board surfing, kite surfing, diving, or simply finding a more secluded stretch of sand, exploring beaches beyond Waikiki is highly recommended for diverse experiences.
Learn Hawaii’s History at Iolani Palace
For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Iolani Palace is a compelling addition to your list of where to go in Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. This historic palace was built by King Kalakaua during his reign in 1879 and later served as the residence for his successor, Queen Liliuokalani, until the overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy. The palace fell into disrepair for many years before being meticulously restored in the 1970s.
Today, the Iolani Palace stands as a stunning testament to Hawaii’s royal past, exuding its original splendor. Visitors can explore the property on self-guided tours or join a docent-led tour for deeper insights. The palace boasts spectacular grand halls, intricately decorated international furnishings, and an ornate throne room. It is a profoundly moving piece of Hawaiian history that offers invaluable context for understanding the islands’ unique cultural heritage and should be on any history buff’s itinerary.
The stunning Iolani Palace in Honolulu, a significant historical site
Visit the Honolulu Museum of Art
Just a short four-minute walk from Iolani Palace is the Honolulu Museum of Art (HoMA). This world-class institution houses an impressive permanent collection of 50,000 works spanning various cultures and periods, alongside numerous temporary exhibitions. The museum complex includes galleries, the Honolulu Museum of Art School, the Doris Duke Theatre, and a cafe and shop.
HoMA is not just a place to view art; it’s also a place to engage with it. The museum offers various classes and workshops for both children and adults, catering to all skill levels, from sketching classes held in the beautiful courtyard to other artistic disciplines. Visiting HoMA is a perfect way to spend a few hours escaping the heat while admiring incredible local and international artistry and perhaps even unleashing your own creativity.
An adult sketching class taking place in a courtyard at the Honolulu Museum of Art
Explore the Foster Botanical Garden
Also located conveniently near the Honolulu Museum of Art and Iolani Palace is the Foster Botanical Garden. Among the many botanical gardens scattered across Oahu, Foster Botanical Garden stands out as one of the best. As Honolulu’s oldest botanical garden, it was originally planted by Dr. William Hillebrand in 1850.
This stunning 14-acre natural area provides a peaceful oasis amidst the hustle and bustle of Downtown Honolulu. It is home to an impressive collection of tropical plants, including a vast array of orchids and rare specimens like the famously pungent corpse flower (Amorphophallus titanum), which blooms only occasionally. The gardens are also a haven for exotic birds, offering fun bird-spotting opportunities. Free guided tours are available daily with reservations, or you can enjoy self-guided exploration throughout the day. They also host events and classes focused on horticulture and floral arts.
Colourful birdlife perched on a branch at the Botanical Gardens
Pro tip: After exploring the gardens, head to the nearby Chinatown for a culinary adventure, sampling diverse Asian flavors and local eateries.
See a College Football Game
For a dose of American collegiate sports culture, attending a University of Hawaii college football game is an incredibly fun experience. Known as the “Rainbow Warriors,” the Hawaii team plays with passion and the atmosphere at the stadium is electric. Even if you’re not a die-hard football fan, the energy of a college game, complete with marching bands, cheerleaders, and enthusiastic crowds, is highly entertaining.
The University of Hawaii has a full athletic program, so if you’re more interested in basketball, baseball, or even swim meets, check their schedule for other sporting events during your visit. These events offer a taste of local life and a chance to cheer alongside Hawaiian residents. Note that the primary football stadium, Aloha Stadium, is slated for redevelopment into the New Aloha Stadium Entertainment District, so check the current venue and schedule before planning your visit.
Exterior view of Aloha Stadium, a venue for Hawaii college sports
Attend a Luau on the Beach
One of the most iconic and memorable experiences you can have in Hawaii is attending a traditional luau. A luau is a Hawaiian feast accompanied by traditional entertainment. The dinner typically features classic Hawaiian dishes like kalua pork (often cooked in an underground oven called an imu), poi, poke, lomi salmon, opihi, and haupia (coconut pudding), often served at long communal tables. While you dine, you’ll be treated to traditional Hawaiian music and captivating hula dancing, telling stories through movement and song. Many luaus culminate with exciting fire knife dancing performances.
Exciting fire dance performance at a Hawaiian luau, a cultural experience where to go in Waikiki
If you’re staying at a resort in Waikiki, inquire if they host their own luau, as many do. Regardless of which luau you choose, it’s an immersive cultural experience that provides insight into Hawaiian traditions, music, dance, and cuisine, creating lasting memories of your trip.
Drive Around Oahu
To truly appreciate the diverse beauty of the island, renting a car and driving around Oahu is highly recommended once you’ve explored where to go in Waikiki itself. A road trip allows you the freedom to discover hidden beaches, scenic lookouts, and charming small towns beyond the main tourist hubs. Imagine driving with the roof down (if you opt for a convertible!), wind in your hair, heading towards the legendary North Shore.
Along the way, you can stop at famous shrimp trucks for fresh, local seafood, visit the historic Dole Pineapple Plantation for a sweet treat (try the Dole Whip!), or explore Kualoa Ranch, a stunning nature reserve and filming location for movies like Jurassic Park (consider a themed tour!). Don’t forget to stop at iconic surf spots like the Banzai Pipeline on the North Shore, although the famous big waves are typically only present during the winter months (November to February). Even in calmer seasons, the scenery is breathtaking.
Fresh Dole pineapple ice cream, a popular treat when driving around Oahu
Take a Helicopter Tour!
For a truly unforgettable perspective of Waikiki and Oahu, consider taking a helicopter tour. Seeing the iconic coastline, Diamond Head, and the sprawling beauty of the island from above offers a completely different appreciation for the landscape. Many tours depart from conveniently located helipads and offer various routes and durations.
A popular option is a flight specifically over Waikiki Beach and around Diamond Head, providing stunning aerial photo opportunities. Some tours even offer “doors-off” experiences for an unobstructed view and the thrill of feeling the wind. Make sure your phone or camera is fully charged to capture the incredible panoramic views of the beaches, mountains, and turquoise waters below. It’s a splurge activity, but for many, the unique vantage point makes it well worth the cost when deciding how to experience where to go in Waikiki from a new angle.
Aerial view of Honolulu and the coast from a helicopter
Visit Pearl Harbor
A visit to Pearl Harbor is a profoundly moving and essential historical experience when you’re in Oahu. This site serves as a memorial to the 2,403 service members and civilians who lost their lives during the surprise Japanese attack in 1941, which propelled the United States into World War II. The USS Arizona Memorial, built over the sunken battleship, is the most visited site, but the entire Pearl Harbor complex encompasses several other significant museums and memorials.
Paying respects at places of historical tragedy like Pearl Harbor is a somber but deeply important act. While the Arizona Memorial is central, allowing extra time to explore the USS Bowfin submarine, the Battleship Missouri Memorial (where the Japanese surrender was signed), and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum provides a more complete understanding of the events and their aftermath. Due to its significance and popularity, booking tickets and tours, especially for the Arizona Memorial, well in advance is highly recommended to ensure your visit.
Go Whale Watching!
If you visit Waikiki during the winter months (typically mid-December to April), you have the exciting opportunity to witness humpback whales in their natural habitat. These majestic creatures migrate to the warmer Hawaiian waters to breed and calve, offering incredible viewing opportunities. While boat tours provide the closest encounters, it’s also possible to spot whales breaching and playing from various points along Oahu’s coastline.
Several locations on the island offer excellent vantage points for land-based whale watching. Keep an eye out for spouts of water and dramatic breaches on the horizon. If you’re keen on getting closer, numerous boat tours depart from harbors around Oahu specifically for whale watching excursions, often accompanied by marine naturalists who can provide fascinating information about the whales’ behavior and migration patterns.
Take a Submarine Tour
For a unique underwater adventure without getting wet, consider a submarine tour off the coast of Waikiki. This experience offers a fascinating glimpse into the marine world below the surface. Aboard a specialized passenger submarine, you can descend to depths of 100 feet (30 meters) or more, exploring artificial reefs created by sunken shipwrecks and even airplanes.
The Atlantis Waikiki dive site is home to a variety of Hawaiian fish species, coral formations, and often attracts sea turtles. The world’s largest high-tech passenger submarine, Atlantis XIV, can accommodate up to 64 passengers in a comfortable, air-conditioned cabin with large viewports, providing an incredible perspective of the underwater environment. It’s an educational and exciting activity suitable for all ages, offering a different kind of exploration compared to snorkeling or diving.
Take a Sunset Cruise
Experiencing a Hawaiian sunset from the water is a truly magical moment. Sunset cruises departing from the Waikiki area are incredibly popular, offering a chance to relax, enjoy the coastal views as the light changes, and sometimes even witness the fabled “green flash” as the sun dips below the horizon. Most cruises offer drinks and canapés, adding a touch of luxury to the experience.
There are various types of sunset cruises available, catering to different preferences. Some offer relaxed cocktail cruises with stunning views of the Diamond Head crater and the Waikiki coastline. Others might include opportunities for a sunset swim or feature live entertainment like a DJ for a more lively party atmosphere. Glass-bottom boat tours offer the added bonus of viewing marine life beneath the surface while enjoying the sunset above. Choosing a sunset cruise is a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring where to go in Waikiki and enjoy the beauty of the Pacific at dusk.
A catamaran sailing into the sunset off the coast of Hawaii
Where to Stay in Waikiki
Choosing the right accommodation is crucial for a comfortable and convenient trip to Waikiki. The area offers a wide range of options, from large resorts packed with amenities to smaller boutique hotels. Consider your budget, preferred location (beachfront vs. a few blocks back), and desired amenities when making your choice.
The Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort is a sprawling, popular option, particularly for families and events. It features multiple pools (including a large lagoon-like one), numerous restaurants, and sits directly on Waikiki Beach. The Shoreline Hotel is a good choice if you’re looking for something more affordable a couple of blocks from the beach, offering a great location near the International Marketplace. For a touch of historic elegance and a prime beachfront location, the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, is an iconic luxury option with its famous banyan tree courtyard. Booking early, especially during peak season, is always a good idea in this popular destination.
A large lagoon pool at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in Waikiki
Planning Your Waikiki Trip: Essential Tips
Planning a trip to Waikiki involves more than just knowing where to go in Waikiki for fun. Here are a few practical tips to help make your Hawaiian vacation smooth and enjoyable. Waikiki is a highly sought-after destination, so starting your planning early is recommended, especially regarding accommodations and popular tours, as rates can increase closer to your travel date.
Consider what kind of trip you envision – are you prioritizing relaxation on the beach, active adventures, cultural immersion, or a mix of everything? This will help you narrow down your list of activities and attractions. Pack appropriately for a tropical climate, including lightweight clothing, swimwear, sun protection (remember reef-safe sunscreen!), comfortable walking shoes, and perhaps some slightly dressier options for evening dining. Don’t forget essentials like a beach bag, hat, and reusable water bottle. Research transportation options in Waikiki and Oahu; walking is easy within Waikiki, but renting a car or using ride-sharing services is necessary for exploring further afield.
Suitcase packed for a vacation, ready for travel
Finally, embrace the aloha spirit! Be open to trying new foods, engaging with the local culture, and taking the time to relax and appreciate the unique beauty and laid-back pace of Hawaii.
Where To Go In Waikiki: Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking about your trip and still have questions about where to go in Waikiki? Here are some common queries:
Q: Is Waikiki suitable for families?
A: Absolutely! Waikiki offers many family-friendly activities, including calm beach areas (like Kuhio Beach), the Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, gentle surf lessons, and the lagoon at Hilton Hawaiian Village. The parks are great for kids too.
Q: What is the best time of year to visit Waikiki?
A: Waikiki enjoys pleasant weather year-round. The peak season is generally during the winter months (December-April) when it’s popular to escape colder climates, and it’s also whale watching season. Shoulder seasons (April-June, September-November) often offer good weather with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices. Summer (July-August) is warm and popular with families.
Q: How do I get around Waikiki and Oahu?
A: Waikiki is very walkable, with many attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy reach. For exploring beyond Waikiki on Oahu, options include renting a car (recommended for flexibility), using ride-sharing services, taking TheBus public transportation system, or booking tours that include transportation.
Q: Is Waikiki expensive?
A: Waikiki can be relatively expensive compared to some other destinations, particularly regarding accommodation and dining, especially in tourist hotspots. However, there are options for various budgets, including more affordable hotels set back from the beach, local eateries (like food trucks and plate lunch spots), and plenty of free or low-cost activities like hiking, beach time, and park visits. Planning and booking in advance can help manage costs.