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Best Things to do in Waikiki - Attractions, Restaurants & Shopping
Waikiki is one of the world’s most traveled and sought after vacation destinations in the world. With close to 5 million visitors per year, this city has become a Honolulu attraction itself!
Whether
you’re here
to sink your toes
somewhere on the 2 mile stretch of this Oahu beach,
explore some of the surrounding Honolulu attractions, discover the best
shopping areas, or get ready for the best island nightlife,
we’ll
lead you to better main attractions, and point out the best things this
incredible city has to offer!
Beaches & Water Activities
Where
better to go for great beach action and lots of water activities! Waikiki Beach just about offers it all, whether you simple
want
to lay out in the sun, or do a little snorkeling around the shallow
reefs.
Waikiki Beach
The number one reason visitors
come to Hawaii is to spend time on our tropical beaches.
This Oahu Beach gets more than its share of beach goers with beautiful aqua blue
waters, and easy access from just about any hotels in the area.
There are actually 8 sections to Waikiki Beach, covering the nearly 2-mile stretch of coastline! From Duke Kahanamoku Beach being the largest section, to a small hidden section that sits in front of the Outrigger Canoe Club, near Diamond Head
Learn more about these Oahu Beaches, and see which section you would like to visit.
Surfing Waikiki
There
is nothing more exciting than to paddle your arms into a wave, feeling the
motion with increasing speed as the wave builds, popping up in a single
motion, and riding waves back to shore…and just
like that you’re
surfing!
Whether you are and expert surfer or surfing for the first time, the magic feeling of surfing waves never ends! There are some great surf schools to be found, with Waikiki Beachboy instructors located in front of the Royal Hawaiian, Prince Kuhio Beach, and Queen Kapiolani Beach. Sign up and reserve your surf lesson now…
If boogie boarding is more your speed, then head down to a fun local surfing spot, located at the end of Kuhio Beach, called Waikiki Walls (which is a solid pier with waves breaking on both sides). Sometimes there is a beach vendor who rents boogie boards next to the sea wall.
Learning how to surf in Waikiki is like learning how to ride a bike. With a little guidance and persistence you will be standing up surfing in no time. Lessons start from shore, reviewing some of the mechanics and safety.
Now the fun begins as you paddle out on a longboard with you guide beside you in search of waves and riding them back to shore. It’s an amazing feeling hard to put into words!
Book a 2 hour private lesson or group lesson
Snorkeling Waikiki Turtle Canyon
Sail on a spacious catamaran boat a mile away from Waikiki shores to a special Oahu snorkeling spot called Turtle Canyon, swimming alongside green sea turtles, tropical fish, and other fascinating marine creatures during a captivating 2-hour snorkel adventure.
No worries about equipment, as flippers, masks, and all the necessary gear will be readily provided. With the expert guidance of a knowledgeable tour leader, immerse yourself in the vibrant underwater world of Turtle Canyon.
While in the area, keep an eye out for exciting marine life sightings. Playful spinner dolphins, graceful flying fish, and during the winter months, you might even catch a glimpse of majestic humpback whales on their migratory journey through the area. Book Turtle Canyon Snorkeling...
Scuba Dive off Waikiki Beach
There is a small group tour available for non-certified scuba divers, for those who would like to learn more about the sport, and take a plunge below Waikiki shores.
They will teach you how to set up your equipment, use hand signs to communicate under the ocean, and guide you around the reefs.
Learn more about this Scuba Diving Tour...
Waikiki Attractions
From simple
treasures such as viewing the Duke Kahanamoku Statue to the War
Memorial Natatorium, there are some great Honolulu attractions mostly
on
the outskirts of Waikiki.
Kapiolani Park that is located
just before Diamond Head, is home to the 42 acre Honolulu
Zoo, and the
century old Waikiki Aquarium.
Kapiolani Park is grand in
size,
and always has something going on, especially on the weekends,
including free concerts and festivals.
On Sundays, make sure to check out "Art on the Fence" that's located on the backside of the zoo.
Also check out the Hawaii Army Museum located on the north end in Fort DeRussy Park. Look at exhibits and learn some history how the US military played a role in Hawaii over the years. Admission is free but donations are welcome.
Experience Oahu from above
One of the most unforgettable experiences is taking it all in from above!
Words can't explain flying just a few hundred feet in an open-door helicopter above the coastline taking in panoramic views of Waikiki, Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, the Ko'olau Mountains, Hanauma Bay, cascading waterfalls, and much much more. Explore a once in a lifetime experience...
Oahu Submarine Ride
One of the most exciting and adventurous attractions on Oahu
is submerging below Hawaii’s tropical waters in a large 64 passenger submarine. You’ll travel 100 feet deep and beyond
Waikiki’s outer reef.
There are old plane & boat wrecks that are amazing to see, along with small and large different types of marine life that lives below. If you’re lucky, you’ll see schools of fish, sea turtles, dolphins, and maybe even some cruising sharks. It’s a Pacific Ocean adventure and memory you won’t forget! See availability and book now…
Waikiki Trolley - Hop on Hop off tour
The trolley is a great way to get around and discovery the many things that Waikiki, Diamond Head and Ala Moana, and other beaches and Honolulu attractions have to offer.
Sit up top and enjoy the ride around town and feel free to jump off at any of the 30 stops that it make, and catch another trolley later!
Get a $55 daily pass or up to a week pass.
Strolling around Waikiki
Stroll around on a Self Guided Waikiki Walking Tour and check out lots of surrounding sights and attractions. It's about 5 miles if you travel around the boarders of Waikiki...following the beach path, around Kapiolani Park, and down the Ala Wai Canal front.
There are over 2 dozen bronze statues and storyboards along the way to admire that represent some of Hawaii's heroes and legends, including Duke Kahanamoku, Queen Kapiolani, Don Ho, and Gabi Pahinui.
The statue above is based on the Hawaiian ohana story of Makua & Kila the monk seal.
Also consider strolling around the city and beyond on a small group tour after sunset, where you'll guided to some of popular monuments, the Diamond Head Lookout, and a trip up to famous Leonard's Bakery for dessert.
Another great way to get around Waikiki and beyond is by renting bikes at Biki Stations. You'll find these bike stations throughout town and neighboring Ala Moana Beach Park and Chinatown as well. They are easy to rent and inexpensive.
The Latest trend and these 2 person tri-wheel Scoot Coupe car buggies that you can rent for the day and zip around Waikiki or to Oahu attractions. Rent a Scoot Coupe...
Waikiki Surfboard Racks
Take a walk down the classic Waikiki surfboard alley that is used for storing boards. The walls are lined with surfboards from the street to the beach. Not just any boards, but old classic long boards.
Some that have been stored for decades. It’s rare for a storage space to free up, but if you’re luck you can rent a space from Nalu Storage Company for as low as $25 per week or $420 per year.
It’s hard to pass by without taking a picture somewhere within the 5 sections, or next to a tanker that you’ve taking a liking to. The Waikiki Surfboard Racks are easy to find between the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.
Best Hotels in Waikiki
There are close
to 70 hotels in the 3
½ square mile radius of Waikiki. You can’t go
too wrong
choosing a
place to stay, as most have easy access to great shops, restaurants,
and beach access.
But it’s worth checking out some of the
classics
like the Moana Surfrider (First Lady of Waikiki), and the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. There’s also some amazing boutique hotels in Oahu such as the Halekulani and the Modern Honolulu.
Finally there are the cheap hotels in Oahu. Find yours and more hotels in Oahu…
Waikiki Shopping
You won’t have to walk far outside your hotel to find hundreds of nearby shops! You are most certain to find an ABC Store, known for lot's of neat finds and convivence goods, throughout the strip. If you're unfamiliar, check out some of their popular Hawaiian souvenir.
Real estate is very competitive in this Hawaii bound
oasis, so only the
best
and most desirable shops survive -even the famous International
Market Place has an incredible new appearance. Check out some of the best shopping in Oahu experiences and places...
From popular designer shops to boutique kiosk stands, there is something for everyone! The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center is an attraction itself, with 110 shops spread out in a 3-tiered open air mall!
The Waikiki Beach Walk is another fun shopping area worth visiting, with over 50 unique shops and restaurants.
Experience a Waikiki Luau
Prepare to be transported to a world of Polynesian enchantment
in the heart of Waikiki. While many of Oahu’s
luaus are locate far outside Waikiki, the captivating Queens Waikiki Luau, is
conveniently nestled on the great lawn in Waikiki’s iconic International
Market Place. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian traditions with mesmerizing hula performances, and indulge in the mouthwatering Kalua Pork that is just part of the luau spread.
This is a great way to enjoy the traditions of a luau experience and create a memorable experience without the inconvenience of leaving Waikiki. Reserve your spot as seating is limited.
ABC Stores
ABC Stores are well known in Hawaii. In Waikiki, you don’t need to stroll around far before stumbling into one…they are on almost every block. From snacks and drinks to Made-in-Hawaii souvenirs, folks are visiting these popular Oahu convenience stores many times during their stay.
Walking into one of these ABC Stores and you're bound to make a few purchases. They have an ecliptic display of items including inexpensive Hawaii logo shirts, Hawaii-themed keychains, and must have chocolate macadamia nuts!
Waikiki Restaurants
With hundreds of
restaurants occupying this busy little city, it won’t be a
matter of
finding a place
to eat. The real question is where are the best Waikiki
restaurants to be found?
From breakfast spots to discovering
islands treats such as Hula Dog and SPAM Musubi, to classics like Duke's Waikiki, to your
4-Star restaurants, we will highlight some of the best places that
desire recognition for their good eats! Here are the best
Waikiki
Restaurants…
Waikiki Nightlife
Catch a Stunning Sunset
You’re in luck…Waikiki is one of the best spots on the island to watch a Hawaiian sunset. Facing west into the sunset, good humidity with scattered clouds in the air, and surrounded by stunning landscape will deliver an amazing sunset every time! One of my favorite spots to watch it is from the end of Waikiki Walls near Queens Beach. Another get way to view the sunset is from an Oahu Sunset Cruise that sails along the coastline.
Watch a Hula Show
Speaking of sunsets, consider finding a seat around the Kuhio Beach Stage, and watch a hula show that takes place during the sunset hour. The 1 hour Kuhio Beach Hula Show takes place Tuesday, Thursday & Saturday, from 6 PM to 7 PM (starts a little later (6:30 PM) during summer months) and weather permitting.
The fun begins when the sun goes down, the tiki torches are lite, and the conch shells are blown. This is a real treat and provided free by the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort! Arrive early to get a good seat...
Nightclubs & Bars
This Honolulu city can
sometimes feel just as lively at night as it is during the
day!
Just walking around the streets is quite entertaining in
itself!
In a vibrant tourist driven city, you find lots of bars,
nightclubs,
live music, comedians, street performers, and maybe even a nearby luau
taking place. Visit the larger hotels, which usually have
nightly
entertainment.
Also check out ongoing Oahu events during your visit, and take a look at the best Oahu bars and nightclubs in and outside Waikiki.
Also consider joining a small group Waikiki Pub Crawl, where you will get an opportunity to hear some fun stories and learn interesting history about some select Waikiki bars while enjoying a beer at each spot.
Friday Beach Fireworks
Hilton Hawaiian Village FireworksIf you happen to be around on a Friday evening make sure to catch the weekly fireworks show that takes place from shore in front of the Hilton Hawaiian Village and beach lagoon area. The show begins at 8 PM so show up early to get a good seat. You could also see this grand firework display from one of the sunset cruises that sails in the area.
Annual Events
WAIKIKI SPAM JAM FESTIVAL - April 26th, 2025
One thing Hawaii is a big fan of is SPAM, and the Waikiki Spam Jam Festival is by far the one of the largest festivals that takes place in Waikiki and around Hawaii for that matter.
You will find SPAM represented in so many different ways, from food vendors making special dishes with it, to merchants selling just about everything with the SPAM logo on it. It will be entertaining to say the least! Along with all the SPAM you can handle, there will be great live entertainment and some performances taking place on 2 different stages. This is a special festival not to be missed!
The SPAM Jam also benifits the Hawaii Food Bank...
- Location - Kalakaua Ave in Waikiki between Lewers and Kaiulani Ave
- Time - 4 PM to 10 PM
- Cost - FREE
- Learn more - SpamJamHawaii.com
In the Area
While there is more than
enough activity to keep you busy, you also don’t have to wander far
outside the city limits to find more great Oahu finds, including other
beautiful
Oahu beaches, and great
restaurants, and incredible
shopping, and
iconic landmarks such as Diamond Head.
Whale Watching Tour
If you’re visiting during whale migrating months (late Dec – early May) you might be fortunate to see humpback whales surfacing along the south and western coastline.
Ride a catamaran or monohull boat with a small group tour from Waikiki (through the Kewalo Basin Harbor) or from Ko Olina (through the Waianae Harbor), to get a closer look at these magnificent sea mammals.
If you're lucky, you're get to watch the whales breaching the water and splash around, along with other surprises from local marine life, including dolphins and sea turtles. Book your Whale Watching Tour now...
Ala Moana Mall
Not just another shopping center, but a Honolulu Attraction in and of itself. The Ala Moana Mall, that's located just minutes away, has close to 400 shops and restaurants - from Louis Vuitton and Fendi to the Flip Flop shops.
The open-air 4-level structure hosts a slew of shops that are unique to Hawaii, including a restaurant row and signature Mai Tai Bar at the top of the 3rd level.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Neighboring just to the north, across from the Ala Moana Center, is a beautiful local beach with twice the amount of sand!
Ala Moana Beach is part of a 100 acre park that has many features to it, including a couple concession stands, tennis courts, and a cool separate crescent moon beach at the end of walking peninsula. This Oahu beach is one of the best spots to come watch a sunset and the skyline view of Diamond Head and all the hotels.
Diamond Head Hiking Trail
Climbing Diamond Head is the most popular and exciting Oahu Hiking Trails! Take the 760 foot hiking challenge and climb to the top of the summit of Diamond Head. Make it up the 99 steps after the switch back trails and you'll be treated to some stunning views of Waikiki and beyond!
You could begin the hike up Diamond Head
straight from Kapiolani Park,
which will
add only a few miles each way to your trek, but most take a short
drive around
the
other side of the mountain, and start their journey from inside the
crater.
Diamond Head Beach Park
Explore a
beautiful quiet Oahu Beach located just around the
corner from Diamond Head. Diamond Head Beach is home to some
of the wealthiest beach home owners on the island, surfers & windsurfers, and
locals
looking for some weekend fun!
Give yourself some time stroll Diamond Head Beach, take in the
scenery, and explore exposed tide pools.
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