Once you feel the warm, white sand beneath your feet, see the surfers showcasing their skills in the crashing waves and hear the soft Pacific breeze whispering through the palms, you’ll realise why Waikiki has become the world’s most famous beach. Set against the awe-inspiring beauty of the Diamond Head volcano, Waikiki is the ultimate tropical beach destination.
It’s not just the warm waters and jaw-droppingly beautiful coastline that draw the crowds either the natural lagoon created by the offshore reef makes it one of the best surfing and swimming spots on the whole of Oahu island. The beach’s history serves to reinforce that claim it is on Waikiki that local legend and former Olympic champion Duke Kahanamoku perfected his surfing technique before introducing the traditional Polynesian sport around the world. He is immortalised, complete with board, in a statue just off the beach, And if you’ve ever thought about riding the waves yourself, there’s nowhere better to start than here, with dozens of enthusiastic instructors willing to show you the ropes on the beach’s gentle rollers.
This is also the ideal spot for an afternoon of lazing under a palm tree or people-watching on the often-crowded beach. Many visitors come to check out the regular shows, which range from gravity-defying tandem surfing exhibitions to traditional outrigger canoe races. And, as your fun-filled day draws to a close on Waikiki, you can marvel at the beauty of one of the most spectacular sunsets you’re ever likely to see, perfect for a romantic stroll.
The weekend on Waikiki always starts with a bang thanks to the free fireworks display that takes place every Friday night at the western end of the beach. Follow this up with dinner at one of the many restaurants that line the shore or continue the fun into the small hours in one of the area's many bars and clubs.
Waikiki beach has everything you could possibly want for a great day of fun in the sun and has a good reputation for safety. All the same, it’s best not to leave valuables unattended – just in case.
Waikiki Beach Tours and Activities
Plan a trip to see Waikiki Beach
Ilikai by Luana Hawaii Vacation Rentals
Reviewed on 18 Jun. 2024
Aston Waikiki Beach Tower
Reviewed on 12 Sep. 2024
Shows & concerts
See all 18 activitiesOpens in new tabWaikiki Luau Buffet with Optional Rock-A-Hula Show
Attractions
See all 5 activitiesOpens in new tabGo City: Oahu All-Inclusive Pass - Entry to 35+ Attractions including Luau
Cruises & boat tours
See all 67 activitiesOpens in new tabSunset Dinner Cruise with Polynesian Show
Tours & day trips
See all 277 activitiesOpens in new tabJungle Expedition Tour at Kualoa Ranch
Wildlife & nature
See all 45 activitiesOpens in new tabJet Ski, Parasailing, Banana Boat, Bumper Tube Adventures
Reviews of Waikiki Beach
5/5 - Excellent
Awesome swimmig beach. water nice and warm.
5/5 - Excellent
Really busy ... obviously
4/5 - Good
Loved the clear blue ocean but very disappointed that this beach is man made. Loads of rocks while swimming. Compared to beaches in Australia all sand, it was a let down. In saying that, it was still nice to swim in the clear ocean.
3/5 - Okay
The surf is good for beginners, the water warm, and the beach nice. The body surfing was very ordinary if anything at all. The beach is iconic and may have different suitabilities at different times. It was good for beginning board riders.
5/5 - Excellent
September has a lot of big waves
5/5 - Excellent
Very very busy beach. Sun beds and umbrellas are available to rent. Great place to rent a surfboard and head out into the very warm waters for a surf. Be careful as hundreds of surfers out there but enjoy it.
Popular places to visit
Kuhio Beach Park
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Kuhio Beach Park might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Honolulu. Discover the area's shops or seek out its surfing spots.
Duke Kahanamoku Statue
Learn about the local history of Honolulu when you spend time at Duke Kahanamoku Statue. Amble around the area's beautiful beaches or seek out the surfing spots.
Sans Souci Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Sans Souci Beach during your travels in Honolulu? Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.
Royal-Moana Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Royal-Moana Beach during your trip to Honolulu? Make time to visit the area's shops or simply enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
International Market Place
You can browse for souvenirs with a trip to International Market Place, a favourite shopping spot in Honolulu. Wander the beautiful beaches or discover the area's beautiful sunsets.
Honolulu Zoo
Originally designed to house the king's exotic bird collection, and a horseracing track, this zoo is now home to a fascinating population of 905 different animals.
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