Come sample the waves and catch some rays on the white sands of the beach most synonymous with surfing and the Aloha spirit.
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.
