It may sound like a cliché, but Waikiki really does epitomise the picture-postcard perfection of Hawaiian beach life. Palm-fringed sands, crystal-clear waters and endless azure skies provide the backdrop for the beautiful people to show off their toned bodies and sporting skills, or just lie back and soak up the sun.Waikiki’s fame chiefly rests on its reputation as a surfers’ paradise, a legacy of the legendary Hawaiian-born Olympic swimming champion Duke Kahanamoku, whose giant statue dominates the promenade. "The Duke" is credited with spreading the global popularity of the sport, and it’s easy to see why both novice and more experienced surfers continue to be drawn to this idyllic stretch of Pacific coastline. Sheltered by a natural reef, the waves are gentle enough for beginners and there are several schools based on the beach where you can sign up for lessons. Afterwards, watch in amazement as the experts effortlessly ride the rollers further offshore or show off their mind-boggling circus skills with a spot of tandem surfing.If you prefer your entertainment a little more passive, find a shady spot under a palm tree and settle back to watch the world go by. There’s always something interesting to see at Waikiki, from hula competitions and outrigger canoe races to free Friday evening firework displays. Take a dip in the warm lagoon or stroll along the promenade admiring the never-ending fashion parade. As the day draws to a close, people flock from far and wide to marvel at the spectacular sunset, before enjoying a meal or a drink in one of the popular bars and restaurants nearby or dancing the night away in the pulsating clubs.Waikiki’s popularity makes it a magnet for visitors all year round so, if you want to escape the crowds, head for the quieter stretches bordering Kapiolani Park. In either case, whether you prefer a more peaceful vibe or like to pitch yourself right into the action, there’s no better place to learn the true meaning of Aloha than right here on Waikiki Beach.
Waikiki Beach Tours and Activities
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Shows & concerts
See all 17 activitiesOpens in new tabParadise Cove Luau
Attractions
See all 7 activitiesOpens in new tabGo City: Oahu All-Inclusive Pass with 45+ Attractions
Cruises & boat tours
See all 79 activitiesOpens in new tabSunset Dinner Cruise with Polynesian Show
Tours & day trips
See all 342 activitiesOpens in new tabOahu Grand Circle Island Tour with stop at Hanauma Bay Lookout
Adventure & outdoor
See all 73 activitiesOpens in new tabJungle Expedition Tour at Kualoa Ranch
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
Make friends with the meerkats, chat with the cheetahs and play with the pot-bellied pigs at one of the island’s favourite destinations.
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