Explore Waikiki Beach: Your Ultimate Guide to Hawaii’s Iconic Shoreline
Aloha and e komo mai to Waikiki Beach. Oahu’s ultimate tourist hub stretches over 2 miles along the southern coast and welcomes over 4 million people annually.
Discover picture-perfect views of Diamond Head, beginner-friendly waves, and mouthwatering food. Waikiki’s prime location ensures easy access to the island’s attractions and activities.
To help you prepare for an incredible vacation and navigate your stay, we’re sharing important tips and insider information. Join us in this FIRST CABIN INTERNATIONAL – HAWAII post to learn about surf breaks, beaches, and parking tips! Here’s to the ultimate Waikiki getaway from sunrise to sunset!
Waikiki Beach: Discover the 8 Unique Beaches
If you’re looking for warm waters and palm tree-lined beaches, you’ve come to the right place! Let’s explore the 8 beautiful beaches of Waikiki starting from the north and heading south.
First, here are a few tips!
Use reef-safe sunscreen, don’t step on the razor-sharp reef, and look out for sea urchins. Admire the sea turtles, dolphins, and monk seals from a distance. And, never turn your back on the ocean! So, when in doubt, don’t go out.
It’s time for fun in the Hawaiian sun!
Duke Kahanamoku Beach
Next to the Hilton Hawaiian Village Resort, Ala Moana, and the Ala Wai Boat Harbor, it’s perfect for a snorkel or a boat tour!
The man-made lagoon is ideal for the little ones. Experienced surfers can paddle out to local breaks.
Fort Derussy Beach
This is a more relaxed and less crowded beach with a snack bar. Surrounded by grass, it’s great for a barbecue or picnic. Beach chair rentals are available and the sunsets are dreamy!
Gray’s Beach
Due to high tides, this older section of Waikiki Beach is mostly ocean. Located in front of the iconic Halekulani Hotel, it’s not so much a hang-out as it’s for a walk along the shoreline.
Royal Hawaiian Beach
Steps from the famous pink Royal Hawaiian Hotel, this bustling beach boasts epic views of Diamond Head. There are beginner-friendly waves and beachfront surfboard rentals.
Prince Kuhio Beach
When there’s high surf, the wall here creates a calm pool that’s easily accessible and ideal for the little ones to safely play!
Catch sunset from the long pier!
Queen Kapiolani Beach
Great for swimming, beach lounging, and bodyboarding. This stretch of beach is easily accessible and close to The Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Shell, and Kapi’olani Park.
San Souci Beach (Kaimana Beach Park)
Next to Kapi’olani Park and The Waikiki Aquarium, it’s great for snorkeling, swimming, and surfing. Escape the main tourist crowd, barbecue in the park, and watch the sunset.
Makalei Beach Park
This beach is harder to reach and easy to miss but less touristy. The adjacent park is great for picnics. The beach is ideal for snorkeling and swimming. Experienced surfers can paddle out to the offshore breaks.
Top Activities to Enjoy at Waikiki Beach
There’s so much to see and do in Waikiki. Go on a culinary journey and taste some of Hawaii’s best dishes from Loco Mocos and Shave Ice to Poke Bowls. For more food recommendations, check out our guide to the 8 Best Local Restaurants in Waikiki for Dinner.
From epic beaches to hanging ten, there’s fun on land and at sea. Here are a few of our top picks for activities to enjoy in Waikiki:
The Waikiki Aquarium
The oceanfront aquarium is the second-oldest in the United States. There are over 500 marine species, virtual experiences, and educational programs. Check out the calendar for special events!
The Honolulu Zoo
Explore the zoo on your own or opt for a guided tour to see elephants, giraffes, penguins, and monkeys. It’s a great way to spend an afternoon or a rainy day.
Kapi’olani Park
Hang out in the park, hit the tennis courts, or have a picnic. Enjoy great views and good vibes.
Waikiki Shell
Live concerts in paradise, yes, please!
Hike Diamond Head
Summit this iconic inactive volcano. The 1.6-mile loop trail offers sweeping views of the southern side of O’ahu.
The Pacific Ocean
Get wet! Rent surfboards, kayaks, or SUPs. Go on a booze cruise. Sign up for a guided snorkeling or catamaran boat tour!
Waikiki Beach Travel Tips
Paradise awaits! The Hawaiian sun is hot and the waters are refreshing. Here are a few tips to make the most of your trip and get beach-ready:
Best Times to Visit
The best thing about Hawai’i is that the weather is always great. Keep in mind that June to November is hurricane season which means chances for wetter weather and higher winds. During the winter months, there are cooler temperatures and more rainfall.
If you’re into surfing, the biggest swells are from December to April. In the spring, there are fewer crowds and lower rates. The summer months have peak heat and warmer ocean temperatures.
But, there’s no wrong time to visit the islands!
Parking and Accessibility
Parking in Waikiki can be a bit tricky and we’re always here to help answer your questions. Here are some tips to help you park successfully in Waikiki:
- Metered street parking: This option is best when you’re making a quick stop.
- Ala Wai: Find free parking but limited parking at certain hours of the day.
- Zoo parking lot: Paid parking with longer hours on the southern side of Waikiki.
- Parking Garages: This is your best bet for reasonable rates and covered secure parking.
Stay near Waikiki Beach to Make the Most of Your Waikiki Adventure
If you’re looking for more information and tips to get the most out of your upcoming trip to Waikiki, read The Best Affordable Hotel Near Waikiki Beach.
We’re here to help you have a lovely time in Hawaii Nei!
Waikiki Beach Awaits – Plan Your Trip Today
Mahalo for reading this ultimate guide to Hawaii’s iconic shoreline. We hope it’s been inspiring and informative with tips to ensure an amazing getaway to one of the top tourist destinations in the world.
Tropical sunshine and refreshing waters await so don’t forget your reef-safe sunscreen and respect the wildlife. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions!
Here’s to days of suntanning, surfing, snorkeling, and exploring Waikiki. We hope to see you soon!
