“Waikiki is too crowded”

“It’s too touristy”

“It’s not the real Hawaii”

You’ve probably heard all of that before, and while Waikīkī is undeniably busy, there’s a reason so many people visit year after year. Between the beautiful beaches, incredible restaurants, and endless activities, it’s one of the easiest places in Hawaii to fill your days without ever running out of things to do.

One of our favorite things about Waikīkī is how walkable it is. You can spend the morning on the beach, grab lunch at a local café, go shopping, and finish the day with a sunset cruise or luau, all without needing to rent a car.

During our time living on Oahu, we were constantly drawn to Waikiki, where we could delve into Hawaiian culture, enjoy the iconic views of Diamond Head, and sample the amazing food, just to name a few. Waikiki is an absolute treasure trove for creating unforgettable experiences for all who visit, so check it out for yourself and we guarantee you’ll be glad you did.

Best Place To Stay in Waikiki

If it’s your first time visiting Oʻahu, Waikīkī is one of the best places to stay. Many of the island’s top tours offer hotel pickup here, and you’ll be within walking distance of beaches, restaurants, shopping, and plenty of attractions.

1) See a Free Hula Show

Watching a traditional hula performance is one of the best free things to do in Waikīkī. Held at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, these performances combine live Hawaiian music, storytelling, and hula to celebrate Hawaiian culture in a beautiful beachfront setting.

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We loved listening to the live Hawaiian music while watching the stories unfold through hula. Even if you’ve never been to a hula performance before, it’s an easy way to experience an important part of Hawaiian culture without spending any money.

Seating isn’t provided, so bring a towel or beach chair if you have one. We’d also recommend arriving 20 to 30 minutes early {especially on Saturdays) to get a good spot on the grass. Shows are about an hour long and are held at 6:30pm on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday (be sure to double check the dates and time here before you go).

2) Go Snorkeling in Turtle Canyon

Did you know Native Hawaiians considered sea turtles (Honu in Hawaiian) to be sacred, and symbolizing longevity and protection? Long ago, Turtle Canyon was believed to be a place where ancient Hawaiian rituals took place. Today, it’s a popular snorkel spot off Waikiki’s coast with clear water and abundant marine life.

Located about a mile off the coast, Turtle Canyon is known as a cleaning station, where surgeonfish and other small fish feed off algae and parasites on the sea turtle’s backs. Between the crystal-clear water, abundance of Hawaiian green sea turtles, and various exotic fish, Turtle Canyon truly is a snorkeler’s paradise.

Hawaiian green sea turtles are still heavily protected today, which is why it is illegal to touch them or get closer than 10 feet. If you get the chance to swim alongside these beautiful animals, be sure to follow the rules, avoid swarming, and enjoy observing them respectfully.

We went on many snorkel tours to Turtle Canyon during our time living in Honolulu because it is such a convenient location and you’re almost guaranteed to see sea turtles. Below are two of our favorite tours.

Good To Know: Because Turtle Canyon is such a popular snorkeling spot, we recommend booking an early morning tour to avoid larger crowds and enjoy calmer snorkeling conditions.

3) Watch The Friday Night Fireworks

If you’re spending a Friday in Waikiki, watching the weekly free fireworks show at Hilton Hawaiian Village is a must! The display only lasts a few minutes, but because it’s launched so close to shore, you’re much closer to the fireworks than at most shows.

We’d recommend watching from the beach near Hilton Hawaiian Village if you can. It’s the closest view, and seeing the fireworks reflected on the water makes it even better. If you’re staying elsewhere in Waikiki, it’s an easy walk over after dinner.

Good to Know: The fireworks typically start at 7:45pm, but be sure to double check the time beforehand as is can vary seasonally.

4) Visit The Royal Hawaiian Hotel

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel is a historic hotel and is one of the oldest in Hawaii, hosting a slew of iconic guests over the years, such as Marilyn Monroe, Frank Sintra, and Elizabeth Taylor. Known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific”, this is one of the most photographed buildings in Oahu due to its gorgeous Spanish architecture and decor that gives it a historic charm. It’s definitely worth visiting and having a wander around.

The Royal Hawaiian features a beachfront Mai Tai bar, which is perfect for grabbing a drink and soaking in the island vibes. Here you can listen to the waves breaking while the refreshing breeze sweeps past you, all while you have a scenic view of the beach and Diamond Head in the distance.

5) Go For a Swim in the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon

If you’re looking for calmer water than Waikiki Beach, head over to Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. Located next to Hilton Hawaiian Village, this protected saltwater lagoon is one of the best places in Waikiki for a relaxing swim, especially if you’re visiting with young children or aren’t comfortable swimming in waves.

The saltwater lagoon is 5 acres in size and has a modern water circulation system to keep it fresh and avoid any stagnation.

Good To Know: The lagoon is free to visit and open to the public. Paddleboard, kayak, and other water equipment rentals are available right next to the lagoon if you’d like to spend more time on the water.

6) Take a Surfing Lesson on Waikiki Beach

It would be a tragedy to not get on a surfboard while in Waikiki, which is considered to be the birthplace of modern surfing. Waikiki beach is a particularly good place to take your first lesson due to the abundance of surf instructors in the area, as well as the relatively gentle and long breaking waves.

Depending on your preference, there are group lessons and private lessons on offer. In our experience, we had a small group of just three, so we got a lot of one on one attention and, before long, we were up on the board and riding some waves.

We made much more progress than we were expecting in just a single lesson and left with a rich appreciation for the sport. It’s an extremely exhilarating feeling and once you get a taste for it you will be itching to go again.

7) Visit The Duke Kahanamoku Statue

One of Waikiki’s most recognizable landmarks, the Duke Kahanamoku Statue honors Hawaii’s most famous surfer and Olympic gold medalist. Often called the “Father of Modern Surfing,” he helped introduce surfing to the rest of the world and played a huge role in bringing international attention to Hawaiian surf culture.

Located along Kūhiō Beach, the statue has become one of Waikiki’s most photographed landmarks. You’ll often see fresh flower leis draped over Duke’s outstretched arms, especially during holidays and local celebrations.

Since it’s located right along Waikiki Beach, you’ll probably walk past it more than once during your trip. Take a minute to stop and read the plaque, as it gives a great introduction to the life and legacy of Duke Kahanamoku.

8) Visit The Stones of Life of Kapaemahu and Kapuni

Just a short walk from the Duke Kahanamoku Statue are the Kapaemahu Stones, one of Waikiki’s most important cultural landmarks. According to Hawaiian tradition, the four stones honor healers from Tahiti who brought their knowledge of healing to Hawaii centuries ago.

This monument has survived centuries and is an insightful window into the indigenous attitudes toward gender, inclusion, and healing. It’s easy to walk past them without realizing their significance, which is why we’d recommend stopping to read the information boards.

You will notice an altar where flowers may be presented as a mark of respect to the four healers and all the good that they brought to Hawaiian people.

9) Attend a Luau

An absoulte must during your trip to Hawaii is to attend a luaua and while there are many incredible luau’s scattered all over the island, you dont have to have car or leave Waikiki to attend a great one.

A traditional luau combines Hawaiian food, live music, hula, and Polynesian performances into one evening. Depending on the luau, dinner may be served buffet-style or plated, with many featuring local favorites such as kalua pork, lomi salmon, poi, poke, and haupia.

What’s included varies from one luau to another. Some include welcome drinks, cultural demonstrations, or lei greetings, while others focus more on the evening show. Before booking, it’s worth checking exactly what’s included, especially if you’re comparing prices.

No matter which one you choose, a luau is a fun night out where you can dress up, enjoy local food, and experience Hawaiian traditions.

10) Grab Coffee at Island Vintage Coffee

Island Vintage Coffee is a Hawaii based coffee chain which serves 100% Kona coffee from the Big Island which is often grown in volcanic soil and organic.

Two of our favorite drinks from here are their island latte which has macadamia nut and coconut syrups and their mauna key iced coffee which comes with sea salt caramel, a scoop of gelato (we always choose macadamia nut gelato, but there are several flavors to choose from) and a

Aside from coffee, they have an extensive food menu including a variety of breakfast foods (which is served all day) such as acai bowls, hawaiian loco moco, a variety of egg benedicts, and plenty more. They also have a range of lunch items such as paninis, burgers, poke, sushi, and salads.

Their busiest location is located in the heart of Waikiki on the second floor of the Royal Hawaiian Center.

Good To Know: There is typically long lines for the Waikiki location no matter what time of day you go. To avoid waiting, order online ahead of time through their website here (just be sure to choose the right location because there’s a few in Honolulu).

11) Hike Diamond Head

If you fancy a break from the city, the Diamond Head hike offers gorgeous greenery and will give you a real taste of the island oasis that Hawaii is. This is the only thing not technically located in Waikiki, but is just west Waikiki, this trail takes you up the side of a volcanic cone and offers extraordinary views of the coast along the way. The hike is not particularly long (just under 1 mile) but is quite steep as you climb more than 500 feet, however the trail is paved with concrete which makes it less strenuous.

Towards the top you will make your way through a tunnel and a spiral staircase inside an old fire control station which is quite cool. There are also a couple of military bunkers, built during the first world war, that you will pass by and are free to explore. Once you reach the summit, you will be treated to a breathtaking, 360-degree view which includes the Koko head crater, the vast shoreline, and the Honolulu skyline.

Be aware that non-residents need to book a slot in advance which you can do up to 30 days in advance and will cost $5 per person. 

12) Relax at Waikiki Beach

Easily Hawaii’s most famous beach, Waikiki Beach is a 2 mile stretch of beautiful white sand with turquoise water and an iconic view of Diamond Head in plain sight. This is an easily accessible beach that is suited for families, couples, as well as solo jet-setters, and is just a stone’s throw from Honolulu. It’s a perfect spot if you want to chill out and soak in some sun and the calm water allows for year round swimming for a refreshing cool off.

There’s limited shade so bringing an umbrella is a good idea if you plan to spend a few hours here, and water shoes are a good idea as you may encounter rocks in some areas when you go for a dip. As a hub for tourism, it is usually busy but with that comes a lively atmosphere with loads to see and do, from games of volleyball to peering out at the catamarans and surfers.

Amenities such as showers and toilets are available along certain sections and plenty of trash cans to maintain the cleanliness of the beach. Absolutely everyone will find something to enjoy a day here and it will instantly put you in vacation mode.

13) Enjoy A Family Friendly Day in The Calm Waters at Kuhio Beach

As we mentioned before, Waikiki Beach is a long stretch, broken up into multiple beaches, and the calm waters at Kuhio Beach makes it the perfect place for a swim. The water here has a sea wall about 25 meters out, which shelters the shore from any waves and makes this especially well-suited for young children who want to swim and snorkel.

The beach itself is small relative to the crowds it attracts but you can find plenty of nice spots to set up on the sand, particularly if you come earlier. There is also some patches of grass at the back of the beach that are nice to relax at there’s even some shelter here provided by the palm trees.

14) Get Drinks at Happy Hour

Happy Hour in Waikiki is a great time to catch some great vibes, live music, all while enjoying excellent value food and drinks. Most places have their happy hour somewhere between 2 and 5pm so check in advance depending on where you go.

The Waikiki coastline is littered with bars that offer delicious food and cocktails as well as a phenomenal view, so you will be spoiled for choice as far as where to go. We recommend seeking a rooftop where you will be treated to an extra special view of the coastline at sunset.

15) Go on a sunset Cruise

If you feel like escaping the city for the evening, a boat cruise along Waikiki’s coast is a lovely way to see out the day and enjoy the sunset. Hawaiian skies in the evening cannot be beaten and getting a view of Honolulu and the island from out at sea is a really splendid sight.

You can expect to board a catamaran or motorized yacht where there will be plenty of room to move around and enjoy all views on offer. Your ticket will often include a couple of drinks, often Mai Tai’s or another yummy cocktail. 

16) Grab Lunch at a food truck

Some of the most mouthwatering food we’ve had in Waikiki have been from food trucks in the area. Whether you’re spending time at the beach or wandering DeRussy Park, the food truck park features a variety of great options to conveniently grab some lunch.

From fresh fish to delectable street tacos, and much more, the whole family will easily find some scrumptious food that they’re craving.

17) Enjoy Poke at the Beach

Poke is a local dish you have to try while visiting Oahu and chowing down while on the beach, surrounded by sea and sun will give you a rich Hawaiian experience. Consisting of raw fish with sauce, rice and toppings such as onions and scallions, poke bowls can be found in Waikiki at designated poke counters, as well as in grocery stores such as Foodland.

This cool and fresh meal is easy to grab on the go and is so satisfying to enjoy in the sunshine after a swim in the water.

18) Go on a glass bottom boat tour

A highlight you will want to add to your Hawaiian adventure is riding on a glass bottom boat off the Waikiki coast. Typically, your boat will be a catamaran with a transparent floor which gives you a unique view to observe the local marine life while staying dry.

Keep your eyes peeled for dolphins, whales, turtles, and much more as you glide along the clear, blue water below. The view you get of Oahu is also a sight to behold as you enjoy your boat cruise which will last roughly an hour in total.

19) Kuhio Beach

Right in the heart of Waikiki, Kuhio Beach is an idyllic spot to relax on the white sand and take a refreshing dip in the pristine water. The water here is particularly calm due to the sea walls that shelter the waves and they also segregate the swimming area into two, known as the Kuhio Pools. This makes it the perfect place to bring toddlers and young children who want to swim and snorkel.

The view of the sunset from here is glorious so make sure to swing by later on in the evening as well. There are toilets and a wash station available here with various coffee shops and restaurants close by.

20) Outrigger Canoe Ride

Outrigger Canoes are an important symbol in Hawaiian culture and have been used to navigate the Pacific for over 1000 years. The boat consists of a main hull where you will sit and a support float attached to the side, called the outrigger.

You can ride outrigger canoes all year round from Waikiki and this is an excellent excursion to immerse yourself in the local culture and learn about the strong connection that Hawaiians have with the ocean.

This exhilarating experience also provides you with incredible views of the Oahu coastline as you paddle and you may even be lucky enough to encounter some marine life such as turtles, seals, and dolphins.

21) Try Malasadas from Leonard’s Bakery

Malasadas are a delicious, light and fluffy pastry are often filled with custard in the middle. These delectable treats come from Portugal and Leonard’s Bakery is credited with popularizing them in Hawaii since the 1950’s, using the finest ingredients and decades of experience.

Grabbing some hot, fresh malasadas is the perfect snack if you’re feeling peckish, and the packaging and presentation reflects the quality and care put into making them. The line is often long, which is just further testament as to how good they are, but it moves quickly and is a must visit for anyone with a sweet tooth.

22) Enjoy Loco Moco from Rainbow Drive-In

One of our favorite places to grab food while in Waikiki is Rainbow Drive-In, which has been serving lovely, hearty food since the 60’s. There are many great options on the menu, but we highly recommend the Loco Moco, which is a Hawaiian staple and is a scrumptious mix of rice, beef, gravy, and eggs.

The staff here are super friendly and there’s some tables and chairs to eat outside if you don’t want to take your meal to go.

Good To Know: Rainbow cafe is located right down the street from Leonard’s Bakery (about a 5-minute walk). We recommend grabbing some fresh malasadas after enjoying a plate lunch at Rainbow Drive-in.

23) Have a Romantic Dinner at Hau Tree

Hau Tree features a beautiful beachside view along with a relaxing atmosphere, making it a perfect date night venue.

The entree menu is quite diverse with delicious seafood, salads, pasta, steak as well as a host of great appetizers and small bites. The interior of the restaurant gives a nice ambiance and in the outside area you will be sat beneath a large tree which is stylishly decorated with lanterns.

We recommend booking a table about an hour before sunset, so you can take full advantage of the spectacular views as you enjoy your meal.

24) Shop around The International Marketplace

Located in the heart of Waikiki, the International Marketplace is an open air shopping center  that celebrates the culture of Waikiki and its people. The center features over 90 stores and has an innovative design throughout, which includes clever water features and rustic Hawaiian landscaping, including a 160 year old Banyan tree.

This is also a great dining destination with 10 restaurants to choose from and the luxurious grand lanai to eat under. The International Marketplace is loved by visitors and locals alike, providing a state-of-the-art entertainment center while capturing the spirit of Aloha.

25) Visit The Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo is located next to Waikiki in Kapiolani Park and is a lovely way to spend a few hours in the day, particularly if you have young kids. Featuring three distinct sections, you can learn loads about the animal kingdom with over 1,200 species on display, mostly from Africa, Asia, and the Pacific Islands.

The living quarters for the animals are quite roomy and each exhibit is designed to feature the natural settings for the animals on display.

There is a decent amount of shade as you make your way around and there are also plenty of benches for when you want to have a rest and perhaps take time to listen to the surrounding wildlife.

The Honolulu Zoo carries out many conservation efforts to protect endangered mammals, birds, and reptiles so it’s nice to know your visit helps out a great cause too.

26) Explore The Aquarium

If you love sea life and you’re looking for an activity that’s short and sweet, then the Waikiki Aquarium has you covered. Here you can explore Hawaii’s gorgeous marine life in a relaxed environment with thoughtfully designed exhibitions and information boards filled with engrossing facts.

Taking only about 45 minutes to enjoy, this is a small aquarium but it more than makes up for its size with its wide variety of exotic species.

There is certainly no lack of astonishment found at the Waikiki Aquarium, and this is a great excursion to add on if you plan to go to the zoo as it’s so close by.