Waikiki Beach

Waikiki

One of the world's most famous beaches with calm turquoise waters, golden sand, and excellent surfing conditions. It's the centerpiece of Honolulu's tourism with abundant resorts, restaurants, and water sports.

Things to do

• Surfing at Waikiki Beach — Rent a surfboard and take lessons in the gentle, consistent waves that make Waikiki ideal for beginners and intermediate surfers.
• Duke Kahanamoku Statue — Visit the iconic bronze statue of Hawaii's legendary surfer and Olympic swimmer at Kuhio Beach, a popular photo spot and cultural landmark.
• Snorkeling at Queen's Beach — Explore the calm, shallow waters near the Moana Surfrider Hotel where you can spot tropical fish and sea turtles year-round.
• Kuhio Beach Torch Lighting Ceremony — Witness the traditional Hawaiian torch-lighting ceremony held twice weekly at Kuhio Beach with hula performances and cultural demonstrations.
• Paddleboarding and Outrigger Canoe Rides — Experience the traditional Hawaiian way of ocean travel with guided outrigger canoe tours or rent a standup paddleboard to explore the coastline.
• Honolulu Zoo — Stroll through this open-air zoo located at the eastern end of Waikiki Beach featuring native Hawaiian animals and exotic species.

Food to try

• Kalua Pork Plate Lunch — Slow-roasted pork cooked in an underground oven served with rice and macaroni salad, a classic Hawaiian staple found at casual local eateries.
• Poke Bowl — Cubed raw ahi tuna marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and spices, served over rice with edamame and seaweed, reflecting Hawaii's Japanese influence.
• Shave Ice with Li Hing Mui — Finely shaved ice topped with sweet fruit syrups and the tangy-salty li hing mui powder, a refreshing tropical treat perfect for Waikiki's warm weather.
• Spam Musubi — Grilled Spam and tamago (egg) wrapped in rice and nori, a beloved local snack that reflects Hawaii's unique multicultural food culture.
• Loco Moco — A hearty plate of rice topped with a hamburger patty, gravy, and a fried egg, representing Hawaiian comfort food tradition.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect the Ocean and Local Customs — Always check with lifeguards about water conditions, obey beach flags, and avoid touching or chasing sea turtles, which are sacred to Hawaiian culture.
• Learn Basic Hawaiian Greetings — Use 'Aloha' (hello/goodbye) and 'Mahalo' (thank you) to show respect to the local Hawaiian people and their culture.
• Reef-Safe Sunscreen Only — Use reef-safe sunscreen without oxybenzone or octinoxate, as these chemicals damage Hawaii's delicate coral ecosystems.
• Seek Permission for Photography — Ask local performers and cultural practitioners for permission before photographing them or their hula demonstrations and ceremonies.