Waikiki is a Hawaiian playground where sky-high resorts sit on the edge of a palm-fringed golden beach with glassy surf breaks. Located in southern Honolulu, Waikiki keeps you guessing with its cosmopolitan dining and shopping, fascinating cultural attractions and a rich heritage of surfing, hula dancing and live music.

Things to do

While walking to the beachfront, make sure you use the new Waikiki Beach Walk, where you can find local shops and restaurants, free ukulele lessons and cultural events. The statue of surfing legend and Olympic gold medallist, Duke Kahanamoku, stands proudly before the sand. Embrace his love for surfing by riding Waikiki’s waves with a surf school or watch talented Hawaiians carve breaks while you sunbathe along the shore.

Craving a beach that has it all? Head to Kuhio Beach Park for protected swimming, outrigger canoeing, a world-famous surf break and free music at sunset. If you’re looking for more culture, visit the Hawaii Army Museum at Fort DeRussy to see military exhibits including shark-tooth clubs, war photos and old defence weapons.

Wander deeper into the concrete forest of high-rises to discover wonderful shopping opportunities at Waikiki Shopping Plaza and Ala Moana Center. Dine on tasty Hawaiian dishes, such as kalua pig, poke (raw fish) and poi (taro root paste), while eating at local restaurants. Whatever you do, make sure to leave plenty of time to enjoy cocktails in the area’s beachfront bars at sunset.

Waikiki’s location makes it easy to reach iconic Hawaii attractions, most of which are less than 30 minutes away. The attractions nearby include the sombre Pearl Harbour war memorial, beautiful Nuuanu Pali Lookout and the secluded Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve.

Getting around

You can rent bicycles in Waikiki and ride from one beach to the next along the well-maintained promenades. You can also catch the Waikiki Trolley to major shops and attractions, or the public bus from multiple stops along Kuhio Avenue. Hire a car or motorbike for trips around Oahu.