Located on the south shore of Honolulu, the world-famous neighborhood of Waikīkī was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. Known in Hawaiian as “spouting waters,” Waikīkī was introduced to the world when its first hotel, the Moana Surfrider, was built on its shores in 1901. Today, Waikīkī is Oʻahu’s main hotel and resort area and a vibrant gathering place for visitors from around the world. Along the main strip of Kalākaua Avenue you’ll find world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, activities and resorts.
Waikīkī is famous for its beaches and every hotel room is just two or three blocks away from the ocean (if it’s not directly on the beach). With Mount Lēʻahi (Lēʻahi Head) as your backdrop, the calm waters of Waikīkī are perfect for a surfing lesson. The Duke Kahanamoku Statue, located on Waikīkī Beach, has become an iconic symbol of Waikīkī and the surf culture of Oʻahu.
But there’s more to Waikīkī than just the beach. Attractions of Waikīkī like the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikīkī Aquarium offer fun for the whole family. You can learn about the history of Waikīkī by reading the surfboard markers along the Waikīkī Historical Trail. Among the various things to do, high-end boutiques, shops, and restaurants can be found all along Kalākaua and Kūhiō Avenues and at gathering places like the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Waikīkī Beach Walk and the newly transformed International Market Place. After the Waikīkī sunset, the fun continues with amazing nightlife and live music.
Best of all, Waikīkī is within a half hour of a variety of Oʻahu attractions, including Pearl Harbor, ʻIolani Palace, the Nuʻuanu Pali Lookout and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve Nature Preserve, a marine life conservation district. Other notable points of interest nearby include Ala Moana Center (a massive outdoor shopping center), the local neighborhood of Kapahulu and the arts district of Chinatown.
Share the warm Hawaiian waters with green sea turtles, tropical fish, and more on a 2-hour snorkel excursion from Waikiki. No need to wear your flippers and mask on the plane, as all necessary gear is provided. Under the careful guidance of a tour leader, discover the vibrant sea life of Turtle Canyons. Above water wildlife sightings may include spinner dolphins, flying fish, and – in winter months – humpback whales.
Discover sea life in its natural environment
Visit one of Waikiki’s top snorkel sites
Enjoy complimentary refreshments on the boat
Spend time away from the hustle and bustle
There are so many places to stay in Waikiki to fit all budgets so go ahead and plan your trip!