12 best things to do in Waikiki [ Travel guide 2024]

It was discovered that Honolulu, and especially the famous Waikiki beach, has been attracting tourists for over a century and a half. Think of the tropical paradise where you are holding hands with your loving partner in the coastal region of Waikiki in Hawaii, where Hawaiian kings and queens used to visit.

Today, this incredible paradise is still attracting many tourists because of its beautiful coast and the atmosphere of an open city. Imagine that you are surfing or lounging in the same place, and every day is new. While sightseeing at Diamond Head, checking out the tourist hot spot of Waikiki, and hanging out at whatever Malia loves in Hawaii.

Allow me to take you on the most spectacular visits, recommend the most excellent restaurants, and point out the most unmissable pieces of interest to make your stay memorable. It is time to try out the feel of Waikiki and see what it offers.

12 Top Things to do in Waikiki Honolulu

1. Surf Waikiki Beach

I was fortunate to spend some days there at Waikiki Beach, and from my experiences, I recommend that it is one of the unique places on the planet to pick up surfing. No experience is necessary to ride a board here—Waikiki is the world’s best place to start, owing to its tame coast and immediate availability of instructors for neophytes. Surfing knowledge can be gained at schools almost on the beach, where numerous courses are given to introduce participants to this legendary sport.

Altogether, I immensely enjoyed my stay with the Ohana Surf Project, although the instruction differed from the organization. They have classes for beginners, intermediate courses, and master classes but can accommodate beginner classes for those new to dancing. As much as I was uncomfortable about them following their professional coaches, I was comfortable. It’s also perfect for groups of friends and families; they give dances even to toddlers and two-year-olds! For children below 12 years old, the lessons are only private or family lessons, and children under the age of 6 will probably have to share a board as the instructor.

Some of the things of interest that one can see here are the beaches, but among the attractions is the Waikiki Aquarium. This is a favorable zone for a tour and an ideal point for a person to view various kinds of marine animals on Hawaii Island from a very close range. Hence, the Honolulu Zoo qualifies for a visit for families who want to have an exciting moment. For instance, those located on Kalakaua Avenue are among the better shopping facilities in the Royal Hawaiian Center.

The following are the key attractions that make Honolulu an exciting place to visit: The Kamehamehas were even known to construct the Iolani Palace, symbolizing Hawaiian royalty’s status. The downtown area of New Hawaii, the historical center of Waikiki, offers a wealth of live music streaming and cultural institutions. Whether in the city or out in the plains, the mind-blowing scene always in front of your eyes is the Pacific Ocean view in California. Something rather amusing is that there is nothing in Waikiki that is not offered to you directly and without subtlety.

2. Friday Fireworks

Well, if you find yourself in Waikiki on a Friday, there is a night show you should not miss — fireworks! I had a chance to watch it, the team visited it, and simply, it is a fantastic view! The fireworks are shot from Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, but everybody’s free to watch regardless of the hotel they are staying in. Merely pitch camp on a beach—Royal Hawaii Beach will do nicely— and you get the front row for all these spectacular events.

Let me tell you that the show starts at 7:45 PM; they say to be punctual in this case and be present by 45 PM. It is one of the best attractions in Waikiki that anyone can witness for free as long as they have been around for almost 35 years. That ride is for those who want to glimpse the sunset on the island of Oahu before the fireworks. Or, visit the International Marketplace to shop in chic stores for rare finds and indulge in tasty sweets.

Some of the things that I find interesting are the things that I need to do during the day because they are fun. There are many sites, including the USS Arizona Memorial, which is fascinating for those interested in history. Watching fireworks is a good idea if you plan to spend Friday evening in Waikiki. The waves of reds, oranges, yellows, purples, or greens over the Pacific Ocean produce an enchanting view.

3. Fresh Poke at Sato Seafood

Poke is one of those traditional meals that you simply cannot avoid having a taste of at least once with such Hawaiian experience. This appetising dish of raw fish can be prepared and bought both in an exquisite restaurant setting and in the aisle of a supermarket. But let me tell you, there is no better poke to be found here in this island, or in the heart of Waikiki to be precise.

Located at the corner of Beach Street and North Albert Street behind the International Market Place is a treasure that you should not take lightly, Sato Seafood. It is highly accessible no matter your hotel location. It is set up no matter where you are even if you are booked at the Moana Surfrider or accommodation near Waikiki’s beautiful sandy shore. They have all kinds of poke; for the munchies I’ll suggest, Hawaiian munchies (soy glazed crispy garlic) and Spicy Maui (chili oil with spicy mayo). These are some of the tastiest and delicious flavors I have ever tasted.

As for the other options, they have a variety of bowls, rolls, and light appetizers so be sure you have been starving before coming here. To tire the food off, take a walk to Kapiolani Park which is close by or even take a hike up to Diamond Head State Monument for a view. In the winter, you might catch a glimpse of sea turtles or humpback whales at this beach too. Everyone must agree that sushi is one of the most universal delights found all over the world; Sato Seafood is a delicious stop in Waikiki that you won’t soon forget.

4. Shop At The Royal Hawaiian Center

The Unique Appeal of the Royal Hawaiian Center The Royal Hawaiian Center tries to capture the spirit of what many people consider a dream vacation spot—the ultimate vacation destination—Waikiki, Hawaii. Located on Kalakaua Avenue, this famous shopping mall is a perfect place for tourists to seek relief in the form of a shopping craze amidst the beauty of Hawaii.

Shopping and trend-setting fashion lovers can have a great time at the Royal Hawaiian Center, which has over 90 retail outlets and high-fashion houses. It is not merely a place to shop but a place that offers the feeling, the essence that is true to the name, ‘Aloha.’ On topics related to the center’s amenities, fine dining restaurants are also featured that will offer the best of both worlds by fusing Hawaiian and world cuisine.

Follow your shopping spree with a relaxing trip to the Mai Tai Bar, where entertainment through live Hawaiian music and tropical cocktails served on umbrella glasses will instantly complete your countenance. It is a great place to unwind and enjoy the True Hawaiian Spirit, observing Hawaii’s symbolic tourist attractions after a full day of travelling through the streets of Waikiki and enjoying its landmarks and attractions. Whether shopping for a souvenir at the exclusive shops or tasting the dishes painted by the Hawaiian islands, the Royal Hawaiian Center will not disappoint.

5. Go to a Japanese Noodle House

If you are looking for a restaurant in Waikiki that serves a steaming bowl of delicious noodles, these restaurants will meet your demands. There is no better place to visit than Muragame Udon: creativity and taste vanish in one great place.

See the noodle chefs’ deft hands in action as every item on the über-popular udon menus is freshly prepared. As you wait, let your olfactory organs be tickled by the rich scents of the prepared soups, and your eyes get salivated by the exciting scenes of food preparation offered in front of you.

Like its namesake, from the exotic Nikutama to the heartening Curry udon, every dish is a nova in the world of cuisine. But wait – perhaps you don’t fancy noodles at all; worry not because Muragame Udon also has thrilling rice bowls, crisp tempura, and even exquisite salads that would set your taste buds racing.

Remember that you may expect to wait in a queue when you order your meal at this eating place, which should tell you more about the restaurant’s popularity. But do not worry; if the waiting takes a little longer, the cafeteria serving adequately compensates for it. And so I invite you to join other ‘enthusiastic customers’ and get ready to be amazed by the delicious tastes of highly flavoured meals served in Waikiki’s famous and rather colorful and noisy district.

6. Outrigger Canoe Ride

But now, let’s imagine yourself inside an outrigger canoe, and you are at ease while riding in the warm waters of the Waikiki beach with the blowing wind touching your hair and the unique rhythm of the paddles. With this in mind, let me share that I was so lucky to try this for myself, and oh boy, it’s definite that you have to try it when you visit Waikiki!

When he launches the kayak into the expansive Hawaiian waters, the moment’s energy combined with Hawaiian seafaring traditions gives this shot a natural vibrancy. When you look at the mountains and see the Diamond Head in the distance and the energetic city of Honolulu in your background, each paddle gliding is a ride through Hawaii’s history and pride.

In this context, however, the element that will make this experience extraordinary is the fellowship you will enjoy with the other adventure enthusiasts. Whether the person is a professional at paddling or simply wants to get on the water, the concept of aloha can be felt and seen throughout the experience. The connections formed with others and the treasures made will be cherished forever.

Thus, if you are leaving the boredom of ordinary beach trips behind and are looking for new adventures in Waikiki’s Coastal attractiveness, pull up your fashion and follow me for the outrigger canoeing adventure of the kind. Seriously, you should give it a shot here; you’ll have no reason to complain about it.

7. Snorkel Turtle Canyon: A Must-Do in Waikiki

If you want to experience great snorkelling in Waikiki, Turtle Canyon is one of the places you would love to visit. The scene in the water that will be viewed now is situated near the Hawaii coast, and such turtles can be met there as they come to feed on these fish, which feed on algae, parasites, and barnacles on the turtles’ shells. Yes, I know. It was like this, and all my glances at these graceful animals in their habitat were unforgettable.

Turtle Island falls under the Murchison Falls Conservation area; therefore, at times, it can be a bit busy when groups of tourists flock to the area, and the best way is to book a morning tour so that the day is relaxed. Seeing turtles wake up in their natural sanctuary at the break of dawn is one experience you will need to consider highly. Usually, most tours start at Kewalo Basin Harbor, then it will take approximately 10 minutes to drive from downtown Waikiki.

While there, you should also sample some other attractions within this region, such as the Ala Wai Canal and the Fort DeRussy Beach Park. By exploring possible areas of cooperation, it became clear that a combination of snorkelling and visiting hotels and shopping malls along with restaurants and cafés in Waikiki is relatively easy as it takes only several minutes to get to the University of Hawaii and Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center.

Visiting Turtle Canyon is one of the most recommended and fun activities I have ever done on the Hawaiian island of Waikiki. Even though it is not very detailed and easy to navigate, it is suitable for any level of the experience so that it will be enjoyable for families, couples, or single guests. This experience is unique because of the Hawaiian monk seals’ frequencies and the seas’ underworld. Please put it in your list of fantastic places to visit in Waikiki to make the experience fun and unique for a lifetime.

8. Shop on Kalakaua Avenue: Waikiki’s Premier Shopping Street

From Ala Moana Boulevard to the Kapiolani Regional Park, Kalakaua Avenue has become Honolulu’s most prominent commercial thoroughfare, housing some of the city’s most striking businesses. Isaac Wiles Unfortunately, time and weather prevented me from utilizing this buffer zone, but strolling down this bustling street, I sensed the pulse of Waikiki. This place is a must-go, featuring great shopping malls, shops, and restaurants and a set of dining places beyond counting.

It might be a coincidence for someone to walk on Kalakaua Avenue while in Waikiki, or they may purposely locate themselves on this road at least once. Regarding such shops, it should be mentioned that there are many similar shops to those on the mainland, but the allure is in visiting the Hawaiian souvenir shops. I appreciated being able to search for personal favorites that were better than the airport souvenirs to bring a taste of Hawaii home. Some of the features seen and relished by the guests include the fine dining and exclusive shops of the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center. You can also get information on various hotels where one can spend the night, making it ideal for a day tour.

Some sights included are the beautiful views of Waikiki on the street, which are worth looking at on the sidewalk.

Besides, on a food tour, I liked it because it provides food from local cuisine to internationally inspired meals. Known as the “Alpha of Kaka’ako” King Kalakaua, this avenue remains a famous thoroughfare; hence, visiting this avenue makes it on the list of things to do in Waikiki. For those with a little more energy, there are more numbers available to visit Haleiwa Town, situated just a short drive away, or the Dole Plantation for more scenic views and more shopping.

For the experienced shopper, Kalakaua Avenue’s casual and comfortable structure allows one not to miss out on any storefront, whether you’re just a curious tourist or a persuasive shopaholic. Do not leave out when planning trips around the Waikiki area for an excellent experience in Hawaii.

9. Enjoy the Aquarium

However, if you visit Honolulu and have been to the Honolulu Zoo a few blocks south, you should locate the beautiful Waikiki aquarium. I was delighted when I visited this gem. There are many local and exotic fish and marine animals. Children learn about the seahorses, the parrot fish, and the green turtles that open the wonderful world of the Hawaiian Islands under the ocean water of the aquarium.

Though not very large, it has pretty tiny fish to watch that will take you not even an hour to tour the entire place; the aquarium is an excellent place to visit mainly because of its history and its role in conservation. The current model you see originated in 1904, a classic model that has stood the test of time. Interestingly, it is the second oldest aquarium in the United States. What can be great for reflection is that several generations have not only enjoyed the views of natural wonders that exist underwater but have been attracted to those specific spots throughout a relatively short period.

This not only offers a beautiful experience for people to explore the marine life of the Pacific Ocean but also contributes a lot towards the cause of conservation of these creatures. Accessible at 2100 Kalakaua Avenue and adjacent to the Royal Hawaiian Center, it is highly likely to fit nicely into one’s daily routine. Then you can go shopping at the International Market Place or have some drinks and listen to some music venues.

It is worth it to dedicate a portion of your trip to Waikiki to visiting the aquarium, which offers much information regarding fish and marine life and is also ideal for children. A lovely break, it enriches your visit with insights into Hawaiian royalty and the sea-faring styles of the islands. Tourist trap or not, depending on whether you would be traveling alone or with families, a visit to this place in downtown Honolulu should be on a must-visit list.

10. Enjoy a Luau

It only makes sense to have my firsthand account of a luau in this Hawaiian paradise, and I am more than willing to share some of the highlights of the evening with you. Not only does it give a glimpse of the history and culture of Polynesia, but a live show also entertains you. When it comes to the food, trust me; it makes you happy as a clam.

Queens Luau at International Market Place could be a good option for a luau night without traveling far from the core area of Waikiki. Thus, it only provides fun and cheap service while not having the luxury of being situated near the sea or having a sunset ride facility. Arrive early—doors open at 4:30 PM—to clarify the procedure for joining other cultural activities before the main event.

Dinner kicks off at 6:00 pm, which will help you try Island’s Finger foods through a buffet by 6:45 PM with awe strips, hula, and fire knives dancing. It is as fun and spirited an evening as is the celebration of the Hawaiian cultural heritage of the Hawaiian Islands.

As the location is in the middle of Waikiki, guests can easily incorporate their night in a Hawaiian luau with other activities such as shopping, visiting Kuhio Beach or Ala Moana Center, or even taking a walk down Kalakaua Avenue. Stationed amid the famous shopping center, the Queen’s Luau is an incredible experience to indulge in the rich culture, all in the backdrop of Waikiki’s magnificent beach and throbbing nightlife. Hence, get there early, partake in some of the cultural performances, and then get ready for a night like the heartbeat of Hawaii.

11. Hula Shows

My favorite Hawaiian experience is an exotic hula show, which is more typical of Waikiki. They can step to Kuhio Beach, across the main gateway of the Hyatt Regency Waikiki, overlooking the magnificent Kuhio Beach, where the Waikiki Improvement Association presents the Kuhio Beach Hula Show. This is a free event, and anyone is welcome to come and watch some great dancing, which is a great way to experience the culture of Hawaii.

Night photos with an island’s background, especially on Royal Hawaiian Beach, present an enchanting view. With pleasant and gentle movements characteristic of Hawaii, the hula dancers dance under the magnificent banyan tree, symbolizing Hawaii as any known feature. It’s the best place to rest after visiting various sites on the island of Oahu, including the sunny shore and museums at the Pearl Harbor National Memorial site.

Located in the center of Waikiki, we are only ten minutes from renowned landmarks such as the Moana Surfrider and Kapiolani Park. Coral reefs, sea turtles, and the Diamond Head State Monument are exciting things to see in Oahu. Still, as a uniquely local cultural experience that concludes your day beautifully, the hula show deserves attention. For your Hawaiian Entertainment, don’t let this opportunity pass at Waikiki, where you can witness the enchanting Hawaiian Luau dance!

12. Swim with Sea Turtles

You mentioned that though there are so many places of interest on land around Waikiki, you promised to spend more time on the beach. Enjoying various activities is crucial, and one of my most appreciated activities to carry out here is snorkeling and swimming with the sea turtles. Examples of perfect spots to do this include the Royal Hawaiian Beach, San Souci Kaimana Beach, Fort DeRussy, Southern Waikiki Beach, and Duke Kahanamoku Beach.

It is a world full of colors, with transparent blue waters and marvelous shades of reefs that look similar to the world in the animated movie Finding Nemo.

This tour offers you the view of beautiful, colorful fish, such as tropical fish, and you might even find yourself swimming beside the Hawaiian monk seals. This fabulous experience for visitors of various skill levels is primarily known for the breathtaking views of the panoramas.

Then, shop at the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center or move to King Kalakaua for some quality dining. It is truly a whole-day island experience that best symbolizes Waikiki’s exciting and vibrant marine life and stunning shopping experience.

Conclusion

After spending a whole day frolicing in the Hawaiian sun across the sandy shores of Waikiki, the bustling city of Honolulu, I can boldly assert that this tropical destination is filled with unimaginable experiences. Whether swimming on the line at Waikiki Shore, enjoying a view of fish and turtles at the Waikiki Aquarium, or dancing the night away to Polynesian entertainment in a luau, those attractions meet everyone’s expectations.

Shopping at Kalakaua Avenue is spectacular; numerous restaurants offer traditional Hawaii foods and the usual cuisines worldwide. Do not let it pass without witnessing the spectacular fire displays at Royal Hawaiian Beach on Friday or snorkeling at Turtle Canyon to enjoy ‘Shell shocked’ turtles in their natural habitat.

This is particularly the case with the Ohana Surf Project, which provides lessons for those interested in surfing as an activity. It is easy to get early lessons because you will practice until you get the first wave. But at the end of the day, there is nothing better than freshening up with a carnitine-packed poke bowl from Sato Seafood or catching live music in one of the many establishments in the middle of Waikiki.

Malia, in Waikiki, there are many options and places to visit to make a tourist’s stay fun and exciting enough. Walt Disney World’s Waikiki location is one that you should try out and see if the magic is real here.

WHO AM I ?

Hello !

I am Eric, a French Australian citizen based between Australia, Asia and Bali and I love to travel and experience the world. I generally like outdoor activities, wellness, great food and venues , party and real local adventures ! I am a Yoga practitioner and fitness lover

I created this blog because I love to travel and I want to share my experiences with others. I’ve been traveling since I was a child, and I’ve been to over 50 countries. I’ve seen some amazing things and met some amazing people, and I want to help others experience the same things.

I believe that travel is one of the best ways to learn about the world and about yourself. When you travel, you’re forced to step outside of your comfort zone and experience new things. You learn about different cultures, different religions, and different ways of life. You also learn about yourself, your strengths, and your weaknesses.

Travel can also be a great way to make new friends. When you’re traveling, you’re surrounded by people from all over the world, and you’re all in the same boat. You’re all there to explore and experience new things, and that can create a bond between people.

Let’s connect together !

I hope that my travel blog will inspire others to travel and to see the world. I also hope that it will help people to learn about different cultures and to become more open-minded.