Queen's Surf Beach

Queens Surf Beach is the Diamond Head side of Waikiki, with a seawall, surf views, Kapiolani Park nearby and easy access to the zoo and aquarium.

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Queen's Surf Beach, Oahu

Named after Queen Liliuokalani because her beach house and pier once stood here, Queen's Surf Beach is located in Waikiki and is part of Waikiki Beach. It sits between the Kapahulu Groin on the west end and the Waikiki Aquarium on the east end.

The Kapahulu Groin was built in 1951, and surfers named it The Wall, or Walls for short. Walls is also the name of the nearby surf break, which is reserved for bodyboarders. Surfboards are not allowed within 150 yards of it, and the area is marked by buoys. Another surf spot, Cunha's, is located straight out from The Wall.

Queen's Surf Beach is also a good spot for snorkelers when the ocean is calm. There is a reef in front of the Waikiki Aquarium where snorkeling can be good during clear, gentle conditions.

In the park near The Wall is a bronze sculpture dedicated by the City and County of Honolulu in 2003. Designed by artist Robert Pashby, it is called “Surfer on a Wave” and serves as a monument to surfing in Waikiki.

The Kapahulu Groin also marks the western boundary of the Waikiki Marine Life Conservation District, which extends east to the War Memorial Natatorium. Fishing and removing marine life are prohibited in this area.

Key Features

Diamond Head side of Waikiki near Kapiolani Park
Close to the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium
Seawall, reef and surf views along the beach edge
Short walk to Kuhio Beach Park and Kaimana Beach
Outdoor movie nights may be held here on select event dates
Popular for walking, surf watching, photos and sunset light
Water entry varies by spot and ocean conditions
Use marked access points when entering the water
Stay clear of waves breaking against the seawall
Good urban beach views with park space nearby

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is Queens Surf Beach different from Kuhio Beach?

Kuhio Beach has more protected swimming areas near the central Waikiki beach walls. Queens Surf Beach is farther toward Diamond Head, with more seawall, reef and surf-watching scenery beside Kapiolani Park.

Are movies still shown at Queens Surf Beach?

Yes. Sunset on the Beach movie nights returned to Queens Surf Beach in 2026, with free outdoor films shown after sunset on select dates. Check the current event schedule before you go, since movie nights are not held every evening.

Is Queens Surf Beach good for swimming?

Swimming depends on the day and the exact spot. The seawall, reef and changing surf make some areas better for watching the water than entering it, so check conditions and choose marked access points.

What is near Queens Surf Beach?

Kapiolani Park, the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium are all nearby. Kaimana Beach is farther east, while Kuhio Beach Park and central Waikiki are a short walk west.

Is Queens Surf Beach good at sunset?

Yes, it can be a pleasant place to watch evening light along Waikiki. The view looks back across the beach hotels and out toward the surf, with fewer people than the busiest central sections.