Ala Wai Canal
The Ala Wai Canal is a scenic 1.5-mile waterway bordering Waikiki, originally built to drain swampland in the 1920s. Today, it serves as a picturesque walking and jogging route lined with tropical foliage and residential high-rises. Popular with canoe paddlers and kayakers, the canal offers a peaceful escape from bustling Waikiki, with sunset views and access to nearby attractions like the Hawaii Convention Center and Ala Wai Park.
Ala Wai Canal, Oahu
It may be hard to believe, but where the bustling tourist center of Waikiki now stands, ninety years ago was swampland and rice paddies, with waterlogged fish and duck ponds, not to mention millions of mosquitoes over the stagnant waters. In the mid-1920s, the land was drained and reclaimed, and the Ala Wai Canal (view panorama) × was built.
Nowadays, the canal drains up to 150 inches of rainwater, which seeps down from the mountains in Waikiki every year, and it empties into the Pacific Ocean at the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor.
The canal marks the entrance to Waikiki, beginning northwest of Kapahulu Avenue (a few blocks from Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head) and running along the length of Waikiki (view panorama)× , bordered by Ala Wai Boulevard on the south and west sides, before turning southwest towards the harbor.
The canal, which runs for one and a half miles, has a long well-lit walkway parallel to the ocean which is often used for jogging and strolling. The waters of the canal are popular with kayakers and canoe paddlers.
The Ala Wai Canal is home to stick fish, baby kaku, crabs and lost jellyfish and fishermen have taken advantage, but ongoing controversy over sewage and street water runoff have discouraged many from getting too intimate with the waterway.
The Hawaii Convention Center is located on ten acres next to the canal, on Kalakaua Avenue.
Key Features of Ala Wai Canal
- Historic engineering landmark: Constructed in the 1920s to drain Waikiki's wetlands and create developable land.
- Scenic walking and jogging path: A well-lit path runs along the canal's length, popular for exercise and evening strolls.
- Canoeing and kayaking destination: Home to local paddling clubs and races, especially on calm days.
- Urban and mountain views: Offers views of Diamond Head, Waikiki skyline, and the Ko'olau Mountains.
- Proximity to attractions: Adjacent to the Hawaii Convention Center, Ala Wai Park, and Ala Moana area.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you kayak or paddle on the Ala Wai Canal?
Yes, the Ala Wai Canal is commonly used for canoe and kayak paddling. Local clubs often practice and hold races here.
Is the canal safe for walking and jogging?
Yes, the Ala Wai Canal has a paved, well-lit walkway that's popular for morning jogs and evening strolls.
Where can I get the best views of the canal?
The bridges along Ala Moana Blvd and Kalakaua Ave offer great views of the canal, especially at sunset.
Where is the Ala Wai Canal located?
The canal borders Waikiki, Honolulu and runs parallel to Ala Wai Blvd, emptying into the ocean at the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor.