Kahanamoku Beach

Kahanamoku Beach is at the western end of Waikiki, with wide sand, Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, calm-water swimming, sunset views and Hilton Pier ocean tour departures.

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Kahanamoku Beach

Kahanamoku Beach, Waikiki

Waikiki Beach is known around the world and since it is 2 miles (3.2 km) long it has several sections. The western end is known as Kahanamoku Beach. It fronts the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. The beach is named after Duke Paoa Kahanamoku (1890-1968), who is perhaps the most remembered and respected Hawaiian surfer, a champion Olympic swimmer and a master of canoeing. He epitomized Hawaiian athleticism and helped surfing grow worldwide. That's why he is also known as "The Father of Modern Surfing."

Kahanamoku Beach is the widest stretch of Waikiki Beach. In 2024, Kahanamoku Beach was named America's best beach by coastal scientist Dr. Stephen Leatherman, aka Dr. Beach. Since 1991, Dr. Leatherman has selected the annual Top 10 Beaches. Fifty criteria are used to evaluate beaches, which include water and sand quality as well as safety and environmental management.

The man-made 5-acre Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon is also a fun place to explore. Here you can swim in calm waters or picnic on the grassy area under one of the palm trees. Located in the center of Kahanamoku Beach is the Hilton Pier from where Atlantis Submarine tours depart.

Key Features

Western Waikiki beach fronting Hilton Hawaiian Village
Wide sand with Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon beside the ocean beach
Hilton Pier nearby for Atlantis submarine departures, catamaran sails and other Waikiki ocean tours
Calm-water swimming and floating in the lagoon
Open sunset views from the west end of Waikiki
Friday fireworks viewing nearby at Hilton Hawaiian Village
Beach named for Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, Olympic swimmer and surfing legend
Hotels, shops, restaurants and Waikiki walkways close to the sand
Parking nearby is limited and often paid
A strong Waikiki beach choice for families, sunset time, calm water and ocean-tour departures

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do Atlantis submarine tours leave from Kahanamoku Beach?

Atlantis submarine guests check in at Hilton Hawaiian Village, with boarding at nearby Hilton Pier beside Kahanamoku Beach. A shuttle boat takes guests offshore to the submarine site, so this beach end of Waikiki is a common meeting point for that tour.

What other ocean tours depart near Kahanamoku Beach?

Catamaran sails and other Waikiki ocean tours also use nearby Hilton Pier and beachfront pickup points. Tour times and boarding spots can change, so read the operator details before walking to the pier.

What is Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon?

Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon is a man-made saltwater lagoon beside the beach. It gives this part of Waikiki a calm-water swimming and floating area separate from the open ocean beach.

Who was Duke Kahanamoku?

Duke Paoa Kahanamoku was a Native Hawaiian Olympic swimmer and surfing legend. The beach and lagoon name honor his deep connection to Waikiki, surfing and Hawaii's ocean culture.

Why is Kahanamoku Beach popular at sunset?

The west end of Waikiki has open views toward the setting sun, with boats, the lagoon, hotel lights and Diamond Head in the opposite direction. On Friday nights, this area is also close to the Hilton fireworks viewing area.