Waikiki Beach – Oahu’s Most Famous Shoreline
Waikiki Beach on Oahu is Hawaii’s most iconic and visited beach, stretching two miles along Honolulu’s south shore. Located next to Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park, it offers ideal conditions for swimming, surfing, and relaxing. With nearby shopping, restaurants, entertainment, and numerous beach activities, Waikiki is a top destination for visitors seeking both leisure and adventure in a lively, tropical setting.
Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Waikiki Beach (view panorama) × on the island of Oahu is Hawaii's most popular and visited beach. It is located on the south shore of the island next to Diamond Head. The beach is about 2 miles (3.2 km) long and across from it on the other side of the street are many hotels, restaurants, gift shops and beach bars.
At the east end of the beach, on the foothills of Diamond Head, is a large and beautiful oceanfront park called Kapiolani Park. It is a great place for a picnic, ball games or running. At the west end of Waikiki Beach is the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon (also called Hilton Lagoon), which is a nice place for a relaxing swim.
If you like watersports you will be able to rent all kinds of equipment on the beach, such as bodyboards, surfboards and snorkeling gear. Some of the most popular things to do at Waikiki Beach are swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, kayaking and parasailing.
Waikiki Beach (view panorama) × is almost always crowded, and during the peak tourist seasons it can almost be difficult to find a spot where to put your towel. In the evening hours, there is music entertainment at the numerous beach bars and restaurants.
Since Waikiki Beach is 2 miles long, it has several sections that have their own name. Located at the west end of Waikiki is Kahanamoku Beach, which is the widest stretch of Waikiki Beach. The area near the Kapahulu Groin (also known as The Wall) is called Kuhio Beach. This area has a breakwater, which creates a shallow and calm swimming lagoon that's ideal for families with children. To the east of Kuhio Beach is Queen's Surf Beach, a popular place among bodyboarders. Further east is Kaimana Beach, a nice swimming beach because of its sandy nearshore ocean bottom.
Waikiki Neighborhood Guide
Waikiki is more than a beach - it’s a vibrant neighborhood full of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Walk along Kalakaua Avenue to find high-end boutiques, street performers, and beachside cafes. Kuhio Avenue offers more local flavor with hidden gems like poke stands and karaoke bars. Don’t miss the iconic Duke Kahanamoku Statue, a favorite photo spot for visitors.
Other nearby attractions include the Fort DeRussy Park, Waikiki Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park. Many of these spots are walkable from Waikiki Beach and ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Getting to Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is conveniently located about 9 miles (14.5 km) southeast of Honolulu International Airport (HNL). The easiest ways to get here include ride-sharing apps, airport shuttle services, or a rental car. TheBus, Honolulu’s public transit system, also offers reliable service with stops throughout Waikiki.
Parking can be limited, especially near beach access points, so arrive early or check for metered and paid parking garages along Kuhio Avenue and adjacent streets. Many hotels also offer guest parking for a fee.
Best Time to Visit Waikiki
Waikiki enjoys a tropical climate year-round, but the best time to visit is from April to June and September to early December. These months offer great weather, fewer crowds, and better deals on accommodations. If you're planning to visit during major holidays or summer vacation, be sure to book early and expect more people on the beach. Early mornings and weekday afternoons are typically the calmest times to enjoy Waikiki Beach.
Key Features of Waikiki Beach
- Most visited beach in Hawaii: Waikiki Beach attracts over 4 million visitors annually and offers iconic views of Diamond Head.
- Vibrant beachfront scene: Lined with Waikiki vacation rentals, oceanfront restaurants, shops, and high-rise resorts along a scenic 2-mile stretch.
- Family-friendly attractions: The Honolulu Zoo, Waikiki Aquarium, and Kapiolani Park are easily accessible at the beach’s eastern end.
- Calm and scenic swimming areas: The Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, located at the west end, offers a peaceful spot for swimming and paddleboarding.
- Watersports paradise: Rent surfboards, boogie boards, kayaks, snorkeling gear, and more directly on the beach.
- Seasonal surf action: Expect bigger waves during summer months (May to September), great for surfers and wave-watchers alike.
- Nightlife and entertainment: Enjoy live music and hula shows at beach bars and open-air restaurants along the shoreline every evening.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Waikiki Beach located?
Waikiki Beach is located on the south shore of Oahu in Honolulu, next to Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park.
Can you swim at Waikiki Beach?
Yes, Waikiki Beach is a great place for swimming, especially in calmer sections like Kuhio Beach, which has breakwaters for protection.
What activities can you do at Waikiki Beach?
Popular activities include swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, parasailing, catamaran sailing and stand-up paddleboarding.
Is there parking at Waikiki Beach?
There is metered street parking and paid parking garages nearby. Hotel guest parking is also available for a fee.
When is the best time to visit Waikiki Beach?
The best months are April–June and September–early December for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.