Waikiki is the top tourist destination on the island of O’ahu in Hawaii. With its stunning beaches, iconic landmarks, delicious food, vibrant culture, and lively nightlife scene, Waikiki offers endless options for visitors. From surf lessons to hula dances, and catamaran cruises to world-class shopping, here are the ultimate things you must experience when in Waikiki.
Learn How to Surf
One of the quintessential activities in Waikiki is taking a surf lesson. With its gently rolling waves, Waikiki Beach is the perfect spot for beginners learning how to ride the waves. Numerous surf schools like Moku Hawaii and Aloha Beach Services line the shores offering group or private lessons. Instructors will teach you surf etiquette, how to paddle, and pop-up on the board. There’s no better place to check off learning how to surf your bucket list!
Watch the Sunset by Diamond Head
The iconic Diamond Head State Monument, the 300,000-year-old tuff cone mountain towering over Honolulu, provides one of the most scenic backdrops on O’ahu. Head to Diamond Head Lookout after 4 pm and watch the sunset light up the Waikiki skyline in beautiful golden hour light. Then stay for a romantic sunset picnic or wander along the coastline as dusk sets in and the twinkling lights of Waikiki come alive.
Attend a Hula Show
Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture by attending one of the many Polynesian luau shows happening in Waikiki. From the oceanfront Starlight Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village to the revamped Waikiki Starlight Luau, these dinner shows include an open bar, Hawaiian feast, and live music and culminate with a mesmerizing hula dance telling the origins of hula. It provides a peek into Hawaii’s indigenous culture.
Take a Catamaran Cruise
One of the best ways to spend a day in Waikiki is by taking a catamaran cruise. Cruise along Oahu’s southeast coast onboard boats like the Islander Pride or the Manu Kai while snorkeling at exclusive marine coves, watching sea turtles and dolphins swim beside you. Many catamaran tours provide all gear, lunch, and drinks plus hotel transfers. It shows off Hawaii’s spectacular ocean scenery and marine life at its best.
Shop till You Drop
Waikiki has no shortage of shopping options from high-end designer boutiques in the Luxury Row along Kalakaua Avenue to chill beachfront malls like the newly renovated International Marketplace. Find the perfect aloha shirt at boutiques like Avanti or Bailey’s Antiques & Aloha Shirts. Pick up Hawaiian-made souvenirs at little shops in Royal Hawaiian Center, DFS Galleria Waikiki, or sculpture galleries in Waikiki Beach Walk. Don’t forget to bargain at the bustling International Marketplace!
Conclusion for Waikiki
With an abundance of ocean activities, cultural experiences, and shopping venues, Waikiki tops the list as Hawaii’s most popular tourist magnet. Check out the iconic sights, cuisine, and entertainment that Waikiki offers during your stay on O’ahu. A trip to Waikiki will provide endless fond memories of Hawaii’s beautiful aloha spirit and stunning island scenery that you’ll treasure for a lifetime.