Located on Honolulu’s south shore, the world-famous neighborhood of Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty.
Located on Honolulu ‘s South Shore, the world-famous neighborhood of Waikiki was once a playground for Hawaiian royalty. Waikiki, known as “squirting water” in Hawaiian, was introduced to the world when the first hotel, the Moana Surfrider, was built on the coast in 1901. Today, Waikiki is Oahu’s premier hotel and resort area and a vibrant gathering place for visitors from around the world. Along the main strip of Kalakaua Avenue you will find world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, activities and resorts. You don’t want to miss this beach during your Hawaii fly drive , Hawaii tour or Hawaii honeymoon .
Surf Culture Waikiki
According to agooddir, Waikiki is known for its beaches and every hotel room is only two or three blocks from the ocean (if not right on the beach). With Mount Leahi (Diamond Head) as a backdrop, Waikiki’s calm waters are perfect for a surfing lesson. Legendary Hawaiian waterman Duke Kahanamoku even grew up surfing the waves of Waikiki. Along with other famous Waikiki Beach Boys, this Olympic gold medalist in swimming taught visitors how to surf at the turn of the century. “Duke” was instrumental in sharing the values and sport of surfing with the world and became known and respected worldwide as “the father of modern surfing”. Today, surf instructors in Waikiki perpetuate Duke’s legacy by teaching visitors how to surf and canoe.
More than just beach!
But there’s more to Waikiki than just the beach. Waikiki attractions such as the Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium offer fun for the whole family. You can learn about Waikiki’s history by reading the surfboard markers along the Waikiki Historical Trail. Among the various things to do, high-end boutiques, shops, and restaurants can be found along Kalakaua and Kuhio Avenues and at meeting points such as the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Waikiki Beach Walk, and the recently transformed International Market Place. After the sunset in Waikiki, the fun continues with great nightlife and live music.
Best of all, Waikiki is within half an hour of a variety of Oahu attractions, including Pearl Harbor, Iolani Palace, the Nuuanu Pali Lookout, and Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve, a protected marine life conservation area. Other notable nearby attractions include the Ala Moana Center (a huge outdoor mall), the local neighborhood of Kapahulu, and the Chinatown arts district.
From Hawaiian royalty to Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Waikiki remains an evolving expression of the ancient spirit of aloha. Past and future collide in fresh and surprising ways on these famous shores.
