Waikīkī, Hawaiʻi

Destinations

Gateway Town · Oʻahu

Waikīkī

Surfboards, outrigger canoes, and Lēʻahi (Diamond Head) rising at the end of the beach: Waikīkī is where most Oʻahu trips begin. It is also a convenient base for Pearl Harbor and Honouliuli, with some of the island’s most beloved local food a short walk away.

Island

Oʻahu (Honolulu)

To Pearl Harbor

About 30–45 minutes by car

Transit

TheBus routes 20 and 42

Best Time

Early mornings, before crowds

E komo mai · Aloha · Waikīkī · E komo mai · Aloha · Waikīkī ·

Must-Sees

Lēʻahi (Diamond Head)

Hike to the crater rim for the classic view over Waikīkī. Out-of-state visitors need a reservation, so book ahead.

Surf lessons and canoe rides

Waikīkī’s gentle, rolling waves are where the modern sport of surfing grew up. Beginners are welcome.

Duke Kahanamoku Statue

Honor the Olympic champion and surfing ambassador at his statue on the beach.

Kapiʻolani Park

Wide lawns, banyan trees, and picnic shade at the Diamond Head end of the beach.

Eat Like a Local

Leonard’s Bakery

Hot, sugar-rolled Portuguese malasadas on Kapahulu Avenue, a local tradition since the 1950s.

Kapahulu

Rainbow Drive-In

Plate lunches and loco moco at a family-run Kapahulu drive-in open since 1961.

Kapahulu

Spam Musubi

A grab-and-go Hawaiʻi favorite. Musubi Café Iyasume in Waikīkī makes dozens of varieties.

Waikīkī

Shave Ice

Fluffy, finely shaved ice with tropical syrups, the perfect beach cooldown.

Island-wide

Insider Tip

Lines move fast at the popular spots, so don’t be scared off. Many local favorites are cash-friendly and close by early afternoon, so go earlier in the day.