Planning a trip to Waikiki?
Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, there’s always something new to discover.
From iconic surf breaks and volcanic hikes to traditional luau feasts and hidden local parks, Waikiki packs an incredible variety of experiences into just a few square miles.
In this guide, we cover the 9 best things to do in Waikiki — with honest tips on timing, what to expect, and how to make the most of each spot.
1. Waikiki Beach
No visit to Waikiki is complete without spending time at the beach itself.
Stretching nearly two miles along Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous stretches of sand in the world — and for good reason.
The calm, warm waters make it ideal for swimming, bodyboarding, and learning to surf.
The backdrop of Diamond Head on one end and the Honolulu skyline on the other is unlike anywhere else on Earth.
Best for: First-timers, swimmers, and photographers at sunrise or sunset.
Pro tip: The eastern end near Kapiolani Park tends to be less crowded than the stretch directly in front of the hotels.
2. Diamond Head State Monument
One of Oahu’s most recognizable landmarks, Diamond Head is a volcanic tuff cone that offers a rewarding hike with panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.
The trail is about 1.6 miles round trip and takes most people 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s not a casual stroll — there are steep switchbacks and a narrow tunnel — but the summit views are absolutely worth it.
Best for: Hikers, early risers, and anyone who wants a bird’s-eye view of Waikiki.
Pro tip: Reservations are required in advance. Arrive before 8am to beat the heat and the crowds. Bring water and wear sturdy shoes.
3. Surf Lesson at Waikiki Beach
Waikiki is widely considered the birthplace of modern surfing, and the gentle, rolling waves here make it one of the best places in the world to learn.
Dozens of surf schools operate right on the beach, and most first-timers are standing on a board within an hour.
Even if you’ve never surfed before, the warm water and patient instructors make this one of the most memorable activities in Hawaii.
Best for: Beginners and families. Kids as young as 5 can often join beginner lessons.
Pro tip: Lessons typically run 90 minutes. Book in advance during peak season (June–August).
4. Attend a traditional Hawaiian luau
No trip to Hawaii is complete without experiencing a luau. These traditional Hawaiian feasts bring together food, music, and dance in a way that’s genuinely unlike anything else — think slow-roasted kalua pork, poi, lomi salmon, and fresh tropical fruits, all enjoyed under the open sky while hula dancers and fire knife performers take the stage.
It’s one of the most immersive ways to connect with Hawaiian culture, and it makes for a memorable first evening on the island.
There are several luau options on Oahu, but if you’re staying in Waikiki, Ka Moana Luau stands out for its central location, authentic performances, and consistently great reviews. Popular dates fill up fast, so booking ahead is strongly recommended.
Best for: Couples, families, and first-time visitors looking for a cultural highlight.
Pro tip: Opt for VIP seating for the best views of the stage.
Check availability for Ka Moana Luau →
5. Duke’s Waikiki
Named after legendary Hawaiian waterman Duke Kahanamoku, Duke’s Waikiki is one of the most iconic beachfront restaurants on the island.
It’s a great spot for lunch or dinner with its feet-in-the-sand atmosphere, live Hawaiian music, and ocean views.
The food is reliably good — fresh fish tacos, huli huli chicken, and the famous Hula Pie dessert are crowd favorites.
But even if you just stop in for a drink at the Barefoot Bar, it’s worth the visit for the atmosphere alone.
Best for: Sunset drinks, casual dining, and soaking up old-school Hawaiian culture.
Pro tip: Sunday brunch features live Hawaiian music and is a local favorite. Arrive early — there’s often a wait.
6. Kalakaua Avenue
Waikiki’s main street is more than just a thoroughfare — it’s an experience in itself. Kalakaua Avenue runs the length of Waikiki Beach and is lined with high-end boutiques, open-air shopping centers, street performers, and some of the best people-watching on the island.
In the evenings, the avenue comes alive with live music drifting out of restaurants and bars, making it a great place to wander after dinner.
Best for: Shopping, evening strolls, and absorbing the energy of Waikiki.
Pro tip: The stretch near Kuhio Beach hosts free hula shows several evenings a week — check local listings for the current schedule.
7. International Market Place
A Waikiki institution that’s been completely reimagined, the International Market Place is now an upscale open-air shopping center centered around a stunning 100-year-old banyan tree.
You’ll find a mix of local boutiques, international brands, and some excellent dining options across three floors.
The treehouse-style design makes it a beautiful place to explore even if you’re not shopping.
Best for: Browsing local brands, dining, and escaping the midday heat in a beautiful setting.
Pro tip: The top floor restaurants offer some of the best views of the surrounding area without the beachfront price tag.
8. Kapiolani Park
At the quieter, eastern end of Waikiki, Kapiolani Park is Honolulu’s oldest public park and a favorite among locals. It’s a large, open green space perfect for picnicking, jogging, or just relaxing under a tree.
On weekends you’ll find locals playing sports, families having barbecues, and live events happening near the bandstand.
It’s one of the best places in Waikiki to experience everyday life away from the tourist strip.
Best for: Picnics, morning jogs, and experiencing local Honolulu life.
Pro tip: The park borders the Waikiki Aquarium and Honolulu Zoo, making it easy to combine all three in one afternoon.
9. Waikiki Sunset Cruise
As the sun begins to drop toward the horizon, one of the best ways to experience it is from the water.
Several operators run sunset cruises departing from the Ala Wai Harbor near Waikiki, offering views of Diamond Head, the Waikiki skyline, and the open Pacific all from the deck of a sailing catamaran.
Many cruises include drinks and snacks, and some offer live Hawaiian music on board.
Best for: Couples, celebrations, and anyone who wants to see Waikiki from a completely different angle.
Pro tip: Book a sailing catamaran rather than a motorized boat for a quieter, more scenic experience. Bring a light jacket — it gets cooler on the water after sunset.
Evening experiences: making the most of your nights in Waikiki
Two of the highlights on this list — Ka Moana Luau and the Sunset Cruise — are best experienced in the evening.
If you’re planning a multi-day trip, consider dedicating one evening to the luau (for the cultural experience) and another to the sunset cruise (for the views).
Both are very different but equally memorable.
How to get around Waikiki
Waikiki is one of the most walkable areas in Hawaii.
Most attractions on this list are within walking distance of each other or a short Uber ride away.
Diamond Head is about a 20-minute drive from central Waikiki and worth renting a car or booking a rideshare for the morning.
For getting beyond Waikiki, TheBus (Honolulu’s public transit) is affordable and reliable, with routes connecting to Pearl Harbor, Ala Moana, and other parts of Oahu.
Where to stay in Waikiki
To make the most of everything on this list, staying right in Waikiki puts you within steps of the beach, restaurants, and attractions.
If you’re looking for something beyond a standard hotel room, a vacation rental gives you the space, flexibility, and comfort to truly settle in.
Our Waikiki properties offer beachfront access, full amenities, and a home-away-from-home feel that hotels simply can’t match.
Explore our Waikiki Shore beachfront condo →
Looking for more Oahu travel tips? Check out our guides on Ko Olina and Ala Moana — two of our other favorite areas on the island.