Planning a trip to Waikiki? Here are the 20 best things to do — from beaches and surfing to hidden local spots most visitors never find. Updated for 2026 with honest insider tips.
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 20 best things to do in Waikiki — organized by time of day, so you can plan your mornings, afternoons, and evenings with ease.
In This Guide
Morning
1. 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.
2. 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.
On weekend mornings, the park also hosts outdoor yoga classes on the grass — a peaceful way to start the day before the beach gets busy.
Sessions are typically held near the bandstand area. Check local listings for current schedules, as times and instructors vary by season.
Best for: Picnics, morning jogs, yoga, 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.
3. Breakfast at Orchids – Halekulani Hotel
Orchids at the Halekulani Hotel is one of those Waikiki experiences that costs more than you expect — and is worth every dollar.
The open-air, oceanfront restaurant has been a local institution since 1917, and breakfast here is a genuinely special way to start a day in Hawaii.
This isn’t just a meal; it’s the kind of morning you’ll remember long after the trip.
The Halekulani Popovers — a house specialty since the hotel opened — arrive warm with tropical jam and whipped butter. The menu leans into local ingredients: fresh papaya, Hawaiian pineapple, eggs prepared to order, and beautifully presented plates with nothing but ocean in front of you.
The service matches the setting — attentive, unhurried, and genuinely warm.
Best for: Special occasions, anniversary trips, and anyone who believes that one truly exceptional breakfast beats three forgettable ones.
Pro tip: Budget around $50–70 per person. Reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends. Smart casual dress is appropriate — this is the Halekulani.
4. 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.
5. 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.
If surfing feels too intimidating, consider trying an outrigger canoe instead.
These traditional Hawaiian canoes are paddled in small groups and catch the same gentle Waikiki waves — without the need to balance on a board.
Several beach operators offer canoe rides right from the shore, and it’s one of the most genuinely Hawaiian experiences you can have in Waikiki.
Great for families and anyone who wants to feel connected to the islands’ seafaring history.
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).
6. Kaimana Beach
If Waikiki Beach feels too crowded, head to the quieter eastern end — locals call it Kaimana Beach, named after the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel that sits alongside it.
You’ll find a calmer stretch of sand with far fewer tourists, gentle water that’s great for swimming, and a reef just offshore that makes for decent snorkeling.
This is where Waikiki residents actually swim. On weekday mornings, you might share the water with just a handful of people — a rare thing in this part of the island.
Location: Far eastern end of Kalakaua Ave, just past Kapiolani Park.
Best for: Swimmers who want fewer crowds, snorkelers, and anyone looking for a more local beach experience.
Pro tip: Street parking is free along the park.
Midday
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.
Location: 2330 Kalakaua Ave.
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. Waikiki Market
If you’re staying in a vacation rental or condo in Waikiki, Waikiki Market is a game-changer.
It’s the only full-service, locally-owned grocery store in Waikiki — stocked with fresh local produce, a custom poke bar, prepared plate lunches, freshly baked malasadas, and a well-curated wine and beer section.
Even if you’re in a hotel, it’s worth stopping in for a grab-and-go lunch or a poke bowl. The prepared food stations are run by local chefs and the quality is well above what you’d expect from a supermarket.
Best for: Vacation rental guests, budget-conscious travelers, and anyone who wants to eat like a local without dining out every meal.
Pro tip: The poke bar tends to sell out of the best options by mid-afternoon — go early.
9. Marugame Udon
In the middle of tourist-priced Waikiki, Marugame Udon is a welcome reality check.
This Japanese udon chain serves thick, freshly made noodles in a rich broth — and a full bowl costs a fraction of what you’d pay at most restaurants nearby.
Locals and visitors line up daily, which tells you everything you need to know.
Order at the counter, grab your tempura, and find a seat. It’s fast, affordable, and genuinely delicious.
Location: 2330 Kalakaua Ave, inside the Royal Hawaiian Center.
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers, udon lovers, and anyone who needs a break from resort pricing.
Pro tip: Come slightly before or after the peak lunch rush (12–1pm) for the shortest wait.
Afternoon
10. Waiola Shave Ice
Forget the tourist shave ice stands along Kalakaua. Waiola Shave Ice is the real thing — a family-owned institution that’s been serving locals since 1940, now with two locations, the closest being in the Kapahulu neighborhood just outside Waikiki.
The ice is finely shaved to an almost snow-like texture, and the syrups are made in-house with cane sugar.
Even President Obama has been a regular, lending his name to one of their most popular flavors.
Locals swear by the Azuki Bowl — shave ice with sweet red beans, condensed milk, and mochi.
The Obama Rainbow(lilikoi, lychee, and cotton candy) is the crowd favorite for first-timers. It’s consistently rated the best shave ice on Oahu by local publications and residents alike.
Location: 3113 Mokihana St, Kapahulu (closest location to Waikiki).
Best for: Anyone who wants to experience Hawaiian shave ice the way locals actually eat it — not the tourist version.
Pro tip: About a 10–15 minute walk from the eastern end of Waikiki, or a quick Uber. Go on a weekday to avoid the longest lines.
11. Fort DeRussy Beach Park BBQ
Most visitors walk right past Fort DeRussy Beach Park without realizing it’s there — which is exactly what makes it worth knowing about.
Tucked between the Hale Koa Hotel and the Outrigger Reef, this public park has a wide grassy lawn, shade trees, picnic tables, and public BBQ grills right on the beach.
Pick up fresh poke, local sausage, and cold drinks from Waikiki Market beforehand, and you have the ingredients for a proper local-style beach day.
It’s a less crowded stretch of beach, the water is calm, and the sunset views from the lawn are genuinely beautiful.
Location: 2161 Kalia Rd — directly in front of Waikiki Shore, one of the few beachfront condos in Waikiki with full kitchens — perfect if you’re planning a BBQ day.
Best for: Groups, families, and vacation rental guests who want a local beach experience without paying restaurant prices.
Pro tip: Arrive early on weekends to claim a grill. Charcoal is not provided; pick some up at Waikiki Market or ABC Store beforehand.
Evening
12. Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Happy Hour
Monkeypod Kitchen sits right on the beach inside the Outrigger Reef Resort, with open-air seating, Diamond Head views, and live local music playing throughout the day.
Chef Peter Merriman — one of the founders of Hawaii Regional Cuisine — built the menu around local farms, sustainable fish, and island ingredients.
The food is genuinely good: hand-tossed pizzas, fresh fish tacos, Big Island cheeseburgers, and creative appetizers.
But the real reason to come in the afternoon is the Monkeypod Mai Tai — made with honey-lilikoi foam and fresh lime, it’s widely considered the best Mai Tai in Waikiki.
Happy Hour runs daily from 3:30–5pm with discounted drinks and select menu items.
Location: Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, 2169 Kalia Rd.
Best for: Afternoon drinks, Happy Hour, and anyone who wants a beachfront seat with great food and live music.
Pro tip: Arrive at 3:30pm sharp to get a beachfront table before it fills up. Reservations are recommended for dinner.
13. Duke Kahanamoku Statue at Sunset
The bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku — the father of modern surfing and Hawaii’s greatest waterman — stands at the center of Waikiki Beach, and it’s become one of the most photographed spots on the island.
Most tourists visit in the middle of the day. Locals know to come at sunset.
As the light turns golden and Diamond Head catches the last of the day’s color, the statue and the beach behind it look completely different. It’s a quieter, more atmospheric version of the same spot — and one of the best photo opportunities in Waikiki.
Best for: Photographers, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants to pay respects to Hawaii’s most iconic figure.
Pro tip: The statue is often draped in fresh flower lei left by locals and visitors. Arrive 20–30 minutes before sunset for the best light.
14. Kuhio Beach Hula Show (Free)
Every Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, a free hula and Hawaiian music show takes place right on the beach at Kuhio Beach Park.
The performances feature local dancers and musicians, and the setting — open air, torches lit, ocean in the background — is hard to beat.
This isn’t a staged resort performance. It’s an authentic, community-supported celebration of Hawaiian culture that’s been running for decades. And it costs nothing.
Location: Kuhio Beach Park, Kalakaua Ave near Uluniu Ave.
Best for: Cultural experiences, families, and anyone who wants to understand what hula actually is beyond the tourist version.
Pro tip: Shows typically begin around 6:30pm (times vary seasonally — check the City & County of Honolulu website for the current schedule). Arrive 15 minutes early to get a good spot.
15. Waikiki Makers Market (Mondays only)
Every Monday evening from 4–8pm, the Waikiki Beach Walk plaza on Lewers Street transforms into a lively open-air market. Local vendors set up stalls selling handcrafted jewelry, artwork, Hawaiian-made goods, and prepared food.
There’s live entertainment throughout the evening and a relaxed, neighborhood feel that’s a welcome contrast to the more commercial parts of Waikiki.
It’s a good place to find genuinely local gifts and souvenirs — and to have dinner without committing to a full sit-down restaurant.
Best for: Monday visitors, souvenir shoppers, and anyone who wants to experience Waikiki beyond the main strip.
Pro tip: Food vendors tend to sell out of popular items by 7pm — arrive before 6pm if food is your priority.
16. 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 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.
17. 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.
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 →
18. Evening Stroll Along 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.
19. 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.
20. Friday Night Fireworks at Hilton Hawaiian Village (Fridays only)
Every Friday evening, the Hilton Hawaiian Village launches a fireworks display over the ocean — a Waikiki tradition that’s been running for decades.
The show lasts about 10 minutes and lights up the sky above the beach, visible from almost anywhere along the Waikiki shoreline.
It’s completely free to watch, and you don’t need to be a hotel guest. The best spots are along the beach between the Hilton and Fort DeRussy Park — arrive 20 minutes early to find a good place to sit on the sand.
Location: Hilton Hawaiian Village, 2005 Kalia Rd. Best viewed from the beach or Fort DeRussy Park next door.
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone who happens to be in Waikiki on a Friday evening.
Pro tip: Fireworks typically start around 7:45pm (time varies by season). Bring a blanket and snacks from Waikiki Market for the full local experience. No need to book anything.
Looking for a place to stay in Waikiki? Read our honest reviews of Waikiki Shore and Waikiki Penthouse, or compare your options in our guide to Waikiki vs Ko Olina.