Waikiki Beach, taken from the west facing southeast. Posted on September 8, 2020.
Waikiki is a district of the city of Honolulu, on the island of Oahu in Hawaii. Waikiki is known for its high rises that line the beach, bustling shopping and dining options, family-friendly activities, and famous waves that are perfect for surfers of any skill level.
Accommodations at Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach
Opening its doors in 1901, the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach, also known as the "First Lady of Waikiki, was the first hotel to be built on Waikiki Beach. Still open today, the Moana Surfrider boasts an ideal location, both beachfront and in close proximity to Waikiki Shopping Plaza. With luxury facilities including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and spa, the Moana Surfrider defines comfort.
Accommodations at the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower
The Aston Waikiki Beach Tower is known for being a family friendly option for accomodations. Children stay for free at the Aston Waikiki Beach tower. That paired with the close proximity to the Waikiki Zoo makes this a very desirable option for families. Additionally, the tower offers a variety of one-bedroom and two-bedroom condos with full kitchens, making it easy for families to feel at home.
Dining at Duke's Waikiki ($$)
Duke’s is a famous restaurant in Waikiki, known for its oceanside location which includes a barefoot-bar, quality food, and exists as recognition of the incredible man Duke Paoa Kahanamoku was. While the restaurant’s website includes information on making reservations, how to access the location, and menus for breakfast, lunch, dinner, the bar, and more. The website also includes an entire page outlining a timeline of Duke’s extraordinary life and accomplishments.
Surfing Lessons in Waikiki
Foods to Try in O'ahu
Poke is raw cubed fish, simply dressed with soy sauce, sesame oil, seaweed, sesame seeds, and spring onions. Sometimes Poke is topped with avocado or served over rice. Given the access to fresh fish, Poke is a favorite throughout O'ahu and is available in grocery stores, food courts, and restaurants.
Malasadas were brought to Hawaii by Portuguese laborers. Malasadas are bascially donuts without holes. According to the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower, the island favorite is Leonard’s Bakery at 933 Kapahulu Avenue.
Without spewing lava in at least 150,000 years, Diamond Head has become a well known attraction in Waikiki for tourists and locals alike. In order to hike the iconic Diamond Head Summit Trail, hikers should enter the parking lot between Makapuu Avenue and 18th Avenue in Honolulu between the hours of 6:00 am and 4:30 pm, as the trail closes at 6:00 pm. The chash-only entry fee of $5 per vehicle or $1 per walk-in visitor is charged when entering the hiking area.
The Honolulu Zoo is a popular destination for families, birthday parties, and corporate functions. With a prime location between Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach, visiting the Honolulu Zoo is accessible and fun.
Admission Fees
General Local / U.S. Military
Adults (13+) $19.00 Adults (13+) $8.00
Children (3-12) $11.00 Children (3-12) $4.00
Infants (Under 2) Free Infants (Under 2) Free
Parking: $1.50 per hour