Are you dreaming of a tropical escape with sun, sand, and surf? Look no further than Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, Hawaii. With its crystal clear waters and soft sandy shores, Waikiki is the quintessential beach destination that attracts visitors from around the world. But with so many beaches to choose from, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best beaches in Waikiki so you can make the most of your next vacation in paradise!
Waikiki Beach
Waikiki Beach is perhaps the most well-known beach in all of Hawaii. It’s located right in the heart of Honolulu, making it easily accessible for tourists staying in the area. The beach itself stretches over two miles and offers stunning views of Diamond Head crater.
The waters at Waikiki are calm and perfect for swimming, though they can get a bit crowded during peak season. If you’re looking to try your hand at surfing or stand-up paddleboarding, there are many rental shops along the shore where you can rent equipment.
One thing that makes Waikiki Beach unique is its lively atmosphere. There’s always something going on here, from live music performances to hula shows and fireworks displays. You’ll also find a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars lining the street behind the beach.
If you want to take a break from sunbathing or swimming, be sure to check out Kapiolani Park just across the street from Waikiki Beach. This large green space offers plenty of shade under towering banyan trees as well as tennis courts and other recreational activities.
Kuhio Beach
Kuhio Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Waikiki, located on the eastern end of Kapiolani Park. This beach offers a lot of attractions and activities for tourists and locals alike, making it a great destination for your next vacation.
One unique feature of Kuhio Beach is its protected swimming area. The beach has an offshore wall that creates calm waters perfect for swimming, especially for families with children. You can also rent snorkeling gear to explore the underwater world just off the shore.
Aside from water activities, Kuhio Beach hosts various events throughout the year like live music performances and hula shows. On Tuesdays and Thursdays at sunset, you can witness traditional Hawaiian torch lighting ceremonies accompanied by live music and hula dancers.
There are numerous food vendors along Kalakaua Avenue near Kuhio Beach if you ever get hungry while enjoying your day there. From local plate lunches to shaved ice treats, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings.
Kuhio Beach is definitely worth adding to your itinerary when visiting Waikiki due to its calm waters perfect for swimming as well as its vibrant cultural offerings such as traditional Hawaiian entertainment shows.
Fort DeRussy Beach
Fort DeRussy Beach is a hidden gem in Waikiki, located just behind the Fort DeRussy Army Museum. This peaceful beach offers a bit of seclusion from the bustling crowds often found at other beaches in Waikiki.
The water here is calm and perfect for swimming or simply relaxing on a floatie, while the soft sand makes it ideal for sunbathing. The views are also quite impressive with Diamond Head to one side and high-rise hotels to the other.
One unique aspect of this beach is its close proximity to the lush greenery of Fort DeRussy Park. Visitors can take a break from the sun and wander through this lovely park filled with palm trees, picnic areas, walking paths, and playgrounds for kids.
In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can rent surfboards or stand-up paddleboards nearby or even take surfing lessons if they’re feeling adventurous. There are also plenty of food trucks around selling delicious local treats like shave ice and poke bowls.
Ala Moana Beach Park
Ala Moana Beach Park is one of the most popular beaches in Waikiki, located just west of Waikiki Beach. This beach park offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy, from swimming and sunbathing to surfing and paddleboarding.
One of the unique features of Ala Moana Beach Park is its large man-made lagoon, which provides a safe area for children and inexperienced swimmers to play in the water without having to worry about strong waves or currents. The lagoon is also perfect for snorkeling and spotting colorful fish and other marine life.
The beach park itself covers over 100 acres and includes plenty of grassy areas with picnic tables, making it an ideal spot for families looking to spend a day at the beach. Visitors can also take advantage of free parking as well as amenities such as showers, restrooms, and concession stands selling food and drinks.
For those who want to be more active during their visit, Ala Moana Beach Park has several tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball nets, and even a running track. And if you’re simply looking to relax under the Hawaiian sun while enjoying breathtaking views of Diamond Head Crater in the distance, this serene paradise will provide all that you need!
Kahanamoku Beach
Kahanamoku Beach, named after the legendary Hawaiian surfer Duke Kahanamoku, is a beautiful and picturesque beach located in Waikiki. This stunning beach boasts crystal clear water that appears to shimmer under the bright sun.
If you’re looking for a more secluded and peaceful spot away from the crowds of people, then Kahanamoku Beach is definitely worth checking out. The sand here is soft and golden, which makes it perfect for lounging around or taking a leisurely stroll along the shoreline.
One of the great things about this particular beach is that it’s very family-friendly with calm waters that are ideal for swimming and playing in. It’s also an excellent choice for those who enjoy water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking.
In addition to its natural beauty, Kahanamoku Beach offers plenty of amenities including showers, restrooms, and even volleyball courts. There are also many restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat or have a refreshing drink while enjoying magnificent views of Diamond Head.
Kahanamoku Beach provides visitors with an unforgettable experience that combines relaxation with adventure – making it one of the best beaches in Waikiki!
Tips for Visiting Waikiki Beach
So there you have it, the best beaches in Waikiki for your next vacation. Whether you want to surf, swim or just relax on the sand, these beaches offer something for everyone.
But before you head out to enjoy all that Waikiki has to offer, here are some tips to keep in mind:
1. Wear sunscreen: The sun can be intense in Hawaii, so make sure to protect your skin with a high SPF sunscreen.
2. Stay hydrated: Bring plenty of water with you and drink regularly throughout the day.
3. Respect local customs: Be respectful of Hawaiian culture by following local customs such as removing your shoes before entering someone’s home or not wearing a bathing suit in public areas outside of the beach.
4. Watch out for jellyfish: During certain times of year, jellyfish can be present at Waikiki Beach. Keep an eye out and avoid swimming if they are present.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll have a safe and enjoyable time exploring all that Waikiki has to offer!
