The beaches of Waikiki along Oahu’s southern shore comprise one of the world’s most impressive stretches of sand, surf, and tropical sunshine amidst high-rise hotels, high-end shopping, and restaurants galore. The whole length of sand along Waikiki is often referred to as Waikiki Beach, though there are actually various named beaches including, from east to west, San Souci Beach, Kapiolani Beach Park, Kuhio Beach Park, Fort DeRussy, and Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon.
Great For: Sunbathing, people watching, swimming, surfing, bodyboarding, snorkeling, windsurfing, parasailing, outrigger canoe rides, catamaran sailing, fishing.
Highlights: Surfing the gentle waves of Waikiki is an unforgettable experience. Famous offshore surfing spots are called Castles, Queen’s, Canoes, Kaisers, and Rock Piles.
Need To Know
The two most famous hotels along the beach in Waikiki are the Royal Hawaiian built in 1927 and the Moana built in 1901. The area in front of these hotels is known as the Royal Hawaiian Beach, though it is also called Royal Moana Beach or Central Waikiki Beach.
Lifeguard: A lifeguard tower is located at Central Waikiki Beach near the Waikiki Police substation.
Facilities: Restrooms, showers, and food concessions are located at numerous spots along the beach on Kalakaua Avenue.
Access: Along Kalakaua Avenue in Waikiki.