The Waikiki Beach area is located at the southern end of Honolulu on the island of Oahu, Hawaii. Waikiki's beautiful beach was historically used as a vacation spot by Hawaii's royalty, and since the beginning of the 20th century Waikiki has been one of the premier tourist destinations in Hawaii. The name Waikiki means "spouting water" in the Hawaiian language, referring to the rivers and springs that flowed through the area. Whether you want to stay on the land or prefer to venture out into the sea, you will find plenty to do in Waikiki Beach.
On the Beach
The beach has always been the biggest attraction at Waikiki. Many people who visit Waikiki Beach spend most of their time there, some of them tanning while they read a book, others making use of the water or making sand castles. But there is plenty to do on Waikiki's beaches for those who prefer a more active lifestyle. Consider splashing in the water or playing a game of beach volleyball. Waikiki Beach also provides a gorgeous backdrop for Frisbee golf, a brisk morning jog or a leisurely evening stroll. For a divine experience, try a morning yoga or aerobics class on Waikiki Beach's shores. Before your vacation in Waikiki Beach ends, be sure to hike over to the statue of Duke Kahanamoku at Kuhio Beach, an important symbol of both Waikiki and the Spirit of Aloha Hawaii is known for.
In the Water
One of the greatest pastimes at the beach is surfing, which has a long tradition in Hawaii. Surfing almost disappeared under European control of Hawaii, as they frowned upon it, but it was kept alive and later popularized as Hawaii became a resort destination. Those looking to work on their surfing skills can get lessons from today's Waikiki Beach Boys, who maintain legendary surfer Duke Kahanamoku's tradition of teaching visitors to surf. After surfing your fill, you can also get a lesson from the Beach Boys on paddling in an outrigger canoe. Other popular beach activities include snorkeling, swimming and windsurfing.
Learning Hawaiian Traditions
If you are interested in the history of Waikiki, there is no better way to learn about it than with a stroll along the Waikiki Historic Trail, which begins at the Royal Hawaiian Center. Nineteen of the 23 sites on the trail are marked by surfboard-shaped historical markers containing a wealth of historical information about that particular location. Even if you are not interested in history, you can learn about other aspects of Hawaiian culture. Plan to spend a day hiking along this trail. Walking tours with a guide are available as well. The Royal Hawaiian is also one of many places in Waikiki where you can learn to play the ukulele or learn to dance the hula.
Other Attractions
There are many places to visit in Waikiki and the surrounding areas, often without going far at all. The Waikiki Aquarium is located along the beach and showcases more than 500 different species, including two Hawaii monk seals, which are endangered. Also popular is the Honolulu Zoo, which has almost 1000 species and specializes in animals found in tropical regions. Those who like the great outdoors will appreciate a hike along Diamond Head Crater and Lookout. Diamond Head is a volcano which has been inactive for more than 150,000 years. Today, visitors can ascend the 760-foot summit to the top of the crater,which is 3,520 feet in diameter. Be sure to start your trip early in the day as there is no shade. Once you make it to the top, your efforts are rewarded with a cool gentle breeze as you take in the sights from the observation deck.
Farmers Markets
Waikiki Beach offers a number of Farmers Markets, street vendors and food stands to fit any culinary palette. A farmers market featuring freshly grown local foods can be found on nearly every day of the week, including Sunday. Kapiolani Community College hosts an open air farmers market every Saturday, featuring locally grown produce, fresh, ready-to-eat healthy snacks and foods prepared with local ingredients. Some markets even feature the music and works of other artists, giving them almost a street fair-like atmosphere. Patrons can pick up the best in healthy eats while enjoying music, dancing, and perhaps a true taste of Waikiki Beach's local flavor.
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