Best Things to Do in Waikiki 2026

Waikiki Sunset

Be sure to stop and relax.  After all, chances are you have traveled a long way to be here!  Lay out your towel, choose your favorite book, grab a cool drink, remember your sun protection and bathing suit, and most importantly leave behind your worldly worries - you are all set for a relaxing afternoon.  Then as the heat of the sun fades, catch the sunset.  It’s a tradition on Waikiki Beach, at sunset - when time seems to slow down or stop altogether - that everybody is focused on one thing.  Catching the last of the sun’s rays as the light of the day dips behind the horizon is a great time to enjoy a sunset cocktail or mai-tai at one of the beachside bars or restaurants. Do yourself a favor and experience that magical Hawaiian sunset moment that you traveled so far to soak into your bones.

Surf Lessons Waikiki

This is a must do, no matter your age or ocean experience.  Just do it!  The ocean at Waikiki Beach is generally calm with smooth, rolling waves that are perfect to learn on.  Learning to surf Waikiki is a fun and unique experience, and most surf activity companies offer a variety of surf lessons for all skill levels.  There is nothing more satisfying than standing up on your very first wave, or for more experienced surfers, taking advantage of the relaxing, long rides that Waikiki waves offer.  Outrigger canoe rides are also a fun and worthwhile experience.  It is because of the excellent surfing conditions in Waikiki that surfing legends like the famous Duke Kahanamoku (check out his statue) used Waikiki as a personal surfing playground – and you can too.

Luaus in Waikiki

No Oahu vacation is really complete without attending a Hawaiian Luau, which is the Hawaiian word that describes a traditional Hawaiian party or feast, usually accompanied by entertainment.  Luau parties were first created during the reign of King Kamehameha II.  During a luau you will be fabulously entertained with authentic Hawaiian music, skilled hula performers, fire dancers and Hawaiian style cuisine.  Dine on Kalua pig cooked in an Imu (earth oven), Poi (Taro), Poke (Tuna) and delicious Haupia (coconut pudding).  There are many luau venues in Waikiki and each one brings something unique – this is a not to be missed experience.

Waikiki Restaurants

Dining in Waikiki is a food connoisseurs dream.  With an abundance of international as well as Pacific Rim fare, Waikiki restaurants cater for every taste.  Hawaii regional cuisine is a culinary movement that combines fresh, local ingredients with the cooking methods and flavors of the world.  From fine dining options in gorgeous locations fronting the famous Waikiki Beach, to your favorite national restaurants, Waikiki has it all.

Waikiki Shopping

The bustling hub of Waikiki features a wide variety of world-class shopping, including designer boutiques, high-end shops, and colorful souvenir stores.  Along Kalakaua Avenue, the Luxury Row shopping area offers one of the finest collections of luxury brands and is right up there with some of the world’s great shopping districts – think Oxford Street or Rodeo Drive.  The Royal Hawaiian Center boasts everything from designer apparel to surf shops and jewelry stores.  Ala Moana Center is located just a short drive from Waikiki and remains Hawaii’s largest and most varied shopping destination, with hundreds of stores and restaurants, entertainment, and an international food court.  The International Market Place anchors the heart of Waikiki with an open-air shopping and dining experience surrounded by tropical landscaping. 

Waikiki Nightlife

As the sun sets at the popular beach playground, Waikiki really comes alive, and evening entertainment is easy to find.  Throughout Waikiki, there are endless fine dining and live music options at the many resorts and hotels every night of the week.  There are a number of popular bars fronting Waikiki Beach, plus additional nightlife options in Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown.  Catering for every taste from jazz and traditional Hawaiian music performances to upbeat DJ dance music – there is something for everyone in the lively Oahu music scene.  It is best to check current event listings for the latest info on what’s hip and happening.

Honolulu Zoo

The Honolulu Zoo, located between the slopes of Diamond Head and Waikiki, is home to hundreds of animals from tropical ecosystems, including numerous endangered species housed in thoughtfully designed habitats.  There is a strong focus on education and environmental awareness, with keeper talks, conservation programs, and family-friendly exhibits.  There is a lot to see at the zoo, so be sure to bring sun protection, water, and good walking shoes.  Check current hours before you go; the zoo is closed on Christmas Day.

Waikiki Aquarium

The Waikiki Aquarium is located right near the Honolulu Zoo and is the second oldest public aquarium in the United States, exhibiting more than 3,000 marine animals including living coral, reef fish, and giant clams.  Allow a couple of hours for the full experience and check current hours before you go.

Diamond Head

This is Oahu’s (and perhaps Hawaii’s) most famous landmark – the iconic volcanic crater that stands majestically over Waikiki.  Diamond Head got its name from the glistening calcite crystals that early sailors thought were diamonds.  The summit has always been used for navigation – from ancient times when fires were lit to help guide canoes to more recent wartime when the area was used as a fortification during WWII.  The panoramic views of Oahu’s southeastern coastline from the summit are stunning, and well worth the 0.8-mile, 560-foot climb from the crater floor.  The trail can be uneven so good footwear is advised.   It is very exposed and dry so take plenty of water with you.  Non-residents need advance reservations, and last entry is earlier than park closing.

Waikiki Catamaran

Cruising the calm waters of Mamala Bay and enjoying the beautiful sunsets that only Hawaii can offer is a great way to spend an afternoon in Waikiki.  Escape the crowds, the hustle, and bustle of the traffic and shops, and relax with a Mai Tai to the sound of lapping waves in the gentle breeze.  Most companies offer the option to snorkel with green sea turtles also.   

However you choose to experience Waikiki, you will not be disappointed.  There is so much to see and do, you will inevitably want to stay longer at this multicultural and colorful beach playground.