Waikiki Beach
Iconic beachfront paradise known for gentle surf, stunning sunsets, and a lively, tropical atmosphere.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Waikiki Beach
Best Time
Golden hour for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic beachfront paradise known for gentle surf, stunning sunsets, and a lively, tropical atmosphere.
"Really lovely place to sit and watch the ocean with a cocktail."
Surf's Up! 🏄♀️
Waikiki's gentle waves are perfect for beginners. Book lessons in advance for the best experience!
Sunset Cocktails 🍹
Enjoy a drink as the sun sets; the ambiance is magical. Some say the mojitos are legendary!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Iconic Waikiki Waves
Waikiki Beach
Catch your first wave or perfect your technique on the gentle, iconic surf that made Waikiki famous.
Sunset Serenity
Waikiki Beachfront
Witness breathtaking sunsets painting the sky with vibrant colors over the Pacific Ocean.
Beachfront Dining & Drinks
Waikiki Beach
Enjoy delicious food and refreshing cocktails with your toes in the sand and ocean views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waikiki Vibe
Plan for Sun and Surf
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Surf's Up! 🏄♀️
Waikiki's gentle waves are perfect for beginners. Book lessons in advance for the best experience!
Sunset Cocktails 🍹
Enjoy a drink as the sun sets; the ambiance is magical. Some say the mojitos are legendary!
Pack for the Sun ☀️
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential. Stay hydrated!
Dinner with a View 🌅
Consider dinner here as dusk approaches for a beautiful setting and tasty food.
Tips
from all over the internet
Surf's Up! 🏄♀️
Waikiki's gentle waves are perfect for beginners. Book lessons in advance for the best experience!
Sunset Cocktails 🍹
Enjoy a drink as the sun sets; the ambiance is magical. Some say the mojitos are legendary!
Pack for the Sun ☀️
Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential. Stay hydrated!
Dinner with a View 🌅
Consider dinner here as dusk approaches for a beautiful setting and tasty food.
Service Can Be Slow ⏳
Be patient, especially during peak times. If you're in a rush, it might not be the best fit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Waikiki Beach is celebrated for its stunning ocean views, perfect waves for learning to surf, and vibrant atmosphere, especially during sunset. While many enjoy the beachfront dining and cocktails, some visitors note that service can be slow during peak times, and occasional issues with menu accuracy have been reported.
"Nice beach bar only had drinks, good view but a bit noise for me for an afternoon drink. Service was good, drinks especially the cocktails was very nice."
Stephen Dodds
"Walters dont pay attention to your needs. Have to wait long. But drinks are good. Nice seats on the beach, overlooking the ocean. If you are not in a rush, you'd probably enjoy a visit.
Went back 16th of March. No waiter in sight. Waited 25 minutes and went inside to order. All staff was there. Couldn't order, girl walked out and told us they'd be right there. Waited another 15 minutes....left. disgraceful!"
Mibo
"Really lovely place to sit and watch the ocean with a cocktail. The food was nice apart from the nachos came with chicken on top and it didn't state it on the menu and my girlfriend is a veggie the guy that seemed to be the manager was really nice at first but when we sent the nachos back for ones without chicken he seemed to avoid the area we were sitting in altogether. Didn't bother us too much as our waiter was still floating about but the turn in the attitude was off putting. The chicken club sandwich is really good would recommend that massive portion and tasty cocktails are good too!"
Matthew Boyd
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waikiki Beach is easily accessible in Honolulu, Oahu. If you're staying in Waikiki, it's likely within walking distance. Public transportation, ride-sharing services, and taxis are readily available. Many visitors also rent cars, but parking can be challenging and expensive.
Yes, Waikiki Beach is a very well-known landmark in Honolulu. Simply head towards the south shore of Oahu, and you'll find it. Signs are plentiful, and most navigation apps will easily guide you there.
Walking is ideal for exploring the main strip of Waikiki. For longer distances or to explore nearby areas like Diamond Head, consider the local bus system (TheBus), trolleys, or ride-sharing services.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options, but they can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider using ride-sharing or public transport if possible.
Absolutely! From Honolulu International Airport (HNL), you can take a taxi, ride-share, shuttle service, or TheBus to reach Waikiki. The journey typically takes about 30-45 minutes depending on traffic.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Waikiki Beach itself is a public beach and does not have an entrance fee. You can enjoy the sand and ocean for free.
Waikiki Beach is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, lifeguard services and beach facilities typically operate during daylight hours.
No tickets are required to access Waikiki Beach. It's a public space for everyone to enjoy.
Generally, there are no major restrictions for visiting the beach itself. However, be mindful of local ordinances regarding alcohol consumption, bonfires, and noise levels, especially in the evenings.
Yes, you are generally allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages to Waikiki Beach. However, it's always a good idea to check for any temporary restrictions or to be mindful of keeping the beach clean.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch of Waikiki Beach offers stunning photo opportunities. Iconic shots include the Duke Kahanamoku statue, Diamond Head in the background, and the vibrant sunsets. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light. 
Drone usage is restricted in many areas of Hawaii, including near popular beaches and populated areas like Waikiki. Always check current FAA regulations and local advisories before flying a drone.
The 'golden hours' – shortly after sunrise and before sunset – provide the most beautiful, soft light for photography. Evenings are also popular for capturing the lively atmosphere and city lights.
Don't miss the Duke Kahanamoku statue, a tribute to the father of modern surfing. Diamond Head crater provides a dramatic backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Expect a mix of beach scenes, surfing action, stunning sunsets, vibrant street life, and iconic Hawaiian landscapes. It's a photographer's paradise!
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Waikiki Beach offers a range of dining options, from casual beach bars serving cocktails and snacks to restaurants with international comfort food. You can find everything from fresh seafood to classic American dishes. +1
Yes, Waikiki Beach is known for its beachfront bars offering a variety of cocktails. Some visitors rave about the mojitos and other refreshing drinks, especially during sunset.
Many visitors recommend trying the cocktails and enjoying the beachfront ambiance. The chicken club sandwich is also noted as a tasty and large portion.
Considering the fantastic beachfront location, the prices are often considered reasonable for drinks and food. However, it can be pricier than off-beach establishments.
While some dishes might have meat, it's worth checking menus for vegetarian options. Be sure to communicate any dietary needs clearly, as one reviewer noted an issue with unexpected chicken on nachos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a beginner surf lesson together for a memorable family activity. The beach is easily accessible, and there are plenty of opportunities for everyone to enjoy the sun and sea. Remember to pack plenty of sunscreen and snacks to keep the little ones happy and protected.
💰 Budget Travelers
Consider staying slightly off the main strip for more affordable accommodation options. Utilizing public transportation like TheBus can also significantly cut down on travel expenses compared to taxis or ride-shares. Enjoying the sunset and the vibrant atmosphere costs nothing!
💖 Couples
Consider booking a sunset surf lesson for a fun and adventurous couples' activity. The gentle waves are ideal for learning together. Many hotels in the area also offer packages tailored for couples, enhancing the romantic experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Surfing in Waikiki: A Beginner's Paradise
Many visitors share their excitement about their first surfing experience here. The feeling of catching a wave and gliding towards the shore is often described as exhilarating and unforgettable. Even if you're not a beginner, Waikiki offers a relaxed surfing environment to practice your skills or simply enjoy the ocean. The consistent conditions mean you're likely to find rideable waves throughout much of the year.
When planning your surf session, consider booking lessons in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. This ensures you secure a spot with a reputable school and get the most out of your time in the water. Remember to stay hydrated and protected from the sun, as you'll be spending a good amount of time in the water and on the beach.
The Waikiki Beach Experience: Beyond the Sand
+1The area surrounding Waikiki Beach is also brimming with life. You'll find a wide array of restaurants, bars, and shops catering to every taste and budget. Many beachfront establishments offer live music and dancing, creating a festive atmosphere that lasts late into the night. It's the perfect place to unwind with a cocktail and soak in the tropical ambiance.
While Waikiki is a must-visit, many travelers recommend exploring beyond the immediate beach area to truly appreciate Oahu. Consider visiting nearby botanical gardens, other stunning beaches like Lanikai, or taking a scenic drive. This provides a more comprehensive understanding of the island's diverse beauty and culture.
+1Dining and Drinks on Waikiki Beach
Visitors often praise the quality and taste of the drinks, with some mentioning specific favorites like mojitos. While the food is generally well-received, it's advisable to check menus for specific ingredients, as one reviewer noted an issue with unexpected meat on a vegetarian dish. The chicken club sandwich is frequently recommended for its generous portion and flavor.
It's worth noting that service can sometimes be slow, particularly during busy periods. If you're looking for a quick bite, it might be best to plan accordingly or consider ordering ahead if possible. However, for those who aren't in a rush, the relaxed atmosphere and stunning ocean views make it a worthwhile experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit