Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon
Waikiki's serene Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon and its widest beach offer calm waters, abundant marine life, and stunning views, perfect for families and rel...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more shade
Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more shade
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Waikiki's serene Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon and its widest beach offer calm waters, abundant marine life, and stunning views, perfect for families and relaxation.
"An idyllic, calm protected lagoon with spectacular views of Diamond Head and adjacent to the Kahanamoku Beach."
Arrive Early for Shade
Secure a shaded spot by the lagoon by 8 AM, especially during summer. :sunwithface:
Calm Waters for Little Ones
The lagoon's no-wave environment is ideal for families with young children. :baby:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon
Waikiki
An artificial, calm oasis perfect for swimming and family fun, with abundant marine life.
Duke Kahanamoku Beach
Adjacent to the lagoon
Waikiki's widest beach, offering pristine white sands and azure waters for relaxation.
Friday Night Fireworks
Hilton Hawaiian Village, visible from the lagoon
A dazzling weekly spectacle launched from the lagoon, lighting up the Waikiki night sky.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Lagoon Bliss
Respectful Enjoyment of a Sacred Space
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early for Shade
Secure a shaded spot by the lagoon by 8 AM, especially during summer. :sunwithface:
Calm Waters for Little Ones
The lagoon's no-wave environment is ideal for families with young children. :baby:
Respectful Visitor Etiquette
Be mindful of memorials and local customs; treat this culturally significant space with respect. :pray:
Rent Watercraft Fun
Paddleboards, kayaks, and water tricycles are available for rent for added enjoyment. :kayak:
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early for Shade
Secure a shaded spot by the lagoon by 8 AM, especially during summer. :sunwithface:
Calm Waters for Little Ones
The lagoon's no-wave environment is ideal for families with young children. :baby:
Respectful Visitor Etiquette
Be mindful of memorials and local customs; treat this culturally significant space with respect. :pray:
Rent Watercraft Fun
Paddleboards, kayaks, and water tricycles are available for rent for added enjoyment. :kayak:
Friday Fireworks Viewing
Enjoy the weekly fireworks show launched from the lagoon. Arrive early for good spots. :fireworks:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon's calm, family-friendly waters and the beauty of the adjacent beach, often citing it as a top spot for relaxation and observing marine life. While some find the sand less ideal than other Oahu beaches and note it can get crowded, especially on Fridays, the overall experience is highly positive, with many appreciating the free public access and the convenience of amenities.
"An idyllic, calm protected logoon with spectacular views of Diamond Head and adjacent to the Kahanamoku Beach, the current Number 1 beach in all the United States, according to beach expert "Dr. Beach." Tall palm trees surrounding the lagoon provide much needed shade on a hot, clear, sunny day. Come for a swim.and take in the remarkable one-of-a-kind views."
Ken Kroehler
"This is a great spot to bring your family if you're staying close by. There are no waves since it's a lagoon, making it great for little ones. There are some smaller fish in the water, but they leave you alone. There's plenty of beach to stretch out and accommodate lots of people. You can rent a paddle board, kayak or water tricycle if you want. We like to get there early, like 8am and get a spot in the shade by the HHV. We had shade for about 3 hours during summer."
Maegan Longyear
"Place is okay. I do appreciate that folks work hard to keep it clean. It’s a really good place to take kids to swim, especially the inexperienced ones. The sand is not that good, you can find better sand on beaches throughout Oahu. Can get crowded, especially on Fridays for the fireworks. All things considered, this is a decent place to go and enjoy some time one the beach."
Jakob Zetwick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon is located in Waikiki, Honolulu. You can easily reach it by public bus, taxi, or rideshare. If you're staying in Waikiki, it's often within walking distance. Parking can be challenging, so consider alternative transportation.
Parking near Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon can be limited and expensive. The Hilton Hawaiian Village offers parking, but it's primarily for guests. Street parking is scarce, and public lots may have fees. Rideshares or public transport are often recommended.
Yes, Duke Kahanamoku Beach is centrally located in Waikiki. Many hotels are within walking distance, making it a convenient destination for a beach day. 
If you're coming from outside Waikiki, TheBus (public transportation) is an affordable option. Alternatively, taxis and rideshares are readily available. Driving and parking can be a hassle.
Absolutely! TheBus routes frequently service the Waikiki area, making Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon easily accessible via public transport. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient routes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon is open to the public and free to enter. You can enjoy the calm waters and beach area without any admission fees.
Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park, which includes the lagoon, typically closes at 2:00 AM. However, it's always a good idea to check local park closure times as they can vary.
No, tickets are not required for Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon as it is a public beach and lagoon. Entry is free and open to everyone.
Generally, there are no specific entry restrictions for the public lagoon. However, it's important to be aware of park rules and regulations, and to be respectful of the environment and other visitors.
While the beach park is technically open until 2:00 AM, it's best to visit during daylight hours for swimming and enjoying the amenities. The lagoon is most enjoyable when the sun is out.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can swim in the calm lagoon waters, relax on the beach, rent paddleboards, kayaks, or water tricycles, and observe the various fish species. It's also a great spot for families with young children.
The lagoon is excellent for swimming due to its calm, protected waters, making it safe for all ages and swimming abilities. It's a stark contrast to the often wavy ocean beaches in Waikiki.
Yes, many visitors are amazed by the number of fish in the lagoon. It's a unique experience to see marine life in such a central, urban location.
Yes, paddleboards, kayaks, and water tricycles are available for rent at Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, offering fun ways to explore the water.
Duke Kahanamoku Beach can get crowded, especially on Fridays due to the fireworks and during peak tourist seasons. Arriving early on weekdays can help avoid the largest crowds.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lagoon with Diamond Head in the background, the palm trees lining the shore, and the vibrant marine life. The beach itself offers beautiful ocean vistas.
While photos of the beach and lagoon are generally fine, be respectful of any memorials or tributes. Some TikTok videos highlight the importance of not disturbing these sacred spaces.
Golden hour, both in the early morning and late afternoon, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the palm trees provide some shade.
Drone usage is often restricted in public areas and near resorts. It's best to check local regulations and the Hilton Hawaiian Village's policies before flying a drone.
Yes, the iconic Diamond Head crater provides a stunning backdrop for photos of the lagoon and beach. The Duke Kahanamoku statue nearby is also a popular subject.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Adjacent Duke Kahanamoku Beach provides plenty of space for building sandcastles and enjoying the sun. You can rent paddleboards or kayaks for a gentle family adventure on the water. Arriving early is key to snagging a shaded spot, making the day more comfortable for little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks to save money, as concessions can add up. Consider using public transportation (TheBus) to get there, which is significantly cheaper than taxis or rideshares.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Consider renting a kayak or paddleboard for a shared adventure on the water, or simply relax on the wide expanse of Duke Kahanamoku Beach. The Friday night fireworks offer a spectacular, albeit potentially crowded, romantic evening.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Duke Kahanamoku
The Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon complex was developed in the 1950s as part of the Hilton Hawaiian Village project. It was later named in his honor, recognizing his immense contribution to Hawaii's identity and its connection to the ocean. The area serves as a constant reminder of his legacy, blending recreational enjoyment with historical significance.
Visitors can feel the spirit of Duke Kahanamoku as they enjoy the waters he helped popularize. The beach and lagoon are not just tourist attractions but also a tribute to a man who embodied the aloha spirit and shared the joy of the ocean with the world.
+1Navigating the Lagoon and Beach Experience
Adjacent to the lagoon is Duke Kahanamoku Beach, noted as one of the widest stretches of beach in Waikiki. This provides ample space for sunbathing, picnicking, and simply relaxing. While the lagoon is wave-free, the ocean side of the beach can have gentle waves, suitable for beginner surfers or paddleboarders. Rentals for paddleboards, kayaks, and water tricycles are available, offering various ways to enjoy the water.
+1Pro-tip: Arriving early, especially during summer, is crucial for securing a shaded spot under the palm trees, which can be scarce by midday. Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, particularly before the popular Friday night fireworks show.
The Friday Night Fireworks Spectacle
While the regular Friday shows are impressive, the fireworks for holidays like the Fourth of July are often extended and more elaborate. It's advisable to arrive early on Fridays to secure a good viewing spot, as the area can become quite congested. The combination of the serene lagoon and the vibrant fireworks makes for a memorable experience.
Important Note: While the fireworks are a draw, some visitors have noted that the increased crowds on Fridays can impact the overall tranquility of the lagoon. If a peaceful swim is your priority, consider visiting on a different day.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit