Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park Honolulu
A scenic oceanfront park offering stunning sunset views, a unique cat colony, and vibrant local events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Sunset & fireworks
Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park Honolulu
Best Time
Sunset & fireworks

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic oceanfront park offering stunning sunset views, a unique cat colony, and vibrant local events.
"A beloved local spot for breathtaking sunsets, friendly cats, and a relaxed vibe."
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Spectacular sunset views are a must! Arrive before dusk for the best spots.
🐾 Pet the Friendly Cats
Many well-fed cats roam the park; they're often friendly and love attention.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Spectacle
Oceanfront promenade
Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A photographer's dream!

The Kaka'ako Cat Colony
Throughout the park
Encounter a friendly community of well-cared-for cats, often gathering in the evenings. A unique and heartwarming experience.

Urban Skyline Views
Along the waterfront
Enjoy panoramic views of the Honolulu skyline and Diamond Head, creating a stunning contrast with the ocean.

Wednesday Night Shuffle
Amphitheater area
Join the vibrant Honolulu Shuffle scene every Wednesday evening for energetic dance and music.
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Sunset Magic
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Spectacular sunset views are a must! Arrive before dusk for the best spots.
🐾 Pet the Friendly Cats
Many well-fed cats roam the park; they're often friendly and love attention.
💃 Join the Shuffle
Experience the Honolulu Shuffle dance every Wednesday evening. All are welcome!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is great for walking, jogging, or biking.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset
Spectacular sunset views are a must! Arrive before dusk for the best spots.
🐾 Pet the Friendly Cats
Many well-fed cats roam the park; they're often friendly and love attention.
💃 Join the Shuffle
Experience the Honolulu Shuffle dance every Wednesday evening. All are welcome!
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The park is great for walking, jogging, or biking.
🚗 Free Parking Available
Parking is generally free and plentiful, but can be towed after park closing.
🎣 Fishing Fun
Locals often fish along the coastline; bring your gear if you're interested.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kaka'ako Waterfront Park for its beautiful ocean views, stunning sunsets, and less crowded atmosphere compared to other Honolulu beaches. The friendly cat colony and free parking are also significant draws. Some mention occasional issues with trash accumulation and bothersome flies, but overall, it's considered a lovely spot for relaxation and local experiences.
"Really nice water side park! Not crowded. Easy parking. There are trees, tables, bathrooms. You can enjoy the ocean view here and watch the waves and sunset. There are also many cats here! There will be locals bring cats food here to feed them. So lovely."
Qianren Zhou
"amazing spot to be by the water but not swim! it has a parking lot which is always a plus to me. it a very big park so there is plenty of space. you can get some good exercise in while walking and theirs a lot of cats to see in the evening which was awesome! some of the cats are really friendly too!"
Anna Akins
"I visited for sunset with some light dinner.
Magically, a crew of mostly friendly cats appeared to say hello. They looked well fed with clean coats. They accepted some pettings and watched the sunset with me.
(Note for anyone with cat dander allergies!)
Plenty of fishing happening along the coastline (many rods with bells, the people were elsewhere).
A sunset cruise went by also.
Unfortunately, some large black flies appeared so I couldn't snack on my food.
Very popular area, many folks stopping for gorgeous sunset photos. Good walking trail.
I might have to return to pet the cats, they're much more fun than a cat cafe."
Ali C
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is walkable from Waikiki, though it's a bit of a trek (around 2-3 miles). You can walk along Ala Moana Boulevard, passing Ala Moana Center and Ward Village. Sidewalks are generally safe, but it can be hot and unshaded during the day, so morning or late afternoon is best. Alternatively, the bus system is an easy and affordable option.
Yes, TheBus is a convenient way to reach Kaka'ako Waterfront Park from various parts of Honolulu. Several bus routes stop near the park.
Driving is a good option as there is ample free parking available at the park. However, be aware that cars are towed after the park closes at night.
Absolutely! The two parks are adjacent, making it a very easy and pleasant walk between them. You can enjoy the waterfront promenade connecting the areas.
Yes, the park offers a flat and extensive oceanside walkway that's perfect for jogging, running, or cycling.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and amenities for free!
The park is generally open from early morning until late evening. However, it's important to note that vehicles are towed after closing hours, so be mindful of the time if you are driving.
No advance booking or tickets are required to visit Kaka'ako Waterfront Park as it is a public space.
Yes, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park hosts various events, including the popular Honolulu Shuffle dance every Wednesday evening. It's also a known spot for fireworks on Friday nights.
Definitely! The park offers picnic tables and barbecue grilling facilities, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic with ocean views.
📸 📸 Photography
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The park also provides stunning views of the Honolulu skyline, which look great day or night.
The oceanfront promenade for sunset shots, the Honolulu skyline views, and the unique cat colony are all highly photogenic. The amphitheater area can also be interesting, especially during events.
Yes, the cats are a popular subject for photos! They are generally friendly and accustomed to people, but always be respectful of their space.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography might require permits, so it's best to check with park authorities if you plan on professional shoots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean and skyline views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the skyline or wildlife. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset and low-light photography.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
You can walk, run, bike, skate, swim, surf, fish, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the ocean views and gentle tradewinds. It's also a popular spot for watching sunsets and has a unique cat colony.
While the park is on the waterfront, it's generally not recommended for swimming due to currents and potential hazards. It's more of a place to enjoy the ocean views and activities like fishing or surfing nearby.
Yes, the park is equipped with restrooms, picnic tables, and barbecue grilling facilities, making it convenient for visitors.
The Honolulu Shuffle is a vibrant community dance event that takes place every Wednesday evening at Kaka'ako Waterfront Park. It's an inclusive gathering where people of all styles and vibes are welcome to dance.
Yes, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is known for its resident cat colony, which is well-cared for by locals. You might also see some stray chickens.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dedicated restaurants or food vendors directly within Kaka'ako Waterfront Park. However, the nearby Ward Village and Ala Moana Center offer a wide variety of dining options.
Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is highly encouraged! The park has picnic tables and barbecue facilities, making it a great spot for a DIY meal.
The adjacent Ward Village and Ala Moana Center offer a vast array of culinary choices, from casual eateries to upscale dining. You can find almost any cuisine imaginable.
While not a permanent fixture, food trucks sometimes gather in the Kaka'ako area, especially during events. It's worth checking local listings or social media for any current food truck presence.
While generally safe, some visitors have noted the presence of large black flies, which can be bothersome when trying to eat outdoors. It's advisable to keep food covered.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't miss the unique opportunity to see the friendly cat colony, which can be a delightful experience for children. Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially if visiting during the day, as shaded areas can be limited. The park's free parking is also a big plus for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Instead of expensive tourist traps, you can enjoy stunning sunset views, a unique cat colony, and a vibrant local atmosphere. Pack your own snacks and drinks to save money on food, or explore the nearby Ward Village or Ala Moana Center for more affordable dining options. The walkability from Waikiki also saves on transportation costs if you're up for it.
📸 Photographers
Beyond the landscapes, the park's resident cat colony provides unique portrait opportunities, and the Wednesday night Honolulu Shuffle offers dynamic shots of movement and community. A wide-angle lens is recommended for the expansive views, and a tripod is essential for capturing the best of the sunset light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of the Kaka'ako Cat Colony
These cats are a beloved part of the park's identity, adding a special charm that sets Kaka'ako Waterfront Park apart from other coastal areas. Their presence creates a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making the park feel even more welcoming. It's a delightful surprise for many visitors who come for the ocean views and leave with fond memories of their feline encounters.
Experiencing the Honolulu Shuffle
Local DJs often provide the beats, and the 'Lady Shufflers' are a prominent part of the scene. It's a chance to see a different side of Honolulu's nightlife, away from the typical tourist spots. If you're looking for an authentic and lively experience, marking your calendar for Wednesday evenings at Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is a must.
Navigating the Walkability from Waikiki
Travelers suggest that walking through Ala Moana Center and Ward Village can offer some respite from the sun and provide opportunities to stop for a break. The environment is largely urban, but the park itself offers a pleasant destination. If walking isn't your preference, the local bus system is a very easy and affordable alternative for reaching the park.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit