Waikiki Beach from Diamond Head
Waikiki is one of the most popular destinations on Hawaii. Located on the south shore of Honolulu, Waikiki has developed as Oahu's main hotel and resort area and, with a range of shops, bars and restaurants to complement its beautiful beaches, the Waikiki neighbourhood has something to offer visitors looking for an active vacation or a more relaxing break soaking up the sun.
Visit Waikiki Aquarium
The Waikiki Aquarium is the third oldest aquarium in the United States, highlighting the aquatic life of Hawaii and the West and South Pacific. Emphasizing the importance of education and conservation, the aquarium displays coral reefs from the region and a diverse range of sea creatures including the Hawaiian monk seal, one of the world's most endangered marine animals.
Waikiki Aquarium
University of Hawaii-Manoa
Honolulu, HI 96815
809-923-9741
waquarium.org
See the Duke Kahanamoko Statue
Duke Kahanamoko is a Hawaiian legend. A master of surfing, swimming and canoeing, Kahanamoko won swimming gold medals at the Olympic Games in 1912 and 1920 before returning to Hawaii and popularizing the sport of surfing. The bronze Duke Kahanamoko statue on Kuhio Beach welcomes visitors to Waikiki and pays tribute to the man remembered as the "father of modern surfing."
Learn to Surf on Waikiki Beach
Waikiki is one of the best places in Hawaii to learn surf. You can stroll along Waikiki's beautiful beaches and sign up for a lesson with one of the Waikiki Beach Boys at the booths near the Duke Kahanamoko statue. Swimming, snorkeling and canoeing are further options for sports-minded visitors, while the less active can relax and enjoy a day sunbathing.
Shop at the Royal Hawaiian Center
The Royal Hawaiian Center is the place to shop and explore local culture in Waikiki. The Center hosts more than 100 shops and restaurants along Waikiki's famous Kalakaua Avenue where you can buy designer goods, sports equipment, crafts and Hawaiian souvenirs. You can also take part in music, hula and cultural classes at the Royal Hawaiian Center.
View Waikiki from Diamond Head
The Diamond Head State Monument is a famous Hawaiian landmark. Known also as Leahi in Hawaiian, the volcanic crater to the east of Waikiki offers panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu to those climbing the 760-foot ascent to its summit. It is a short ride to Diamond Head from Waikiki and the trail to the top includes 175 steps as well as some tunnels and bunkers where you will need a flashlight. The views will make the effort seem worthwhile.
Tags: Diamond Head, Duke Kahanamoko, Hawaiian Center, Royal Hawaiian, Royal Hawaiian Center, Waikiki Aquarium