1) Learn to Surf at Waikiki Beach
Waikiki is famous for friendly, rolling waves—perfect for first-timers and “I’ve always wanted to try surfing” travelers. Book a lesson, show up, laugh a lot, and prepare for the best nap of your life afterward.
If you want a well-known local option, Big Wave Dave Surf Co. offers lessons for all skill levels. (Big Wave Dave Surf & Coffee)
Tip: Mornings are often calmer and less crowded—great for beginners.
2) Hike Diamond Head for the Classic Postcard View
If you do only one “big” Waikiki activity, make it Diamond Head. The summit view over Waikiki’s coastline is legendary.
Know before you go (important): Non-Hawaii residents need entry (and parking) reservations, and the park runs 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. with a last entry window tied to reservation times. (Hawaii DLNR)
Bring: water, a hat, sunscreen, and shoes you don’t mind getting dusty.
3) Do a Beach Day the Waikiki Way
Yes, “go to the beach” sounds obvious—but Waikiki beach days have a rhythm:
- Morning swim or paddleboard
- Midday shaved ice / lunch
- Sunset stroll
- Dinner with an ocean view
Extra fun: Rent a beach chair/umbrella so you can truly settle in.
4) Visit the Waikīkī Aquarium (Easy, Cool, and Family-Friendly)
Need a break from the sun (or traveling with kids)? The Waikīkī Aquarium is a low-stress win—interesting, walkable from many Waikiki hotels, and packed with Hawaiian marine life.
They list daily hours of 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (facility closes at 5:00 p.m.), with general admission $12 (discounts available). (Waikiki Aquarium)
5) Catch a Free Hula Show (A Must-Do “Aloha Moment”)
Waikiki still has magical, old-Hawai‘i moments—especially when music and hula meet the ocean breeze.
The Kūhiō Beach Hula Show is often scheduled on Saturday evenings (weather permitting)—but times and dates can change, so check the current listing before you go.
6) Eat Your Way Through Waikiki (And Just Beyond)
Waikiki is delicious—especially when you lean into local flavors.
Must-try bites:
- Poke (fresh and simple is best)
- Kalua pork
- Loco moco
- Spam musubi (yes, really)
Quick update: If you’ve seen older blogs recommending Ono Hawaiian Foods, note that it closed years ago—so swap that stop for other Kapahulu-area classics instead.
7) Sunset Drinks at Duke’s Waikiki
Duke’s is one of those Waikiki institutions that just feels like vacation: beachfront, lively, and full of surf culture spirit. Their official site highlights the iconic Waikiki setting and “barefoot bar” vibes (and yes—sunset here hits different). (Duke’s Restaurants)
8) Go Up High at SKY Waikiki (Rooftop Views + Nightlife)
For a glam Waikiki night: rooftop. SKY Waikiki runs a daily happy hour 4–5 p.m., and their nightlife typically ramps up on Friday and Saturday nights from 9 p.m. (skywaikiki.com)
Tip: Arrive around golden hour so you get both daylight views and city lights.
9) Shop Luxury Row for Designer Browsing
Even if you’re “just looking,” Luxury Row is fun for a quick stroll and a little window-shopping fantasy. It’s located at 2100 Kalākaua Avenue in the heart of Waikiki. (Shop Luxury Row)
10) Explore Waikiki Beach Walk for Boutiques + Live Performances
This is a great “wander and see what happens” zone—shops, restaurants, and frequent activities/performances. (Waikiki Beach Walk)
11) Take a Long Walk Through Kapiʻolani Regional Park
Right on Waikiki’s edge, Kapiʻolani Park is your green exhale: picnic space, people-watching, and easy access to nearby attractions. The City & County highlights it as a long-preserved, open public park dating back to the early 1900s. (City and County of Honolulu)
12) Book a Luau (If You Want the Full Evening Show)
Luaus can be touristy—but also genuinely fun when you’re in the mood for music, dance, and a festive dinner. One popular option is the Waikiki Starlight Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village, which outlines a timed evening itinerary on their site. (Hilton Hawaiian Village)
13) Do a Sunrise Coffee Run
Waikiki early mornings are calm, glowy, and surprisingly peaceful. Grab coffee, walk the shoreline, and watch the beach “wake up.”
Bonus: You’ll beat the crowds and the heat.
14) Try an Ocean Activity That’s Not Surfing
If surfing isn’t your thing, Waikiki is still an ocean playground:
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- Canoe rides
- Snorkeling (conditions vary—check the day’s water clarity and ocean safety)
15) Make One “Off-the-Beaten-Path” Choice
This is where Waikiki really becomes your Waikiki. Pick one thing that’s purely you:
- A food crawl
- A live music night
- A spa afternoon
- A photo walk at sunrise
The best memories usually come from the plan you didn’t over-plan.
Quick Planning Tips (So Your Trip Feels Effortless)
- Reserve Diamond Head early if you’re a non-resident—spots can sell out. (Go State Parks Hawaii)
- Double-check hours for attractions close to holidays or big events (Honolulu Marathon week can affect schedules). (Waikiki Aquarium)
- Keep reef-safe sunscreen in your day bag and reapply often.
Waikiki is the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, stay out a little later than planned, and say “just one more beach walk.” Use this list as your launchpad—then follow the sunshine, the music, and whatever smells delicious.
Safe travels, and enjoy every minute in Waikiki. 🌺
As experienced travel writers, we’ve thoroughly explored the beautiful islands of Hawaii and gathered local insights to craft this detailed guide. We’ve also collaborated with Hawaii’s tourism department and local businesses to ensure accurate, up-to-date information.