Waikiki beach
Waikiki Beach, one of the most celebrated beaches on the southern shore of Hawaii's Oahu, beckons with its legendary allure. Its name, meaning "spouting waters," harks back to the abundant springs that once dotted the area. Once a favored retreat for Hawaiian royalty, today's Waikiki is a vibrant resort destination. Its golden sands are framed by towering high-rises, making it the most sought-after beach in Hawaii. Both couples and families with children flock to this oceanic haven, drawn by the promise of serene relaxation on its sun-kissed shores.
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Beach description
The coast of Waikiki spans just over 3 km, offering a picturesque coastal strip adorned with white sand and flanked by the calm, azure ocean waters on one side, and stunning high-rise apartment buildings, luxury hotels, and boutiques on the other.
The shore was artificially created and has been restored multiple times - sand was transported from other beaches to this location. The wetlands that once existed nearby were drained, giving way to a scenic coast with well-developed infrastructure, transforming Waikiki into a prestigious resort.
Waikiki Beach is renowned as a prime destination for those eager to learn the art of wave riding.
- In the era of the Hawaiian kings, Waikiki was celebrated as a surfing haven.
- The majority of the coast is popular among surfers, particularly novices, drawn by the gentle, long-rolling waves.
- This Hawaiian beach is an ideal spot for taking your inaugural paddleboarding lessons or attempting to master the ocean on a surfboard.
- The ocean here remains tranquil throughout the year. The primary concern for beginners is navigating around the numerous other surfers, who tend to congregate in this area.
It is noteworthy that the coast underwent significant fortification before development. Approximately 80 dams and barriers were constructed along the shoreline, ensuring exceptionally safe conditions for swimming. This safety, coupled with the shallow waters near the shore, makes it a suitable relaxation spot for families with young children. However, it is important to note that the seabed can be quite rocky.
The western part of the beach, known as the Kahanamoku Lagoon (or Hilton), is particularly inviting for swimmers, boasting the calmest waters and an expansive sandy shore. This area is typically bustling with vacationers. In contrast, the stretch of beach known as Fort DeRussy tends to be less crowded.
When is the best time to visit?
The best time to visit the Hawaii Islands for a beach vacation largely depends on the traveler's preferences for weather, crowds, and prices. However, there are generally two periods considered ideal:
- Late April to Early June: Spring offers a sweet spot with less rainfall and milder temperatures. The islands are less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience on the beaches and at other attractions.
- September to Mid-December: Fall is another optimal time, as the summer crowds have dissipated and the weather remains warm and pleasant. This period also avoids the winter rainy season, ensuring more sunny days on the beach.
Both time frames offer the opportunity to enjoy Hawaii's stunning beaches, warm ocean waters, and outdoor activities under ideal conditions. Whether you're looking to surf, snorkel, or simply soak up the sun, these periods provide the perfect balance of good weather and fewer tourists, making for an unforgettable beach vacation in Hawaii.
Video: Beach Waikiki
Infrastructure
Waikiki boasts the splendor of a resort with unparalleled comfort. Showers are conveniently located along the coast, and umbrellas and deck chairs are available for rent. The infrastructure of the beach and its surrounding area is exceptionally well-developed:
- Directly across from the beach, a plethora of hotels, beach bars, souvenir shops, and cafés can be found;
- Strolling along the main avenue of the resort, visitors will discover numerous luxury stores of renowned brands and world-class restaurants;
- The area is also home to a variety of shops offering clothing and equipment for surfing enthusiasts;
- As night falls, the resort comes alive with clubs, while the shore becomes a stage for diverse concerts and parties.
Waikiki Beach is a hub of activity, frequently hosting surfing competitions and canoe races. In the evenings, the sounds of street musicians fill the air. Here, renting equipment for a wide range of water activities is a breeze. The coast is also under the vigilant watch of a lifeguard service.
The historic Moana Surfrider hotel, established in 1901, marks the beginning of the resort's storied hospitality. Not far from the beach, other historic hotels, such as the Royal Hawaiian, stand proudly. With approximately 150 hotels in the resort, there is an accommodation option to suit every taste near the coast. For those wishing to stay near the Hilton Lagoon, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is an excellent choice.
Weather in Waikiki
Best hotels of Waikiki
All hotels of WaikikiUseful information
- Waikiki attracts not only with beach vacations and entertainments in the ocean, but also with many interesting places in the resort and in the surroundings that are worth visiting. These include Pearl Harbor, Chinatown, Iolani Palace and Hanauma Bay.
- Near the eastern edge of the beach, almost adjacent to Diamond Head, is the vast Kapiolani coastal park, which is a great place for picnics and games as well as an aquarium and a zoo. Swimming in the eastern part of Waikiki is also the most attractive since there is a sandy bottom.
- The beach offers parasailing and boat rental for cruises along the coast and for ocean fishing.