Why Waikiki? 5 Reasons to Visit During Your Oahu Vacation

Waikiki, on the south shore of Honolulu, Oahu, is one bustling beach area, with loads of enthusiastic surfers riding the waves in front of a stretch of high-rise hotels, upscale shops, and oceanfront restaurants. Sure Waikiki Beach is an urban destination – it certainly feels worlds away from laid-back Lanai. But it’s a spot you should definitely check out during a stay on Oahu. Here are a few reasons why I think Waikiki is cool.

Waikiki Historic Trail
This self-guided walking tour begins at the Royal Hawaiian shopping mall and features 23 historic sites throughout the area, 19 of which are marked with bronze surfboard statues. I didn’t actually intend to follow the Waikiki Historic Trail, but whenever I happened upon a bronze surfboard, I’d stop and read the historic tales. I read fascinating stories about Waikiki’s former status as a playground for Hawaiian royalty and learned how Waikiki came to be known as the birthplace of surfing as a competitive sport.

Nifty Restaurants & Bars
I loved the chic atmosphere at Hotel Halekulani's Roy’s is named the top restaurant in Waikiki according to TripAdvisor.com for its sushi and creative fusion cuisine. Hole-in-the-wall lunch spots serving plate lunches also provide visitors with options for what the locals eat (typically a hot entree like sweet kalua pork or breaded chicken katsu served with white rice and macaroni salad). Truly, you won’t go hungry in Waikiki – no matter your budget.

ABC Stores On Every Corner
For Hawaiian souvenirs, this discount chain is the place to go. From key chains and beach towels to t-shirts and plumeria-scented body lotion, you can find something for everyone back home at an ABC Store. You can't miss them, either, as they are found on nearly every block in Waikiki.

Stand-Up Paddling
If you want to try the water sport that’s hitting the nation like a big ocean wave, sample paddleboarding here in the gentle(ish) waves of Waikiki. In particular, I recommend Waikiki Beach Services, which is the outfitter with which my husband and I took SUP lessons. We had an absolute ball with a very patient instructor. Waikiki Beach Services also offers surfing lessons and outrigger canoe rides.

Attractions Beyond The Beach
The Honolulu Zoo is good bet for vacationing families. It’s on 42 acres and within walking distance of Waikiki Beach. The Waikiki Aquarium and the shopping areas of the Royal Hawaiian Center and DFS Galleria are other ways to while away your time. Star of Honolulu offers dolphin tours and sunset cruises from Waikiki; in the evening consider the long-running and entertaining Society of Seven live show. And don’t forget, a hike to the top of imposing Diamond Head crater is just a short bus ride away.

Stay in or Near Waikiki
On my recent visit to Oahu, my husband and I spent three nights at Waikiki's JW Marriott Ilhani Resort & Spa in the Ko Olina resort area on the southwest side of the island. Splitting our time between two hotels gave us a nice mix of city and resort vibe, and I’m glad we had more time at Waikiki Beach than if we’d just spent one day in the area.

What's your favorite thing to do in Waikiki? Share in the comments below!

Photos: Kara Williams