Are you looking for things to do in Waikiki during your holiday adventure? Well, if you are, then look no further!
You’ve just stumbled across a comprehensive list of activities that will give you all of the information that you need to have a mind-blowing holiday.
Waikiki is filled with some of the most beautiful beaches and landmarks that you’ll find in the world, but there are also plenty of other interesting things to do in Waikiki.
So, without further adieu, let’s start planning your next holiday adventure!
1 Diamond Head
Are you looking for epic things to do in Waikiki that don’t require spending too much money?
If you are, be sure to make a pit stop at Diamond Head.
Diamond Head is an oversized crater that sits in the middle of the mountains in Waikiki.
The crater was formed more than 300,000 years ago due to a volcanic eruption.
One thing that I must say is that Diamond Head is a sight to behold. It has spectacular mountain views as well as crystal clear lagoons.
If you feel like putting your fitness levels to the test, you can hike up the mountain to get a closer look at the spectacle.
There are a variety of trails that you can hike through that are suitable for various skill levels.
Once you reach the top of the mountain you can take in the breathtaking views of mountains, lagoons, and cliffs that surround the crater.
Hiking isn’t the only epic activity that you can do at Diamond Head. You can also visit an old bunker that was built during World War II.
There are plenty of historical landmarks to see at Diamond Head. You probably won’t even get to see all of them in one day.
So, head over to Diamond Head for the adventure of a lifetime!
2 Queens Waikiki Luau
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If you’re looking for things to do in Waikiki that will give you a taste of the local culture, be sure to watch a show at Queens Waikiki Luau.
This is an experience that you simply can’t afford to miss out on. It is a hula show that you won’t see anywhere else.
The show has plenty of talented dancers that are guaranteed to keep you entertained.
On top of that, you’ll be able to watch authentic, Hawaiian live music performances.
Queens Waikiki Luau is all about expressing what Waikiki’s culture is all about.
On top of the live music performances and hula shows that you’ll be able to watch, there are other things that you can do at the venue as well.
If the dancers mesmerize you enough to make you want in on the action, you can sign up for hula classes where you’ll be taught how to do authentic, Hawaiian dances.
If you visit Queens Waikiki Luau at the right time, you might be lucky enough to take part in one of the festivals that it hosts.
The festival is like something that you’ll see in the movies. There is a suckling pig that looks like it belongs on a banquet table.
So, get your hula on and head over to Queens Waikiki Luau. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
3 Hilton Hawaiian Village
Start your holiday with a bang at Hilton Hawaiian Village! Out of all the luxurious things to do in Waikiki, this one takes the cake.
The village is a luxurious holiday resort where you can unwind in style while planning out the next day’s activities.
It is a beautiful place that looks like it belongs in a fairytale.
If you don’t plan on staying at this spectacular holiday resort, you can still watch some firework shows that will blow your mind.
On top of that, you can also sign up for surfing lessons if you want to learn how to ride the famous Hawaiian waves.
Is all of the excitement making your stomach rumble? If it is, be sure to try out one of the food tours that are hosted by the resort.
Otherwise, if you are looking for an even bigger adventure, you can sign up for one of the sailing tours where you’ll get to explore the ocean like a modern-day pirate.
There are also sightseeing tours that you can sign up for. Talk about a place that has something for everyone to enjoy.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s adventure time!
4 Manoa Falls Trail
Are you looking to burn some of those unwanted calories? If you are, you can put your fitness levels to the test on the Manoa Falls Trail.
This is one of the best things to do in Waikiki if you’re looking for breathtaking views and physical stimulation.
The hiking trail is 2 miles long and suitable for hikers of all skill levels.
It takes you directly to the Manoa Falls which is one of the most breathtaking sights that you’ll see in your life.
As a matter of fact, the waterfall and trail contain such spectacular scenery that it has been used as a set to shoot a variety of movies.
Some of these movies include The Hunger Games and Jurassic Park.
So, you’ll basically get to experience what it’s like to walk through a movie set. How cool is that?
The falls are surrounded by a tropical rainforest and majestic mountains. So, you might even encounter some wildlife if you are feeling lucky.
One thing is certain, hiking to the Manoa Falls will be an epic adventure that you won’t soon forget.
If you are looking for extra scenery, you can also check out Rainbow Valley where you’ll get to see beautiful rainbows that light up the valley.
The Moana Falls is bound to make you “fall” in love with Waikiki. That’s a fact!
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5 Waikiki Aquarium
If you’re looking for family-friendly things to do in Waikiki, you simply have to make a pit stop at the Waikiki Aquarium.
This is one of the biggest aquariums that you’ll find in Hawaii.
It’s filled with a variety of sea animals that you can watch through the big sheets of glass.
As a matter of fact, there are more than 3000 different organisms that live in the aquarium.
Since the aquarium is situated next to a coral reef, there are breathtaking collar exhibits that will leave you and your family standing in awe.
You’ll get to see everything from sharks and jellyfish, to clams, shrimps, and other types of fish.
If you want to know more about the aquarium and the sea life that you’ll find there, you can sign up for an audio tour of the aquarium.
You can only do the audio tour if you have a smartphone, so be sure not to leave yours at home.
The aquarium also hosts beach clean-ups for those who feel like helping the environment.
Going to the Waikiki Aquarium is a great activity for anyone who wants to have water-filled fun without getting wet.
Who said that rainy days in Waikiki have to be boring?
6 Ala Wai Golf Course
Swing those arms and get that hole-in-one at Ala Wai Golf Course!
Are you a golfer who is looking to practice their swings in a breathtaking environment?
If you are, you are going to fall in love with the Ala Wai Golf Course.
You can see a variety of tourist attractions from the golf course such as Diamond Head and the Koolau Mountains.
The golf course in itself is pretty spectacular too. It has plenty of space for you to get that hole in one.
The grass on the course is lush and green and there are rocky and sandy terrains to give you an extra challenge.
There are 18 holes on the golf course. So, you’ll be able to play all day if you want to.
On top of that, golf carts and clubs are available to rent if you left your own clubs at home.
I’m not sure about you, but playing golf can make me work up quite an appetite.
Thankfully, the owners of Ala Wai Golf Course have got you covered.
There is a grill on the premises where you can cook up a storm with your family and friends. So, are you in it to win it?
Head over to Ala Wai Golf Course and put your skills to the test!
7 Breakout Waikiki
Will you survive the apocalypse? It’s time to find out at Breakout Waikiki.
This is one of the most exciting things to do in Waikiki on a rainy day.
You can sign up for one or more of the 5 games that are available on the premises to put your survival skills to the test.
Each game contains a series of riddles and challenges that you have to pass to “break out” of the doomsday chambers.
So, you’ll need to put your thinking caps on for this activity. The chambers of doom include some interesting scenarios.
One of these is a chamber where you’ll have to escape from the villainous mastermind who is trying to control your mind with his doomsday devices.
Another chamber that you can choose to escape from includes a doctor who is conducting illegal experiments.
Creepy, if you ask me!
If you don’t want these evil geniuses to get to you, you will need to find clues and analyze the different puzzles that will lead you to the door of freedom.
You don’t have to be a kid to use your imagination. Can you escape the rooms of doom? Put your skills to the test. Your life may depend on it!
8 Waikiki Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Would you like to see all of the things to do in Waikiki? If you do, book your ticket for the Waikiki Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour.
This is a mind-blowing experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
The tour takes you through the streets of Waikiki where you’ll get to see everything that the town has to offer.
On top of that, you’ll be visiting a variety of tourist attractions. Who said that you can’t do all of the things to do in Waikiki?
There are a few tour options for you to choose from. Do you want to learn about the history and landmarks of Waikiki?
Or would you rather go on a scenic tour of the coastline?
You can do all of the above if you sign up for a Waikiki Trolley Hop-On Hop-Off Tour.
You’ll get to take in all of the beautiful scenery that Waikiki has to offer in only a few hours.
If you enjoyed one of the tours, you can always sign up for a different one to see different sites.
The tour will take you past a variety of restaurants in case you get a bit peckish. There’s nothing better than indulging in cultural cuisine.
So, hop off the boredom train and hop on to one of the tour buses to get your adventure started!
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9 Bishop Museum
If you’re looking for educational things to do in Waikiki, the Bishop Museum is the way to go!
The Bishop Museum is the perfect place to learn about Waikiki’s natural and cultural history.
The purpose of the museum is to preserve the memory of the historical figures who helped build Waikiki into what it is today.
There is a wide variety of exhibits that you can browse through to learn more about the town’s rich, cultural history.
If you’re interested in biology, zoology, and natural sciences, you will love visiting the Bishop Museum.
You’ll get to learn the reasons and history behind the tattoos that Polynesian tribe members inked their bodies with a few decades ago.
On top of that, you’ll get to learn more about some of the best surfers that Hawaii has ever seen.
This museum is all about history, the history, and nothing but the history.
If you enjoy looking at art, the Bishop Museum is also the perfect place for you.
The museum has its own art gallery that displays beautiful works of art that are also relevant to Waikiki’s history.
You can’t go wrong by paying a visit to this spectacular museum. So, get ready to learn everything there is to know about Waikiki!
10 Foster Botanical Gardens
Do you love gardening as much as I do? If you do, you are going to love the Foster Botanical Gardens.
Walking into these gardens will make you feel as if you have walked into a fairytale.
The premises is filled with colorful flowers and interesting plants that have been intricately positioned to turn the garden into the breathtaking spectacle that it is today.
Visiting the Foster Botanical Gardens is one of the most relaxing things to do in Waikiki.
You will experience a sense of serenity while you stroll through.
Flowers and trees aren’t the only interesting things to see at the Foster Botanical Gardens.
There are also historical statues that have been carved to express important elements of the town’s history.
On top of that, there is an ancient temple on the premises. Don’t forget to pack a picnic basket with some snacks and treats.
There is a lovely picnic area where you can sit and relax with your picnic basket.
The Foster Botanical Gardens is one of the most spectacular things to see in Waikiki. Let’s go unwind and have a good time!
11 Hana Koa Brewing Company
Let’s give three cheers for delicious beers! Hana Koa Brewing Company is one of the largest breweries in Hawaii.
The brewery serves some of the best beers that you’ll find in the country.
All of the beer that you’ll drink has been freshly brewed on the premises to ensure that you get nothing less than the highest quality of beer.
Do you enjoy trying new and interesting tastes? If you do, you can try out one of Hana Koa Brewing Company’s craft beers.
Otherwise, you can stick to the classics and try out some of the traditional beers that the brewery has to offer.
There are also specialty beers available for those who are feeling extra adventurous.
Visiting the Hana Koa Brewing Company is one of the best things to do in Waikiki if you are over the age of 21.
It’s the perfect place to unwind and spend some time with your friends in a social environment.
The beers that you’ll taste are out of this world and unlike anything you’ve ever experienced.
Don’t miss out on this mind-blowing experience. What have you got to lose?
12 Magic Island Lagoon
Are you looking for a magical experience? If you are, Magic Island Lagoon is the place to be.
This is one of the most spectacular sights that you’ll find in Waikiki. The lagoon has crystal clear water and is surrounded by lush forestry.
Believe it or not, Magic Island Lagoon is not as natural as it looks.
As a matter of fact, it is a man-made lagoon that is surrounded by walls that keep the water where it should be.
Do you enjoy swimming? If you do, be sure to take a dip in the lagoon to cool down.
Yes, visiting Magic Island Lagoon is one of the best things to do in Waikiki on a hot, summer day.
The lagoon is situated on one of the quieter beaches in Waikiki.
So, it’s the perfect place for those who don’t want to run into too many tourists.
Don’t forget to bring your picnic baskets in case you want to have something to nibble on in the picnic area.
One thing is certain, going to Magic Island Lagoon will be a magical experience!
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13 Honolulu Museum of Art
Attention all art lovers! If you like art and creativity, you’re going to love the Honolulu Museum of Art.
The museum has everything an art lover could want and more.
There are more than 40,000 works of art that you can browse through, most of which have been created by locals on the island.
The museum contains precious artwork that will give you a touch of Hawaiian culture.
There are art pieces that are made from wooden blocks, different types of paint, and other creative materials.
As an added bonus, you can sign up for art classes at the Honolulu Museum of Art.
Once you have mastered your artistic skills in one of these classes, you’ll be able to create art pieces of your own.
On the first Wednesday and third Sunday of every month, the museum is free to enter.
So, if you are looking for free things to do in Waikiki, be sure to schedule your trip accordingly.
The Honolulu Museum of Art is every art lover’s dream destination. Are you ready to let your creative juices run wild? I know that I am!
14 Children’s Discovery Center
Here’s one for the parents who are looking for family-friendly things to do in Waikiki.
Do you want to give your children an educational adventure that they’ll never forget?
If you do, be sure to take your little ones to Waikiki’s Children’s Discovery Center.
The discovery has plenty of activities for your kids to enjoy.
For starters, there is a breathtaking simulation of a rainforest that’ll make them feel like little pioneers.
On top of that, there is a large replica of the human body where your kids can learn about their biological structure.
If your kids are aspiring business gurus, they can put their skills to the test by trading historical goods in exchange for fake money.
You might even discover that your kids are little entrepreneurs. After such a fun-filled day, your little ones are probably going to be hungry.
So, why not take them for a tasty family meal at Hard Rock Cafe where they can eat burgers, french fries, wings, or other American dishes?
Family fun in Waikiki doesn’t get much better than this!
15 Fish Auction
Something smells fishy in Waikiki and it’s probably the epic fish auction that’s coming to town.
This is one of the stranger things to do in Waikiki.
However, the trip to the auction will definitely be worth your while.
Since Waikiki is situated by the beach, you can only imagine that seafood is a popular dish amongst the locals.
That’s why they have fish auctions.
Between 5am to 6am, you can watch as the fishermen unload their boats and give their fish to the judges.
The judges weigh the fish and figure out its worth after which the real fun begins.
You can place your bets to win some of the best seafood that you’ll find in Hawaii.
There are some rare types of fish that are up for grabs.
On top of that, the fish at the auction will probably be the biggest fish you’ve ever seen.
I mean, why else would they be up for auction?
Participating in the fish auction is a unique activity that you are unlikely to find somewhere else.
Raise your bets and win your prize fish. Dinner time is just around the corner!
16 Waikiki Zoo
Here’s another one of the best family-friendly things to do in Waikiki.
If your little ones like animals, you should take them on a zoo adventure that will blow their minds.
The zoo first opened its doors in the 1800s which gives it somewhat of a historical touch.
Although this might be one of the smaller zoos in Waikiki, there are still plenty of interesting animals for your little ones to see.
The owners of the zoo pride themselves on giving the animals the lifestyle that they deserve.
That’s why each animal enclosure has been specially designed to mimic the animal’s natural habitat.
On top of strolling through the diverse range of animal exhibits, there are also other fun activities for your family to engage in at the zoo.
There are a variety of animal shows for your family to watch and enjoy.
On top of that, you can sign up for a tour of the zoo, one of which takes place in the evening.
Despite its small size, the zoo ensures that all animals thrive in their natural habitats which is admirable, to say the least.
One thing is certain, this will be an experience that your family will be talking about for years to come.
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17 Kaka’ako Waterfront Park
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If you’re looking for beautiful and scenic things to do in Waikiki, be sure to make a pit stop at Kaka’ako Waterfront Park.
The park is absolutely breathtaking and is situated right by the beach.
If you are feeling brave enough you can head over to an area called “Point Panic.”
This is one of the perfect things to do in Waikiki for the bodyboarders out there who are not afraid of ruthless currents.
You can hop onto your bodyboard and into the water and brave the roaring currents that will be tossing you from one side to the other.
This may sound a bit scary, but it’s a great way to get your adrenaline pumping.
Just be sure that you are experienced enough to stay on your bodyboard so that you don’t get whisked away by the currents.
On certain evenings, live music is hosted at the park.
So, you can tap your feet to the rhythm of the beat after an adrenaline-pumping adventure at Point Panic.
There are a few nearby restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat.
However, you aren’t permitted to bring food into the live music area so be sure to eat your meals in advance.
Brave the currents, jive to music, and take in the beauty that Hawaii has to offer at Kaka’ako Waterfront Park!
18 Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design
Are you looking for things to do in Waikiki that will give you a taste of Hawaiian culture?
If you are, head over to Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design for a cultural experience that you’ll never forget.
The Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design is an artistic museum that teaches you everything there is to know about Waikiki’s creative culture scene.
The museum was founded in the 1920s and is focused on expressing the local Muslim art culture that is present in Waikiki.
The museum is filled with stunning artwork and artifacts that are guaranteed to leave you standing in awe.
You will see everything from Egyptian mosaics to Iranian furnishings and Syrian works of art.
Yes, this museum is all about bringing different cultures together through art.
Unfortunately, you won’t be able to arrive unannounced.
You will need to make a booking in order to take a stroll through the Shangri La Museum of Islamic Art, Culture & Design.
Visiting this museum will be a life-changing experience that will blow your mind!
19 Aloha Tower
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Aloha folks! Have you ever paid a visit to the Aloha Tower? If you haven’t, it’s about time that you do!
This is one of the best things to do in Waikiki for those who want to take in all of the beauty that Hawaii has to offer.
The tower in itself is a sight to behold. However, the real fun begins once you’ve climbed to the top of the tower.
Here, you will get to see all of the beauty that Waikiki has to offer.
You’ll get to see breathtaking views of the beaches, mountains, and forests that surround the area.
It’s safe to say that you’ll be overcome by a feeling of serenity and bliss once you witness these breathtaking views.
The tower was built in 1926 and used to be used as a lighthouse to warn and welcome sailors who were traveling to the island.
Now, it has become somewhat of a tourist attraction that attracts locals and tourists alike.
The tower is no longer used as a lighthouse, but it is an excellent place to make a pit stop if you want to see Waikiki’s beauty from a bird’s eye view.
Say Aloha to great times and goodbye to boredom!
20 Waikiki Beach
Ride the waves, catch a tan, or take a dip at one of the most beautiful beaches that you’ll find in the world.
Waikiki Beach is a must for anyone who is looking for things to do in Waikiki. The beach is absolutely breathtaking.
It has soft, yellow sand and deep blue waters.
This is one of the best places to go surfing if you are someone who likes to ride the waves.
Otherwise, you can jump into your swimsuit and take a dip in the ocean’s cool waters.
If swimming isn’t your cup of tea, you can bring your towels and suntan lotion to catch an authentic Hawaiian tan.
You can also go canoeing or paddle boarding on the beach if you’re looking for extra exciting things to do in Waikiki.
The beach is surrounded by beautiful palm trees.
It also has a statue of Duke Kahanamoku who was one of the greatest surfers Hawaii has ever seen.
There are plenty of ice cream shops and restaurants nearby the beach for those who want to snack on something before diving into the fun.
If you’re someone who loves beaches, you’ll regret not visiting Waikiki Beach. It will be unlike any beach experience you’ve had before!
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Conclusion
Are you ready to visit Waikiki? Now that you have a list of all of the best things to do in Waikiki, it’s time to start setting up your bucket list.
There are things to do on rainy days and sunny days.
On top of that, most of the activities will allow you to immerse yourself in the local culture.
There are lots of things to do and fun to be had. So, get ready to have the adventure of a lifetime in Waikiki!
