Ideas of Things to Do in Waikiki in Honolulu

Outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers have tended to dismiss Waikiki Beach and Honolulu as an overcrowded tourist trap. However, Honolulu is filled with activities and works as a launching pad for various sports and recreational pursuits across the island of Oahu.

Surfing

Due in part to the shallow waters, with a gradual slope, in the water lining Central Waikiki Beach it is an ideal location for beginner surfers to learn how to stand on a board. Surf boards can be rented along the beach and at the neighboring hotels, and lessons can be schedules individually or with several others at the same time. For more advanced surfers, walking a short distance beyond the hotels there are water breaks and less people to be able to surf without worrying about crashing into swimmers.

Hiking

There are various hiking locations that can be found in Waikiki. The most famous hiking location is Diamond Head Crater, a hill composed of compacted volcanic ash, and visible from the beaches of Waikiki. Hiking to the crater's rim take anywhere from one and a half to two hours and provides fantastic views of the entire southeastern coast of the island.

Water Sports

Aside from surfing, there are various other water sports which can be enjoyed year round in Waikiki. The Fort DeRussy Beach in Waikiki is one of the least crowded. When weather conditions are calm, the beach is excellent to swim in or wake board, however, when the conditions pick up the beach is good for windsurfing and board surfing. There are locations right on the beach which rent out kayaks, windsurfing equipment, boogie boards,and snorkel sets.

Tennis

Whether you are a tennis pro, or just learning the game, the Island of Oahu is a great place to pick up a tennis racket. The Island has 181 free public tennis courts, in addition to free courts owned by hotels and free to customers of the hotel. In Waikiki, there are the Diamond Head courts, across from Kapiolani Park, and which are open to the public. Some of the hotels tennis courts also offer tennis lessons, which may purchased by both guests and visitors.

Bicycling

Waikiki is very biker friendly with most roads having dedicated biking lanes and bike trails all over the island. You will also find inexpensive half or full day bike hires are widely available. You may also book hike and bike packages or mountain biking tours which are conducted all over Oahu including through the islands rainforests.Reference

• Lonely Planet: Central Waikiki Beach
• Lonely Planet: Diamond Head
• Lonely Planet: Fort DeRussy Beach
• Frommers: Active Pursuits