Outdoor Activities in Waikiki

Waikiki is the most popular destination in Hawaii. Located on the south shore of the island of Oahu, Waikiki attracts thousands of tourists every day, and for good reason - Waikiki is packed with high-rise hotels, restaurants, shops and, of course, those famous Waikiki beaches.

It's easy to stay active in Hawaii, particularly in Waikiki; the area features of variety of outdoor activities. Here are seven to consider on your next vacation to paradise:

Beaches

Waikiki's three beaches make up the south shore's iconic, two-mile-long stretch of sand, which offers a handful of recreational opportunities. Even though laying in the sun and relaxing is a popular activity on Waikiki's beaches, the area is always abuzz with activity. Check out one of the sand volleyball courts, join a 90-minute catamaran cruise from one of the vendors on the beach or take a stroll along the Pacific Ocean down to Kapiolani Beach Park at the east end of Waikiki.

Hiking

Diamond Head Crater rises more than 700 feet above the Pacific Ocean on the east end of Waikiki. The crater features a 0.8-mile hiking trail to the summit, where you'll take in sweeping views of the ocean, Waikiki and downtown Honolulu. The Diamond Head Crater trail is just 0.8 miles long, but the ascent is challenging, gaining 560 feet with switchbacks, a steep cement staircase and a 225-foot lighted tunnel. The view at the top is worth the challenge, though.

Walking

Waikiki offers plenty of walking opportunities. Check out the two-mile-long Waikiki Historic Trail, which features informational markers, in the form of surfboards, on the area's history. The first of 21 markers is at Kapiolani Beach Park; the last is along Kalakaua Avenue to the west. Or walk through the 43-acre Honolulu Zoo, or along the paved paths that run into Kapiolani Beach Park.

Swimming

The waters just off the shore in Waikiki are excellent for swimming, especially the middle section, which has an offshore retaining wall that creates a calm pool that's particularly ideal for young children. The ocean bottom is sandy here, too, with no rocks or coral to worry about.

Surfing

Waikiki was home base for legendary Hawaii surfer Duke Kahanamoku, who thrilled surf fans for years with his longboarding prowess. The waves breaking off Waikiki's beaches aren't generally as large as those on Hawaii's North Shore, making them perfect for longboarding and for novice surfers who are just learning. If you are new to surfing, Waikiki has a handful of vendors offering surf lessons and board rentals.

Bodyboarding

Bodyboarding is another popular activity on Oahu's southern coast. The stretch of beach known as "Walls," near the east end of Waikiki, draws advanced bodyboarders from around the island. If you're new to bodyboarding, many of the same vendors who rent surfboards and offer surf lessons will rent bodyboards and provide lessons.

Golfing

Ala Wai Golf Course is just inland of the Ala Wai Canal, on the north end of Waikiki. The course is flat and relatively wide open, but if you're planning to get in a round, call ahead for a tee time as the course gets pretty crowded. The par-70 course plays to a length of 5,861 yards from the back tees and 5,095 yards from the front tees.

Sources:

Oahu's State Park, Hawaii State Park
International Market Place
Waikiki Historic Trail
Honolulu Zoo
Honolulu/Waikiki, Wikitravel
Ala Wai Golf Course