Waikiki in itself offers many options for exploring. There are the historical hotels, various shopping and dining experiences and of course enjoying the beach.
Historic Hotels in Waikiki
The Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort, became a fixture of Hawaiian vacation spots in 1901. It is often described as the “First Lady of Waikiki” and stands out with its Victorian architecture and charming appeal complete with rocking chairs out front as you stroll past to the beaches. One of the stand-out resorts with its Beaux-arts design reminiscent of the early 1900’s, it is a gem in Waikiki’s history. For tourists and locals interested, the Moana offers historical tours on Monday, Wednesdays and Fridays twice a day. The one hour tour gives an extensive history of the hotel and even provides its own historical room with memorabilia displayed taking the history back as far as the early 1900’s.
The Halekulani opened in 1907 as the Hau Tree. The accommodations at that time were simple bungalows and a modest main house. In 1917 the hotel was purchased by the Kimball family, at which point they renamed the hotel, Halekulani meaning “House Befitting Heaven” and what a fitting name for such an icon. Today the Halekulani is known not only for its history but its delectable restaurants which have been given top honors for years. The hotel holds one of the only Five Diamond Restaurant in Hawaii, La Mer. In addition to that, the casual elegance of Orchids and outdoor charm of House without a Key completes this hotels palpable draw.
The third and final historical gem of Waikiki includes The Royal Hawaiian. A Starwood Hotel & Resort, known as the “The Pink Palace of the Pacific” opened in 1927 and it is one of Waikiki’s premier resorts boasting one of the best private beach locations. The unique architecture and beauty of this hotel makes it a must see when exploring Waikiki.
Shopping & Dining in Waikiki
Shopping and Dining in Waikiki can range from the tacky tourist shops and quick bites to the high end designers and opulent restaurants for the food enthusiast in your group. There is something to offer all vacationers, of all budgets in Waikiki.
The International Marketplace offers an array of artisan shops and stands underneath a canopy of Banyan Trees. To find those mementos and souvenirs, this is the place to go. The Royal Hawaiian Shopping center holds many of Waikiki’s high end shops like Salvatore Ferragamo, Cartier, Louis Vuitton and Juicy Couture. A short distance from Waikiki is the Ala Moana Mall with an astounding 260 stores and restaurants.
Finding great food in Waikiki is not a hard thing to do. Some of the top rated restaurants for 2008 included the upscale La Mer and reputable Alan Wong’s, top rated for ten of its thirteen years in business. Another Waikiki favorite of tourists and locals alike is Duke’s Waikiki, named after Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, an Olympic swimmer, famed surfer and beloved citizen of Hawaii. Located at the Waikiki Beach Walk is the Yardhouse. With a menu to please all taste buds and 130 different beers on tap, most of which can be enjoyed in the locale’s signature yard glass, it’s a must stop for all.
Enjoying the Beach in Waikiki
Once you reach the beach in Waikiki you will find surfers and body boarders enjoying the tamer side of the island. This is a great location for beginning surfers and body boarders. It’s a great way to gain their “sea legs” and learn how to tackle those waves.
For those who just want to enjoy a lazy stroll along the beach, Waikiki offers leisurely afternoons in the sun with an unobstructed view of Diamond Head Crater in the backdrop. While enjoying the view, watch or join in on a chess or card game, sun bath, or people watch. Waikiki Beach is a great spot to participate in a lot of activity or none at all.
Waikiki offers an enriching experience, which is part of the beauty, history and lure of Oahu. It is lively and peaceful at the same time, allowing for the vacationer to enjoy a varied vacationing experience in paradise. Enjoy all that the island has to offer through its history, natural wonders and fun.
There are many other parts of the island, if you find you have the time for additional outdoor experiences near Waikiki, consider heading over to Manoa Falls Trail – located a short drive outside of Waikiki Beach area - and take an afternoon hike to the falls.
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