Top reasons to visit Waikiki
- Stunning Beaches: Waikiki is famous for its beautiful beaches, offering soft sands and breathtaking ocean views, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
- Family-Friendly Activities: The area provides a variety of outdoor adventures and attractions suitable for families, ensuring a fun-filled holiday.
- Easy Transport: The Waikiki Trolley makes exploring the area convenient, allowing visitors to access various attractions effortlessly.
- Cultural Experiences: Visitors can engage with local culture through events, traditional ceremonies, and nearby historical sites.
- Diverse Accommodation: Waikiki offers a wide range of hotels, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly options, catering to every type of traveller.
Find great hotels in Waikiki
Explore an array of hotel accommodations in Waikiki, Honolulu, where stunning beaches meet vibrant adventure. From luxurious resorts to family-friendly hotels, this picturesque destination offers something for every traveller. Whether you're seeking a relaxing beach resort or a convenient vacation rental, Waikiki's hotels provide a perfect base for your Hawaiian getaway, allowing you to immerse yourself in the island's charm and enjoy memorable experiences by the sea.
- Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: This 4-star resort, boasting a guest rating of 8.4 out of 10, offers a quintessential Hawaiian experience with direct access to a stunning beach. Ideal for families, the Hilton Hawaiian Village is replete with amenities tailored for younger travellers, including a dedicated children's pool and complimentary cribs. Guests can savour the scenic views and relax in spacious accommodations, while enjoying various dining options and wellness facilities that enhance the family vacation experience.
- Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa: With an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this 4-star resort is a hub for adventure seekers. Located on Waikiki's beachfront, the Hyatt Regency offers an array of exhilarating activities such as snorkelling, windsurfing, and hiking nearby. The onsite spa provides a perfect retreat after a day of exploration, while the hotel's diverse dining venues present a taste of local cuisine. This property is a fitting choice for travellers keen on both relaxation and adventure.
- The Twin Fin Hotel: This 3.5-star hotel, rated 8.4 out of 10 by guests, blends comfort with an adventurous spirit. Situated close to the beach, The Twin Fin Hotel offers easy access to thrilling water sports including surfing, bodyboarding, and even skydiving. The relaxed atmosphere and modern amenities create an inviting environment for those looking to embrace the vibrant lifestyle of Waikiki. With engaging recreational options nearby, guests can easily explore the stunning natural beauty of Hawaii.
Where to stay near Waikiki
Waikiki offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal beach vacation spot. With its stunning ocean views and easy beach access, visitors can soak in the beauty of Waikiki Beach. The vibrant atmosphere, characterised by friendly locals and a relaxed vibe, enhances the experience for both romantic getaways and urban explorations. Nearby attractions further enrich your holiday, ensuring a memorable stay in this enchanting Hawaiian paradise.
- Honolulu: As the capital city of Hawaii, Honolulu offers a vibrant blend of culture, history, and outdoor adventure. Situated right next to Waikiki, it serves as the hub for visitors seeking an array of experiences. With a steady flow of tourists year-round, peak seasons occur between March to April and July. Families flock here for its stunning beaches, including the famous Waikiki Beach, and a variety of shopping venues ranging from upscale malls to local markets. Local landmarks such as the Iolani Palace and Pearl Harbor further enrich the travel experience, making Honolulu a must-visit destination.
- Ala Moana: Located just 1km from Waikiki, Ala Moana is a lively neighbourhood that caters to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Renowned for the Ala Moana Center, one of the largest open-air shopping malls in the world, visitors can enjoy a mix of retail therapy and dining options. The area sees a consistent influx of tourists, with peak periods occurring in March and July to August. Its proximity to beautiful beaches and the vibrant tourist precinct makes Ala Moana a convenient spot for relaxation and exploration, offering a unique city-themed experience.
- McCully - Moiliʻili: This charming neighbourhood, situated a mere 1km from Waikiki, is perfect for families looking for a blend of outdoor activities and local culture. McCully - Moiliʻili sees visitors throughout the year, with peaks in March and July to August. The area boasts a variety of educational venues and shopping options, making it a delightful place to discover local life. With its close proximity to beautiful beaches and family-friendly attractions, McCully - Moiliʻili provides an authentic Hawaiian experience that complements the excitement of nearby Waikiki.
Things to do in Waikiki
Shopping
Only a short stroll from the beach, the Royal Hawaiian Center offers a range of shops from local artisans to designer boutiques. For a unique experience, explore the International Market Place, where you can discover Hawaiian crafts and delicious food stalls amidst a vibrant atmosphere.
Recreation
Experience a rejuvenating session at the Honolulu Spa by the Sea, offering ocean-inspired treatments and serene views. For a dose of nature, explore Kapiolani Park with its lush landscapes, perfect for leisurely strolls or picnics amidst the stunning backdrop of Diamond Head.
Adventure
In Waikiki, embark on an exhilarating surf lesson at world-renowned beaches, where you can ride the waves with expert instructors. Explore the vibrant underwater world while snorkelling at Hanauma Bay, teeming with colourful marine life. For a unique perspective, hike to the summit of Diamond Head for breathtaking views of the coastline.
Nightlife
The nightlife in Waikiki is vibrant, with venues like the iconic Duke's Waikiki offering live music and ocean views. For a more upscale experience, visit the RumFire at the Sheraton, where cocktails and stunning sunsets await. The atmosphere is lively, making it a delightful spot to unwind after a day of exploration.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Waikiki
To save money during your trip to Waikiki, consider visiting in May or October to November for lower accommodation rates. Booking a month in advance often yields the best hotel deals, and check Expedia for last-minute offers. For the most affordable stay, aim for a Tuesday night. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter for budget-friendly and eco-certified hotels. Additionally, consider booking a package that combines flights and activities with your hotel for further savings. Enjoy free outdoor activities like beach time and hiking to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Waikiki are May and October to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and December, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Waikiki is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Waikiki is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Waikiki is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified option will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and offers, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save on costs by combining your Waikiki hotel reservation with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Waikiki
Waikiki is an ideal destination for outdoor and family beach holidays, offering a blend of culture and relaxation. Visitors can explore various points of interest, including the renowned Waikiki Beach, the iconic Sands of Waikiki Beach, and the Waikiki Aquarium. With its beautiful urban parks and esplanades, Waikiki caters to those seeking an enriching beach experience amidst stunning landscapes.
- Waikiki Beach: Enjoy the iconic Waikiki Beach, renowned for its golden sands and inviting surf. The beach offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can unwind under the sun or engage in water sports, all while surrounded by stunning views of Diamond Head.
- Waikiki Beach Walk: Stroll along the Waikiki Beach Walk, an esplanade filled with outdoor dining, boutique shops, and lively entertainment. This charming walkway is ideal for couples and families alike, providing a romantic setting to enjoy the Hawaiian sunset.
- Kuhio Beach: Discover Kuhio Beach, a tranquil spot perfect for swimming and sunbathing. With its calm waters and picturesque scenery, this beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still being close to the bustling heart of Waikiki.
Best time to go to Waikiki
The best time to visit Waikiki can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Waikiki falls in September, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Waikiki falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with no rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Waikiki
Flying into Waikiki, Honolulu, is convenient via Honolulu International Airport (HNL-Daniel K. Inouye), situated 10km away. Excellent nearby hotels include the 5-star Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach and The Royal Hawaiian, both 11km from the airport, offering airport shuttle services. Alternatively, you could consider Kapolei Airport (JRF-Kalaeloa), located 24km from Waikiki, where luxurious options like the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina are available just 6km away. Transportation services to both airports from these hotels typically include shuttle services. For those seeking a quieter experience, Hoolehua Airport (MKK-Molokai) is another option, 79km away, with local hotels offering similar transport amenities.