The island of Oahu is one of the four major islands of Hawaii. Home to the city of Honolulu, Hawaii's biggest city, Oahu is the island most visitors will initially fly into. To Honolulu's southeast is the community of Waikiki, location of the internationally renowned Waikiki Beach. Although Waikiki only officially covers 1.5 square miles, it is one of the most frequently visited holiday spots in all of Hawaii.
A Holiday Spot for Centuries
Waikiki is dotted with high rise resorts and classy hotels. Although the high rises are relatively new, taking a holiday on Waikiki Beach isn't. Since the late nineteenth century, visitors have been making their way to Waikiki Beach to soak up the sun and catch a few waves. In 1893, a Greek-American named George Lycurgus renamed a local guest house “Sans Souci”, which is French for “without care”. Sans Souci became the first beach resort on the island.
The “First Lady of Waikiki” is the nickname for another historic spot in Waikiki, the Moana Hotel. Opened in 1901, the hotel is still one of the premier places to stay in Waikiki. Some of its visitors have included King Edward VIII and the Olympic swimmer and “father of modern surfing”, Duke Kahanamoku. Just down the road from the Moana is the Royal Hawaiian. Opened in 1927, the Royal Hawaiian's very first guest was Princess Abigail Kawananakoa, who would have been the Queen of Hawaii had the island nation not been incorporated into the United States.
The Famous Beach
Waikiki Beach is definitely the most famous beach in Oahu; some might argue that it's the most famous beach in the world. What makes Waikiki Beach so special?
For starters, the water itself. Close to the shore, the water is gentle, and perfect for swimmers. The gentler water may not be appealing for experienced surfers, but for new surfers, Waikiki Beach makes a great training ground. Kuhio Beach Park, located between the Moana Hotel and Diamond Head, is a popular beach for surfing lessons. Scuba diving, kayaking, canoing, jet skiing, and parasailing are also all available from Waikiki Beach.
One of the more unique attractions at Waikiki Beach are the shark tours. The adventurous can climb inside a floating shark cage under the water and wait for an up-close look at some of the world's most feared sea creatures. The slightly less adventurous can watch from the plexiglass windows on the tour boat.
Other Things to Do in Waikiki
When you get tired of sea creatures and seawater, there's still plenty more to do in Waikiki. The Polynesian Culture Center is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Hawaii. For a drier outdoor activity, try hiking up Diamond Head, a huge volcanic crater that offers a 360-degree view of Waikiki. And for World War II history buffs, touring the Arizona Memorial in Pearl Harbor (a short way from Waikiki) is a must-see.
In short, no matter what your age, no matter what you like to do, see, or eat, you'll find it in Waikiki.
Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Joe Solem