Waikiki

Waikiki Beach in Oahu enjoys world renowned fame that keeps on growing. Despite being one of the most bustling and crowded of all Oahu beaches it never loses its captivating appeal. Waikiki is where all the action is and with close access to downtown Honolulu, the list of things to do in Oahu in and around Waikiki Beach is incredible. The actual beach languidly curves along the ocean in a string of beaches and is flanked by many Waikiki Beach hotels like the famous and luxurious Halekulani Resort. Waikiki Beach is great for Oahu surfing, swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing or simply people watching.

When it comes time to pick yourself up off the golden sand or pluck yourself out of the warm Pacific and do some exploring, the Waikiki trolley remains the best way to get around. The Waikiki trolley is a fun way travel, providing access to the best Oahu attractions in Honolulu. With the trolley service you can forget about figuring out your own way around and spend more time concentrating on having fun during Waikiki tours.

For as long as your Waikiki trolley pass is valid, whether it's for one, two or more days, pass holders enjoy unlimited boarding. This means you can jump on and off the Waikiki trolley as often as you like as long as your pass is valid. Three different lines transport visitors to historic sites, excellent shopping, scenic areas and a myriad of restaurants. Some of the stops include the Bishop Museum, Chinatown, Diamond Head Crater, Makapu'u Lookout and Hanauma Bay.

Though Oahu tours of Waikiki can easily be taken by trolley, there are hundreds of guided Waikiki tours available. Many Waikiki tours take tourists for a visit to the fascinating Waikiki Aquarium featuring vibrant exhibits of Hawaiian monk seals, sharks, coral reef life and the mahimahi hatchery. The Honolulu Zoo is another stop on most Waikiki tours and showcases elephants, a petting zoo and other animals from around the globe. The Royal Iolani Palace is a popular tour stop giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of Hawaiian royalty.

The Waikiki Beach area offers so many things to do in Oahu you'll be hard pressed to get them all on your list. Visitors shouldn't miss out on a traditional Oahu luau experience. One of the best is at Paradise Cove but there are many great ones around Honolulu as well. Other Waikiki shows include Cirque Hawaii, inspired by Cirque de Soleil. This circus show combines humor, grace, beauty, strength and balance and a truly entertaining performance at the Seaside Avenue Theater.

Waikiki shows also include the famous Ohana Ho Show presented by the legend Don Ho. Local favorites are afforded the chance to be discovered during this longtime show that also features a candle lit dinner. The Outrigger Waikiki, one of the most renowned Oahu hotels, presents the Society of Seven inside the main showroom, featured for more than three decades. Vegas and Broadway style acts, hilarious skits and famous impersonations are all showcased. The Magic of Polynesia Show is another of the well-known Waikiki shows presented at the Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel. The production features mystical illusions, music and dance.

At Waikiki Beach almost anything is possible, making it one of the most exciting of all the places in Oahu. The beach is complete with lifeguards, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and golden sands edging colorful reefs. Show up early for a prime spot along the strip and spend the day relaxing, splashing around in the warm surf or enjoying the traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe rides as all your worries are left behind, soaked up by the magic of Hawaii.

Image: Hawaii Tourism Authority / Tor Johnson
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