The Top 5 Things to Do on Honolulu's Waikiki Beach
For generations, Honolulu's Waikiki district has been a vacation destination; in the 1800s, even Hawaiian nobility spent time here. It is still a popular destination for tourists and surfers all around the world. Discover all there has to offer with our selection of the top 9 activities.
1. Diamond Head Summit Hiking Trail, Natural Attraction
Diamond Head is a dormant volcano and a prominent element of the Waikiki environment. It is, in reality, a US State Monument. The trek to the summit usually takes around 45 minutes, but it's also fairly steep, with an elevation change of 560 ft (170m) in a short amount of time. But after you reach the peak viewing platform, you'll find the effort was worthwhile. From here, visitors may enjoy breathtaking views of Oahu and the Pacific Ocean.
2. The Waikiki Beach- Natural Characteristic
Without a question, Waikiki's most famous tourist attraction is its stunning white-sand beach. There are several nice areas to relax, chill off in the mild surf, or watch a gorgeous Hawaiian sunset along this 2mi (3.2km) length. The landscape doesn't get much better than this, with the Diamond Head crater towering in the distance. When you're done with the beach, the night of Waikiki is only a few feet away. You can also check out the turtle tours in Waikiki for a memorable experience.
3. Memorial to the USS Arizona, Memorial
Pay your respects to the deceased at the USS Arizona Memorial, a 184-foot-long (56-meter) memorial that remembers those who died in the December 7, 1941, Pearl Harbor assault. The memorial, which was completed in 1964, spans the sunken battleship and contains a marble wall inscribed with the name of all 1,177 sailors and marines who died.
4. Historical Landmark: Iolani Palace Building
The Iolani Palace, built in 1882, was previously the royal palace of Hawaii's king. Thanks to thorough restoration efforts, visitors may now enjoy the majesty of the site. The royal chamber, in enthralling red and gold, is where King Kalkaua entertained visitors, and the private rooms may be found on the second story. It is believed that the royal grounds were formerly a site of worship. The royal tomb and the crowning pavilion, where the Royals Hawaiian Band frequently performs, are highlights.
5. Shangri-La Historical Site
The opulent estate of Doris Duke, the heiress of the founders of the American Tobacco Corporation and Duke Energy Company, is called Shangri La. She got interested in charity and traveling to other cultures, finally falling in love with Islamic art after viewing the Taj Mahal in India.
She gathered a significant library of Islamic art over nearly 60 years, which is currently on display at Shangri La. Admire the house's beautiful mosaics, tile work, carpets, and architecture. Outside, the coastal vistas and meticulously managed gardens are breathtaking.
