Waikiki Information

Waikiki Information

When thinking of Hawaii many people conjure images of a beautiful sandy beach with waves rolling into the bay and the distinctive outline of Diamond Head volcano in the background. These are the real life images of the beautiful holiday destination of Waikiki.

Located on the southern shore of the Hawaiian island of Oahu, Waikiki is a neighbourhood of Honolulu and is one of the most recognisable beaches in the world. The beautiful crescent shaped bay is bordered by a magnificent two and a half kilometre-long beach of soft sand lined with swaying palm trees with a backdrop of luxury resorts and high rise hotels.

Because of the long shallow sandy bottom of Waikiki bay it is a great place to learn to surf because the waves roll in from a great distance. There are a number of places that will teach you how to surf and you'll be in good company as there are always a large number of beginners trying to carve up the waves - but more often they're flopping sideways into the water!

A little further to the south is the very recognisable Diamond Head - an extinct volcanic crater which offers fantastic views of the Honolulu and southern Oahu. The road to Diamond Head leads almost all the way to the top but to get to the lookout at the very top you'll need to walk around 1km up the trail. The trek is not very difficult but allow time if you are elderly or have very young children with you. The view from the summit is well worth the effort.

Other highlights around Waikiki are the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium where kids can spend hours being entertained by the animals and sea creatures. For the adults there are many restaurants and bars, all of which generally serve good food and drinks.

There are heaps of hotels in Waikiki with a surprising number of cheaper options for such a famous holiday spot. Some of the hotels have been around for many years so check to see if these been renovated recently. Generally the more you spend the better facilities and location you'll get.

Waikiki is not for everyone but it does offer a great taste of South Pacific paradise with all the amenities and conveniences that will make for a relaxed, but still exciting vacation. For most people a visit to Waikiki offers the perfect blend of beachside action with the option of a little luxury thrown in.