8 Things To Do in Waikīkī

Whether you’re new in town, you’ve lived here your whole life or you’re just visiting, there’s something on this list for you.

June 26, 2023

Alicia Lou,

With so many things to do in Honolulu, it’s easy to get overwhelmed with all the options in town, but when you want to try something new or take advantage of kama‘āina deals, Waikīkī is a go-to activity hotspot. We narrowed down a list of things to do in Waikīkī to give you ideas for your next outing. From outrigger surfing in a canoe to stargazing with a giant telescope, there’s sure to be something here that you haven’t tried—yet.

Photo: Courtesy of Carmella Productions

1. Try Scuba Diving in Waikīkī

Whether you’re an experienced diver or you’ve never been diving at all, Waikīkī is a great place to go. Most dive centers offer a two-tank dive open to all levels of divers ages 10 and up, so it’s a great activity to do as a family or with a friend. Experience the comfort of breathing underwater and get a chance to wave to a turtle or a school of fish, see an eel up close and maybe check out the 165-foot shipwreck, known as The Sea Tiger, which is just a quick boat ride away. If you decide you’re hooked on diving after your first try, you can even sign up for the Open Water Diver course and become certified in 3-4 days! Prices start at $99.

Photo: Tony Heff

2. Learn to Surf in Waikīkī

This one seems obvious, but there’s a reason why Waikīkī is a well-known surf spot—its shallow waters are forgiving to all beginners, and the long gentle waves are enticing to all. There are several breaks at different distances to paddle to, so you can take your pick based on your skillset. Don’t let the crowd deter you if you’re just starting to learn—do your best and have fun! And if you don’t have a board, rentals are as cheap as $5 an hour. Surf lessons start at $75.

Photo: Courtesy of Tommy Pierucki

3. Board an Outrigger Surfing Canoe in Waikīkī

If surfing isn’t for you, but you still want to ride waves, get in an outrigger surfing canoe! Outrigger canoes are among the safest ocean vessels that the U.S. Coast Guard does not require to carry life jackets onboard. This activity can be fit for ages 5 and up and accommodates all abilities but requires a minimum of three people per booking, so bring your friends or family to try out the original Hawaiian rollercoaster ride. Prices start at $35 per person.

Photo: Courtesy of Hawai‘i Glass Bottom Boats

4. Sail in a Glass-Bottom Boat From Waikīkī

If you’d rather be on the water than in it, this activity is for you! Put your feet up and let your hair blow in the wind while you watch the sun slip into the ocean. Depending on your budget, some cruises are B.Y.O.B., while others have cocktails included, and there’s even one with a glass-bottom boat that lets you see what’s underneath while you cruise around. Prices start at $51 per person for kama‘āina.

SEE ALSO: Where to Park in Waikīkī

Photo: Courtesy of International Market Place

5. Try Stargazing With a Giant Telescope in Waikīkī

Have you ever wanted to see planets and stars up close? Take a guided tour of the stars with local astronomer and Stargazers of Hawai‘i owner, Nick Bradley, and a 7-foot-tall telescope on the sixth floor of the International Market Place in Waikīkī. Get a chance to see planets, star clusters, nebulae and galaxies. This event happens every 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month. Tickets are $30 per person, and kids under 5 are free.

Photo: Courtesy of Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort & Spa

6. Have Dinner at a Waikīkī Lū‘au

Tihati Productions composed and recently released a new original mele and hula to honor Queen Lili‘uokalani, which will be a part of the debut lūʻau at the Waikīkī Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. The show includes hula kahiko (traditional hula), hula ‘auana (modern hula), aparima (a fast-paced, hip-shaking dance from Tuamotu) and Siva Afi, an exciting fire-knife dance by a world champion and one of the youngest keiki fire dancers in the state. While you watch, enjoy a buffet with prime rib, kalua pork, lomi lomi salmon and more ‘ono dishes.

Tickets start at $125, and kama‘āina can enjoy 20% with the code “kama” at checkout. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to ‘Iolani Palace.

Photo: Courtesy of Michael S. Mau

7. Do Yoga With a View of Waikīkī

After a busy day, reconnect with yourself and nature through a yoga class on the grass in the golden hour. While you’re doing a warrior pose, gaze at the ocean, inhale fresh air and listen to the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks. You won’t want to do yoga indoors again. Classes start at $21 for ages 8 and up.

8. Escape Waikīkī

What’s the ultimate getaway when you’re already at the ultimate destination? Try one of the five escape rooms at Breakout Waikīkī with friends, family or coworkers, and test out how well you work together under pressure. Choose from being a stowaway on a railway freight car, pretend you’re “Patient 57” and attempt to break free, or try being “The Hero” and save the world. There’s a four-guest minimum on Fridays and weekends. Tickets are $36 per person.