Are you ready to get away to a tropical paradise? Of course – Honolulu will be a great choice for you and your family, whether you are considering a winter vacation or a summer retreat. There is so much to do, including a plethora of Waikiki Beach activities.
Beach Activities
If you are looking for a safe place for you little ones to swim, the man-made lagoon that sits near the Hilton on Waikiki Beach is the spot for you. Here, a protected seawall helps to keep the large waves from breaking over the lagoon. It also keeps out larger fish and marine life.
Do you feel like playing a game of beach volleyball or having a picnic? The grassy area, complete with picnic tables, volleyball nets, and gorgeous places to walk, are all part of Fort DeRussy Beach Park. Torches line the sidewalks, providing an ambient glow at night. Cool off under the shady trees or go inside the adjacent Fort DeRussy Museum, where blessedly chilled air swirls through the displays of tanks, Howitzers, and other military memorabilia.
There are plenty of Waikiki beach activities for all ages to enjoy. Sail high above the coastline, looking down on the azure waters and golden sands when you take a parasailing adventure. This excursion is for young and old alike and doesn’t require any effort on your part. Simply sit down, let the crew strap you into the harness, and then fly above the sea for breathtaking views.
No visit to Waikiki Beach would be complete without some surfing. Catching waves here starts sometimes before the sun even breaks the horizon. If you don’t know how to surf, don’t worry. There are as many surfing schools as there are people wanting to learn. You can even take lessons from world champion surfers. Do you need equipment? Multiple outlets have board rentals available.
Canoeing along the ocean is a soothing way to get some exercise and see dolphins, sea turtles and other marine life. The whole family can enjoy the fun of a Hawaiian Outrigger Canoe ride. Up to six passengers work together to paddle out where the surf churns up waves. The canoe then ‘rides’ the waves back in.
There are also catamarans that can be rented. Grab a cooler filled with cold drinks, your music playlist, and your friends, for a day on the water. Most catamarans (especially chartered vessels) have ladders leading into the water – perfect for dipping in to cool off.
Stay Dry Nearby
Take a day or two out of the water to explore. Diamond Head State Park is home to the iconic Lēʻahi dormant volcano crater. 475 acres surround and encompass the crater, with a walking trail leading to the interior of the crater. Walk through a 225-foot tunnel to find the fire station, built on the summit.
Visit the Honolulu Zoo for a day filled with elephants, penguins, and Komodo dragons. Join in the Wild Walks – guided tours of Hawaiian native species, Savannah animals, and reptilians. Twilight Walks allow guests to take a tour of the zoo after hours. This allows guests to see nocturnal animals at work.
Of course, there are restaurants, shopping opportunities, and hands-on crafting classes to participate in during your stay in Waikiki.