1. Hiking Diamond Head
I recently made a video explaining how hiking Diamond Head is a bit overrated, mainly because of the fees involved and how crowded the hike can get. However, due to Diamond Head’s proximity to Waikiki, the trail is a solid option, especially if you’ve never done it before and want a not too strenuous hike with iconic, picturesque views of Waikiki.
The entrance fee is $5 per person and $10 per vehicle, and keep in mind it’s credit card only. I suggest going super early before sunrise to beat the heaviest crowds at the summit.
2. Kaimana Beach
Next is Kaimana Beach. Located at the far southeast side of Waikiki, nestled between the War Memorial Natatorium and the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel, this family-friendly beach is my favorite beach in Waikiki. It doesn’t have large crowds compared to the Kahanamoku beach near the Hilton Hawaiian Village, Waikiki Beach in front of Duke Kahanamoku’s statue, and the much narrower Kuhio Beach. From Waikiki, it’s a short walk toward Diamond Head, with the Kapiolani Park on your left, where you’ll arrive at Kaimana Beach.
Kaimana beach isn’t vast, but it’s wide and frequented by locals as it’s an ideal spot for barbecues, swimming, and snorkeling. If you want a beach that has chill vibes with fewer tourists and is just a stroll from the heart of Waikiki, Kaimana Beach is your best bet.
3. Picnic at Kapiolani Regional Park
Right across the street from Kaimana Beach is the Kapiolani Regional Park, one of the largest parks on all of O’ahu at roughly 200 acres. I often take my dogs on long walks around Kapiolani as it’s a nice relaxing reprieve from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki.
Grab a bite to eat like a musubi from Iyasume and sit at one of the many picnic tables spread throughout the park. Or, you can pop a squat right on the field and enjoy spectacular views of Diamond Head… alone.
4. Renting a Biki bike
Rent a Biki bike (similar to the Citi bikes in New York City) and make the Waikiki loop a 4.3 mile or 30-minute ride around the Waikiki neighborhood. There are 22 stations on this loop, so you shouldn’t have a problem finding and docking a bike at a conveniently located biki station.
You can purchase a subscription online, through the app, or at the physical station. In terms of price, it’s pretty reasonable, and you easily make a whole day of it with “The Jumper” fare riding around Waikiki and other parts of Honolulu if you want.
Cruising along Ala Wai Blvd with the Ala Wai canal on your right, making your way on the main drag of Kalakaua Ave, past the bougie shops and iconic Waikiki beaches, I have to admit even for a local, is a worthwhile experience.
5. Eating at Marukame Udon
This is my go-to dining spot in Waikiki. You’ll often see long lines that go out the door and around the block, but since I went during an off-peak dining hour, I thankfully didn’t have to wait at all. Marugame udon does fantastic made-to-order udon noodles, and their tempura items are just killer.
I usually get the regular curry nikutama with a big chicken katsu on the side. All of this deliciousness for just under $15!
If you’re ever in Waikiki, do yourself a favor and brave the line; get yourself an udon bowl with a side of however many tempuras items you can eat because trust me, your taste buds and wallet will thank you.
6. Shave Ice at Lahaina Shave Ice
If you’re in Waikiki and are craving good shave ice at a not-so-steep price, you must visit Lahaina Shave Ice. This shave ice spot is on Beachwalk Rd next door to the Embassy Suites in a tiny parking area. I ordered the Keiki size, which is their smallest size. As for flavors, I got lilikoi, Mango, and Pog with condensed milk and ice… always get ice cream.
All of this for $7.25, I’d say that’s a good deal. The outer layer of Lahaina’s shave ice has a crunchy ice texture, but the inside is super soft, and the vanilla ice cream brings it all together.
Is it better than Waiola? In my opinion, no. However, if you’re staying in Waikiki and are craving a bowl of shave ice, Lahaina Shave Ice is an excellent option.
7. Taking a stroll through Waikiki at sunset
I saved the best for last. After eating a bunch of noodles and having your shave ice fix, you can burn those calories off by taking a stroll through Waikiki.
This is my favorite thing to do in Waikiki because it doesn’t cost a dime, and the views, especially during sunset, can’t be topped. There are a lot of tourist traps and things overrated in Waikiki, but golden hour isn’t one of them.
I prefer to start from Kahanamoku beach right outside the Hilton Hawaiian Village hotel and head southeast toward Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park. I make my way to Kalakaua Ave, past the row of surfboards, the Duke statue, and end at this walkway that juts into the ocean.
If there’s one thing you can’t miss on this list, no matter if you’re staying in Waikiki or not, experiencing the chill vibes of Waikiki during sunset is it.