Kalākaua Avenue
Waikīkī’s two mile long oceanfront street, running from Ala Wai bridge to the magnificent Diamond Head, epitomizes the dream of Hawai’i – gentle surf and vibrant nightlife. Named for Hawai’i’s playful last king, the street is lined with storied hotels, parks, and a host of attractions. The city has spruced up the street at Waikīkī Beach with plantings, seating areas, and a waterfall that’s a favorite “photo op” spot.
1. Royal Hawaiian Hotel
The “Pink Lady” retains her cache. Even if you’re not staying at this most famous of Waikīkī hotels, you can take afternoon tea on the veranda or visit the famed Mai Tai Bar.
Royal Hawaiian Hotel • 2259 Kalākaua Ave. • 923 7311
2. Sheraton Moana Surfrider Hotel
The porticoed “White Lady” dates back to 1901. The Sunday champagne brunch on the veranda is legendary; an evening at the Beach Bar an absolute must.Sheraton Moana Surfrider Hotel • 2365 Kalākaua Ave. • 922 3111
3. Waikīkī Beach
It’s all happening here just as it has for more than a century – beach boys giving surf lessons; old timers playing checkers; canoe teams practicing; locals mingling with tourists in the gentle waves. The whole beach is open, including the areas in front of the Royal and Moana hotels (for further details see also Waikīkī Beach).
4. Duke Kahanamoku
At Kūhiō Beach, the figure hung with lei is Duke Pa’oa Kahanamoku, a pioneer surfer and Hawai’i’s “Ambassador of Aloha” in the 1960s.
5. Kapi’olani Park
This 170 acre parcel was dedicated by King Kalākaua in 1877. It was a military encampment in World War II, but today is a place for families, music, and festivals.
6. Honolulu Zoo
A compact zoo with a number of warm habitats (for further details see Honolulu Zoo). Check out the Komodo dragon. You can also take a backstage zookeeper tour, moonlight walk, or overnight campout.Zoo • 151 Kapahulu Ave. • 971 7171 • 9am–4:30pm daily • www.honoluluzoo.org
7. Royal Hawaiian Center
This upscale shopping center with more than 100 shops and eateries stands out for its cultural enrichment programs, such as lei making and hula lessons.
8. Waikīkī Aquarium
Popular with youngsters for its sharks and Hawaiian monk seals, the aquarium is involved in conservation projects, and hosts reef walks and excursions.Aquarium • 2777 Kalākaua Ave. • 923 9741 • 9am–4:30pm daily • www.waquarium.org
9. War Memorial Natatorium
This 1920s Beaux Arts saltwater pool was intended as a living memorial to World War I servicemen. It fell into disrepair, however, and though it has been partially restored, its future is uncertain.
10. Diamond Head
The crater at the end of Kalākaua Avenue is two-thirds of a mile across; its brow is 761 feet high, and its summit circumference is two miles. Take the 1.5-mile trail to its top for sweeping views (for further details see also Diamond Head Trail).
How to “Go Diamond Head”
The extinct Diamond Head volcano crater is so important an icon that Oahuans tell direction by it – “Go diamond head” means “Go East” to locals. Want to sound Hawaiian? Call it “Kaimana Hila” (KYE-mah-na HEE-la), an English borrowing that literally translates as “Diamond Hill.” It’s also the name of a popular hula.
Tip: Take a picnic to Kapi’olani Park, where you can sprawl out on the grassy areas.
