Waikīkī
Waikīkī, the famous resort area containing the most sought-after real estate in an island chain full of sought-after real estate, has undergone a facelift. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been plowed into renovations. Hundreds of millions of dollars have been plowed into renovations. Numerous hotels are upgrading; the International Market Place is more popular than ever; the grassy walks along Waikīkī Beach now bloom with plantings; statuary has been erected commemorating historic figures; and the Kapi’olani Park Bandstand has been rebuilt. All the more reason the inhabitants say, “ E komo mai!”, or “Welcome!”, to visitors.
1. Hawai’i Convention Center
A contemporary masterpiece of glass and soaring white columns, the Convention Center, across the Ala Wai bridge from Waikīkī proper, was dedicated in 1998 and contains dozens of artworks and more than a million square feet of meeting space. The venue hosts an array of events and performances including the Hawai’i Pops and the Hawai’i Food and Wine Festival.
1801 Kalākaua Ave. • 943 3500 for tour info • 8am–5pm weekdays • www.hawaiiconvention.com
2. U.S. Army Museum
“Waikīkī’s best-kept secret,” this well-designed free museum celebrates the U.S. Army’s many-faceted history in the Pacific. It covers Hawai’i’s “Go for Broke” 100th Infantry Battalion, Waikīkī as a Vietnam War R & R center, and more.Battery Randolph, Kālia Road, Fort De Russy • 438 2821 • 9am–5pm Tue–Sat • www.hiarmymuseumsoc.org
3. Urasenke Tea House
Teaching Cha-do, the Way of Tea, a ceremony meant to both relax and focus the mind, is the mission of this center endowed by the Urasenke Organization in Kyoto. Public demonstrations are offered weekly and private ones can be arranged by calling ahead.245 Saratoga Rd. • 923 3059 • www.urasenkehawaii.org • Donation
4. International Market Place
The 50+-year-old market place, originally a fanciful shopping area and cultural park, has undergone a multi-million-dollar renovation project. Free festivities, performances, and artisans ensure that even the littlest shopper is kept entertained.2330 Kalākaua Ave. • 10am–9pm daily • www.internationalmarketplacewaikiki.com
5. Waikīkī Beach
This unassuming strip of white sand covered with half-clothed bodies, surfboard racks, and gawking tourists is what the beach is all about. You might think only visitors use it, but you’ll see surfers, daily exercisers, canoe clubs, and other locals enjoying Hawai’i’s best known beach, too. Dawn and dusk are ideal times to visit (for further details see also Waikīkī).
6. Kahuna (Wizard) Stones
The four misshapen slabs at Kūhiō Beach represent four mysterious historical figures called Kapaemahu (“people of a changeable nature”). These men came to Hawai’i from abroad and lived with the islanders, curing and educating them. The stones were erected in their memory and have since occupied various locations, currently gathered at the beach formerly known as Ulukou.Kūhiō Beach, Kalākaua Ave.
7. Kūhiō Beach
Once known as Hamohamo, this area was the location of Pualeilani, the beach home of Queen Kapi’olani and later her adopted son, Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalaniana’ole, a delegate to the U.S. Congress. During his lifetime he opened the beach near his home to the public, and left it to the city when he died.
8. King’s Village
This cobblestone shopping mall recreates the period of David Kalākaua, the last Hawaiian king, who ruled from 1874–91. Mock 19th-century shops sell souvenirs, clothing, and jewelry, and there are various food stalls and themed restaurants. Entertainment is provided by street artists and hula dancers.131 Ka’iulani Ave. • 237 6344 • 10am–11pm daily • www.kings-village.com
9. Kapi’olani Bandstand
The current, vaguely Victorian stone structure – a spacious circular stage with a peaked roof held up by a series of pillars – is the fourth incarnation of a bandstand first built in the 1880s. It’s a popular venue for concerts and often used for informal jam sessions.
10. Diamond Head Crater
Hawai’i’s most-recognized landmark watches over Waikīkī, its sculpted slopes shadowy green in rainy season, parched brown at other times. In addition to the trail within the crater, a three-mile loop walk allows you to see the changeable peak from a full circle. Start where Monsarrat Avenue meets Diamond Head Road and proceed in either direction (for further details see also How to “Go Diamond Head”and Diamond Head Trail).
Waikīkī Magic
At the far western end of Waikīkī is Magic Island, a man made green peninsula lined with walkways and ending in a sandy lagoon and rock wall popular with fishermen. End the day here, watching the soft light fall and the canoe teams ready for the next regatta. Keep an eye open for the “green flash” at sunset. Parking is free.
The Waikīkī Trail
Morning
Take a self-guided tour along the Waikīkī Historic Trail that is maintained by the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association. Be sure to stop at each historic trail marker to learn about the area’s rich history. Visitwww.waikikihistorictrail.com for a free trail map.
The trail was the brainchild of the late visionary George S. Kanahele, a pioneer of cultural tourism. It’s marked by a series of sculpted surfboards imprinted with photographs, maps, and information at 23 locations around the neighborhood.
Most hikers begin at the first marker on Waikīkī Beach at the site of the Outrigger Canoe Club, founded in 1908 to promote surfing, canoe paddling, and other activities.
Stopping points include a former residence of Queen Lili’uokalani; the villa of Chun Afong, who was Hawai’i’s first Chinese millionaire; the vast coconut grove of Helumoa; and a war camp of Kamehameha the Great.
Late Morning
The tour lasts about an hour-and-a-half, after which you have plenty of time to stroll some more or do some shopping.
Stop for lunch at the Hau Tree Lanai at the east end of Waikīkī. Here you can sit right where Robert Louis Stevenson did in 1893 as he penned stories about the South Pacific.
Places to Eat
1. Hula Dog
This Kauai fast-food favorite has a convenient Waikīkī location and serves fresh Polish sausages with signature relishes. A veggie version is also available. It makes for a truly Hawaiian experience.2301 Kūhiō Ave. • 924 7887 • under $20
2. Wailana Coffee House
Reliable food and fast service draw locals and tourists to this 24-hour diner.1860 Ala Moana Blvd. • 955 1764 • under $20
3. Morimoto
The renowned Iron Chef can sometimes be found behind the sushi bar at his namesake restaurant, in the trendy Waikīkī Edition hotel.1775 Ala Moana Blvd. • 943 5900 • over $60
4. Eggs ‘n’ Things
The best place for breakfast in Waikīkī. The fresh fish, crêpes, pancakes, and waffles are worth the wait.343 Saratoga Rd. • 923 3447 • 6am–2pm • under $20
5. Hula Grill Waikīkī
Regional Hawaiian fare is served here along the water’s edge with views of the beach and Diamond Head.2335 Kalākaua Ave. • 923 4852 • Breakfast, lunch & dinner • $30–$45
6. House Without a Key
Named after a Charlie Chan detective novel, this classic hotel hangout is a sunset favorite for those wanting a cocktail or casual meal. There is also live music and hula dancing.Halekulani Hotel, 2199 Kālia Rd. • 923 2311 • $45–$60
7. Hy’s Steak House
Dine here like a guest at an English mansion. Hy’s is revered for its steaks, chops, and seafood, broiled over native Hawaiian kiawe wood.2440 Kūhiō Ave. • 922 5555 • Dinner only • over $60
8. La Mer
When you’re in the mood to savor each exquisite bite and watch the sun set, choose this classy French eatery.Halekulani Hotel, 2199 Kālia Rd. • 923 2311 • Jacket required • Dinner only • over $60
9. Wolfgang’s Steakhouse
This upscale steakhouse in the Royal Hawaiian Center is popular with the rich and famous. The walls are adorned with photos of visiting celebs.2301 Kalākaua Ave. • 922 3600 • over $60
10. Hau Tree Lanai
Reasonably priced East-West food is served here beneath the spreading branches of a hau tree.New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel • 2863 Kalākaua Ave. • 921 7066 • Breakfast, lunch & dinner • $30–$45
