If Oahu is on your list for a Hawaiian getaway, you’ll probably find yourself in Waikiki. Though some might label it as “touristy,” it’s a place where the authentic charm of Hawaiian hula and culture lives. You’ll hear the enchanting sounds of mele, and the depth of local culture shine through. While you’re there, indulge in the ʻono tastes from some of the most unique and time-honored eateries in the Pacific.
Oʻahu pulses with energy, constantly unveiling fresh attractions and happenings. Discover Waikiki by checking out these ideas for FREE (or almost free) events. These experiences promise to make your next trip truly memorable in Waikiki!
Kuhio Beach Hula Mound
Experience genuine hula performances on Waikiki Beach at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound. Every Tuesday and Saturday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Enjoy age-old and contemporary hula interpretations, providing visitors with a delightful deep dive into Hawaiian heritage. These shows are a great way to discover Waikiki. Graciously backed by the Oʻahu Visitors Bureau, Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority, City and County of Honolulu, and the Waikiki Improvement Association. Visit KBHulaShow.com for more details.
Waikiki Beach Walk
Join the Ka Lei Hula at Waikiki Beach Walk for free hula sessions every Sunday morning at 9 a.m. Open to both locals and tourists. You can pre-register here. Additionally, the Ukulele Store at Waikiki Beach Walk provides complimentary ukulele lessons. Daily at 11:15 a.m., led by Tyler Gilman, a nominee for the Nā Hokū Hanohano Hawai‘i music award. Make sure to book your spot in advance at UkuleleStoreHawaii.com.
Discovering Aloha: The Hoʻokela Hawaiian Heritage Experience at Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach
Discover Waikiki with the Hawaiian Music Perpetuation Society is hosting the Mahina Nā Mana Wāhine. A Women’s Empowerment Month Kani Ka Pila and Special Guests Presentation Series. Located at the Hoʻokela Hawaiian Heritage and Culture Center in the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa. Spanning several Fridays in March. The series invites the public to join the renowned Hawaiian musician Ku‘uipo Kumukahi and distinguished guests. Together, they’ll sing, share tales, and honor influential women in the Hawaiian community and its rich history. Seating is limited, so reservations are essential. Entry is complimentary. Visit HawaiianMusicPerpetuationSociety.com for more details.
International Market Place
Every first Thursday of the month, the public is welcomed to the International Market Place. Experience live music from Hawai‘i’s acclaimed Royal Hawaiian Band. Established in 1836 by King Kamehameha III, this band stands out as the sole U.S. band with a regal lineage. Today, as part of the City and County of Honolulu, they act as cultural representatives for Hawaiʻi’s residents. For more details, visit ShopInternationalMarketplace.com.
Cultural Waves: Aʻo Center at Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach
Dive into Hawaii’s rich heritage at the A‘o Cultural Center, nestled within the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort. Discover Waikiki guided by the esteemed Ambassador of Aloha, Aunty Luana Maitland. Guests can immerse themselves in a myriad of hands-on activities. Whether crafting leis or swaying to the hula, Aunty Luana ensures each session is enlightening. They are engaging, bridging the past and present of Hawaiian traditions. Discover more at Outrigger.com.
Sacred Grounds at Helumoa: Dive into Tradition at the Royal Hawaiian Center
Steeped in Hawaiian lore, the Royal Hawaiian Center at Helumoa pays homage to its roots. Visitors and locals to free cultural sessions. From crafting leis and mastering the intricacies of lau hala weaving to strumming the ʻukulele. Also, with introductory hula lessons, the center is a hub of authentic Hawaiian experiences. Additionally, weekly performances showcase the island’s talented hula and mele artists. Discover more at RoyalHawaiianCenter.com.
