Did you know that the world-famous Waikiki Beach is actually made up of seven different beaches? The stretch of shoreline includes Ft. DeRussy, Halekulani, Royal Hawaiian, Kuhio, Kapiolani, Queen’s and Kaimana. Each has something unique to offer;
- Duke Kahanamoku Beach (also known as Fort DeRussy Beach) – Located near the Hilton Hawaiian Village, this beach is the widest in Waikiki. It is named after the famous Hawaiian surfer and Olympic swimmer Duke Kahanamoku.
- Gray’s Beach – Situated in front of the Halekulani Hotel and the Sheraton Waikiki, this is one of the narrower sections of Waikiki Beach.
- Royal-Moana Beach – This section fronts the Royal Hawaiian Hotel and the Moana Surfrider. It’s often busy and popular among tourists.
- Kuhio Beach – Located near the statue of Prince Kuhio, this is a popular section with a breakwater, making the waters calmer for swimming. It’s also where the famous Waikiki Beach Boys teach surfing lessons.
- Queen’s Beach – Located just on the Diamond Head side of the Kapahulu Groin (a concrete pier), this beach is named after Queen Liliuokalani. It offers a more extensive stretch of sand with some rocky areas. It’s also a popular spot for longboarding.
- Kapiolani Beach – Fronting Kapiolani Park and the Outrigger Canoe Club, this section of the beach is often frequented by local canoe clubs.
- San Souci Beach (also known as Kaimana Beach) – Located near the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel and the War Memorial Natatorium, this is a quieter stretch popular with locals and offers good conditions for swimming and snorkeling.
Beyond the Sands: Discover Hidden Gems Near Waikiki’s Shores
You can also find interesting landmarks and attractions near the beaches of Waikiki. For example, Ft. DeRussy is home to a beach and a cool army museum. Helicopters, tanks and guns welcome visitors to this place, which houses the history of Hawaii’s military.
Beaches of Waikiki also include Kaimana Beach, known as San Souci, located next to the famous Waikiki Natatorium and the Waikiki Aquarium. Kaimana Beach serves as a nice getaway from the busier side of Waikiki. It’s on the outskirts, near Diamond Head, but offers just as much fun and beauty as the other beaches. I especially like the grassy area of this beach park. It’s where people barbecue or lounge around in the shade. A nice walking path connects these beaches. It runs along the shoreline from the historic Natatorium to Queen’s Beach. Whether walking, jogging, or biking, everyone should make use of this sand-covered sidewalk. The best time to take a stroll is right around sunset.
Be sure to check out all of these Waikiki beaches while on Hawaii vacation. Whether picnicking, sunbathing or surfing, beach-goers will surely find something fun to do in the sun.
