There is so much to love about Waikiki. In Hawaiian the word means swampland. Yes, it’s true Waikiki was once a swamp. A little over a mile away is a volcano that isn’t active called Diamond Head. It’s a mono-volcano because it only erupted once which was how the island was formed, to begin with. It’s not an easy hike. Due to how strenuous the hike is the trail is rated a double black diamond.
The International Market used to be a great place for little souvenir shops and Hawaiian clothing but it has been upgraded. Now that area is full of high-end retailers. Think of a high-end retailer and it’s probably located there or across the street at the Royal Hawaiian. People from all over the world come here to shop because of the low sales tax.
Another great feature of the beach is the calm long slow steady waves. They sing 24 hours a day but are great for surfing because it’s easy for novice surfers to catch a wave. It’s a great place for tourists to learn how to surf and it’s also great for sailing. The island itself has over 100 miles of sandy beaches so there is a lot to offer especially North Shore or the ranch where Jurassic Park was filmed.
A few famous spots for food are assisted by a few high end local restaurants and some high end corporate classics like Cheese Cake Factory, Wolfgang’s Steakhouse, Tommy Bahamas, and Yard House. Then local places like Tanaka of Tokyo, Tikis, and Dukes. And on top of that the Hawaiian classics like Rainbow Drive In, Leonard Bakery, and Teddy’s Burgers. Be sure to get a hawaiian burger with pineapple.
Other great things to do besides the beach include the Luau, Sunset booze cruise and trolly that cruises around Waikiki making transportation easy.