On the south shore of Honolulu, this iconic destination is more than just a sun-soaked haven; it’s a place where the spirit of Aloha thrives, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its rich heritage, exquisite cuisine, and breathtaking natural landscapes. We’ve curated a list of the top 10 must-do activities in Waikiki, ensuring you capture the essence of this Hawaiian jewel.

Sunset Booze Cruise with 3 FREE Drinks - Ke Kai Catamaran

Sunset Booze Cruise

Experience the ultimate Hawaiian sunset on the Waikiki sunset cocktail cruise aboard the Ke Kai Catamaran, a vibrant yellow and purple vessel known for its exciting sailings. Departing from the beach behind the famous Duke’s Restaurant, this cruise offers up to three complimentary alcoholic beverages, including mai tais and beer, alongside unlimited soft drinks, ensuring a lively and memorable adventure.

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Hilton Waikiki Starlight Luau

Hilton Waikiki Starlight Luau

The luau boasts a breathtaking rooftop location offering panoramic views of Waikiki’s beach and lagoon, alongside a chance to partake in activities like group hula lessons. Indulge in a gourmet buffet that showcases a wide array of island delicacies, all sourced from local ingredients. The highlight of the night is a captivating performance that spans the breadth of Polynesian culture, including Hawaiian hula, Tahitian ‘ori, and the exhilarating Samoan fire knife dance.

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Hawaiian Parasailing Tour & Adventure

Hawaiian Parasailing Tour & Adventure

Experience the thrill of a lifetime with a tandem parasail adventure in Oahu, Honolulu, where you and a partner can glide side by side up to 1,000 feet above the Pacific Ocean’s azure waters, off the picturesque shores of Waikiki Beach. Hawaiian Parasail offers a unique opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, city skyline, and the iconic Diamond Head, with the choice of a dry flight or a playful water touchdown.

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Waikiki Submarine Tour

Waikiki Submarine Tour

Ideal for families and those seeking an alternative to traditional snorkeling or diving, the tour starts with a scenic boat ride showcasing Diamond Head and Waikiki. Aboard the world’s largest passenger submarine, the Atlantis XIV, you’ll have the chance to observe sunken ships and airplane wreckage that serve as artificial reefs, through expansive portal windows.

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Waikiki Swim with Turtles Tour - Moana Catamaran

Waikiki Swim with Turtles Tour - Moana Catamaran

Set sail against the stunning backdrop of Waikiki and Diamond Head Crater, diving into the tranquil, clear waters to discover a vibrant underwater world, home to turtles, a variety of fish, and possibly an elusive octopus. This tour not only offers a unique opportunity to observe marine life in a natural “cleaning station” but also prioritizes comfort and safety, making it a must-experience in Waikiki.

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Outrigger Canoe Surfing with Waikiki Beach Boys

Outrigger Canoe Surfing with Waikiki Beach Boys

Ride the waves in a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe. These canoes feature a dual-hull design for enhanced stability and speed, making them ideal for beginners and those new to paddling. Waikiki’s gentle, rolling waves provide the perfect conditions for catching your first wave or gliding along the scenic coastline. Prepare for an unforgettable 30 to 45-minute adventure in a 29.5-foot custom-built outrigger canoe, designed to accommodate four paddlers and two crew members.

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Sunset Dinner & Fireworks Sail with Cocktails - Spirit of Aloha

Sunset Dinner & Fireworks Sail

Begin with a scenic sail against the backdrop of a stunning sunset, followed by a delightful dinner buffet and complimentary drinks. As night falls, be mesmerized by the spectacular fireworks display from the Hilton Waikiki, a weekly Friday night celebration of life in paradise. Offering front-row seats to breathtaking views and fireworks, plus the chance to unwind in true “Aloha Friday” style, this sail includes two free alcoholic drinks for adults, with additional drinks at a minimal cost.

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Waikiki Bottom Fishing Cruise Tour - Ohana Fun Charters

Waikiki Bottom Fishing Cruise Tour

This no-experience-necessary bottom fishing tour welcomes families and offers a quick start to fishing after boarding. Participants have the chance to catch various Hawaiian reef fish, with the option to either release their catch or enjoy it grilled on the boat. With gear and bait provided, along with a BYOB option for drinks, it’s an ideal outing for anglers of all levels.

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Waikiki Guided Surfing Lessons - Ohana Surf Project

Waikiki Guided Surfing Lessons - Ohana Surf Project

Fulfill your dream of surfing in Waikiki with tailored lessons that match your skill level and comfort in the water, ensuring you’ll be riding waves swiftly! With a small instructor-to-student ratio of 1:4, you’re guaranteed personalized attention, whether in general sessions, private, or semi-private lessons. Options are available for all ages, including specialized private lessons for children under 13 or family lessons where they can learn alongside a parent or guardian.

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The Magical Mystery Show

The Magical Mystery Show

The Waikiki Magical Mystery Show offers an intimate, enchanting evening that takes you back to the Victorian era of close-up magic and parlor performances. The experience begins in the Museum of Curiosities, followed by a journey through Hawaii’s history of salon performances introduced by King David Kalakaua. Guests then enjoy over an hour of world-class magic in the main theater, with options for standard or VIP seating, each including museum access, a welcome drink, and a mesmerizing performance.

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As our exploration of Waikiki’s must-do activities comes to a close, it’s clear that this vibrant destination offers a treasure trove of experiences that cater to every traveler’s desire. Let this guide be the spark that ignites your wanderlust, encouraging you to dive headfirst into the myriad of experiences Waikiki has to offer. Remember, travel is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.