Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii, is located in the State's capital city of Honolulu on the most populated island of the South Pacific Island chain. It is at just west of the southernmost tip of Oahu. This most famous of Hawaiian resort destinations was once the recreation spot for the royalty of traditional Hawaiian Society. It was presented to world travelers in 1901 when the Moana Surfrider hotel was built.
In English, Waikiki means Spouting Waters. The beach is only about 9 miles from the Waikiki Honolulu International Airport.
Located near the beach is the main strip, Kalalaua Avenue, where brand name shopping, world class entertainment and fine dining are abundant for enjoyment after a day at the beach.
The open air International Market Place is located only 1 block from this beach.
On arriving at Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii, visitors are greeted with open arms (literally) by the statue of Duke Kahanamoku. He is a local hero attributed with being the father of modern surfing. At the turn of the century he surfed in the waters at this beach and went on to win gold in the Olympics of 1912 and 1920. He later appeared in Hollywood films and is attributed with pioneering the promotion of the sport of surfing and the destination of Hawaii around the globe.
Once on the beach one can look overhead and see the towering Diamond Head crater rising 760 ft. into the sky.
At Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii, surfing lessons and Stand Up Paddle Board surfing lessons are available for beginners. Rental boards are also available for the experienced surfers without gear.
Outrigger canoe trips can be experienced in the surf at this beach. Parasailing is also a popular sport at this beach and throughout the islands.
Several luxury hotels are located right on this beach. There is also a broad array of condos here that come with the amenities of luxury hotel living right at this beach.
At Waikiki Beach internet access and U.S. cellular phone service are both ready available.
The time at this beach is two hours behind Pacific Standard Time and 5 hours behind Eastern Standard Time.
Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii, has soft, white sand and light blue, clear water. Surf is bigger and more dangerous to swimmers in the winter months while the air temperature at this beach always has highs that range from 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Some 8 blocks from the beach, on the other side of the Ala Wai Canal, the nearest professional golf course can be found.
The zoo is also found in easy walking distance for families staying or living at Waikiki Beach.
While this beach is technically open to the public practically speaking all facilities directly at the beach are private, for the most part belonging to the numerous resorts and hotels here.
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