Duke Kahanamoku Beach
Honolulu, Oahu, Oahu, HI, 96815
Named after Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, the locally revered Hawaiian surfer, champion Olympic swimmer, and canoe master, this stretch of white sand lies at the edge of Waikiki and, though popular, provides a less crowded and more laid-back alternative to that bustling beach. Its calm waters provide ideal swimming conditions for families.
The basics
Along with the opportunities for recreation, Duke Kahanamoku Beach (also known as Duke’s Beach) provides spectacular views. The unmissable shape of Diamond Head looms to the left of the beach, while, to the right, the Ala Wai Boat Harbor shelters mariners from all across the Pacific. This area is the widest part of Waikiki Beach, providing plenty of space to soak up the sun, while a sea wall protects bathers from waves, so anyone can comfortably swim in the ocean or in the man-made Kahanamoku Lagoon.
Things to know before you go
Showers and restrooms are available at the beach.
Protect the water by wearing reef-friendly sunscreen or a swim shirt.
The beach and shallows can be rocky, so water shoes are a good idea.
How to get there
Duke Kahanamoku Beach fronts the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, and there are a couple of public access points from Kalia Road and Pahoa Place. Parking in Waikiki can be tough, however, so visitors staying in Waikiki are better off visiting on foot (it’s around a 15-minute walk from Waikiki Beach).
When to get there
While not as crowded as Waikiki Beach, Duke Kahanamoku Beach can get busy, so it’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning to stake out a space. Every Friday evening, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort hosts a free fireworks show, which every visitor should see.
Duke Paoa Kahanamoku
If you’re interested in learning more about Hawaiian surfing legend Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, visit his likeness in the center of Waikiki. Standing 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall, the bronze statue of Duke is often draped in colorful lei and is a popular photo stop. If you’re visiting in August, you may be able to catch some events during the annual Duke’s OceanFest, an ocean sports festival held on the shores of Waikiki.
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