Duke Kahanamoku Statue

The basics

Poised in front of a longboard, the Duke Kahanamoku Statue was installed on what would have been Duke’s 100th birthday in 1990. Making a pilgrimage here is a must-do when visiting Waikiki; many tours of Waikiki and circle-island tours around Oahu visit the monument. The statue is also a featured stop on all Waikiki Trolley lines. Most visitors just stop to take photos, but it’s worth reading the plaque to learn about Duke’s accomplishments.

Things to know before you go

• Tossing lei onto the statue is discouraged due to the corrosive effect of the flowers’ acidity on the bronze material.

• A camera is on the statue 24/7; you can watch the live cam from anywhere in the world.

• Expect to have to wait in line to take your photo with Duke.

How to get there

The Duke Kahanamoku Statue is on the busy shop- and restaurant-lined Kalakaua Ave., along Waikiki Beach, within walking distance of many major hotels. There is a Waikiki Trolley stop just steps away and the closest TheBus stop is less than a 5-minute walk away.

When to get there

You can visit the statue at any time. It has an evocative atmosphere early in the morning when the surfers head out onto the waves of Waikiki Beach. Each summer, Duke Kahanamoku Ocean Festival honors the legendary waterman with ocean sporting events such as swimming, surfing, outrigger canoeing, paddleboard racing, and surfboard water polo.

Duke’s Waikiki Restaurant

Immerse yourself further in the legacy of Duke Kahanamoku at Duke’s Waikiki Restaurant in the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, a few minutes walk from the statue. This laid-back eatery is decorated with memorabilia and photos of Duke and the Waikiki Beach Boys and has great views of Waikīkī Beach.