From Kamehameha the Great to Elvis Presley, discover the rich history of Waikiki from swampy farmlands to royal playground and how it became one of the most famous destinations in the world.

In early Hawaii, Waikiki was a much larger area than the 1.5 square miles it encompasses today. Old Waikiki, much of it swampland, included the neighboring valleys of Manoa and Palolo. Translated, Waikiki means "spouting water," a reference to the rivers and springs that richly flowed into the area.

In the mid to late 1800s, Waikiki served as a vacation retreat for the kingdom’s royalty. Kamehameha IV, Kamehameha V, Lunalilo, Kalakaua, Liliuokalani and Princess Kaiulani were among the dignitaries who maintained residences in the area, enjoying moonlight horseback rides, thrilling canoe races and carefree romps in the ocean.

On March 11, 1901 Waikiki began a climb to global recognition as a tourist destination with the building of its first historic architectural treasure - The Moana Hotel.

Today, Waikiki is in full bloom. There are world-class hotels with familiar names like Hilton, Sheraton and Hyatt, and there are smaller operations that still provide plenty of aloha. Waikiki also boasts Waikiki Beach and the iconic slopes of Diamond Head Crater. There’s 500-acre Kapiolani Park, the Waikiki Aquarium, Honolulu Zoo and the International Marketplace (a shopper’s bonanza located in the heart of Waikiki). Waikiki is also home to some of Hawaii’s finest restaurants and hottest nightspots.

Best of all, everything is within walking distance. Waikiki is yours to discover, block by block, beach by beach. Welcome to the playground.

Top Tours & Activities to visit in Waikiki

	KanDoo! Island Waikiki's newest attraction! Moored off the coast of Waikiki. Swim, snorkel, jet ski, banana boat, parasailing. Fun for the whole family! > Learn more about KanDoo! Island
	Duke Kahanamoku statue The legendary Duke welcomes you to Waikiki with open arms. > Learn more about Duke Kahanamoku
	Kuhio Beach Take your first surf lesson on this golden stretch of sand. > Learn more about where to PLAY in Waikiki
	Waikiki Beach Walk Waikiki's newest gathering place for shopping, nightlife, and cuisine. > Learn more about Waikiki Beach Walk
	Kalakaua Avenue Waikiki's main strip is home to world-class hospitality and shopping. > Learn more about Waikiki Style
	Diamond Head State National Monument / Leahi This iconic landmark silhouettes the Waikiki skyline. >Learn more about Leahi (Diamond Head)
	Kapahulu Just minutes from Waikiki, Kapahulu offers the best in local food. > Learn more about Kapahulu