Things to Do in Waikiki

Discover Popular Waikiki Attractions & Activities
near Aqua Lotus Honolulu Hotel

A quiet haven near Diamond Head yet minutes away from the vibrant dining, nightlife and shopping in Waikiki, Aqua Lotus Honolulu offers the best of both worlds for your Hawaii vacation. Our Waikiki hotel is conveniently located next to Sans Souci (Kaimana) Beach, one of Oahu’s best beaches. When you’re ready to explore the area’s popular Waikiki attractions and activities, borrow one of our beach cruiser bicycles and discover the best of Waikiki and Honolulu’s Gold Coast.

Waikiki Beach

One of the most popular beaches in the world, Waikiki is known for its beautiful white sand, waves ideal for beginning surfers and spectacular views of Diamond Head. Soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, take a surfing or stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) lesson, learn to paddle an outrigger canoe, or embark on a sunset dinner cruise.

Diamond Head

Considered the iconic symbol of the Hawaiian Islands, Diamond Head Crater offers a unique hiking experience just minutes from Aqua Lotus Honolulu hotel. The moderate hike includes steep stairs leading to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu’s southern coastline. Be sure to bring your camera for amazing photo opportunities at the top.

Waikiki Aquarium

Get to know Hawaii’s vibrant and colorful marine life at Waikiki Aquarium, just a short walk from Aqua Lotus Honolulu hotel. The aquarium offers exhibits of over 3,500 marine animals and houses more than 500 species of aquatic animals and plants, including Hawaiian monk seals and mesmerizing sea jellies.

Honolulu Zoo

Take a walk on the wild side to The Honolulu Zoo, located at the edge of Kapiolani Park, just a short stroll from Aqua Lotus Honolulu. The zoo is home to more than 1,230 animals, including numerous species that are unique to the Honolulu Zoo.

Kapiolani Park

Located across from Aqua Lotus Honolulu hotel, Kapiolani Park is Oahu’s gathering place for recreation, sporting events and festivals. With jogging trails, tennis courts, and picnic areas, this lush, green park offers something for everyone. Start your day off with complimentary yoga classes in the park four mornings a week.

Hanauma Bay

Situated 10 miles east of Waikiki, Hanauma Bay is one of Oahu’s most popular snorkeling locations, offering calm, protected waters and a rainbow of colorful fish and marine life. Sea turtles are also known to nest around this famous curved bay.

Kapiolani Farmer’s Market

For unique, made-in-Hawaii products and fresh island produce, pay a visit to this popular Honolulu Farmers Market held on Saturday mornings at Kapiolani Community College. Buy fresh fruit and sample a variety of delicious food and gourmet treats.

Ala Moana Shopping Center

Discover Honolulu’s shopping paradise at Ala Moana Shopping Center, the largest open-air shopping center in the world. Shops specialize in everything from beachwear to high fashion to local products, and visitors will find a variety of international cuisines to sample at both casual eateries and some of Hawaii’s best restaurants.

The International Marketplace

Boasting a shopping experience like no other in Waikiki, the International Market Place is a legendary bazaar brimming with unique souvenirs, local crafts, jewelry, sundresses and Hawaiian wear.

Oahu Dive Tour

Take the plunge: there’s no better way to see and explore the Oahu coastline than to scuba dive beneath the surface to see where all the action is. Go on an Oahu dive tour to experience the variety of Hawaii’s unique marine life.

Downtown Honolulu and Chinatown

Learn about the extensive cultural history of Hawaii when you visit various monuments, museums, and architectural marvels of Honolulu, Oahu. Visit Aliiolani Hale, the King Kamehameha Statue, Iolani Palace, and the Hawaii State Capitol. Explore the maze of shops and restaurants in historic Chinatown, which comes to life as a popular Honolulu nightlife destination when the sun goes down.

Pearl Harbor & Arizona Memorial

Pay tribute to the soldiers of the USS Arizona with a tour of Pearl Harbor and Arizona Memorial. Visit the offshore shrine and see the final resting place of the soldiers killed during the World War II attack. Take a historic tour of Pearl Harbor and view multimedia exhibits in the Visitor’s Center.