Is Waikīkī Beach worth it?
Worth it, with conditions. Tripadvisor 4.2 (18,967) is low for a headline Oʻahu sight; reviewers call it crowded, noisy and touristy, and hawaii-guide gives it a 'D' visitor rating.
Been to Waikīkī Beach? Was it worth it?
One tap. No account. Your vote moves the Reality score.Is it worth it for you?
Free, walkable from most hotels, with lifeguards and beginner surf — just don't expect a secluded tropical beach.
Why Reality is 54
What people loved
Free, and steps from most Waikīkī hotels — no car neededOne of the best places in Hawaiʻi to learn to surf or paddle a canoeCalm, walled-in swimming areas at Kūhiō Beach suit familiesSunsets, lifeguards, showers and shops and food right across the streetWhat wore them down
Crowded year-round, towel-to-towel at peak timesTouristy, noisy and expensive; heavily developed rather than scenic or secludedRocky entry in places — reviewers suggest swim shoesThin or missing sand in some sections (e.g., Gray's), parts can flood at high tideRestrooms and some areas reported as dirtyKnow before you go
See something out of date? Fix it right here.Booking: No reservation or fee; surf lessons, canoe rides and chair/umbrella rentals are booked with private vendors on the beach.
In their words
“Yes, it's true that the beach gets quite crowded during peak hours, but don't let that deter you.”
“Nice but the beach is pretty crowded! There were also a few events going on when I was there.”
“What I appreciate most is the section that has a barrier which helps to keep the waters calmer.”
“Much of the modern shoreline is man‑made, with imported sand used over the decades to maintain the beach.”
Tips from people who went
No tips yet. Be the first to share one.
Questions people ask
Is Waikīkī Beach free?
Yes. It is a public beach with no entry fee; parking nearby is limited and usually paid.
Is Waikīkī Beach good for kids?
Yes, particularly Kūhiō Beach, where walls create calmer swimming areas. Lifeguards are on duty.
Where do you park for Waikīkī Beach?
Options include the paid Honolulu Zoo lot, the Fort DeRussy garage, limited Kapiʻolani Park spaces along Kalākaua Avenue, and pricier hotel garages; walking is easiest if you are staying in Waikīkī.
When is Waikīkī Beach least crowded?
Early morning, roughly 7–9 a.m.; it is crowded year-round at peak hours.
Better fits, according to people who went
Sources
- Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (GoHawaii) – Waikīkī Beach
- Hawaii Guide – Waikiki Beach
- Tripadvisor – Waikiki Beach
- Google Maps – Waikīkī Beach