Fiona and John

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Things to See and Do

 

Surfing 101

Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon near the Duke’s Beach Stand
Daily, 11:00am

The colorful history of Duke Kahanamoku, Hawaii’s most decorated waterman and the father of modern-day surfing, comes alive in “Surfing 101.” Presented by Waikiki Beach Activities at the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, this 30-minute “talk story” session includes an historical overview of Duke Kahanamoku by expert Hawaiian waterman Ka’ai Bruhn, winner of the Molokai Hoe (Molokai-to-Oahu canoe race).

The Surfing 101 session wraps up with a brief demonstration of surfing techniques by one of two renowned watermen, Clyde Aikau or Errol Kane. Aikau is a famous big-wave surfer and winner of the Duke Kahanamoku Surfing Championship, and Kane is a popular local surf instructor. The complimentary sessions are exclusively for hotel guests and may be the best 30 minutes spent in Hawaii!

Waikiki Starlight Luau at Hilton Hawaiian Village

Waikiki Starlight Luau is the only outdoor luau in Waikiki with spectacular entertainment and dining under the stars. Experience the colorful heritage of the Pacific Islands and join the excitement of the celebration with live music, drums and the drama of traditional Hawaiian, Tahitian and Samoan dance. Indulge in a feast of unforgettable tropical flavors created with traditional island ingredients.

Sunday – Thursday, 5:30 pm – 8:15 pm (weather permitting) at Hilton Hawaiian Village on the rooftop of the Mid-Pacific Conference Center.

Hanauma Bay Nature Preserve (Snorkeling)

Staring out at the circular-shaped shore of Hanauma Bay on the southeast tip of Oahu, you can imagine how this beautiful bay was once a volcanic crater. Today, this crater, likely flooded by wave erosion, is the home of the island’s most popular snorkeling destination.

With clear blue waters and lively reefs full of colorful fish, it’s no wonder why this beach park is so famous. Explore the reefs by renting masks, snorkels, and fins or bringing your own. You’ll also find an Education Center with exhibits, information, and a theatre presentation. Pack a lunch or stop by the snack bar after a morning of exploration.

Be aware that great care and responsibility should be shown in the waters and on the beaches. This is the first Marine Life Conservation District in Hawaii so it’s important for visitors to preserve the fragile marine ecosystem of the bay. The preserve is open daily except Tuesdays. Also note that the parking lot fills quickly so try to arrive early.

Hanauma Bay (Swim with the Dolphins)

3 hour Swim with Dolphin Adventure:
Adult – $115.00 plus tax.
Children (4 -12 years old) – $85.00 plus tax.
Hotel pick up…9:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Leaves boat harbor…11:00 a.m. Returns to Waikiki… 3:30 p.m. Limited to 22 passengers. Our boat has a capacity for 30 guests, for our excursion we limit the number to 22 guests, this limit and the fact that the dolphins are more playful during mornings gives a better opportunity to swim with the dolphins. Playtime and photo opportunities with the dolphins (30-40 minutes). Snorkeling among some of the most pristine reefs, teeming with colorful fish and inquisitive Hawaii Green Sea Turtles (30 – 45 minutes weather permitting). Excursion duration on the water 3 hours. This tour operates seven days a week. Includes: Fresh tropical juices, bottled water, tropical fruits, yogurt, cheese and granola bars.

Diamond Head State Monument

The iconic silhouette of Diamond Head sits along the skyline just beyond Waikiki. This 760-foot tuff crater is one of Hawaii’s most famous landmarks. Called Leahi (brow of the tuna) by ancient Hawaiians, it was named Diamond Head by 19th century British sailors who thought they discovered diamonds on the crater’s slopes. These “diamonds” were actually shiny calcite crystals that were in fact, worthless.

Formed more than 100,000 years ago, the crater was used as a strategic military lookout beginning in the early 1900’s and was named a National Natural Landmark in 1968. Today, Diamond Head is a popular hiking destination with panoramic views of Waikiki and Oahu’s south shore.

It only takes a short drive or bus ride to get to Diamond Head Crater from Waikiki. This moderately challenging trail includes two sets of stairs, totaling 175 steps, as well as dark, underground tunnels and old military bunkers that require a flashlight. The stunning views that greet you at the top of Diamond Head are well worth the effort.

Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor, named for the pearl oysters once harvested there, is the largest natural harbor in Hawaii and the only naval base in the United States to be designated a National Historical Landmark. The devastating aerial attack on Pearl Harbor resulted in 2,390 dead and hundreds wounded, and drove the United States into World War II. Pearl Harbor honors this history-changing event with the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites:

See GoHawaii for more Waikiki activities.