Waikiki Beach - Oahu's Beautiful Waterfront

Chances are, you have heard of this place. Waikiki Beach on the south shore of Oahu is a 1 1/2-mile stretch of white sand. Waikiki Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the world and its natural allure is the aquamarine water lapping the palm-fringed shores. Beach goers can relax on the sand and stare at the calm ocean waters and the magnificent Diamond Head volcano looming in the distance, or engage in some water sports. The weather here is always warm (temperature never goes above 90 and below 70degress), and the skies, cloud-free.

Waikiki Beach is not as big as most people usually think. Plus, half of the waters are marked off for surfers. Still, it is one of the most sought spot by beach goers from every part of the world. The ocean waters are clear, and waders could open their eyes underwater without getting stung by salt. The surf breaks are long, making them ideal for tandem surfing and long boarding. Up to some distance of the ocean, the waters are shallow and friendly to children and beginners. Some parts of the beach are rocky, though, so waders have to be cautious where to put their feet.

Part of the attractions of Waikiki Beach is its readily accessible amenities--- all are just a walk away from the surf and the shore. A string of high-rise hotels, historic hotels, restaurants, shops, and the Kapiolani Park front this much-sought beach destination.

Cool Things About Waikiki

• It has the Waikiki Aquarium, the third oldest aquarium in the US. This underwater aquarium that served as inspiration for Jules Verne's submarine in the 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea
• Guests are welcomed by the open-armed statue of the Hawaiian hero and "Father of Modern Surfing" Duke Kahanamoku
• Waikiki Beach hosts "Sunset on the Beach," a free movie event. The beach becomes an outdoor movie theater- here guests can watch free movies on a 30-foot outdoor screen.
• Once a month, it hosts "Brunch on the Beach," too. Island chefs serve delicious foods at bargain prices: Kalakoa Avenue becomes an outdoor café.
• Off Kaluana Avenue beside the Waikiki Police Department, the Wizard Stones are believed to possess the spiritual force (mana) of four Tahitian priests (kahuna).
• The white sand of Waikiki Beach was imported from Manhattan Beach, California and Molokai when the beach had erosion problems in the early 1900s.