Shaka Guide's Heart of Waikiki Walking Tour Itinerary

Discover the Best Places in Heart of Waikiki

April 06, 2023

Ellie

Waikiki is arguably the most iconic and recognizable district in Honolulu - perhaps even all of Hawaii. And it’s been like that for generations! This tour will take you into the nooks and crannies of this bustling area - exposing the historic roots of everything you see.

1. Princess Bernice Pauahi Statue

Princess Bernice Pauahi Statue Photo from Wikimedia Commons

This is a gorgeous place to start the tour - located within the Royal Hawaiian Marketplace, this meaningful statue depicts Princess Pauahi, who is famous for using her massive estate to further the education of Hawaiians and preserve the Hawaiian culture. The tour audio briefly recounts her life and legacy.

2. International Marketplace

The International Marketplace is a huge, modern mall in Waikiki - with one of the courtyards being built around a massive Banyan tree. This impressive area is one of the centers for shopping in Waikiki.

3. Royal Hawaiian Hotel

royal hawaiian hotel facade Royal Hawaiian Hotel

Nicknamed the Pink Palace of the Pacific, this resort is recognizable as the huge pink hotel on the beach in Waikiki. This famous hotel holds some interesting historic pieces - such as the huge map of Hawaii found in the lobby.

4. Waikiki Beach

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Shaka Guide | Travel Guide App (@shakaguide)

Waikiki Beach is a beautiful place - one of the most iconic beaches in Hawaii. The tour tells some interesting stories about the history of the beach and the notable people that have surfed here!

Pro tip: If you start the tour in the evening, you’ll get to see Waikiki Beach’s gorgeous sunset!

RELATED: Things to Do In Waikiki

5. Moana Surfrider

moana surfrider hotel front view Photo from Wikimedia Commons

The Moana Surfrider resort was the first resort in Waikiki, and it definitely looks the part. It’s all made of wood, with a huge Banyan tree behind it, facing the beach. If you come in the evening, this Banyan tree will be lit up with colored lights, creating a fantastical feel! The tour recounts some of the long history of the resort.

Pro Tip: From the lobby, ascend the stairs and you can find a fascinating exhibit all about the history of the resort!

6. Duke Kahanamoku Statue

Duke Kahanamoku is a legend - not only as a talented surfer and an Olympic gold medalist but also as the face of Hawaii. This statue of Duke, often with leis draped on him, sits right along Waikiki Beach - framed by the happy beachgoers behind him. The tour details his life and why the statue is so important.

Waikiki is a busy place - but beneath all of the hustle and bustle, there is a historic district that dates back centuries. This tour takes you on a journey to discover all of the nuggets of history found throughout Waikiki!

Like this article? Share it on Pinterest!