Honolulu Waikiki Beach Tours
Experience world-famous Waikiki with surfing, beaches, and Diamond Head backdrop!
Discover Waikiki Beach, one of world's most famous beaches and Honolulu's iconic shoreline! This 2-mile crescent of golden sand offers perfect beginner surfing (where modern surfing was revived!), swimming in calm reef-protected waters, outrigger canoe rides, stand-up paddleboarding, and spectacular Diamond Head crater backdrop. Beach tours include surf lessons on gentle Waikiki waves (Duke Kahanamoku learned here!), catamaran sails along the coast, beachfront walks, sunset viewing from beach bars, and water sports. Explore Waikiki's evolution from Hawaiian royalty playground to international resort destination. The beach culture combines Hawaiian traditions with modern resort amenities. It's where Hawaii's beach lifestyle shines!
Why Choose Waikiki Beach Tours in Honolulu?
Perfect Beginner Surf
Gentle Waikiki waves ideal for learning to surf!
Iconic Beach
World-famous shoreline with Diamond Head backdrop - postcard perfect!
Beach Culture
Experience Hawaiian beach lifestyle where surfing was born.
Year-Round Swimming
75-80°F warm water and 300+ days of sunshine!
Types of Waikiki Beach Tours in Honolulu
Surf Lessons
Learn to surf on gentle Waikiki waves with expert instructors.
Outrigger Canoe Ride
Traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe with crew - catch a wave!
Waikiki Catamaran Cruise
Sail along Waikiki coast with snorkeling and sunset views.
Beach & Diamond Head Combo
Morning beach time plus Diamond Head crater hike.
What to Expect on Your Honolulu Waikiki Beach Tours
Duration
Surf lessons: 2 hours. Canoe rides: 1 hour. Beach tours: 2-4 hours.
Surfing
Stand up on first try (most do!) on beginner-friendly waves.
Diamond Head Views
Iconic volcanic crater backdrop for every beach photo!
Warm Water
Year-round swimming in 75-80°F water - perfect temperature!
Beach Activities
Surfing, paddleboarding, volleyball, and water sports available.
Hawaiian Culture
Learn about Duke Kahanamoku (surf legend) and beach traditions.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Morning surf lessons best - offshore winds create cleaner waves.
Waikiki waves gentle (2-4 feet) perfect for beginners - most people stand up!
Book surf lessons weeks ahead in summer - very popular.
Outrigger canoe rides $20-30 - unique Hawaiian experience, don't skip!
Sunset best viewed from beach bars or catamaran cruises.
Waikiki crowded but beautiful - go early (7-8 AM) for peaceful beach time.
Beach access is FREE - towels/chairs from hotels or bring your own.
Diamond Head hike (0.8 miles, 560 steps) worth doing for views over Waikiki!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Can beginners surf at Waikiki?
A: Absolutely! Waikiki is THE best beginner surf spot - gentle waves, sandy bottom, warm water. Surf schools everywhere ($75-100/2 hours). Most people stand up on first try! Duke Kahanamoku (surf legend) learned here. Perfect introduction to surfing!
Q:How much do Waikiki surf lessons cost?
A: Group lessons: $75-100 per person (2 hours, 4-6 people). Private: $150-200. Includes board, rashguard, instruction. Book reputable schools (not beach touts). Most guarantee you'll stand up! Great value for bucket-list experience.
Q:What is an outrigger canoe?
A: Traditional Hawaiian canoe with outrigger (side float) for stability. Crew paddles you out, catches wave, and rides it in - thrilling! $20-30 for rides along Waikiki. Cultural experience dating back ancient Polynesian navigation. Everyone should try!
Q:Is Waikiki Beach free?
A: Yes! All Hawaiian beaches are public. Waikiki Beach completely free to use. Hotels have lounge chairs for guests but sand is public. Bring towel, enjoy! No fees, no tickets. Showers/bathrooms available. Free parking very limited - hotels charge.
Q:When is the best time to visit Waikiki?
A: Year-round perfect! April-May and September-November: Best weather, fewer crowds. Summer (June-August): Busiest, great surf. Winter (Dec-Feb): Bigger waves (still swimmable), whale season. Trade winds keep it comfortable. Always beautiful!
Q:What is Diamond Head?
A: Diamond Head is volcanic crater (tuff cone) creating iconic backdrop to Waikiki. You can hike to summit (0.8 miles, 560 steps, $5 entry) for panoramic Honolulu views. Best done early morning (6-7 AM). Most visitors combine beach + hike.
Q:Can you swim year-round?
A: Yes! Water temperature 75-80°F year-round. Reef protects Waikiki from big waves making it safe for swimming always. Lifeguards on duty. Jellyfish arrive 8-10 days after full moon - check warnings. Otherwise, swim anytime!
Q:Is Waikiki crowded?
A: Very crowded, especially midday! Early morning (7-8 AM) or evening less packed. It's tourist central - if seeking quiet, visit North Shore beaches instead. However, Waikiki's energy and amenities make crowds worthwhile. People-watching is part of experience!
Why Visit Honolulu?
Historic Pearl Harbor and USS Arizona Memorial
Iconic Waikiki Beach and water sports
Rich Hawaiian culture and traditions
World-class beaches and outdoor activities
Perfect tropical weather year-round
Perfect blend of history and island paradise
Best Time to Visit
Weather
Honolulu enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Average temperatures range from 70°F (21°C) in winter to 85°F (29°C) in summer.
Best Months
April to June and September to November offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for all activities.
Peak Season
December to March brings peak tourist season with ideal weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
Off Season
May to September offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with warmer temperatures.
Plan Your Honolulu Trip
Transportation Tips
Public transportation includes TheBus system. Renting a car provides flexibility for island exploration, and ride-sharing services are available.
Car Rental Deals in Honolulu
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Where to Stay
Find the perfect accommodation for your Honolulu adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Best Hotel Deals in Honolulu
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Expedia USA.