Waikiki Beach is perhaps the world's most famous and most filmed beach. It actually consists of nine individually named beaches stretching along the two miles from Kahanamoku Beach near the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa to the Outrigger Canoe Club Beach near the foot of Diamond Head.
The beach today is almost entirely artificial, as new sand has been added to control erosion.
If you're looking for privacy, Waikiki Beach is not for you. It is one of the most crowded beaches in the world. With over 4 million visitors a year, it can be wall-to-wall bodies, but people-watching is half the fun.
Waikiki Beach is a popular surfing spot, especially for beginners since the surf is quite gentle. The waves rarely exceed three feet. Locals arrive at the beach before sunrise and swim out to catch the first waves of the new day. Since the 1930's surfing lessons have been given at Waikiki beach, where tourists have been introduced to this ancient sport. Today local beach boys will still show you how to ride the waves. Board rentals are readily available.
There are also boogie boards, canoes, kayaks, snorkels and umbrellas for rent. Sans Souci Beach near Diamond Head offers great swimming.
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