Along with the opportunities for recreation, Duke Kahanamoku Beach (also known as Duke’s Beach) provides spectacular views. The unmissable shape of Diamond Head looms to the left of the beach, while, to the right, the Ala Wai Boat Harbor shelters mariners from all across the Pacific. This area is the widest part of Waikiki Beach, providing plenty of space to soak up the sun, while a sea wall protects bathers from waves, so anyone can comfortably swim in the ocean or in the man-made Kahanamoku Lagoon.
Showers and restrooms are available at the beach.
Protect the water by wearing reef-friendly sunscreen or a swim shirt.
The beach and shallows can be rocky, so water shoes are a good idea.
Duke Kahanamoku Beach fronts the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, and there are a couple of public access points from Kalia Road and Pahoa Place. Parking in Waikiki can be tough, however, so visitors staying in Waikiki are better off visiting on foot (it’s around a 15-minute walk from Waikiki Beach).
While not as crowded as Waikiki Beach, Duke Kahanamoku Beach can get busy, so it’s a good idea to arrive early in the morning to stake out a space. Every Friday evening, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort hosts a free fireworks show, which every visitor should see.
If you’re interested in learning more about Hawaiian surfing legend Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, visit his likeness in the center of Waikiki. Standing 9 feet (2.7 meters) tall, the bronze statue of Duke is often draped in colorful lei and is a popular photo stop. If you’re visiting in August, you may be able to catch some events during the annual Duke’s OceanFest, an ocean sports festival held on the shores of Waikiki.
