Duke Kahanamoku Statue Honolulu
A 9-foot bronze statue on Waikiki Beach honoring Duke Kahanamoku, the Olympic champion and father of modern surfing.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Duke Kahanamoku Statue Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 9-foot bronze statue on Waikiki Beach honoring Duke Kahanamoku, the Olympic champion and father of modern surfing.
"An iconic statue you shouldn't miss when visiting the world-famous beach. A great photo spot."
📸 Photo Ops
Capture the iconic statue, especially at sunset. Go early or late to avoid crowds.
🌺 Respect Tributes
Leis are left as memorials. Please do not move or pose with them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Duke Kahanamoku Statue
Waikiki Beach, Honolulu
A 9-foot bronze monument honoring the father of modern surfing and Olympic swimming champion.
Kuhio Beach Hula Mound
Near the statue
Experience free, authentic Hawaiian cultural performances every Saturday evening.
Waikiki Beach Walkway
Along Waikiki Beach
Stroll this vibrant path, perfect for sunset views and people-watching.
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visits
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photo Ops
Capture the iconic statue, especially at sunset. Go early or late to avoid crowds.
🌺 Respect Tributes
Leis are left as memorials. Please do not move or pose with them.
🏄 Beginner Surfing
Canoes surf break near the statue is great for beginners. Rent boards nearby.
🚶♀️ Explore Waikiki
The statue is a central point; hotels nearby offer easy access to shops and dining.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photo Ops
Capture the iconic statue, especially at sunset. Go early or late to avoid crowds.
🌺 Respect Tributes
Leis are left as memorials. Please do not move or pose with them.
🏄 Beginner Surfing
Canoes surf break near the statue is great for beginners. Rent boards nearby.
🚶♀️ Explore Waikiki
The statue is a central point; hotels nearby offer easy access to shops and dining.
🎶 Free Hula Shows
Catch a free cultural performance near the statue on Saturday evenings.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Duke Kahanamoku Statue as an iconic and essential stop in Waikiki, perfect for photos and paying respects to a Hawaiian legend. While the area is often crowded, many find the beauty of the beach and the cultural significance of the statue make it a worthwhile experience. Some note the importance of respecting memorial tributes left at the site.
"Before hitting the surf, pay homage to the legendary Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, Native Hawaiian Olympic swimmer, lifeguard and surfer.
Leis are regularly hung from arms extended, bidding welcome to the myriads of Waikiki beach goers.
Check out the nearby banyan tree, a natural tropical monument."
Christopher Chung
"Very iconic statue along the Waikiki Beach walkway. It's very nice at sunset but it is always crowded just like the beach. Taking a photo without people in it is rare unless you go late at night or very early in the morning. It's definitely a nice stop as you walk around the area."
Melissa Previte
"If you’re in Waikiki, you MUST have a picture next to the Duke’s statue… even tho its a very crowded beach, you can get anice picture and pay your respects to Duke’s statue.. and when you’re leaving… leave your orchid lace as a Thanks for the wonderful trip you had.
Get to go early and if possible, see the sun rises, the water in Waikiki it’s turquoise blue and warm.
I hope you enjoy this beautiful island!"
Marcelo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Duke Kahanamoku Statue is located on Kuhio Beach in Waikiki, Honolulu. It's easily accessible by public bus, ride-sharing services, or a pleasant walk if you're staying in the Waikiki area. Many visitors find hotels near the statue for convenient access to the beach and local attractions.
Parking in Waikiki can be challenging and expensive. While there are public parking lots and hotel garages nearby, it's often more convenient to use ride-sharing services or public transport, especially if you plan to spend time on the beach.
Absolutely! If you're staying in Waikiki, the statue is a central landmark and easily reachable on foot. It's a great way to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Waikiki Beach.
Waikiki is very walkable, and you can also utilize Biki bicycles for short distances. Ride-sharing services and local buses are also readily available for exploring further afield.
Yes, the statue is a prominent landmark on Kuhio Beach, a well-known section of Waikiki Beach. It's hard to miss as you stroll along the beach or the main Kalakaua Avenue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, viewing and taking photos with the Duke Kahanamoku Statue is completely free. It's an open public space on Waikiki Beach.
The statue and the surrounding beach area are accessible 24/7. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours or early evening is recommended.
There are no fees to visit or take photos with the Duke Kahanamoku Statue itself. Any costs would be related to parking or transportation to the area.
While there are no strict rules against touching, it's generally advised to be respectful of monuments. The statue is a tribute, and visitors are encouraged to admire it without causing damage.
For photography, early morning or late evening offers fewer crowds and beautiful lighting. Saturday evenings are popular for the free hula shows nearby.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings and late evenings provide the best light and the fewest crowds for capturing memorable photos of the Duke Kahanamoku Statue. Sunset is beautiful but very crowded.
The area directly in front of the statue offers classic shots. You can also capture it with the ocean and Waikiki Beach as a backdrop.
Be mindful of other visitors and respect any leis or tributes left at the statue. Avoid moving or posing with memorial items.
Drone usage is often restricted in public beach areas and near populated tourist spots. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone in Waikiki.
Any camera, from a smartphone to a professional DSLR, can capture great shots. The key is good lighting and composition. Consider a wide-angle lens to include the beach.
🎫 🏄 Surfing & Water Activities
The Canoes surf break, located just behind the Duke Kahanamoku Statue across from the Hyatt, is ideal for beginners. You can rent boards and take lessons from surf shops nearby.
Yes, there are several surf shops along Waikiki Beach, including those within walking distance of the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, where you can rent surfboards.
Kuhio Beach, where the statue is located, generally has calmer waters and smaller waves, making it suitable for swimming and beginner surfing.
Many surf schools operate on Waikiki Beach, offering lessons for all skill levels. You can often find instructors near the statue or book in advance.
Besides surfing, you can enjoy swimming, paddleboarding, and even take outrigger canoe rides, which Duke Kahanamoku himself excelled at.
🎫 🌺 Culture & Etiquette
The statue honors Duke Kahanamoku, a Native Hawaiian Olympic swimming champion, lifeguard, and the father of modern international surfing. He was a global ambassador of aloha. 
Leis are often left as tributes to Duke Kahanamoku. It's considered disrespectful to move or pose with these memorial offerings.
Yes, every Saturday at 6:30 PM, the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound near the statue hosts free hula performances, offering a wonderful cultural experience.
Duke Kahanamoku embodied the spirit of aloha, which signifies love, peace, compassion, and a welcoming spirit. He spread this spirit globally through his athletic achievements and personality.
Be mindful of local customs, such as respecting memorial tributes, learning a few Hawaiian phrases, and appreciating the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting in the morning to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy the beach more comfortably. The free Saturday evening hula shows near the statue can also be a captivating experience for children, offering a glimpse into Hawaiian culture in an engaging way.
🏄♀️ Surfers and Water Enthusiasts
Beyond surfing, the calm waters of Kuhio Beach are perfect for swimming and paddleboarding. If you're interested in traditional Hawaiian water sports, you might even find opportunities for outrigger canoe rides, a discipline Duke Kahanamoku himself mastered.
📸 Photographers
Experiment with different angles, incorporating the ocean, the beachgoers, or the iconic Hawaiian palm trees into your shots. Remember to be respectful of other visitors and any memorial tributes left at the statue when composing your photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legacy of Duke Kahanamoku
+1Kahanamoku's influence extended far beyond his athletic achievements. He was a beloved figure who embodied the spirit of 'aloha' – a concept encompassing love, peace, and compassion. He traveled the world, not just competing, but also sharing his passion for surfing and Hawaiian culture, making him a global ambassador. The statue, a 9-foot bronze sculpture, stands as a permanent reminder of his contributions and his enduring legacy in Hawaii and beyond.
+1Visitors often leave leis at the statue as a sign of respect and remembrance. This practice highlights the deep cultural significance of Duke Kahanamoku in Hawaii. Understanding his story adds a profound layer to the experience of visiting this iconic spot on Waikiki Beach.
Experiencing Waikiki Beach and Surroundings
Adjacent to the statue, the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture. Every Saturday evening, free hula performances take place here, providing an authentic and enjoyable cultural experience for visitors. It's a perfect way to spend an evening after a day at the beach.
Beyond the immediate vicinity of the statue, the Waikiki Beach Walkway provides a scenic promenade. Strolling along this path offers stunning ocean views, especially during sunset, and connects you to various shops, restaurants, and hotels. It's an ideal location for people-watching and soaking in the lively atmosphere of Waikiki.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit