Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park, Honolulu - a park with a bench and trees in the background
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Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park Honolulu

4.3
·1k reviews·Honolulu, United States

A scenic oceanfront park offering stunning sunset views, a unique cat colony, and vibrant local events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wed & Fri evenings

Sunset & fireworks

CrowdMedium
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Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park, Honolulu - a park with a bench and trees in the background

Kaka‘ako Waterfront Park Honolulu

Best Time

Wed & Fri evenings

Sunset & fireworks

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic oceanfront park offering stunning sunset views, a unique cat colony, and vibrant local events.

4.3
(1k reviews)

"A beloved local spot for breathtaking sunsets, friendly cats, and a relaxed vibe."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Spectacular sunset views are a must! Arrive before dusk for the best spots.

🐾 Pet the Friendly Cats

Many well-fed cats roam the park; they're often friendly and love attention.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunset Spectacle

Sunset Spectacle

Oceanfront promenade

Witness breathtaking sunsets over the Pacific, painting the sky with vibrant colors. A photographer's dream!

The Kaka'ako Cat Colony

The Kaka'ako Cat Colony

Throughout the park

Encounter a friendly community of well-cared-for cats, often gathering in the evenings. A unique and heartwarming experience.

Urban Skyline Views

Urban Skyline Views

Along the waterfront

Enjoy panoramic views of the Honolulu skyline and Diamond Head, creating a stunning contrast with the ocean.

Wednesday Night Shuffle

Wednesday Night Shuffle

Amphitheater area

Join the vibrant Honolulu Shuffle scene every Wednesday evening for energetic dance and music.

Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds for Sunset Magic

While Kaka'ako Waterfront Park offers stunning sunset views, it can get busy. For a more serene experience, consider visiting on a weekday evening. The park is also a popular spot for local events, so check for any scheduled activities that might impact crowd levels.

Embrace the Local Vibe

This park is a beloved spot for locals, especially for its cat colony and evening gatherings. Respect the residents and their pets, and be mindful of the park's closing times, as cars are towed after hours. It's a great place to experience authentic Honolulu life.

Best Times

When
Wed & Fri evenings
Why
Sunset & fireworks
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Peaceful strolls
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Cat feeding time
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

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@chrisdinhtravels
118.4K likes • 2.5M views

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Spectacular sunset views are a must! Arrive before dusk for the best spots. Instagram

🐾 Pet the Friendly Cats

Many well-fed cats roam the park; they're often friendly and love attention. Reddit

have fun in hawaii 🌊☀️ #oahu #hawaii #honolulu #oahulife #honoluluhawaii #hawaiitips #traveltips #vacationtips #whattodoinhawaii #thingstodoinoahu #hawaiiadvice #oahutips #thingsyouneedtoknowforhawaii #thingstodoinhawaii #whattoknowbeforegoingtohawaii #honolulutips #fyp #foryoupage #viral #trending #relatable #imjustagirl #girls #girlcore #girlythings #girlygirl #hawaiihack #travelhacks #vacationh...
@elyzasummer
42.9K likes • 717.8K views
Spent some time at Kakaako Waterfront Park between property showings. This park has a lot fewer people than nearby famous Ala Moana Beach Park. The views are great! 😊💚 . . . . . . . #hawaii #oahu #honolulu #realtor #hawaiirealtor #realtorhawaii #oahurealtor #realtoroahu #honolulurealtor #realtorhonolulu #realestate #hawaiirealestate #realestatehawaii #oahurealestate #realestateoahu #honolulureal...
plumeria_hawaii_properties
75 likes • 6.9K views

💃 Join the Shuffle

Experience the Honolulu Shuffle dance every Wednesday evening. All are welcome! Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is great for walking, jogging, or biking. Reddit

Some of our MANY beautiful lady Honolulu Shufflers came to throw down at today’s meetup. 😍💃🏽👠 • 🚨Every WEDNESDAY 5pm-7pm @ Kakaako Waterfront Park (All styles and vibes welcomed!)🚨 • In the mix with @djjonpaul 🎶🎧. Thank you for throwing down those beats. • 💃🏽 Lady Shufflers: @skyslittlesquares @maxinehinano @whimsicalmelon @frenchybread1 @ria.roma_ • #LadyShufflers #ShuffleBabes #HonoluluShuf...
yoitzroro
315 likes • 9.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Sunset

Spectacular sunset views are a must! Arrive before dusk for the best spots. Instagram

🐾 Pet the Friendly Cats

Many well-fed cats roam the park; they're often friendly and love attention. Reddit

💃 Join the Shuffle

Experience the Honolulu Shuffle dance every Wednesday evening. All are welcome! Instagram

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

The park is great for walking, jogging, or biking. Reddit

🚗 Free Parking Available

Parking is generally free and plentiful, but can be towed after park closing. Reddit

🎣 Fishing Fun

Locals often fish along the coastline; bring your gear if you're interested. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kaka'ako Waterfront Park for its beautiful ocean views, stunning sunsets, and less crowded atmosphere compared to other Honolulu beaches. The friendly cat colony and free parking are also significant draws. Some mention occasional issues with trash accumulation and bothersome flies, but overall, it's considered a lovely spot for relaxation and local experiences.

"Really nice water side park! Not crowded. Easy parking. There are trees, tables, bathrooms. You can enjoy the ocean view here and watch the waves and sunset. There are also many cats here! There will be locals bring cats food here to feed them. So lovely."

Qianren Zhou

"amazing spot to be by the water but not swim! it has a parking lot which is always a plus to me. it a very big park so there is plenty of space. you can get some good exercise in while walking and theirs a lot of cats to see in the evening which was awesome! some of the cats are really friendly too!"

Anna Akins

"I visited for sunset with some light dinner.

Magically, a crew of mostly friendly cats appeared to say hello. They looked well fed with clean coats. They accepted some pettings and watched the sunset with me.
(Note for anyone with cat dander allergies!)

Plenty of fishing happening along the coastline (many rods with bells, the people were elsewhere).

A sunset cruise went by also.

Unfortunately, some large black flies appeared so I couldn't snack on my food.

Very popular area, many folks stopping for gorgeous sunset photos. Good walking trail.

I might have to return to pet the cats, they're much more fun than a cat cafe."

Ali C

What People Like

Beautiful sunset views
Friendly cat colony
Free parking

What People Dislike

Occasional trash
Bothersome flies

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is walkable from Waikiki, though it's a bit of a trek (around 2-3 miles). You can walk along Ala Moana Boulevard, passing Ala Moana Center and Ward Village. Sidewalks are generally safe, but it can be hot and unshaded during the day, so morning or late afternoon is best. Alternatively, the bus system is an easy and affordable option. Reddit

Yes, TheBus is a convenient way to reach Kaka'ako Waterfront Park from various parts of Honolulu. Several bus routes stop near the park. Reddit

Driving is a good option as there is ample free parking available at the park. However, be aware that cars are towed after the park closes at night. Reddit

Absolutely! The two parks are adjacent, making it a very easy and pleasant walk between them. You can enjoy the waterfront promenade connecting the areas. Reddit

Yes, the park offers a flat and extensive oceanside walkway that's perfect for jogging, running, or cycling. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is a public park and does not have an entrance fee. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and amenities for free! TikTok

The park is generally open from early morning until late evening. However, it's important to note that vehicles are towed after closing hours, so be mindful of the time if you are driving. Reddit

No advance booking or tickets are required to visit Kaka'ako Waterfront Park as it is a public space. TikTok

Yes, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park hosts various events, including the popular Honolulu Shuffle dance every Wednesday evening. It's also a known spot for fireworks on Friday nights. TikTokInstagram

Definitely! The park offers picnic tables and barbecue grilling facilities, making it an ideal spot for a family picnic with ocean views. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. The park also provides stunning views of the Honolulu skyline, which look great day or night. Instagram

The oceanfront promenade for sunset shots, the Honolulu skyline views, and the unique cat colony are all highly photogenic. The amphitheater area can also be interesting, especially during events. InstagramReddit

Yes, the cats are a popular subject for photos! They are generally friendly and accustomed to people, but always be respectful of their space. Reddit

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography might require permits, so it's best to check with park authorities if you plan on professional shoots. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive ocean and skyline views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing details of the skyline or wildlife. A tripod is highly recommended for sunset and low-light photography. Instagram

🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience

You can walk, run, bike, skate, swim, surf, fish, have a picnic, or simply relax and enjoy the ocean views and gentle tradewinds. It's also a popular spot for watching sunsets and has a unique cat colony. InstagramReddit

While the park is on the waterfront, it's generally not recommended for swimming due to currents and potential hazards. It's more of a place to enjoy the ocean views and activities like fishing or surfing nearby. Reddit

Yes, the park is equipped with restrooms, picnic tables, and barbecue grilling facilities, making it convenient for visitors. Reddit

The Honolulu Shuffle is a vibrant community dance event that takes place every Wednesday evening at Kaka'ako Waterfront Park. It's an inclusive gathering where people of all styles and vibes are welcome to dance. Instagram

Yes, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is known for its resident cat colony, which is well-cared for by locals. You might also see some stray chickens. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no dedicated restaurants or food vendors directly within Kaka'ako Waterfront Park. However, the nearby Ward Village and Ala Moana Center offer a wide variety of dining options. Reddit

Yes, bringing your own food for a picnic is highly encouraged! The park has picnic tables and barbecue facilities, making it a great spot for a DIY meal. Reddit

The adjacent Ward Village and Ala Moana Center offer a vast array of culinary choices, from casual eateries to upscale dining. You can find almost any cuisine imaginable. Reddit

While not a permanent fixture, food trucks sometimes gather in the Kaka'ako area, especially during events. It's worth checking local listings or social media for any current food truck presence. TikTok

While generally safe, some visitors have noted the presence of large black flies, which can be bothersome when trying to eat outdoors. It's advisable to keep food covered. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is a great spot for families looking for a relaxed outing. The park offers plenty of open space for kids to run around, picnic tables for easy meals, and barbecue facilities for a fun cookout. The nearby ocean provides beautiful views, and while swimming isn't ideal, the general atmosphere is family-friendly. Reddit

Don't miss the unique opportunity to see the friendly cat colony, which can be a delightful experience for children. Remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water, especially if visiting during the day, as shaded areas can be limited. The park's free parking is also a big plus for families. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is a gem for budget travelers as it offers a fantastic experience completely free of charge. Entrance is free, and parking is generally available without cost, though be mindful of towing after closing hours. TikTokReddit

Instead of expensive tourist traps, you can enjoy stunning sunset views, a unique cat colony, and a vibrant local atmosphere. Pack your own snacks and drinks to save money on food, or explore the nearby Ward Village or Ala Moana Center for more affordable dining options. The walkability from Waikiki also saves on transportation costs if you're up for it. Reddit

📸 Photographers

For photographers, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is a dream location, especially during the golden hours. The park offers incredible opportunities to capture dramatic sunsets over the Pacific, juxtaposed with the glittering Honolulu skyline and the iconic Diamond Head. Instagram

Beyond the landscapes, the park's resident cat colony provides unique portrait opportunities, and the Wednesday night Honolulu Shuffle offers dynamic shots of movement and community. A wide-angle lens is recommended for the expansive views, and a tripod is essential for capturing the best of the sunset light. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Charm of the Kaka'ako Cat Colony

One of the most unique and heartwarming aspects of Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is its resident cat colony. These felines, often seen lounging in the sun or greeting visitors, are well-cared for by local residents who regularly bring them food and water. Many visitors find interacting with these friendly cats to be a highlight of their park visit, describing them as more engaging than a cat cafe. It's a testament to the community spirit in Honolulu, where locals actively look after the park's animal inhabitants. Remember to be gentle and respectful if you choose to pet them, and be mindful if you have cat dander allergies. Reddit

These cats are a beloved part of the park's identity, adding a special charm that sets Kaka'ako Waterfront Park apart from other coastal areas. Their presence creates a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making the park feel even more welcoming. It's a delightful surprise for many visitors who come for the ocean views and leave with fond memories of their feline encounters. Reddit

Experiencing the Honolulu Shuffle

Every Wednesday evening, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park transforms into a vibrant hub for the Honolulu Shuffle dance scene. From 5 PM to 7 PM, the amphitheater area comes alive with music and energetic dancers. This is a fantastic opportunity to witness or even join in on a unique local cultural event. The atmosphere is described as welcoming to all styles and vibes, making it an inclusive and fun experience for everyone. Instagram

Local DJs often provide the beats, and the 'Lady Shufflers' are a prominent part of the scene. It's a chance to see a different side of Honolulu's nightlife, away from the typical tourist spots. If you're looking for an authentic and lively experience, marking your calendar for Wednesday evenings at Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is a must. Instagram

Navigating the Walkability from Waikiki

For those staying in Waikiki, Kaka'ako Waterfront Park is indeed walkable, though it requires a bit of planning. The distance is roughly 2-3 miles, and the route primarily follows Ala Moana Boulevard. While sidewalks are generally present and safe, the walk can be quite exposed to the sun, making early morning or late afternoon the most comfortable times to undertake it. Reddit

Travelers suggest that walking through Ala Moana Center and Ward Village can offer some respite from the sun and provide opportunities to stop for a break. The environment is largely urban, but the park itself offers a pleasant destination. If walking isn't your preference, the local bus system is a very easy and affordable alternative for reaching the park. Reddit

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