Kalakaua Avenue Waikiki
Waikiki's iconic main street, buzzing with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, leading to the world-famous beach.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free cultural hula shows!
Kalakaua Avenue Waikiki
Best Time
Free cultural hula shows!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Waikiki's iconic main street, buzzing with shops, restaurants, and entertainment, leading to the world-famous beach.
"The pulsing heart of Waikiki, alive with shops, dining, and vibrant energy."
🚶♀️ Walkable Exploration
Kalakaua Avenue is best explored on foot to truly soak in the atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:
🎶 Free Hula Shows
Catch free hula performances on Saturdays near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Heartbeat of Waikiki
Kalakaua Avenue
Waikiki's main street, alive with shops, dining, and vibrant energy. A must-see for any visitor.
Duke Kahanamoku Statue & Hula Shows
Kuhio Beach Hula Mound
Iconic statue of the 'father of modern surfing' and free Saturday evening hula performances.
Rooftop Dining with a View
Various restaurants along Kalakaua Ave
Enjoy cocktails and bites with panoramic views of the avenue and ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Waikiki Vibe
Sunset Spectacles & Cultural Beats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Walkable Exploration
Kalakaua Avenue is best explored on foot to truly soak in the atmosphere.
Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:🎶 Free Hula Shows
Catch free hula performances on Saturdays near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue.
🍹 Happy Hour Views
Many rooftop bars offer happy hour with great views of the avenue.
🛍️ Shopping Galore
From high-end boutiques to souvenir shops, there's something for every shopper. :shopping_bags:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Walkable Exploration
Kalakaua Avenue is best explored on foot to truly soak in the atmosphere.
Wear comfortable shoes! :athletic_shoe:🎶 Free Hula Shows
Catch free hula performances on Saturdays near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue.
🍹 Happy Hour Views
Many rooftop bars offer happy hour with great views of the avenue.
🛍️ Shopping Galore
From high-end boutiques to souvenir shops, there's something for every shopper. :shopping_bags:
🚗 Avoid Car Rental
Parking is difficult and expensive. Walking or using ride-shares is recommended.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kalakaua Avenue is the vibrant heart of Waikiki, praised for its lively atmosphere, diverse shopping, and dining options. Visitors love the convenience of being close to the beach and the entertainment, especially the free Saturday hula shows. However, some find it can be overwhelmingly crowded and noisy, and parking is a significant challenge.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kalakaua Avenue is Waikiki's main street and is easily accessible. If you're staying in Waikiki, it's likely within walking distance. From Honolulu International Airport (HNL), you can take a taxi, rideshare, or shuttle service, which takes about 30-40 minutes depending on traffic.
Parking on Kalakaua Avenue can be very challenging and expensive. Many visitors recommend not renting a car if you're staying in Waikiki and plan to stick to the main tourist areas.
If you do drive, look for public parking garages or hotel parking, but be prepared for high fees.Besides walking, the Waikiki Trolley is a popular option for getting around and hopping between attractions. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also readily available.
Yes, TheBus (public transportation system for Oahu) operates routes that run along Kalakaua Avenue, making it an affordable way to travel.
Yes, TheBus routes connect Waikiki to other parts of Oahu, including downtown Honolulu and the airport. If you have a rental car, be aware that traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, walking along Kalakaua Avenue is free and open to the public. It's a public street lined with shops, restaurants, and hotels.
While the avenue itself is free, individual attractions like shops, restaurants, and the Waikiki Aquarium may have their own admission fees or costs for purchases.
Keep an eye on local event listings and social media for updates on street fairs, block parties, and other happenings. The Waikiki Street Jam Block Party is a notable event.
Yes, you can enjoy free hula performances every Saturday evening at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, near the Duke Kahanamoku Statue.
Most shops and restaurants on Kalakaua Avenue have extended hours, typically from morning until late evening. Some may close earlier, so it's best to check individual business hours if you have a specific place in mind.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
Kalakaua Avenue offers a wide range of shopping, from luxury brands and surf shops to souvenir stores and local boutiques. You'll find everything from high-end fashion to unique Hawaiian crafts.
There are countless dining options, from casual eateries and food trucks to upscale restaurants and bars. You can find everything from local Hawaiian cuisine to international flavors.
Yes, you can find several cafes along Kalakaua Avenue, including JNOEL Cafe, which is a popular spot.
Many hotels also have cafes within their premises.Look for places offering local favorites like poke bowls, plate lunches, and fresh seafood. Many restaurants also have happy hour specials with great views.
Yes, you can find convenience stores like Lawson along Kalakaua Avenue, which are great for snacks, drinks, and quick meals.
📸 📸 Photography & Sights
Capture the vibrant street life, iconic hotels, and the Duke Kahanamoku Statue. The beach access points offer great ocean views.
Sunset from a rooftop bar is also a prime photo op.Rooftop bars and restaurants offer stunning panoramic views of Kalakaua Avenue and the surrounding area.
Many hotels also have observation decks or rooms with great views.The Waikiki Aquarium is located at 2777 Kalakaua Avenue, making it easily accessible from the main avenue.
The statue honors Duke Kahanamoku, a legendary Hawaiian Olympic swimmer and surfer, often called the 'father of modern surfing.' It's a popular landmark for photos.
You might encounter various street performers, musicians, and artists, especially during events or peak tourist times. Balloon artists have been seen in the past.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Pulse of Waikiki: Kalakaua Avenue's Charm
Beyond the shopping and dining, Kalakaua Avenue serves as a gateway to Waikiki's famous beach. Numerous access points allow for easy strolls from the avenue to the sand. The avenue is also home to many of Waikiki's most recognizable hotels, including the Sheraton Waikiki and Hyatt Regency, offering stunning views and convenient access to all the action. The presence of landmarks like the Duke Kahanamoku Statue adds a layer of cultural significance, making it a place to both relax and explore.
Experiencing Waikiki's Nightlife and Entertainment
For a dose of Hawaiian culture, don't miss the free hula shows held on Saturday evenings at the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, a short walk from Kalakaua Avenue. These performances are a beautiful way to experience traditional Hawaiian dance and music. The avenue itself can also host various events, such as block parties, adding to the festive atmosphere. Whether you're looking for a quiet drink with a view or a lively evening out, Kalakaua Avenue provides a diverse range of entertainment options.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit