Waikiki Beach, Oahu

Waikiki Beach must be one of the most famous beaches in the world. When people think of the Hawaiian islands, the first image they bring to mind is Waikiki Beach (who hasn’t seen Elvis on the beach in Blue Hawaii?) The two-mile stretch of fine white sand is located at the south-eastern end of Honolulu. For most of the distance it’s backed by tall hotels and condo blocks, but towards the southern end, the hotels end at the green and lush Kapiolani Park.

The beach is normally crowded, so if you like peace and solitude disappointment awaits. But if you’re the sort that loves people-watching, checking out the looks of the beautiful, beauty-less and downright weird, you’ll be in for a great time. There are lots of water sports to keep you busy – swimming, snorkeling, boogie-boarding and surfing – all under the watchful eye of the year-round lifeguard provision. Concessions by the beach rent out all sorts of watersports equipment. Make sure you try out a unique Waikiki tradition, the outrigger canoe ride – don’t forget your camera, or you’ll miss some once-in-a-lifetime shots.

In the evening, there is music entertainment at lots of bars, restaurants and hotels just behind the beach. A wide variety of musical styles are on offer from stylized Polynesian, to modern pop. And to bring back those happy memories, there’s often an Elvis impersonator on show (contributor’s note – once saw a memorable fight between a wasted ‘Elvis’ and several waiters who dissed his performance!)