Picture this: You wake up to clear skies, walk to a local café for a delicious meal, browse the streets shopping for beautiful souvenirs and snacks, and end the day watching the sunset by the ocean. If that sounds like your dream vacation, Waikīkī is the place for you!

This year, there are more things to eat, sights to see, and places to shop in Waikīkī than ever before! So while you’re planning your trips for the year, make sure this bustling neighborhood makes it on your list. From tried-and-true classics to fresh, new offerings, here are just a few reasons to visit Waikīkī in 2024!

Did someone say yummy food?

Hawaiʻi’s unique and diverse food scene is like no other, and Waikīkī is home to many establishments serving the most ʻono (delicious) dishes! If you’re looking for a meal that’s good for the soul and the mind, you’re in luck — local favorites Waffle and Berry and Maguro Brothers Hawaii just opened their doors next to each other at the basement level of Waikiki Shopping Plaza. And within walking distance is Liliha Bakery, another must-try when visiting Hawaiʻi.

True to its name, Waffle and Berry is known for colorful açai bowls and crispy waffles, served with a generous helping of fruits and an optional topping of whipped cream. If you’re looking for service with a smile, this is the place for you. Don’t forget to pair your meal with one of their refreshing signature mocktails! Bonus tip: sometimes they have free fruit for customers to take 😉.

Fresh seafood and perfectly seasoned poke on a bed of warm sushi rice? Count us in! If you’ve ever been to Waikīkī, you’ve probably heard of Maguro Brothers Hawaii, a popular poke and sashimi place with food so good it has people lining up along the street. Their new, upgraded location offers a better and more comfortable dining experience so make sure to stop by!

Just down the street at the International Marketplace is Liliha Bakery, a local restaurant and bakery that has been serving families in Hawaiʻi since 1950. Stop by the bakery to try out their famous Coco Puffs, Poi Donuts, and Chantilly Cake or have a sit-down brunch at their restaurant. The Waikīkī location has an exclusive menu that you can’t miss out on!

A shopping experience like no other.

What better way to get in the vacation mood than to dress the part? Get ready for the warm weather with some breezy clothes, cute accessories, and slippers for the beach — island style! Remember to bring the island vibes home with you by picking up some cool souvenirs.

A trip to Hawaiʻi isn’t complete until you get matching aloha wear for the whole ʻohana! Head to Heidi’s Trading on the 2nd floor of Waikiki Shopping Plaza for beautifully designed, locally made aloha wear, hats, footwear, and lei that are perfect for your beach vacation or as souvenirs to remember your trip by!

If there’s anything else you’re looking for, stop by one of the ABC Stores that are on almost every street corner of Waikīkī. Snacks, daily necessities, apparel, souvenirs, even alcohol; you name it, they have it! ABC Stores carry many “Made in Hawaiʻi” products that you can’t find anywhere else, and the stores all differ in size and product selections so each one you visit will offer a new shopping experience. We’ve got a convenient location in the Waikiki Business Plaza!

Commemorate your trip with some bling! Proudly made in Hawaiʻi, Maxi Hawaii specializes in Hawaiian Heirloom jewelry, characterized by intricate engravings on fine metal. Their designs are inspired by the islands with depictions of Hawaiian motifs and the local flora and fauna like plumerias and the endemic honu (green turtle). Make your piece unique to you or your loved ones by customizing it with a name or a special message!

Fun-filled Activities

If you’re all beached out or the weather’s a little cloudy for a beach day, there are a bunch of fun activities to do around Waikīkī!

Located between the slopes of Diamond Head and Waikīkī is the Honolulu Zoo. Home to around 900 animals from the tropics and complete with picnic spots, playgrounds, and a keiki zoo that’s perfect for families with young children, it’s the perfect place to spend the day! Plus, you can be rest assured that you’re supporting a good cause as the Honolulu Zoo is a non-profit organization that emphasizes conservation and education.

Want to escape the hustle and bustle of Waikīkī without the hassle of renting a car? Book a tour with Waikiki Trolley. Their kiosk is located in the main lobby of Waikiki Shopping Plaza! Each of their four lines provides a unique experience by taking you to different parts of Honolulu. Feel like exploring the east coast of the island while eating good food? The Blue Line offers coastal views and local dining spots. Want to learn about Hawaiʻi’s rich history and culture? Take the Red Line to explore historic sites around Honolulu.

Want to learn more about things to do in Hawaiʻi? Check out our other blogs on Hawaiʻi activities!