Waikīkī Royalty: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

Dive beneath the surface of Waikīki on this self-guided audio walking tour and discover its rich past. Starting at the surf-rider statue, next to Queens beach, I’ll guide you along part of the Waikīkī Historical Trail and elaborate on many of its stories. Hali'a Tours designed this particular route to help enhance your understanding of our unique neighborhood in a fun and flexible way. We’ll stroll along the shoreline of Waikīkī beach, past the statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern-day surfing, and through Honolulu’s International Marketplace before heading deeper into the area’s beach-front suburbs. I’ll also tell you about a few celebrities including Don Ho, the Hawaiian pop musician, and provide some insider tips for exploring the area, like where to get a surf lesson, and where you can have a Mai Tai cocktail next to a famous 100-year-old Banyan tree.

1. 1

   Statue of Duke Kahanamoku

   Pass by

   Stand before the bronze statue of Duke Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, with his arms outstretched in the iconic aloha greeting on Kūhiō Beach. Learn about this Olympic gold medalist who introduced surfing to the world and became Hawaii's greatest ambassador.

2. 2

   Waikiki Beach

   Pass by

   Stroll along the famous golden sands of Waikīkī Beach, where crystal-clear waters meet the iconic Diamond Head backdrop. Discover why this legendary shoreline has attracted royalty, celebrities, and millions of visitors seeking the ultimate Hawaiian beach experience.

3. 3

   Wizard Stones

   Pass by

   View four large basaltic stones on Kūhiō Beach that hold deep spiritual significance in Hawaiian culture. Learn about the legendary Tahitian healers who transferred their mana (spiritual power) into these sacred stones over 500 years ago.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   Pass by

   Pass the elegant "First Lady of Waikīkī," a stunning white colonial-style hotel that opened in 1901 and defined luxury beachfront hospitality. Marvel at the historic architecture that has welcomed guests for over a century, from royalty to Hollywood stars.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   Pass by

   Relax beneath the sprawling canopy of a magnificent 100-year-old Banyan tree in the Moana's courtyard, a perfect spot for a Mai Tai cocktail. Enjoy the shade and ambiance of this living landmark that has witnessed generations of Waikīkī's transformation.

6. 6

   Stop 6

   Pass by

   Admire the distinctive pink facade of the "Pink Palace of the Pacific," built in 1927 as a glamorous retreat for Hollywood's elite. Explore the Spanish-Moorish architecture and lush tropical gardens of this iconic luxury resort.

7. 7

   International Market Place

   Pass by

   Walk through this vibrant open-air shopping and dining destination in the heart of Waikīkī, rebuilt in 2016 while preserving its historic character. Browse local boutiques, enjoy island cuisine, and experience the perfect blend of Hawaiian culture and modern retail.

8. 8

   Prince Kuhio Statue

   Pass by

   Encounter the bronze statue honoring Prince Jonah Kūhiō Kalanianaʻole, the beloved "People's Prince" who served Hawaii in the U.S. Congress. Discover how this royal leader fought for Native Hawaiian rights and helped establish Waikīkī as a public beach destination.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Pass by

   View the statue of Queen Kapiʻolani, the cherished philanthropist who championed Hawaiian healthcare and women's rights during the Kingdom era. Learn about her legacy at the beautiful park that bears her name, which she helped establish in 1877.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    Pass by

    Explore Hawaii's oldest and largest public park, a 300-acre green space stretching from Waikīkī Beach to the base of Diamond Head. Enjoy the open lawns, athletic fields, and Art in the Park displays while hearing stories of Queen Kapiʻolani's vision for this community gathering place.

11. 11

    Stop 11

    Pass by

    Pass the bronze statue of Don Ho, the legendary Hawaiian entertainer whose music and charisma made him an international icon. Discover how this Waikīkī showman brought Hawaiian culture to millions through his performances at venues throughout the neighborhood.

12. 12

    Stop 12

    Pass by

    See the historic grounds once owned by Hawaii's last reigning monarch, Queen Liliʻuokalani, who cherished Waikīkī as her personal retreat. Learn about this remarkable leader who composed "Aloha ʻOe" and other beloved Hawaiian songs on this very land.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.