Known worldwide for its view of Diamond Head crater, beautiful beaches, pristine waters, constant sunshine, luxury hotels, incredible shopping, and amazing entertainment, Waikiki is located on the south shore of Honolulu. The spirit of aloha and natural beauty of Hawaii remain in Waikiki, as the urban densely-populated neighborhood has nicely maintained parks, colorful tropical flowers, an aquarium, a zoo, art galleries, surfing, boating, biking, and much more fun for the whole family!

What Is The History Of Waikiki?

Before you embark on a Waikiki adventure, share with your kids (in an age-appropriate manner) a little about the history of Waikiki.

Here are some fun facts to include in your conversations:

  • Waikīkī means sprouting water in Hawaiian, describing the freshwater springs that filled the marshy lands hundreds of years ago. In the 15th century, the Oahu chief created an irrigation system, utilizing the fresh water to grow taro (a Hawaiian staple starch) and built innovative fishponds – supplying his people with abundant food and allowing time for leisurely activities like surfing.
  • Waikiki was once a royal retreat under King Kamehameha. In 1794, King Kamehameha landed in Waikiki on his quest to unite the islands. His victory resulted in Waikiki becoming a royal retreat for the next one hundred years.
  • Tourists began to visit Waikiki starting in the 1900s. At the turn of the twentieth century, tourists began to discover the royal retreat, and entrepreneurs wanted to capitalize on Hawaii’s paradise market.
  • The Ala Wai Canal – with its controversial local reputation (Don’t eat the fish you catch from there!) – was built to expand tourism. To treat erosion problems, get rid of pesky mosquitos, and make more solid land, the Ala Wai Canal was dredged. The canal successfully created more land, and soon many resort hotels and private homes were built.
  • Waikiki played an important role during World War II – and still has an important part in U.S. military affairs today. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Waikiki would turn into a military base with the Royal Hawaiian Hotel serving as soldiers’ barracks. After the end of the war, the tourism boom began again, with private residences being converted to high-rise condominiums and new shopping, parks, and entertainment centers being built in the urban Hawaii paradise. The military installation Fort DeRussy is located in Waikiki.