Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
hanamoku - swam in the tide-fed pool. It remains closed to the public, awaiting renova-
tions or demolition.
Sans Souci Beach Park
BEACH
At the Diamond Head edge of Waikiki, Sans Souci (aka Kaimana Beach) is a prime
sandy stretch of oceanfront for sunbathing, swimming and snorkeling even further away
from Waikiki's frenzied tourist scene. Next door to the New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel,
locals often come here for their daily swims. Limited beach facilities include a lifeguard
tower and outdoor showers.
A shallow coral reef close to shore makes for calm, protected waters and provides
reasonably good snorkeling. More coral can be found by following the Kapua Channel as
it cuts through the reef, although if you swim out, beware of strong currents that can pick
up. Always check conditions with a lifeguard before venturing out. Visitors with mobility
issues can reserve beach wheelchairs, available free of charge, by calling
923-1555 in
advance.
WAIKIKI'S SORCERERS & SURFERS
On the Diamond Head side of Waikiki's police substation, four quite ordinary-look-
ing boulders are actually the legendary
Wizard Stones of Kapaemahu
, said to
contain the secrets and healing powers of four 16th-century Tahitian sorcerers who
visited Hawaii.
Just further east is a bronze
statue of Duke Kahanamoku
standing with one of
his longboards and fresh flower lei draped around his neck. Considered the father
of modern surfing, Duke made his home in Waikiki and traveled around the world
giving surfing demonstrations, from Sydney to New York. Some surfers have taken
issue with the placement of the statue - Duke is standing with his back to the sea,
a position they say he never would've taken in real life.
Sights
Let's be honest: you're probably just here for the beach. Waikiki's handful of diversions
for landlubbers include two historical hotels, spas, a popular golf course and an aquari-
um. All along the shoreline, surfboard-shaped signs - part of the
Waikiki Historic Trail
(
www.waikikihistorictrail.com
)
- point out local history and lore.
Waikiki Aquarium
AQUARIUM
