The Ultimate Waikiki Checklist: 7 Things You Can Do Without a Car
Author: XploreRide Editorial Team
Waikiki is only 1.5 square miles, but it is one of the most dense, vibrant, and exciting neighborhoods in the world.
The best part? You don’t need a rental car to enjoy it. In fact, having a car in Waikiki is often a burden (hello, $50 overnight parking fees and one-way streets).
If you are staying in the “Jungle” of high-rises and beaches, here is your curated checklist of the 7 Best Things to Do in Waikiki—all completely walkable from your hotel.
Quick Planning Guide
Short on time? Here is the “Must-Do” list based on your interest:
| Activity | Interest | Time Required |
|---|---|---|
| 1. XploreRide XR Bus | Tech & History | 40 Minutes |
| 2. Sunset Catamaran | Boating & Booze | 90 Minutes |
| 3. Marukame Udon | Viral Food | 1 Hour (Line dependent!) |
| 4. Royal Hawaiian Center | Culture (Free) | 1 Hour |
| 5. Duke’s Statue | Photography | 15 Minutes |
| 6. The Waikiki Wall | Views | 30 Minutes |
| 7. Blue Note Hawaii | Music | Evening |
1. Start Here: XploreRide XR Bus
If you just arrived, this is the perfect “orientation” activity. XploreRide departs from the heart of the district (DFS Waikiki) and loops you through the streets you are about to explore—but with a twist.
Using Extended Reality (XR) transparent screens, the bus overlays the modern hotels with historical reenactments of ancient Hawaii, digital sea life, and volcanic formations. It gives you the context of where you actually are, beyond just the shopping malls.
- Why it’s a winner: It’s fully air-conditioned (a lifesaver at noon) and requires zero walking. It’s the only way to see “Ancient Waikiki” without a time machine.
- Best Time: Book the 4:00 PM slot. You’ll finish right as Happy Hour starts in town.
- Location: Departs from DFS Waikiki (T Galleria) at the corner of Royal Hawaiian Ave & Kalākaua.
2. Eat the “Viral” Udon at Marukame
You will see the line before you see the restaurant. Marukame Udon on Kūhiō Avenue is legendary for a reason. They make fresh, thick udon noodles right in front of you, cafeteria-style, for incredibly low prices (bowls start around $6-$8).
It is arguably the best “cheap eat” in Waikiki. The broth is rich, the tempura is crispy, and the energy is chaotic and fun.
- What to Order: The “Niku Udon” (Beef) or the classic “Kake Udon” with a side of shrimp tempura.
- Insider Tip: The line moves very fast. Don’t be scared if it wraps around the corner; you’ll likely be eating in 20 minutes.
- Best Time: Late night (after 9 PM) or early lunch (11 AM) to miss the rush.
3. Catch a Free Show at Royal Hawaiian Center
You don’t need to pay $150 for a luau to see authentic Hawaiian culture. The Royal Hawaiian Center (the massive outdoor mall in the center of town) offers free cultural programming every single day.
From hula performances in “The Grove” to free ukulele lessons and lei-making workshops, it is the best way to connect with the culture on a budget.
- Schedule: Hula shows are usually Mon-Fri at 5:30 PM, but always check their website for the current schedule.
- Pro Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early to grab a seat on the grass or the benches; it fills up with shoppers quickly.
- Location: The Grove (Central Courtyard).
4. Sail on a Sunset Catamaran
Look out at the ocean—do you see those sailboats with the colorful sails? Those are the famous Waikiki Catamarans. Boats like the Maitai Catamaran or Kepooti launch directly from the sand (you have to take your shoes off and wade out to board!).
For about $50-$80, you get a 90-minute sunset sail with an open bar (Mai Tais and beer). Seeing the Waikiki skyline turn gold from the water is a core memory you cannot miss.
- Warning: You will get wet boarding the boat. Wear shorts!
- Booking: Book at least 3 days in advance; sunset slots sell out first.
- Location: Beach access between the Sheraton Waikiki and Halekulani Hotel.
5. Walk the “Waikiki Wall” (Kapahulu Pier)
At the very end of Waikiki (towards the Zoo), there is a concrete pier that juts out into the ocean known as “The Wall” (or Kapahulu Groin).
Walking to the end of it gives you a stunning, unobstructed view of the entire coastline with Diamond Head towering behind you. It is the designated spot for watching the local kids boogie board and for snapping that postcard-perfect panoramic photo.
- Cost: Free.
- Best Time: Sunset, obviously. The sun dips right into the water in front of you.
- Location: Near the intersection of Kapahulu Ave and Kalākaua Ave.
6. Take a Selfie with Duke
You literally cannot say you went to Waikiki if you didn’t visit the Duke Kahanamoku Statue. Standing with open arms on Kūhiō Beach, this bronze statue honors the father of modern surfing.
It is the most popular meeting point in the city. Locals drape fresh leis on his outstretched arms daily.
- Photo Tip: The lighting is terrible at noon (shadows on his face). Go early morning (sunrise) or right at sunset for the best shot.
- Location: 2424 Kalākaua Ave (On the beach side).
7. Jazz at Blue Note Hawaii
For a classy night out that feels like New York City, head to the Blue Note Hawaii inside the Outrigger Waikiki Resort.
This intimate jazz club hosts world-class musicians, comedians, and local legends like Jake Shimabukuro. It’s a sophisticated escape from the tiki-torch vibes outside, offering great food and stiff cocktails in an AC-cooled venue.
- Vibe: Date Night / Sophisticated.
- Tickets: Check the calendar online; prices vary by artist ($25 – $65+).
- Location: Inside the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort, Level 2.
Waikiki Price Meter
How much will this day cost you?
| Activity | Cost Level | Approx. Price |
|---|---|---|
| Walking the Wall / Duke Statue | 🆓 Free | $0 |
| Royal Hawaiian Hula Show | 🆓 Free | $0 |
| Marukame Udon | 💲 Cheap | $10 – $15 |
| XploreRide XR Bus | 💲💲 Moderate | $39 – $49 |
| Sunset Catamaran | 💲💲 Moderate | $60 – $80 |
| Blue Note Jazz | 💲💲💲 Splurge | $50+ (Ticket + Drinks) |
Walking Strategy: The “Golden Mile”
To save your feet, we recommend splitting Waikiki into two zones:
- The West End (Shopping & Tech): Start your day near DFS Waikiki. Do some shopping, grab lunch at Marukame Udon, and ride the XploreRide bus (40 mins).
- East End (Beach & Views): As the sun starts to lower (around 5:00 PM), walk towards The Wall and the Duke Statue. The lighting is better, the heat is lower, and you are perfectly positioned for sunset.
Waikiki FAQ
- Is Waikiki safe to walk at night?
Generally, yes. Kalākaua and Kūhiō Avenues are well-lit and bustling with people until very late (11 PM – Midnight). As always in a city, stay aware of your surroundings, but the main tourist strip is very safe.
- Can I drink alcohol on Waikiki Beach?
No. Hawaii has strict open container laws. Drinking alcohol on the public sand is illegal and heavily fined. Save the drinks for the Catamaran or the hotel bars like Duke’s Waikiki.
- Do I need cash?
Mostly no, but it helps. Places like the Catamarans (for tips) or small food stands prefer cash. However, XploreRide, Marukame, and all shops accept credit cards and Apple Pay.
- How do I get from the airport to Waikiki?
Do not take a regular taxi (expensive). Uber/Lyft is the standard ($30-$45). For a cheaper option, look for “SpeediShuttle” or Roberts Hawaii airport shuttles which you can book in advance.
Final Thoughts: The Perfect Waikiki Day
You don’t need to leave the neighborhood to have an adventure.
- Morning: Walk to The Wall and grab a coffee.
- Afternoon: Cool down and see history on the XploreRide XR Bus.
- Evening: Sail into the sunset on a Catamaran.
Ready to start your checklist? Book the most unique tour in Waikiki today.