Throughout Hawaii, destinations and attractions are found that have played a role in the development of the islands, playing in integral part in many historic events. Many of these sites are found in Honolulu, the location that has long been the economic center of Hawaii and is featured prominently in many stories and events that have taken place through the years.
At the very end of Waikiki Beach is Kapiolani Park, a 300-acre public park that is the second oldest park in Hawaii, and its use dates all the back to the 1870s. During that time, Waikiki was far from the Waikiki that we know today. The area was largely a marshland that was free of the towering hotels, and was used mainly as a retreat for royalty and Hawaii’s wealthiest residents. King David Kalakaua was tasked with finding a usable area that would accommodate horse racing, and the site of the current park was selected.
Over the years, the entire area became a place that was popular among the wealthiest citizens, with land available for lease that gave citizens a place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. As we think of Honolulu today, the only way to Waikiki was by horse and the short trip from downtown took hours, not the minutes that we are accustomed to today.
Following the overthrow on the Kingdom on Hawaii, the land remained as a public park, providing residents a place to take part in activities of all kinds. Aside from a 30 year stretch when the park was unusable due to the draining of the Ala Wai Canal, Kapiolani Park has long been a iconic destination for residents and visitors, a place with a ton of space and plenty of room for all to take part in their own activities. For those that will be attending a concert at Waikiki Shell, it is found on the grounds of Kapiolani Park, as is the Honolulu Zoo, with the Waikiki Aquarium found just across the street. The park is also the starting and finish line for the Honolulu Marathon, and there are tennis courts, basketball courts, an archery range, and even places that are just for lounging around. Kapiolani Park is diverse, and is also located just across the street from Kuhio Beach and Waikiki Beach.
If plan to spend time along Waikiki Beach, take some time to visit Kapiolani Park. The wide open space provide room for the young ones to run around and get some extra energy out, and it is within walking distance of many great restaurants on the south end of Waikiki. You might come across a free show at the bandstand found on the grounds of the park, and if you decide that you need something to do, the Honolulu Zoo is a great place to spend a few hours.
Due to the high volume of visitors traveling to Hawaii year round, our Oahu tours and Oahu activities sell out quickly. In many cases, tours sell out weeks or months in advance, especially our top seller Aloha Kai Luau at Sea Life Park. To ensure your spots on tour, we recommend reserving your tours today. Call our office or book online to take advantage of our low price guarantee today.