4 Reasons Why Waikiki Beach Might Not Be Your Favorite Beach on Oahu

Living here on Oahu, Waikiki Beach is like a neighbor I’ve gotten to know very well. It’s the big name everyone hears about—the kind of place that seems to symbolize Hawaii itself. 

But let’s be honest for a moment: Is Waikiki all it’s cracked up to be? Well, maybe not for everyone, but it is definitely worth the visit for some. 

Please stick with me as I break down four reasons why Waikiki Beach might not be the beach of your dreams.

1. It’s Too Crowded and Busy

It’s no surprise that Waikiki Beach is Hawaii’s most popular and well-known tourist attraction. With its stunning views, clear blue water, and iconic Diamond Head backdrop, we can’t blame all the tourists that flock here. 

However, what happens when everyone wants a piece of paradise? The beach becomes crowded and hectic, making it difficult to relax and truly enjoy the experience. 

This is even worse during peak summer when the kids are out of school, and families start taking vacations. During this time, Waikiki Beach is packed with tourists from all over the world, making it feel more like a theme park than a natural wonder. 

Unless you’re an early riser or are okay sharing your space with many others, there may be better options for a peaceful beach day than Waikiki Beach. Here is our list of the top beaches on Oahu to help you out.

Pro tip: Waikiki Beach has multiple beaches, so if you visit during peak season, try exploring the less popular ones in the area for a quieter experience. We love going to Fort Derussy Beach Park for a more laid-back vibe and if we are looking for a family-friendly beach on Oahu.

2. Commercialized Atmosphere

While some may love the convenience of having shops, restaurants, and hotels (us) right at their fingertips, others might find it overwhelming.

Waikiki is a busy tourist hub, with high-rise buildings lining the shore.

This commercialization can detract from the beach’s natural beauty, creating a more artificial and manufactured experience. 

If you’re looking for a more authentic and unspoiled beach getaway, Waikiki might not fit the bill.

3. Homelessness Problem

This one is a little controversial, but it’s important to address. Due to its warm climate and tourist appeal, Hawaii has a large homeless population, with Waikiki being a hotspot. 

While this doesn’t bother us, it’s still an unfortunate reality that can be off-putting for some visitors. 

It’s important to practice safety precautions and respect for those experiencing homelessness, but if you’re uncomfortable with this aspect of Waikiki Beach, then it might not be the right destination for you.

Note: We have spent many years visiting Waikiki Beach and never had a problem or bad encounter with anyone experiencing homelessness. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions while traveling.

4. Too Much Traffic

This one applies more to staying in Waikiki than just going to the beach, but we still wanted to mention it. As noted, Waikiki is a bustling tourist hub, which can lead to heavy traffic and congestion.

One of the most common complaints among visitors to Waikiki is the traffic. The year-round influx of tourists leads to congested roads, making travel times unpredictable. 

Of course, this applies mainly to people planning to drive around the island, as those who choose to stay in Waikiki can easily walk or take public transportation. 

But for those looking to explore other parts of the island (which you should), be prepared for potential traffic delays and plan accordingly.

The Verdict: Should You Skip Waikiki Beach?

If you are a first-time visitor to Hawaii and want a taste of the busy tourist scene, Waikiki Beach is worth a visit. It offers beautiful beaches, various activities, and plenty of accommodation options.

However, Waikiki may not be the best choice if you’re looking for a more secluded and peaceful Hawaiian experience. 

Some of our favorite beaches on Oahu are on the windward coast, where there are no hotels or high-rise buildings. 

Ultimately, it all depends on your preferences and what you want to get from your Hawaiian vacation.

But we love going to Waikiki Beach once in a while to soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy some delicious food and drinks at one of the many beachfront restaurants. 

So don’t skip Waikiki entirely; also, be sure to explore other parts of Oahu for a well-rounded Hawaiian experience.