Five Things to do in Waikīkī for Spring Break
By Brianna Johnson
Spring break in Waikīkī is all about sunshine, ocean adventures, and a little bit of island indulgence. Whether it’s your first visit or a yearly tradition, there’s no better place to soak up the aloha spirit. If you’re planning your days in Waikīkī, here are a few must-do experiences to make the most of your spring break.
🌊 Start the Day with a Surf or Paddle Board Lesson
There’s no better way to experience Waikīkī than getting out on the water. Take a surf or stand-up paddle board lesson with Waikīkī Beach Services, one of the trusted surf schools in Waikīkī with local instructors. Waikīkī Beach Services has been in operation since 1955, and while the beach around us has changed over the years, the purpose and mission have remained the same–Share our love and expertise of the Hawaiian arts of surfing and canoe surfing, perpetuate the legacy of the Waikīkī Beachboy, and continue to act as stewards of our beloved Waikīkī Beach.
Waikīkī’s gentle rolling waves make it ideal for beginners, which is why it’s known for having some of the best surf lessons in Waikīkī. If you’ve ever wondered, “Can you surf Waikīkī if you’ve never tried before?” the answer is yes. With beginner surf lessons in Waikīkī, you’ll be standing up on the board in no time.
🍹 Sunset Drinks & Live Music
After a morning in the ocean, wind down with pupus and tropical drinks at the legendary Mai Tai Bar at the Royal Hawaiian. Located right along the beach, it’s the perfect place to enjoy live music and watch the sunset over the ocean—one of the most iconic spring break moments in Waikīkī.
🍦 Grab a Sweet Treat
Beach days call for something sweet. Stop by Asato Family Shop Waikīkī for a delicious local dessert that’s perfect after a long day in the sun.
🛍️ Shop & Explore Local Culture
Stop at Waikīkī Beachboy Store in the Royal Hawaiian for a collection of beach-ready looks and great gifts to bring back home to family and friends. Shop their selection of official logo gear of the famous Waikīkī Beachboys, swimwear by Maaji, Aloha Collection bags, local art, and much more!
Take a stroll through the Royal Hawaiian Center, where you’ll find great shopping along with cultural activities like lei making, hula lessons, and live Hawaiian music. It’s a fun way to experience local culture while picking up a few souvenirs from your trip.
🍙 Try a Local Favorite: Musubi
Picture credit: Iyasume Musubi
Before the day ends, make sure to grab a musubi from Musubi Café Iyasume. This iconic Hawaiʻi snack—usually rice topped with spam and wrapped in seaweed—is a must-try for visitors and locals alike.
From learning to surf to sunset drinks and local eats, spring break in Waikīkī is all about enjoying the beach lifestyle. One day here might not be enough—but it’s the perfect start to an unforgettable trip.