Watch the Fireworks at Waikiki Beach

 
Colorful bursts of light and sound punctuate the ocean air as you sit on the beach reflecting on a day spent at play in Hawaii. You are just steps away from more fun and food then is located on entire islands in other parts of the state, Waikiki is teeming with possibilities. A visit to this famous locale can be a combination of beaches and tourists attractions, with some shopping or even a romantic meal. The weekly highlight for nightlife is on a Friday evening with the aerial fireworks being launched over the Hilton Hawaiian Village area oceanfront.  Head to the beach and enjoy the free show, then take a walk to Kalakaua Avenue to find your dinner or just window shop.

At a glance:
Highlights: Watch the sunset by the ocean on famous Waikiki beach, then look to the West as aerial fireworks fill the night sky.
Activity level: Easy
Hours of operation: Friday evening 7:45 to 8:00 pm every week.
Options: Park near the Hilton Hawaiian Village area for overhead viewing, or closer to Fort Derussy part of the beach to see them down the coast reflected on the water.
Hazards!: Not many, just be aware that Waikiki is a city so watch your valuables
Cost: none, but parking may have costs

The modern day Waikiki is a mix of the classic and the trendy, yet as you look down the coastline you see the timeless beauty of the beach that has inspired waves of tourism for decades. Sunsets on the beach are always a good bet on any day of the week, but Friday is special.

If staying in Waikiki, then any walk to the beach can give you a good look at the sunset or the fireworks without the need for parking. In the case of Friday nights festivities, the closer to the western end of the beaches you walk, the higher overhead the fireworks will be.

If driving into Waikiki, viewpoints can vary ranging from  the tip of "Magic Island"  near Ala Moana Beach Park(west end),  the Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park (central), or Fort Derussy Beach Park (east end). You might plan an afternoon arrival and stay for the fireworks, or drive into the city after rush hour for an evening meal and some nightlife after the show.

Parking tips:
Either plan around a "park and walk" scenario utilizing an off street garage, or the rare meter inland between Kuhio Avenue and Ala Wai Boulevard cross streets.
Or attend a restaurant or attraction that has parking available by self-park or valet.

Local's Tip:
Hang out on the jetty area near Fort Derussy and you will get a mirrored view of the aerials. Coming in during the afternoon and settling into Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park puts you front and center for the action.

Directions:

• Duke Kahanamoku Beach Park: Adjacent to the parking lot for Ala Wai Yacht Club
• Access is from Ala Moana Boulevard turning oceanside onto either Kahanamoku Street or Hobron Lane,  then left onto Hoomoana Street. Follow until the road ends past the Marina is the parks parking lot. Drive slowly and look for available parking spot. The beach is on the eastern side of the parking area fronting the hotel.
• Fort Derussy Beach Park: Follow Kalakaua Avenue into Waikiki, look for parking between Saratoga Road and Lewers Street. Walk to the ocean and follow beach access.