Honolulu’s residents have been heading for Kapiolani Park to escape the bustling city’s streets ever since King Kalakaua presented it to the people of Hawaii in 1877. However, more recently, the impressive natural beauty and extensive recreational facilities of this sprawling 121-hectare expanse have made it a haven of rest and relaxation for visitors to the city too.
You’ll find all walks of life among the park’s rolling grasses and towering trees, from elderly Asians practising tai chi to long-distance runners circling the purpose-built tracks every one united in the desire to take a break from the world in Hawaii’s most famous public park. There’s something of interest for everybody in this popular city retreat. Sports fans have no shortage of options for working up a sweat with tennis courts, basketball courts, an outdoor gym, and even an archery range all provided free of charge. And if you just want to watch, then sit back and cheer at one of the many international lacrosse or rugby tournaments, or the Honolulu marathon hosted annually in the park.
Music lovers are equally spoilt for choice in Kapiolani the bandstands are always full of local musicians entertaining the crowds, while Waikiki Shell stadium frequently draws crowds of thousands for top international concerts. The highlight in the city’s music calendar also takes place in the park in April local superstar Jack Johnson’s Kokua Music Festival is hosted in the 2,000-seater stadium, with thousands more thronging the surrounding grassy hills.
For many visitors, however, it is not the park’s man-made attractions that are the main draw but its natural offerings. The huge, ancient banyan and ironwood trees offer not only welcome shade for picnickers, but a habitat for some of the island’s beautiful birds, such as the red-rested cardinals, often seen flitting between the giants’ branches. Honolulu Zoo to the west of the park is home to even more exotic creatures, and younger visitors are always excited to discover the island’s fascinating marine life in the aquarium.
The park is open all year round and is located east of Waikiki beach at the foot of the Diamond Hill volcano with free parking at the Waikiki Shell stadium.
Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park Tours and Activities
Visit Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park
Plan a trip to see Queen Kapiʻolani Regional Park
Tours & day trips
See all 322 activitiesOpens in new tabOahu Grand Circle Island Tour with stop at Hanauma Bay Lookout
Water activities
See all 137 activitiesOpens in new tabTurtle Canyons Snorkel Excursion from Waikiki, Hawaii
Cruises & boat tours
See all 79 activitiesOpens in new tabSunset Dinner Cruise with Polynesian Show
Private & custom tours
See all 77 activitiesOpens in new tabDiamond Head Return
Adventure & outdoor
See all 72 activitiesOpens in new tabJungle Expedition Tour at Kualoa Ranch
Popular places to visit
Waikiki Shell
You can enjoy the entertainment at Waikiki Shell during your travels to Honolulu. Visit the shops and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
Waikiki Aquarium
Make time in your itinerary to visit the sea life you'll find at Waikiki Aquarium during your trip to Honolulu. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
Honolulu Zoo
Originally designed to house the king's exotic bird collection, and a horseracing track, this zoo is now home to a fascinating population of 905 different animals.
Kaimana Beach
If a restful holiday is part of your travel plans, Kaimana Beach might be the perfect place to visit during your trip to Honolulu.
Sans Souci Beach
Why not spend a care-free afternoon at Sans Souci Beach during your travels in Honolulu? Stroll along the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.
Waikiki Beach
Come sample the waves and catch some rays on the white sands of the beach most synonymous with surfing and the Aloha spirit.
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