As prices for a Hawaii vacation seem to continuously rise, it’s refreshing to find an array of free activities in Waikiki Beach. You’ve probably heard the phrase, “You get what you pay for.” It means that if you get something for free or cheap that it’s worthless. That phrase absolutely does not apply for the following Waikiki activities as they are very high quality and, in most cases, culturally significant.
Free Waikiki Hula Shows
The free hula shows in Waikiki are fantastic and you have an abundance of options. Here’s where you can catch a great hula show:
- Kuhio Beach Hula Show is Waikiki’s longest-running free hula show. It’s currently held on Tuesday and Saturday evenings, though the schedule is subject to change.
- Earlier this year, the Kilohana Hula Show opened at the Waikiki Shell. This free show takes place
SundayMonday through Wednesday mornings starting at 9:30 a.m. Note that starting September 2, 2024, the show is temporarily relocating to the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound. - Royal Hawaiian Center hosts a free hula show on Saturdays in their lovely outdoor setting at the Royal Grove.
- International Market Place presents a hula show on Monday, Wednesday and Friday evenings.
- Waikiki Beach Walk hosts Ku Ha’aheo, a free Hawaiian music concert with hula dancers on Tuesdays.
- Though a food and beverage purchase is expected, it’s worth noting the live Hawaiian music and graceful hula dancer performances nightly at House Without A Key is outstanding. It’s one of our favorite places to enjoy a drink at sunset.
Explore Waikiki’s Landmarks, Statues and History
A great way to learn about Waikiki’s history is to visit the Historic Trail Markers that are in the shape of a surfboard. This map shows those markers along with statues and other points of interest. Of the statues, the two that we would say are not to be missed are the statue of Duke Kahanamoku and the statue of Prince Kuhio. They are both within a short-walking distance of each other.
Friday Night Fireworks Show
For many years, Hilton Hawaiian Village hosts a free fireworks show every Friday night. This beachside show offers a fun way to kick off the weekend.
Stargazing at Royal Hawaiian Center
With Hawaii’s remote location and clean air, it’s a fantastic place for stargazing. Royal Hawaiian Center offers a free rooftop stargazing program.
Hands-on ways to learn Hawaiian Culture
Most hotels and shopping centers offer free hula, ukulele and lei-making lessons. If you are staying in Waikiki Beach, check with your hotel for their Hawaiian culture programs. Additionally, check Royal Hawaiian Center, International Market Place and Waikiki Beach Walk for their free workshops and lessons.
Sheila Beal
