Kapiʻolani Regional Park is a large public green space at the foot of Diamond Head, on the eastern edge of Waikīkī in Honolulu. Its open lawns, mature trees and views of the crater make it a welcome place to walk, picnic or watch the sun set. You’ll also find sports courts, fields, ponds and a bandstand, with the ocean close by. Come for a quiet break from Waikīkī, or pair a stroll through the park with a visit to the nearby Waikīkī Aquarium or beach.
A park made for Honolulu
Kapiʻolani Regional Park opened in 1877 as a public park established by King Kalākaua and named for Queen Kapiʻolani. It became a gathering place for Honolulu residents, and its lawns still suit everyday outings, from a walk or run to a picnic or a game on the fields.
The park sits at the foot of Diamond Head, close to Waikīkī and the Pacific shore. Its green space gives you room to pause between beach time and the busier streets of the resort area.
Lawns, trees and places to play
Mature trees, including banyans, shade parts of the grounds. Elsewhere, broad grassy areas leave space for picnics, frisbee and other outdoor activities. The park has ponds and a bandstand, along with courts for sports including tennis and volleyball.
The bandstand is also a setting for musical performances, including appearances by the Royal Hawaiian Band. Events and fairs take place in the park, so a visit can include more than a walk; check the event calendar if you want to plan around a performance.
Pair the park with the coast
The park is close to Waikīkī Beach and the Waikīkī Aquarium, so you can add a green-space break to a beach day or aquarium visit. The ocean is also accessible nearby, though some shore areas have rocky or coral-covered entry, which can be uncomfortable underfoot.
For another short outing, continue toward Diamond Head Beach Park via the coastal route past Tudor and French Norman cottages. If you’re driving, weekday visits tend to be easier for parking than weekends and holidays.
Preguntas frecuentes
Is Kapiʻolani Regional Park free to visit?
The park is described as free to visit. Parking availability varies, and some nearby parking is paid.
What can you do at Kapiʻolani Regional Park?
Walk, run, picnic, watch the sunset or use the sports courts and open fields. The park also hosts events and musical performances.
What is near Kapiʻolani Regional Park?
Waikīkī Beach and the Waikīkī Aquarium are nearby. The park also sits at the foot of Diamond Head.
