Waikiki Gets Eight New Attractions
Waikiki has eight new reasons to visit, including new waterfront hotels, unique local eateries, and a massive 52-acre lagoon. These recent additions are enhancing the appeal of Hawaii's most famous stretch of sand, giving travelers fresh experiences beyond the classic beach scene.
A major redevelopment effort is underway to enhance Waikiki's appeal, with significant investment in new and renovated hotels. Among the recent additions are the Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa and the Ka La'i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts, which marks the debut of Hilton's luxury brand in Hawaii. These new properties offer modern amenities and expansive views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head. The culinary scene in Waikiki is also experiencing a refresh with the opening of several unique local eateries. Establishments like Waikiki Shokudo, offering Japanese izakaya classics, and Franks & Fries, a specialty hot dog stand, are providing more diverse dining options for visitors. Another newcomer is Izakaya 855-Aloha, located in the new adults-only Romer House Waikiki hotel. In addition to new hotels and restaurants, significant revitalization projects are transforming the visitor experience. The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center has undergone an $84 million renovation, creating a 293,000-square-foot open-air mall with approximately 110 stores and restaurants. This is part of a larger, billion-dollar makeover of the Waikiki area aimed at attracting a more well-heeled visitor. Future plans for Waikiki include a major expansion of the Hilton Hawaiian Village, which has received approval for a new 36-story tower. This addition will add 515 rooms to the resort, making it the largest hotel in Hawaii. The project is expected to create hundreds of new jobs and generate millions in tax revenue. While the area continues to evolve, the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon at the Hilton Hawaiian Village remains a significant waterfront feature. This five-acre saltwater lagoon, which was revitalized in 2006, offers a calm-water alternative to the ocean and is a popular spot for families. Nearby, the larger 47-acre Magic Island Lagoon at Ala Moana Beach Park also provides a protected swimming area. Despite a recent decrease in the total number of visitors, tourist spending in Hawaii has increased. In October 2025, visitor spending rose by 6.7% to $1.7 billion compared to the previous year, with the average daily spending per person up by 12%. This trend suggests a shift towards a higher-spending demographic of travelers. To address the long-term impacts of climate change and sea level rise, the City and County of Honolulu has initiated the "Adapt Waikīkī 2050" plan. This project aims to develop resilience strategies for the Waikīkī Special District, ensuring the sustainability of both public and private assets in the face of environmental changes.
