Hawaii has earned national recognition as a premier beach destination. "Hawaii is king" blessed with three of the nation's finest beaches, with Duke Kahanamoku Beach in Waikiki, Oahu receiving the top ranking.
About Waikiki
The name Waikiki translates to "spouting waters." Historically, the area consisted of marshland that ancient Hawaiians transformed into taro farms and fish ponds bordered by coconut groves. The fertile reefs provided abundant fish and lobster, though surfing privileges were reserved for the Ali'i (nobility) who rode the waves on "shaped planks of native wood." Today, these same waves welcome all visitors.
The Legacy of Duke's Playground
The Hilton Hawaiian Village occupies Kalia, a 23-acre area meaning "waited for." This location became significant through Duke Kahanamoku, a legendary waterman from the Paoa family. In the early 1920s, he gained worldwide fame as an Olympic champion swimmer and later appeared in over 15 Hollywood films. Known as the "Ambassador of Aloha," he popularized Waikiki globally.
Duke Kahanamoku Beach and Lagoon comprise Duke's Playground—featuring a five-acre saltwater lagoon with white sand beach, offering surfing and water sports opportunities for all skill levels.