Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue

Scenic spot

★ 4.9 (93K+ reviews) • 26K+ booked

Discover the iconic Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue, a must-visit landmark nestled in the heart of Waikiki Beach, Honolulu. This striking 9-foot high bronze statue, mounted on a 4-foot boulder, pays tribute to the legendary Hawaiian surfer and Olympic swimmer, Duke Kahanamoku. Known for his incredible achievements in water sports, Duke left an indelible mark on the world, and this statue stands as a symbol of his enduring legacy and the spirit of aloha that he embodied. As a beacon of Hawaiian culture and history, the statue draws thousands of visitors each year, offering a unique glimpse into the vibrant spirit of aloha. Whether you're a history buff, a surfing enthusiast, or simply a traveler seeking a blend of culture and natural beauty, the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue is a destination that promises to enrich your Hawaiian adventure.

Kalākaua Ave, Honolulu, HI 96815, United States

Overview

Things to do

Hotels

4.9 /5

93K+ reviews

Read all reviews

전 **

29 Jun

The location was a little hard to find, but I found it. The boat was clean, and the sunset and fireworks were really great. I usually get motion sickness when I ride in a car, so I took motion sickness medicine beforehand, so it was fine. It's worth trying once when you come to Hawaii~♡

黃 **

24 Jun

In addition to sightseeing in the city, you can learn about the war history of Pearl Harbor and visit the memorial to commemorate the lives and ships lost in the war, which will make people remember the horror of war more deeply. It is worth a visit.

Klook客路用户

11 Jun

We went on a yacht trip with Nacho, Amy, and Jackson. The entire journey was very exciting. My daughter and I saw sea turtles and a variety of fish. Many thanks to Amy for her patience and help, and to Nacho for taking great care of us. It was a wonderful trip and a great experience. Highly recommended!

WANG *******

4 Jun

An in-depth cultural tour, the dinner is located in Aloha Tower square, the program is diverse, you can enjoy a variety of music, costumes, dance, stunts, and exciting fire dance, and even better, before the program starts they offer experiential activities where you can braid a headdress or learn to play an instrument. If you want to taste traditional food, but not sure whether it suits your appetite, the buffet-style meal here will be the perfect choice, the dishes are quite rich, you can also decide your own portion, especially recommended topped with fruit sauce fish ribs and Ube dessert, bread, each person provides two drink redemption vouchers, you can upgrade the price of cocktails or non-alcoholic special drinks. The cast and crew are very enthusiastic and friendly, deeply feel the polynesian unrestrained and energetic, tough and full of joy, this is definitely our most unforgettable memory on Oahu, highly recommended!!🤙🏾

클룩 회원

25 May

Luckily, a Hawaiian resident who was born and lived in Hawaii for a long time was our guide and driver. On the day I traveled, there were only three passengers including me, and he guided us comfortably as if we were on a family trip. He also explained the stories related to the places included in the itinerary and the Hawaii he saw growing up. We were even able to see a luxury women's prison. The northern coast was so beautiful that I wanted to stay there next time, even though I only saw Waikiki. This is a great value for money travel itinerary. I recommend it!

Dyanne ****

24 May

What a great way to get a peek into the culture through the energetic dances, food & music. Must try!

ChooiLing ***

22 May

An absolute wonderful experience of the aloha spirit; great food and hospitality as well as a mesmerizing and unforgettable show. thank you all so much Mahalo!

Klook User

11 May

tour guide Rob was very attentive, knowledgeable to the history of each tour stop, very considerate and kind. He is a wonderful guide , I enjoyed the tour a lot!

Aloha Tower Marketplace

29K+ visitors

Bishop Museum

28K+ visitors

Halona Blow Hole

6K+ visitors

Iolani Palace

33K+ visitors

Pearl Harbor National Memorial

9K+ visitors

Honolulu Zoo

26K+ visitors

Koreatown

29K+ visitors

Diamond Head

26K+ visitors

What is the best time to visit the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue in East Honolulu?

How can I get to the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue in East Honolulu?

What should I keep in mind while visiting the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue?

Where can I eat near the Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue in East Honolulu?

Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue

Welcome to the heart of Waikiki, where the spirit of aloha and the legacy of surfing legend Duke Kahanamoku come alive. This iconic statue, nestled at Kuhio Beach Park, is more than just a tribute; it's a celebration of a man who not only mastered the waves but also shared the joy of surfing with the world. As you stand before the bronze surfboard and honorary spears, take a moment to appreciate the leis that often adorn this beloved landmark, a testament to Duke's enduring influence and the warmth of Hawaiian culture.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Duke Kahanamoku was a legendary sports figure and a cultural ambassador for Hawaii. Born in 1890, he experienced Hawaii's transition from a kingdom to a U.S. state. His prowess in swimming and surfing brought global attention to Hawaiian culture and traditions, making him a beloved icon.

Local Cuisine

While visiting the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, treat yourself to the delightful flavors of Hawaiian cuisine. Savor traditional dishes like poke, loco moco, and kalua pig, each offering a unique taste of the islands' rich culinary heritage.

Cultural Significance

The statue pays tribute to Duke Kahanamoku, a cherished figure in Hawaiian history, celebrated for spreading the joy of surfing worldwide. Positioned towards Kuhio Beach Park and Kalakaua Avenue, it symbolizes the deep connection between the land and its people. Duke's legacy as a native Hawaiian who won multiple Olympic medals in swimming continues to inspire both locals and visitors, making the statue a significant cultural landmark.

Nearby Public Art

While in Honolulu, take the opportunity to explore other captivating public artworks such as 'The Stones of Life,' 'Makua and Kila,' 'Surfer on a Wave,' and 'Tropical Sounds.' Each piece offers a unique artistic perspective on Hawaiian culture, enriching your visit with diverse expressions of local heritage.

Historical Context

Erected in 1990, the Duke Kahanamoku Statue commemorates his profound impact on sports and his dedication to sharing Hawaiian culture with the world. It stands as a testament to Hawaii's rich history and the enduring spirit of its people, inviting visitors to reflect on the legacy of this remarkable individual.

Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue