A world away from the heady buzz of downtown Honolulu, the stunning green space of Kapiolani Park offers great respite, with the opportunity to rest or play. Here, you'll see people young and old practising tai chi, playing rugby or football on the sports fields or making music in the bandstands. You can join the crowds of locals that flock here and make the most of the atmosphere and the dramatic backdrop.
Spanning over 300 acres, the park was granted to the people of Hawaii back in 1877 as a gift from King Kalakaua. Ever since, the Hawaiians have made the most of this beautiful spot at the foot of Diamond Head. As well as being a great place to play sports, you can come and enjoy one of the many events and concerts held in the Waikiki Shell, a large, dome-shaped venue complete with seating space for 2,000 people. At night, local homeless people come and sleep here too.
If you want to come to keep fit, there is outdoor equipment available to you free of charge, as well as three running tracks on which you can go for a jog. You can also head out for a 3.5-kilometre run all the way around the park's perimeter, or enjoy a leisurely game of tennis in the free courts.
For a more sedate pursuit, gaze up to the skies to spot birds such as the red-crested cardinals, or admire the banyan and ironwood trees. To the west of the park, you'll find the Honolulu Zoo with even more beautiful creatures and plants. The park also has its own aquarium.
If you come during the weekend, you're sure to stumble upon a concert, craft fair or public performance. Large events, such as the Kokua Music Festival in April, are held at the Waikiki Shell.
Located east of Waikiki Beach, Kapiolani Park is open every day. You can park free of charge by the entrance to the Waikiki Shell, or find a space for a fee along Kalakaua Avenue.
