Highlight • River
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The Ala Wai Canal is a significant artificial waterway located in Honolulu, Hawaii, forming the northern boundary of the world-renowned Waikiki tourist district. This 1.5-mile (2.4 km) long canal, situated at an approximate elevation of 16 meters, plays a crucial role as a primary drainage corridor for several streams flowing from central and east Honolulu, eventually emptying into the Pacific Ocean near the Ala Wai Harbor. It is a defining feature of the urban landscape, crossed by bridges at McCully…
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Best routes near Ala Wai Canal
3.0
(1)
27
hikers
6.36km
01:38
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
14
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
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6.58km
01:42
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
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Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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The Ala Wai Canal features the Ala Wai Promenade, which is a flat, paved path. This makes it suitable for all fitness levels and is considered an easy walk or jog. There are no significant elevation changes along its length, making it very accessible.
The primary route is the Ala Wai Promenade, which runs along the canal's length. While not a loop trail, you can walk from one end to the other and back, or connect to other urban paths in Waikiki. It's also part of the Waikiki Historic Trail, offering insights into the area's past.
The Ala Wai Canal itself is approximately 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long. Walking the entire length of the Ala Wai Promenade one way would cover this distance. A round trip would be about 3 miles (4.8 km).
Yes, the Ala Wai Promenade is generally dog-friendly. Many locals walk their dogs along the path. Please ensure your dog is on a leash and that you clean up after them to maintain a pleasant environment for everyone.
Parking can be found along Ala Wai Boulevard, which runs parallel to the canal, though spots can be limited, especially during peak times. There are also various paid parking garages and lots in the surrounding Waikiki area. Public transport is a convenient alternative, with numerous bus routes serving the area.
The flat, paved promenade is excellent for family strolls, and children can enjoy watching the outrigger canoe crews practice. While there aren't dedicated play areas directly on the promenade, its accessibility makes it suitable for families with strollers. Nearby Kapiʻolani Regional Park offers more extensive family amenities.
While the canal is an urban waterway, you might spot various bird species, including egrets and other waterfowl. Occasionally, fish can be seen near the surface, though the canal's water quality is a known environmental challenge. The most prominent 'wildlife' you'll observe are the human outrigger canoe teams!
Yes, being on the northern edge of Waikiki, the Ala Wai Canal is surrounded by numerous cafes, coffee shops, and restaurants. Many establishments are just a short walk from the promenade, particularly along Kalākaua Avenue and in the surrounding Waikiki streets, perfect for a pre- or post-walk refreshment.
For a comfortable walk, consider bringing sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water, especially during warmer parts of the day. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. If you plan to walk in the evening, the promenade is well-lit, but a light jacket might be useful.
Excellent viewpoints can be found along the entire Ala Wai Promenade, offering perspectives of the canal itself, the Waikiki skyline, and the distant Koʻolau Mountains. The bridges crossing the canal at McCully Street, Kalākaua Avenue, and Ala Moana Boulevard also provide elevated views of the waterway and its activity, particularly the outrigger canoe practices.
Yes, the Ala Wai Promenade is a paved and flat path, making it highly accessible for wheelchairs, strollers, and individuals with mobility aids. There are no stairs or significant obstacles along the main walking route.