Entering Hawaii you are at once made aware of the booming tourism of Waikiki beach as the whole waterfront is crowded with a magnificent range of high class hotels, stores and eateries (Along with the ubiquitous Starbucks, McDonalds and Burger King ;)). The buildings all offer a fabulous view of the beach with its numerous adventurous water sports enthusiasts - most showing off some prowess with the surf board, while others flounder amongst the shallows on body boards ;) The beach is of course packed with sun worshippers (Another contentious issue on many levels) but all this development has led to huge investment in transport (Including the fab trolleys) and entertainment - so lots to do here :)
I took a taxi from the airport (flat rate $30/~£22), but this is well worth it for the local knowledge gleaned on where to go and what to see/do - my driver was a veteran and had plenty to highlight, many of them FREE. We arrive at the hostel (Waikiki Beach Hostel on Lemon Street) just one street away from the beach (prime location) with a cycle/moped hire facility next door (you can even hire a Harley if you have $150 a day!! I will I think opt for the ‘Granny style cycle’ for $10 a day)… The Hostel does have space for me (PHEW :)’ but does set me back an extra $29)… The room lacks something that the YHA’s in NZ offer yet it does have an on suite toilet and shower along with complementary breakfast and free Wi-Fi connection (So it works out about even with YHA’s for value) ;)