US citizens no visa; others check ESTA or visa requirements.

Is Kakaʻako safe at night?

Generally safe, but stay in well-lit areas and avoid walking alone late.

What is the best way to see street art?

Take a self-guided walking tour; maps available online or at local shops.

Are there public restrooms?

Yes, at Kakaʻako Waterfront Park and some cafes.

Can I swim at Kakaʻako Waterfront Park?

The park has a beach but swimming is not recommended due to rocky shoreline; better at Ala Moana Beach.

What is the local currency?

US Dollar (USD). Credit cards widely accepted.

Yes, English is the primary language.

Kakaʻako

SuburbHonolulu, Hawaii

Kakaʻako is a SUB AREA in Honolulu, Hawaii.

Kakaʻako is a vibrant, evolving neighborhood on Oʻahu's south shore, blending urban energy with Hawaiian culture. Once an industrial district, it's now a hub for street art, craft breweries, and trendy eateries. The Kakaʻako Waterfront Park offers stunning sunset views and a peaceful escape, while the nearby Ward Village provides shopping and dining. Don't miss the colorful murals of the Pow! Wow! Hawaii festival, which have transformed the area into an open-air gallery. With its mix of modern condos, local markets, and easy access to Ala Moana Beach Park, Kakaʻako is perfect for travelers seeking a more contemporary Honolulu experience. The neighborhood is walkable and bike-friendly, making it easy to explore its unique blend of art, food, and oceanfront relaxation.

Best time to visit Kakaʻako

The best time to visit Kakaʻako is from April to October when weather is warm and dry, with less rain. These months offer ideal conditions for exploring street art and outdoor dining. November to March is cooler and rainier but less crowded, with lower hotel rates.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Partly cloudy
Temperature: 25°
Feels like: 25°
Humidity: 67%
Wind: 15 km/h
Precipitation: 0 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 24-30°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Mid

Pleasant weather

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

HNL

Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

International

8 km away

Getting around

"Kakaʻako is highly walkable and bike-friendly. TheBus system connects to downtown Honolulu and Waikīkī. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Biki bike rentals offer a fun way to explore. Car rentals are available but parking can be expensive. The area is flat, making walking easy."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes and hotels

Local SIM

Local SIM at airport from $5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low violent crime; watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Night safety

7/10

Low violent crime; watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Kakaʻako is generally safe, but exercise standard urban precautions. Keep valuables secure, especially at night. Avoid poorly lit areas after dark. The waterfront park is safe during the day. Petty theft can occur in crowded areas. Stay aware of your surroundings, and use ride-sharing or taxis late at night."

Police

911

Ambulance

911

Fire

911

Entry and health

Health information

"No special vaccinations required for US travelers. Tap water is safe to drink. Sun protection is essential due to strong UV rays; use reef-safe sunscreen. Medical facilities include urgent care clinics and pharmacies in nearby Ala Moana. For emergencies, call 911. Travel insurance recommended for medical coverage."

Culture

Local customs

"Hawaiian culture values respect and aloha spirit. Dress casually but modestly; beachwear is for the beach. Remove shoes when entering homes. Learn a few Hawaiian words like 'mahalo' (thank you). Tipping is customary: 15-20% at restaurants. Be mindful of sacred sites and cultural events."

English (official)SpanishChineseTagalogVietnameseFrenchArabicKoreanGermanItalianEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$15-25 | casual meal $15-25 per person

Hotels

$150-250 | mid-range hotels $150-250/night

Local transport

$2.75 | TheBus fare $2.75 per ride

Cost notes

Kakaʻako is pricier than other parts of Honolulu due to its trendy vibe.

Timezone

Pacific/Honolulu
Local time 17:49

More facts

Population

10,673

Type

Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Kaka‘ako, Kakaako

SuburbUrbanArtFoodieFamily-FriendlyWaterfront

Kakaʻako

Best time to visit Kakaʻako

October

Know before you go

Getting there

Getting around

Stay connected

Stay safe

Overall

Night safety

Transport

Scam risk

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Entry and health

Health information

Culture

Local customs

Costs and practicals

More facts

Nearby areas in Honolulu

Aala

Airport

Ala Moana

Ala Moana - Kakaʻako

Aliamanu Makai

Aliamanu Mauka

Camp H.M. Smith

Diamond Head

Downtown

East Manoa

Enchanted Lake

Farrington

Financial District

Ford Island

Fort Shafter

Hawai‘i Kai

Iwilei-Anuenue

Kaimukī

Kalaheo Hillside

Kalanipuu

Kalihi-Palama

Kuakini

Liliha - Kapalama

Lower Aiea

Lower McCully

Lower Palolo

Lower Pawaa

Lower Pearl City

Lower Waiau

Lower Wilhelmina

Makua Valley

Manana Housing

Mariner's Ridge

Mayor Wright Housing

McCully - Moiliili

Moanalua Valley

Mō‘ili‘ili

Newtown

Nuuanu - Punchbowl

Olomana

Palama

Robinson Heights

Tantalus

Upper Kalihi Valley

Upper Manoa

Upper Palolo

Upper Pauoa

Waialae Iki

Waialae - Kahala

Waialae Nui Ridge-Ainakoa

Ward Village

Frequently Asked Questions