Anyone who has spent long hours in front of a computer screen has closed their eyes long enough to imagine happier times and warmer climes. Personally I imagine myself at the bottom of a very large pool, staring upwards at the static images above the water. But I’m wierd. I suppose regular, right-thinking and, perhaps, more practical people imagine themselves in Waikiki, soaking up the rays and tossing rocks with wreckless abandon into the wide, open ocean. Not too shabby a dream, I suppose. Waikiki is one of the world’s most famous beaches, and with very good reason.

Residing in the city and county of Honolulu, a home to 80% of the Hawaiin population, Waikiki is the island’s crown jewel. The city is a concrete jungle made up of remnants of years of heavy tourism and urban sprawl. The beach itself is bordered by large high-rise hotels, some new, some old, some decrepid.

If you think this world famous beach would be crowded, you will most likely be right. Not that you will be tempted to scream “shark!” in order to move half a foot to your left, chances are that you may come close. Also be advised not to accidently take out someone if you plan to go a bit gung-ho on the surfing. The waves, while not stellar, are good and plentiful but are also a training ground of sorts for newbies to the sport. A longboard is preferable, and those looking for Pipeline-caliber waves should probably venture elsewhere.