Trough the City & County of Honolulu Parks & Rec Department, the Ala Wai Community Park is one of many island community park locations offering classes or recreational activities. They can be found online and occur seasonally. Kyrsten is the Director here and has an amazing program due to her experience, tenure, and team she has built. She is organized and keeps the center as clean as possible for an "older" structure as her witty sense of humor would share! It takes a leader who cares about what they are doing and it shows. Every step along they way, from signing up, any questions or inquiries you may have, she and her team are there for you. Sign up early, the activities are affordable and highly desired. Please read as much as you can in advance, but know if you do have questions, there are people available to help. read more

I am commenting on the community center location, facility, and one class I took. The location is convenient and easy to get to. It offers plenty of free parking in the morning. The facilities are well kept and maintained by the hard-working staff. The weekly tai chi class I took this past year was well-taught by a highly experienced teacher and his very skilled assistant. The room they assigned us was large, clean, well lit, and had good air flow. The price per class was a bargain. https://web5.hnl.info/pros-parks/parks/details/59570ad5e4ef9fe84fea4546 read more

I don't really use the park. I just pass by as I circle the Ala Wai Canal. Sometimes, I see kids playing on the apparatus. There's a huge baseball field with bleachers. They'll have games there on certain days. Further down they have basketball courts and a community garden. There's even a dog park. People also paddle in their canoes on the canal. read more

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Small park near our airbnb. Not the cleanest or nicest. You can sometimes watch people canoeing on the canal, very peaceful. Ample parking spots for the size of the park. There's a bus stop nearby. Probably wouldn't picnic here though... read more

Ala Wai Community Park - Parking - Parks Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Met up with my friend and fellow Yelper Pamela P. today for some walking while my kid is at a scrimmage. It was both our first time here, so it was an adventure! On Pamela's suggestion, we walked on the path along the Ala Wai Canal. I didn't even know there was one; I thought maybe we'll walk laps around the grass/field! We both parked close to Ala Wai Elementary School and the community gardens, so we decided to walk down that way first. It's clear the gardens have different rules from Manoa-- each unit was fenced (and padlocked) and there were tall fruit trees. We also saw a couple of really tall sugar canes! (In Manoa we cannot have anything past 5', so no fruit trees there, bummer.) One side of the path is Iolani School and a stream on the other, and it leads to Date Street. We walked past a couple of guys fishing in the stream. And even though it was noon, we thought we'd be the only ones crazy enough to brave the hot sun but there were other walkers, joggers, and bicyclists. There's a little dog park on this part of the park. We turned around and continued past the parking lot to see where the path would take us. Turns out there's another parking lot on Kapiolani and McCully! I didn't realize the park is that big. We used to come here when the kid played community soccer and the parking lot was always full. When I saw the outrigger canoes parked there I recalled also I used to be in a paddling club that met here haha almost twenty years ago! The fields and basketball courts look in ok shape, I suppose. The playground looks fine too, not too faded and it's a decent size. The ground was cracked though and which could cause kids to trip if they're not careful. The swings have been removed, however. I'm not sure if it's coz of covid or not? There was also a little workout station a little down the path. The restrooms are not locked, which would be very iffy to go alone, even during the day. The park was relatively quiet on a Saturday afternoon, save for a handful of gardeners, a family at the playground, and a couple of guys shooting hoops. After our walk, we enjoyed the breeze while hanging out on benches under the trees. Not a bad place for some exercise, but best to go when it's bright and with company. read more

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Ala Wai Park Community Classes are a great way of learning or participating in some activities, they offer things like Hula, Painting, Dancing, Ceramics both Hand Building and Wheel Throwing, Tai Chi & Zumba. I've been taking the Ceramics Wheel Throwing classes mostly so I can use the Kiln for my Ceramics, It's a great way to learn and or make use of the activities the City and County offers. It's fun and you get to meet other people with the same interests. This is some of your tax dollars at work so why not learn something? Enrollment was crazy packed but recently there was a bit of a downturn of enrollment in the Ceramics area as partly due to some changes had to be made to accommodate OSHA and some other factors... The ceramic classes are great in that you can make things you want or donate your work for Empty Bowl which is an every other year fundraiser put on by the Hawaii Potter's Guild which raises money for Meals on Wheels or other fundraisers. The parks facilities are a bit old as the Rec center has been around for a long long time but it's one of many parks that offer classes. The parking does get crowded when there are games or practice in the park. But I hope you'll take advantage of one of the parks classes and have fun! read more

I am happy that they offer ceramics classes! I miss doing my pottery and am now able to return to this activity! The only thing that puts a real damper on this is the women who are part of the Friends of Ala Wai - Pottery program. Be forewarned. Some (most) of them are very grumpy and, in my opinion, unfriendly. Now while a pleasant disposition is not required it would be nice. Thankfully the participants are very nice, as well as the teachers. Oh - and on that note, while there is some instruction provided -- don't expect to be tutored 100% on how to throw pottery. If you don't know how you have to ASK. On the other hand, staff there are always very nice, friendly and helpful! read more

I've come to enjoy Ala Wai Community Park since it's a vestige of calm amongst a troubled world these days. It's calming effect along the Ala Wai Canal makes it peaceful to be here. Glad I did. A few times now, I've been walking thru Ala Wai Community Park to get to Ala Moana, particularly along the bike path along the canal. It was nice to just be near the water and away from the traffic along Kapiolani Blvd. It was a nice and quiet time along the water, especially when there's not much people actively walking or riding their bike on the bike bath during the middle of the day. There was a couple of shady characters that roam the area, but just don't stay clear of them and you should be okay. My latest experience here at the Ala Wai Community Park started on Date Street when I noticed the entrance to the Ala Wai Bike Trail off of Laau Street. It started the bike path and I just continued to follow it till it met up with McCully Street on the other side of the park. Along the way, it was a nice and calming walk along the water. The park itself is relatively small, comparatively to Kapiolani Park, for example, but it is a nice green belt area in the hub of urban Honolulu while on your way to Ala Moana Shopping Center, among many destinations. For the most part though, I enjoyed coming thru the park each time I head to Ala Moana shopping center and seeing parts of Iolani School on the eastern side of the bike path. Just don't try to come during the evenings, since things can happen at night you wouldn't want to be in. The overall experience here at the Ala Wai Community Park was pleasurable, accommodating, and nice. Casual and relaxing as well. I probably spent about 30 minutes walking from one end of the bike trail to the other end, trying to enjoy the subtle nature of life while walking to my destination. The park itself is pretty well maintained, although it could use a better watering system for the grass and all of the flora and fauna that resides here. There's a quintessential building for recreational activities, although I'm pretty sure it's not open to the public due to COVID-19. There's a basketball court and restroom facilities on site as well. Not sure if the restroom facilities are as sanitized and safe these days, since the resident homeless population tend to congregate in there on a daily basis. Best bet would be to go before heading here. The large open field is always nice for individuals and teams to run around and play here. You'd have to bring your own equipment for soccer and other team sports, but the open field is sutable for anyone and everyone to enjoy the beautiful outdoors in Hawaii nei. Hidden gem in the urban Honolulu. It's location in town is awesome and close to the Ala Moana shopping center. Ala Wai Community Park is located at 2015 Kapiolani Blvd, across the street from the McCully Shopping Center and the Honolulu Convention Center & Ala Moana shopping center nearby. As with all community parks, there is no admission fee accessed, which is awesome. It's free to enjoy and explore here for anyone and everyone who loves the outdoors and not be stuck indoors. It's perfect for those who do not enjoy the current quarantine restrictions, but do take advice from health officials about keeping a 6 foot distance from others and wear your face mask whenever applicable. As far as parking goes, there is limited parking here, but there's a few parking lots that serve the park itself. If not that, consider parking along University Avenue as your 2nd choice. If you are like me, bus routes 3, 4, 9, Country Express "A" stop in front or nearby the park. There is also routes 1 and 6, but you'd need to walk a few blocks from S Beretania to get here. Whatever you decide to do, come on over to Ala Wai Community Park for a day out in the great outdoors. It's pretty fun. 5.0 stars for the overall experience. Support local! A+ read more

I guess the last time I was here was to vote for the election. It have a nice little boat lunch. Sometimes the area is a bit shady, It has a lot of homeless emcampments, I've seen weird things around the corner like a guy giving dirty looks to passerbys twirling a knife in hand. its subject to flooding. I honestly usually pass through on my bike. I went to the dog park a few time but apparently because do feel they need to clean up their dog poop whether at in the dog area or all points in between. It fine during the day. Its honestly pretty well lit a night when sports teams practice at the adjacent Iolani school. I think I saw a few jungle gym exercise body weight stations right near the bridge. I usually like to just to an Ala Wai loop completely around the canal. I see people running it or biking it, some times long boarding. read more

Ala Wai Community Park - Parks Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Good for what it is. I remember this park when I was a little girl, living just down the road from the Ala Wai. My parents, sister and I would buy plate lunches from Rainbow's Drive Inn and sit on the park benches as a family on a warm Sunday afternoon. Ahh, those were the days... This park is right next to my apartment, so the parking and location is convenient. Once my lil munchkin gets big enough to start walking, I'll def be bringing him to the playground. However, it's a bit dilapidated and the turf is peeling in desperate need of an updo. Not to mention the people that frequent here can be a bit sketchy. Lots of joggers and dog lovers, but I would think twice before coming here on my own at night, especially with a baby. The dog park is just around the corner on the left as you head in from University Avenue. There's a restroom by the pavilion, a basketball court, and a baseball field with wide open spaces to perform cardio workouts or take a jog. Police frequently patrol the park in their vehicles, so that's reassuring. read more

Park seems maintained, and I think authorities do a good job keeping away the homeless. Just anticipate Long walks in spacious baseball fields. I came here to get some shots up, the basketball court seemed ok, it's clean, nets are up, and the back board and rim were sturdy enough to see the city and county really maintains the place. The park is central to many condos along the Ala Wai, it's really a necessity for people to hang their hats and get rid of their stresses working out, playing with friends. Even with covid measures there are still baseball, softball practices ongoing. I could imagine it gets crowded here during the weekend. Luckily I came on a weekday and an uncommon time to avoid other people distressing. It's cool. Welcome to Waikiki. read more

Ala Wai Community Park - Nice court and open field - Parks Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

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I just took a ukulele class at the facility. Although it shows its age, it is well maintained and clean. Having no air conditioning was fine during the summer and, for me, preferrable. Parking is more than adequate. It seems that the vagrancy issues that plagued the area a few years ago is not there now. I give it 5 stars for overall building maintenance and cleanliness, but it does need a new coat of interior paint and updated restroom facilities. read more

This park is nice in the daytime but it's kind of sketchy when the sun goes down. The police to patrol this area but not that often. I have noticed a change in the area after I posted my last comment. There are a few homeless still in the area but do you don't bother anybody that kind of stay to themselves. If you use the walk and jog pathearly in the morning it's an excellent way to boost up your cardio and you don't have to deal with the sun when It gets superbright. View of Diamondhead is excellent in the morning and The sounds of the birds chirping just makes your day start off right. read more

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I used to paddle here in high school over 30 years ago, and now my daughter does it for her high school. Times have definitely changed. It was much safer, cleaner, and kid friendly back then. Now homeless is a serious issue. But advised my daughter to never go to the bathroom alone, make sure it's with a large group of her teammates. I witnessed drug usage inside mens bathroom, out door near playground, and on the benches near ala wai canal. Can't even take my 4 year old to the playground without feeling safe. So Sad! read more

Not the prettiest park but has a lot to offer. Small community center, soccer field with nice bright light at night, soft ball fields, dog park, play ground, basket ball court, community garden, canoe activities. Biker, Jogger and walkers. TaiChi groups, qi exercise, some music, and screaming kids til late at night. There used to be about 150 community garden plots. Due to sewage pipe construction, I guess some parts were eliminated. Maybe because of it, I think there are less homeless people around the area. Now I see more on the other side of the park - close to the McCully Center. I am a little farmer in the community garden. Since I am not a green thumb, I don't get a regular products but so nice to see vegetables grow, and able to eat fresh products. YELP 365 - 8/365 read more

This park has two jungle gyms, baseball, basketball, volleyball court and soccer fields, a bike path, canoe and kayak paddling, a community garden as well as a bike path leading to a dog park. Kind of hard give anything less than 3 stars for a place that comes ready and able for so many different activities. Yes there are homeless and vagrants wondering the land aimlessly like Cane on Kung Fu, but I have to take the good with the bad as the pictures speak for themselves. read more

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This is only a 2 minute walk from where we now live. We really miss Kaimuki Park. This park doesn't have many kids playing on playground. There are swings which is a plus. There is a basketball and volleyball court. A lot of parking available. Seen some homeless people here also, make sure to keep an eye out on your kids at this park. read more

Ala Wai Community Park - Parks Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Small park with a bathroom. Two playground areas but the swings aren't there. Basketball court and a place for other sports like baseball and softball on the field there. Near the ala wai. Usually a few homeless people hanging around the park near the bathroom area. Small private parking lot. read more

Ala Wai Community Park - Parks Near Me - Honolulu, Hawaii

Ala Wai Park has a large field to play various sports on along with a playground for kids, bleachers for people to sit on to watch games, canoes, a jogging trail, and parking. I have been stopping by here lately to use the jogging trail as I'm preparing to run the Great Aloha Run. Expansive views of the Ala Wai Canal can be seen here along with many buildings in Waikiki. The big wavy building, Marco Polo sits nearby. Sometimes there are baseball games being played. At night there are bright lights overhead to illuminate the area. Overall not a bad place to work out, but I would avoid at night. It does get pretty dark here sometimes. read more

Saw a guy unlock an end unit that was enclosed and take a hooker in there with him on Friday may3 about 6pm

Currently the baseball field is a site of construction, staging Equiptment and big pipes around the park. The canoe-ala wai canal side is recently renovated. The playground is still open. (Completely in the sun like most, has a few vagrants but seemed nice enough, one let my 2 yr old pet they're little dog). Also the interior senior activities center and cold (!) water water fountain inside. Also has outdoor and indoor bathrooms open probably during park hours. Great location but sometimes it's hard to get in and out of the parking lot (i.e during rush hours when HOV lanes are changed). read more

Ala Wai Park is a great place to jog around, nice level surfaces, straight run, they recently did some work on the opposite side of the park that runs along the golf coarse, so the ground is much more flat. I enjoy running around the park because there is plenty of shade, and its not so crowded. I think in total its around 2 miles around the entire canal starting from Mccully street, down to Kapahuluu, then hook a left, and back down on date street i think. I think the run is fairly safe, just don't run too close to the canal itself, before you get sucked in and come out with extra fingers and toes. I don't know if i have gotten accustomed to the smell, or if its been cleaned up a bit, but i didn't smell anything dying or decaying last time i ran around it, or else i just was to focused on running to notice it The ala wai canal does not offer the best of views, but i think it is the number one choice area for place of exercise for residents in the area. So while you might not get an excellent sunset view during your run, rest assure, you will not be alone while walking or jogging. I don't recommend parking around the ala wai itself, for one, i don't think you'll be able to find parking during busier hours, around 4-5 during the weekdays because everyone of the residents is already scrambling for parking. I also don't recommend fishing in the waters, although i have seen a few people doing it in the past, then falling asleep on the benches shortly after. Good for kids, smoking (tobacco) acceptable. read more

Such a shame, this could be a really nice park. The area by Ala Wai elementary has 2 play structures, swings, a bike path that connects to where the ducks are by Iolani schools, and bathrooms, and the side by McCully bridge has another playground, a pavilion, and there are baseball fields, basketball courts, and lots of trees and shade too. Unfortunately the area by Ala Wai Elementary is in horrible shape, the play area is ripped up and in disrepair, the swings are completely gutted out and gone, the bathrooms are disgusting, last time we went there was a drunk/drugged up woman naked from the waist down passed out on the floor in one of the stalls, the whole park has a problem with the homeless coming in and setting up camp in the park and on the sidewalks surrounding.....the Ala Wai canal has a stench that on bad days stinks up the park..... It looks like they are renovating the one playground but just replacing it with the same old two slides/one bridge/a couple ladders cheapo playground that is everywhere (and there are two more of pretty much the exact same thing IN THIS SAME PARK) instead of doing something unique like Blaisdell or Waialae Iki park. Plus the fact that no matter how much they renovate, if there is no security or kind of deterrents then the vagrants are still going to dirty it up and ruin it for everyone. read more

Young kids swimming in the Ala Wai Canal - Health hazard. There are signs along the canal posted saying do not swim or eat shellfish. Even worse, adults at the canoe spot were present, possibly encouraging it. Considering calling police/alerting authorities. Yelling each day/chanting, after dinner, disruptive to residents and visitors in the area. Homeless in the area just hanging out. Drastic change is needed for this park. I am staying in one of the hotels nearby read more

The size and multipurpose spaces are great: a walking path, ball fields, playgrounds, green grass, and a basketball court. The visitors are less than desirable - homeless men, unsupervised adults and children, and litter bugs. They walk their dogs through the fields while children are playing ball. They leave trash on the ground, including urine covered toilet paper (yuck!). Flies, trash, and graffiti are common sights. It is unfortunate. It was a peaceful park before the sewer problem and trash. read more

Beautiful park and canal, watching the boats race up and down is fun. I've lived and visited many cities and this is not a place I would ever describe as sketchy. You occasionally see some hobos but they've never bothered me and I feel safe walking at anytime. read more

Every time we go on this park (across Alawai Elementary School), there is always a man who sleeps on the bench next to the bathrooms. He has a bicycle parked next to where he sleeps with bunch of stuffs sits on it. This man is covered with blankets almost invisible. It is creepy! I doubt if he even leaves that bench. I noticed, when children playing loudly on the playground, he'd wake up and stink eyes all around (his eyes pops and appeared looking for that loudest kid). How do we even know if this man is harmless and trustworthy? Why are the public and administration allowing him to sleep there? How can children have fun when there is that man who tried to steal "the fun" from them? read more