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Situated on the south shore of the picturesque Ala Moana Beach Park, Magic Island, as it is affectionately known, highlights all the natural beauty that Hawaii has to offer with the added convenience of being just steps away from the hustle and bustle of it all. If anything, it serves as an oasis in the heart of urban Honolulu, located at the foot of the vibrant communities of Kakaako, Ala Moana and Waikiki.

But while many locals and visitors often visit Magic Island to socialize with family and friends or simply enjoy nature, it’s unlikely that many know how the man-made peninsula came to be. It all started at Ala Moana Beach Park. 

Ala Moana Beach Park, as it is known today, includes everything from ample parking and tennis courts to long stretches of calm sandy beach. But before it became one of Oahu’s most beloved attractions, it was little more than a swamp. It wasn’t until land development began in the 1930s that Ala Moana Beach Park began to take shape with the addition of features such as the Bridle Bridge, Banyan Court, lawns and more, eventually being named “People’s Park” in 1934 by then President Franklin D. Roosevelt.  

In subsequent years, the park was used not only for recreation. For example, during the Second World War military units could be found here. Then, in 1954, construction of the beach began, followed by other additions such as a bathhouse and concession areas before Ala Moana Beach Park was added to the State Register of Historic Places in 1988.  

Today, Ala Moana Beach Park welcomes approximately 4 million people each year, who take advantage of the serene shoreline and easily accessible entry points. It is also the site of popular events such as the annual Shinnyo Lantern Float in Hawaii.  

History of the Magic Island. 

Based on size alone, it’s impossible to miss Magic Island, although there is a trail from Ala Moana Beach Park that leads directly to it. Walk through this sprawling 47-acre property and it won’t take long to truly appreciate all it has to offer. With something for everyone to do and a lively, welcoming atmosphere, it’s hard to imagine the coast without it – although what eventually became today’s beloved Magic Island was never part of the original plan.  

It all reportedly began in 1962, when a peninsula was built on the eastern part of the area to make way for a resort. But after the project failed, the area was turned into a public park. And here’s a fun fact: its real name is Aina Moana Park, which translates to “land from the sea.” Although, of course, everyone continues to call it simply Magic Island. The addition of Magic Island has brought more options for visitors of all ages.  

High dams and a shallow and fairly soft lagoon make it an ideal swimming spot for families with children. Its parkland also helps create a warm, inviting atmosphere with large open spaces ideal for picnics, setting up tents for birthday parties and family get-togethers, or even flying a kite. 

Picnic benches under the windy canopy of trees are located throughout, ideal for informal gatherings or comfortable lounging alone. Meanwhile, the trail leading through Magic Island and into Ala Moana Beach Park attracts walkers, runners and joggers, as well as cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts.  

Additional Magic Island amenities include a large parking lot with 470 spaces (nearly half of the 1,000 parking spaces located throughout Ala Moana Beach Park), fishing areas, restrooms and a lifeguard on duty. Bonus: Magic Island is a great place to dine al fresco and watch fireworks every Friday night, courtesy of the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, and every 4th of July.  

Redevelopment projects have helped improve and preserve this Oahu landmark. 

Considering the amount of daily traffic Magic Island receives, it’s no surprise that it’s required quite a bit of maintenance over the years. Most recently, the City and County of Honolulu embarked on a redevelopment project that included improved parking, part of a larger plan already underway to improve Magic Island. 

The work included repairs and re-marking; installing tree planters and removing roots that damage the sidewalk; setting up a new landing zone; and installing new park gates, benches and trash cans.  

Other achievements have been completed recently. The amenities stations and bathrooms have received a facelift, nearly 220 trees have been planted, lighting throughout Magic Island has been upgraded to LED, exercise equipment has been added, and more, such as the city’s very first off-beach sand volleyball courts.  

Located in downtown Honolulu, there is plenty to do around Magic Island. 

With a great location in the area surrounding Magic Island, you’ll have plenty to do. Its end marks the beginning of Waikiki, with views of the Ala Wai boat harbor visible from the shoreline.  

Directly across from Magic Island is Ala Moana Center, the world’s largest open-air shopping mall. Ala Moana Center features leading brands including Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom and Macy’s, as well as a variety of shops, eateries and specialty stores, including Foodland Farms Ala Moana.  

Meanwhile, next door are the new neighborhoods of Ward Village and Kakaako, home to even more boutiques, restaurants and entertainment. Both remain a work in progress, regularly welcoming new residents to towering towers that attract those interested in living, working and playing where everything they need is within walking distance. Kakaako in particular may be best known for its colorful landscape, which changes annually during POW! WOW! 

Hawaii, when renowned artists from around the world bring offices and free-standing walls to life with stunning murals that draw crowds. So, with all this in mind, there is no shortage of things to do in and around Magic Island.