In the 1950s, to satisfy tourist expectations, this eastern stretch (among others) of Waikiki beach was artificially widened - and its natural reef environment damaged - by around 80,000 cubic metres of sand shipped in from surrounding coastlines. Kapahulu Groin, a covered storm water drain, was built as part of this Waikiki Beach Improvement Project. Breakwaters jut from it into the ocean to protect the surrounding artificial beaches.
Today, propped atop receding beaches, the Groin doubles as a crowded jetty and as the centrepiece to popular Waikiki bodyboarding spot Walls – where showmanship reigns and the kid riding closest to the wall is rewarded with the loudest tourist gasps. The structure forms a perfect platform for viewing this quintessential Waikiki entertainment, with the added perks of endless people-watching and killer sunsets.
