Sunset on the Beach is weekend fun that offers free movies shown on a huge 30-foot screen in the heart of Waikiki, right on the beach. Great for a start to a wild night out or for mellow after-dark fun for families, the movies play on Friday and Saturday nights and feature quality films for the whole family to enjoy. 

Waikiki Sunset — Photo courtesy of Kazuhiko Teramoto

Showtime begins around 7 p.m., and movie goers usually hang around for a while after the movie is done. You can walk to the film from one of the many hotels in the area, or take a short drive in a taxi.

The beachside cinema is an idea put in action by a former mayor of Honolulu. Wanting to increase community activities and the local Waikiki economy, Mayor Harris started the "Sunset on the Beach" movie event in 2001.

Sunset on the Beach movie event is located at the Queen's surf break in Waikiki, directly across from the Honolulu Zoo. Food vendors offer diverse cuisines that can be enjoyed on the sand or the tables and chairs provided on the beach. From Hawaiian plate lunches to old-fashioned pizzas, a variety of food can be found.

After the film, those looking for a night out will have no problem finding things to do, as this all takes place in Waikiki. Down the street are a multitude of late-night bars and clubs such as Duke's Canoe Club and Zanzabar. 

Setting up for a Sunset on the Beach movie event — Photo courtesy of Daryl_Mitchell