A Livelier, Artier, Easier Waikiki Stay

Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel
Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii
Artsy Aloha, $

Calling itself Hawaii's first craft hotel, Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel takes a locally minded approach to the classic Waikiki stay. Set on lively Kalakaua Avenue just steps from Waikiki Beach, the hotel draws on the work of Hawaiian artists, photographers, musicians, and makers to give the large property a distinctly local personality. The Beachcomber Originals — a collective of local creatives including surf photographer Zak Noyle, musician Makana, printmaker Abigail Romanchak, and fiber artist Marques Marzan — have contributed everything from dramatic ocean photography and murals to music and installations.

That creative energy extends beyond the walls. Live music is a nightly occurrence, while the Terrace of Modern Art (TOMA) series showcases rising Hawaii artists. The Outrigger Theater is home to Cirque du Soleil's 'Auana, an exuberant celebration of Hawaiian culture told through acrobatics, comedy, hula, music, and song.

Despite all the activity, Beachcomber is an easy choice for families. The rates are moderate, there’s no charge for kids under 17, the pool hosts "Dive In" movies, and the largest suite sleeps five. And while the hotel isn't directly on the sand, Waikiki Beach is a short walk away and restaurants, shops, entertainment, and people-watching are right outside the door.

At a Glance

The Vibe: Contemporary island style with a creative streak and plenty of Waikiki energy.

Standout Detail: Art isn't an afterthought: The Beachcomber Originals program incorporates the work of local photographers, artists, designers, and musicians everywhere.

This Place Is Great For: Travelers who want to be in the middle of Waikiki rather than tucked away at a secluded resort.

Rooms: 498 spacious, contemporary rooms and suites have private lanais and views of the Pacific, Diamond Head, or Waikiki cityscape. Deluxe Ocean View rooms deliver particularly good water and Diamond Head vistas. For families and groups, the 1,200-square-foot, two-bedroom, two-bathroom Beachcomber Suite sleeps up to five.

Food + Drink: Maui Brewing Co., Hawaii's largest craft brewery, serves island-inspired food and a choice lineup of locally made craft beers. There’s live music every night. Poolside Hawaiian Aroma Caffé starts the day with coffee, açai bowls, baked goods, and sandwiches before moving into cocktails and evening music.

On Site: Outdoor pool and hot tub, fitness center, and sunrise yoga. "Dive In" poolside movies, art exhibitions and TOMA events, Beachcomber Activities Lounge, and Cirque du Soleil's 'Auana at the Outrigger Theater. 

Feel-Good Factor: Outrigger’s eight Hawaii hotels have earned Green Key Eco-Rating certification for its efforts in things that matter — energy and water conservation, waste management, sustainable operations, and community impact.

What to Do Nearby

Hit Waikiki Beach for swimming, surfing, outrigger canoe rides, and sunset walks. The hotel sits directly on Kalakaua Avenue amid loads of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Walk along the beachfront toward Kapiolani Park and Diamond Head, or head in the other direction to the Royal Hawaiian Center. For a deeper dive into Hawaiian history and culture, downtown Honolulu's Iolani Palace, Hawaii State Art Museum, and historic Chinatown are a short drive away.