Kama'aina Staycation at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

 

An incredible ocean view!

We decided not to travel off island during this year's Fall Break, but I couldn't resist a quick staycation to schedule in some rest and relaxation for my son and I. I chose the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort because of its beachfront location and great kama'aina rates that included perks like half off parking and no resort charge!  

The Outrigger Reef has recently undergone an $80 million transformation that included an overhaul of the lobby, renovated guestrooms, and the expansion of Kani Ka Pila Grille with more seating and a stage for live Hawaiian music. Anchor restaurant Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman is expected to open by the end of 2022.  

New spacious lobby with beachy vibes.

This swing for two is so cute and picture perfect.

We were upgraded to a newly renovated Club Oceanfront Suite that sleeps up to 4 with a separate king bedroom, spacious living area with a sofa bed, two baths - including the hugest one I have ever seen, and three private lanai so you can enjoy panoramic oceanfront views. Guests can opt to connect rooms to make it a 3-bedroom suite which is perfect for families.  

Large dining area, microwave, mini refrigerator, Keurig, and sink.

This spacious living area was perfect for lounging and watching a movie together after dinner.   

Comfy king size bed with Hawaiian artwork and ocean and sky blue tones let you know you are on vacation. 

Incredible, unobstructed, and endless views of the ocean.

I loved taking in the views.  At night the sound of the waves crashing sent me into the best sleep.  

I was seriously impressed with the size of this bathroom.  

Deep soak tub and separate shower.

Not one, but two vanities. Each complete with a lighted cosmetic mirror and Navasana Collection bath amenities.   

When you book a Voyager 47 Club room or suite, you will gain exclusive access to the private club lounge with spectacular ocean views. A daily Hawaiian style breakfast is offered in the morning and in the evening guests can enjoy pupus and drinks while they catch the sunset. For breakfast, we enjoyed offerings of scrambled eggs, Portuguese sausage, waffles, fresh fruit, yogurt and more. In the evening, we snacked on lemon grass chicken, potstickers, kalbi beef skewers, and beef japchae. Food selections were tasty and the service was wonderful.    

Comfy outdoor seating while you take in the views.

Shaded areas and also indoor seating is available.

Guests can help themselves to the many food stations. 

Outrigger has longstanding partnerships with many Hawaii organizations including the Polynesian Voyaging Society and the Friends of Hōkūle‘a and Hawai‘iloa. The Outrigger Reef's A‘o Cultural Center is run by cultural director Aunty Luana Maitland and is home to Hawaiian artworks and programming around sea voyaging and other traditional Hawaiian practices.  Guests can engage in a variety of cultural activities like lei making, hula, wood carving, and more.  

Cultural director Aunty Luana Maitland making a lei.

Calabash - one of the many exhibits on display in the center. 

Hawaiian name tag making class.

Thank you for my beautiful lei.

Cade and I in front of I Ka Wa Ma Mua, Ka Wa Ma Hope (Through the Past is the Future) - a mural by Kamea Hadar.

As I mentioned, the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort is just steps away from the beach where we walked out to enjoy the sunset. We also spent some time at the large pool. Chaise lounges are available around the pool, but if you prefer you can reserve a daybed that comes with two chaise lounges or your own private cabana.

Beach access steps away from the A'o Cultural Center.

Daybeds are available to rent.

Back floating in the large pool.

Warm up in one of three hot tubs.

  

The resort does not have its own fitness center, but provides access to the fitness center at Embassy Suites with reservations. Other great perks included in the resort charge are complimentary admission (for two adults) to the Honolulu Museum of Art and discounted admission to the Waikiki Aquarium and Bishop Museum. 

 

It was much too short, but we truly enjoyed our stay at the resort.  We enjoyed time at the pool and beach, learning at the A'o Cultural Center, relaxing at the Voyager 47 Club, and taking in the views from our suite. It was a wonderful first time stay for us and we would definitely recommend the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort!

Thank you to the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort for their Aloha and suite upgrade, complimentary use of the daybed, and access to the Voyager 47 Club.