Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger – Hotel Review

The spirit of aloha is alive and well at Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger, a warm and welcoming Honolulu hotel just steps from the sands of its namesake beach. Hospitality here goes beyond a friendly greeting at check-in or the nods to cultural heritage through in-room art. With a roster of inclusive activities — from sunrise yoga to Saturday night “dive in” movies at the pool area, this place has a real vibe. Read on for the full review.

Washed in cool blues and fresh whites, it feels like a fresh ocean breeze has blown through the hotel. Although the bones of the building have been around since the ’70s (like many of the properties in the area), a 2021 refurb has brought Beachcomber firmly into the now.  

Where is Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger? 

On the corner of Duke’s Lane and central Kalākaua Avenue, the property is right in the thick of Honolulu and its bustling beachfront, about 20 minutes drive from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport.

What’s near Waikiki Beachcomber by Outrigger?

There isn’t too much that Honolulu has to offer that isn’t within walking distance: the people-watching paradise of Waikīkī Bay is less than five minutes away on foot and the brand-name boutiques of Kālākaua Avenue are even closer. The hotel also runs a shuttle up to Diamond Head, the island’s ridged volcanic peak, where hikers and visitors alike gather to admire breathtaking views over the wider island.

Room types 

Honolulu and its magnetic beaches mean that an ocean-view room is the go. The fresh, modern decor is inspired by Hawaii artisans and the rooms feature in-room fridges and, by local standards, generous bathrooms.

Restaurants and bars 

Both of Beachcomber’s on-site eateries look to local suppliers. At Maui Brewing Co., craft beer from a neighbouring island takes centre stage, alongside dude food laced with tropical treasures (guava barbecue sauce-slathered ribs and Kukui sausage-topped pizzas). Hawaiian-grown Kona coffee is served at Hawaiian Aroma Caffe, a white-washed warehouse-style space with friendly staff and delicious coffee, often adorned by intricate latte art.

Travel for work

All guests have access to free wi-fi but there’s also a 24-hour business centre with workstations and printing facilities. The hotel is also a major conference hub, hosting up to 100 people for meetings or presentations. 

Gym and pool

With Waikiki this close, you’ll likely opt for the beach when it comes to swimming and sunbathing. But there is a pool on-site for laps and lounging, as well as a bubbly hot tub. On Saturday nights, the pool also plays host to “dive-in movies”, where you can soak and catch a flick simultaneously. There’s a simple and functional gym on level two. 

Sustainability

Parent company Outrigger is the first in the state to commit to earning the prestigious Green Seal sustainability certification for all its properties, inclusive of Beachcomber. For guests, that comes in the form of beach clean-up initiatives, reusable water bottles and energy-efficient lighting throughout the hotel.

Accessibility   

Features for disabled travellers – from pool to check-in accessibility – are prominent throughout the building and in the 15 dedicated rooms, which feature shower and bathtub grab bars, lowered light switches and visual and strobe fire and smoke detectors. 

What you need to know

Live music is everywhere at Beachcomber, drifting out to the pool area from the café or permeating the on-site brewery. Grab a chair and a bevvy and simply enjoy.

SEE ALSO: The Best Beach Resorts in Waikiki