Press

Act like an Authentic Honolulu Hipster in the Heart of Waikiki

Want to experience Authentic Honolulu? New York Post editor Hana R. Alberts thinks the Surfjack is a pretty swell spot that will do just the trick. Here’s an excerpt of her article:

THE LOCATION

It’s a point of pride — and a definite plus — that The Surfjack is in Waikiki but not on the beach. Don’t worry, the white sands and tourist hordes are a mere 10-minute walk away. Meanwhile, the hotel feels like an oasis of Brooklyn-esque chic in a chilled-out neighborhood.

THE LAYOUT

The 112 rooms spread over 10 floors feel at once vintage and modern. Pops of color brighten a sophisticated palette of neutrals and reclaimed wood, while evocative accents include surf paraphernalia, vintage postcards and dream-catchers. Also incorporated into the intimate, chic design are locally based furniture-makers and artists.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER?

Hip Honolulu restaurateur Ed Kenney once claimed he’d never open a restaurant in Waikiki. But he’s changed his tune: the hotel’s in-house Mahina & Sun’s is Kenney’s fourth venture and a surefire winner. Kenney is known for elevating local ingredients — pohole (ferns), ‘ulu (breadfruit), monchong (fish) — via standout preparations and combinations. His reputation holds.

IF ONLY

… we could relocate The Surfjack to one of Oahu’s laid-back North Shore beaches. But it does bring that effortlessly cool vibe to centrally located Waikiki and for that we are grateful.

DON’T MISS

Boutique and coffee bar Olive & Oliver sells swoon- and souvenir-worthy goods right in the lobby. The hotel is centered around an oval pool with an appropriate vacation message inscribed at the bottom in tile and visible from the rooms: “Wish you were here.” Too true.

BOTTOM LINE

Act like a authentic Honolulu hipster — they exist, we swear! — at a price that doesn’t break the bank. Tellingly, the hotel’s restaurant, bar and shop teem with area residents.

Click here to read the full article.