During our stopover in Hawaii en route to mainland USA, my toddler daughter and I stayed at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel for a couple of nights. Nestled in the heart of Waikiki, this hotel offers stunning ocean views, spacious rooms, and an ideal location just steps from the famous Waikiki Beach. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or exploring with kids in tow, here’s why this hotel is one of the best places to stay in Waikiki.
A Couple of Early Birds
Our Jetstar flight from Sydney landed super early, touching down just as the sun was rising over Honolulu. If you’ve ever landed after a long-haul flight with a toddler, you’ll know the instant exhaustion that sets in. The thought of hours entertaining Kaydes before check-in felt… impossible.
But this is where OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber shone. The staff welcomed us with warmth and genuine aloha spirit, and even though it was hours before official check-in, they offered a solution. For a small extra fee, our room could be ready immediately. Honestly? It was the best money I spent all day.
Minutes later, we were in our cool, quiet room. The beds were dreamy, the air felt calm, and as soon as our heads hit the pillows we were gone. Falling asleep to the faint sounds of Waikiki outside was the perfect way to reset after travel.
Our Partial Ocean View Room
Our room was a Partial Ocean View room, and it did not disappoint. From our balcony, we had a stunning blend of ocean blues and the vibrant energy of Waikiki below. I loved seeing the Apple Store from our perch! ➡ #bigapplefangirl
Mornings started slowly. I’d wake up before Kaydes and watch the sky shift from deep purple to gold as the sun rose over the Pacific. Once she woke up, we had a relaxed breakfast of yogurt, cereal, fruit, and drinks from the nearby store before heading out for the day’s adventures.
Evenings were just as magical. After tucking Kaydes into bed, I’d step onto the balcony to soak up the city lights and the buzz of Waikiki nightlife. Those moments, quietly reflecting while the world pulsed below, are ones I’ll never forget.
Inside, the room felt airy and welcoming. Spacious enough for a toddler tornado and all our bags, it was also thoughtfully designed:
- Two plush beds (we used one, the other became our outfit zone).
- A mini-fridge for snacks and drinks.
- A kettle for tea and coffee.
- A large flat-screen TV for winding down.
- A modern bathroom stocked with fluffy towels and premium toiletries.
The bathroom mirror even had soft lighting – such a small detail, but it made me feel spoiled!
What made our stay even better was the hotel’s generosity in letting us use a hospitality room free of charge when we returned to pick up our bags. After a full day of exploring with a toddler, having a space to freshen up quickly before our red-eye flight to Seattle was absolutely wonderful.
Luxurious Amenities
This hotel is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a place to unwind. Some highlights:
Valet Service – The valet team was always cheerful and efficient, and their local tips were spot-on.
Outdoor Pool & Lounge Deck – Framed by tropical greenery, it’s a peaceful oasis where you can flop into a lounger or take a refreshing dip.
Maui Brewing Co. – This was a great place to chill out in. One afternoon, we enjoyed a fantastic live music duo while having some snacks and drinks. With a mix of local flavors and international dishes, it was a very convenient and laid-back dining option.
Hawaiian Aroma Caffè – We stopped by one mid-morning before heading out for the day. The café’s stylish, laid-back atmosphere made it a great spot for a quick bite, and their fresh pastries and açai bowls were the perfect energy boost. With its tropical-inspired decor and open-air seating, it felt like a little hidden oasis within the hotel.
Exploring Waikiki
When it comes to location, OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber is unbeatable. Step outside and you’re surrounded by Waikiki’s best:
- Waikiki Beach – Just a short walk away, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and watching surfers.
- International Market Place – Just along the street, it offers a large mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. It even had a small waterfall that Kaydes liked reaching out to.
- Royal Hawaiian Center – A few minutes’ walk to high-end shopping, cultural activities, and dining.
- Kalakaua Avenue – Waikiki’s main strip, lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
For more remote adventures, I used Uber to visit spots like Kaʻaʻawa Beach and the North Shore, totally worth it for a change of scenery and fewer crowds.
Checking Out
Our time at the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Beachcomber was exactly what we needed; warm hospitality, a stylish yet comfortable room, and a prime Waikiki location. It turned our quick stopover into something special, and I left already planning a return visit.
If you’re looking for a hotel in Waikiki that combines family-friendly comfort with a splash of island style, this is the one. The aloha spirit runs deep here, and it makes all the difference.
📺 Want to see it for yourself? Check out my Waikiki vlog on YouTube:
* Thanks so much to Outrigger for hosting us. As always, all thoughts here are my own.
Lore & Tempo is where motherhood meets adventure. I’m Ren – storyteller, explorer, and single mum in Wellington, New Zealand. I’ve been lucky enough to wander through 45 countries. 15 of them with my +1, Kaydes, either strapped to my front, on my hip, or running ahead on her own adventures. I created this space to share single parent life, travel tips, and the joy of exploring the world.
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