Waikiki on the Hawaiian island of Oahu is synonymous with stunning shores, near-unrivaled surfing, and watersports galore, but think beyond the beach when selling this world-class destination. Consider Waikiki’s outstanding dining options and distinctive activities that appeal to couples, honeymooners, families, multi-generation groups and just about every type of traveler.
Waikiki has earned its place on Hawaii’s gastronomic map thanks to a mix of sophisticated five-star dining establishments, casual restaurants and hole-in-the-wall eateries.
Internationally acclaimed Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto recently opened two exclusive restaurants at the new ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach – the upscale Morimoto Asia Waikiki, ‘Alohilani’s signature dining experience blending Western and traditional fare with unmatched creativity, and Momosan, where ramen shares the spotlight with signature sake and a tropically landscaped beer garden. Looking out over the ocean, Morimoto Asia Waikiki features an impressive steel-and-glass exhibition kitchen, plus a menu offering Peking duck, dim sum and traditional wok-fried dishes. Steps from the sand, Momosan serves breakfast, lunch and dinner amid a fun, casual atmosphere. Elevating the hotel’s gastronomic offerings was part of an extensive five-year $125 million redevelopment, allowing ‘Alohilani to introduce a new brand of modern luxury to the beachside resort experience.
Former “Top Chef” finalist Brian Malarky opened Herringbone Waikiki at the International Marketplace, bringing Southern California coastal dining to Waikiki. Seafood is the star of the menu, from tuna tacos and Alaskan king crab to local snapper and whole lobster, plus a tempting daily Oyster Hour.
Expect to wait on long lines that flow into the street at Marukame, a very casual and affordably priced udon noodle shop. The combination of a special noodle-making process and flavorful broth sets this shop apart from the competition – and makes your meal worth the wait. Order from seven different types of udon, including curry udon with shredded beef and onions; traditional kake, exhibiting a light fish and seaweed taste; or ontama bukkake, topped with a soft-boiled egg. Add a side of tempura to your order.
There is a wealth of superb Hawaiian, Asian and Pacific Rim cuisine in Waikiki, but Hy’s Steakhouse is a stand-out for meat-lovers. Juicy filet mignon, New York tenderloin, prime rib and other cuts of meat are well-seasoned and prepared to perfection. A shellfish selection is also available.
Sweet treats are an important part of any Waikiki food experience. Enjoy the tropical flavors served at Waiola Shave Ice. Visit Leonard’s Bakery for hot malasadas, a Portuguese-type doughnut, either plain or filled with coconut, mango or passion fruit. Try the banana-chocolate croissants and island-inspired flavors at b. Patisserie.
If your clients believe “variety is the spice of life,” suggest they try Hawaii Food Tours’ gastronomic journey through Honolulu where they can taste their way through approximately 15-20 different foods while learning about local culinary history and culture.
Adding to Waikiki’s excellent food options are some great area attractions to interest your clients. ‘Alohilani’s soaring two-story, 280,000-gallon Oceanarium appeals to travelers of all ages. Located in the lobby next to the hotel’s O Bar, the Oceanarium is home to hundreds of native Hawaiian marine life, bringing a mesmerizing underwater world above the surface. Daily feedings take place at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm. Sip one of O Bar’s ocean-inspired craft cocktails while being captivated by sea creatures.
There’s no shortage of snorkeling, swimming, jet-skiing, kayaking and beach lounging in Waikiki, but for a change of pace, your clients can consider some of these options.
One of the oldest public aquariums in the United States, the Waikiki Aquarium features thousands of Hawaiian marine life species, from long-nose butterfly fish and potter’s angelfish to sharks, jewel-colored clams and monk seals. There is also a recreated habitat of Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument for fish and coral.
Once your clients step into the Honolulu Zoo, they might forget they’re in Hawaii – that’s how impressive this family-friendly spot is. Wander the African Savannah, reptile garden and bird sanctuary to see zebras, chimpanzees, black rhinoceros, Galapagos tortoises, giraffes, tigers, alligators and more.
Active enthusiasts can hike to the edge of the 300,000-year-old Diamond Head crater and be rewarded with postcard-worthy views of the Pacific Ocean and rugged Hawaiian coastline. The moderate Summit Trail (1.6 miles round-trip – not long, but steep) was created more than 100 years ago as a key component of Oahu’s coastal defense system, so the hike delivers both adventure and military fascination.
Peruse the shops, restaurants and high-rise hotels along bustling Kalakaua Avenue, considered the heart of Waikiki. There’s high-end shopping, from Prada and Tiffany & Co to Chanel and Coach, plus a mix of retailers selling Hawaiian clothing and souvenirs. The International Marketplace is a popular shopping and dining complex, featuring Burberry, Godiva, Michael Kors, and some of the area’s top restaurants, like StripSteak and Yauatcha. Although surrounded by shopping and restaurants, your clients won’t forget their close proximity to the beach – they’ll see surfboard-carrying visitors and locals crossing Kalakaua Avenue and heading to the nearby waves.
The beach remains a spectacular draw, as it should in Hawaii, but thanks to Waikiki’s abundant dining and activity options, selling the destination is now easier than ever before.