The Waikiki Beach area is home to some pretty diverse surf spots, offering something for board riders of all skill levels. Each break has a name, including Publics, Queens, Canoes, Threes, Fours, Kaisers, and a few more depending on the local braddah or sistah you ask. Of course, the variety of surf here is only matched (and then some) by the number of hotels, and when you’ve got surfing on your itinerary you want to make sure it’s convenient to where you stay. There’s nothing quite like sauntering out of your hotel at the break of dawn, grabbing some java, and taking a few short steps to the sand and surf. Today, we’re providing you with a quick list of accommodations to consider, blending a mix of both luxury and budget-conscious places to stay that will have you up and riding within minutes of leaving your lobby.
Most Convenient Hotels in Waikiki Beach for Surfing (and how we can help)
1. Moana Surfrider
This one is for those of you who appreciate luxury and convenience at the same time. The Moana Surfrider is an upscale beachfront property that is bookended by the Canoes and Pops surf spots so you can step out, gauge the crowd and conditions, and paddle out to where you see fit. What we also like about this high-end hotel is its history and connection to surfing in Waikiki. On the second floor above the lobby you’ll find an iconic collection of surf memorabilia connected to the Godfather of Surfing, Duke Kahanamoku, including a beautiful alaia surfboard that glistens behind the tall cabinet. The Moana Surfrider (aka Moana Hotel) was a favorite stomping ground for Kahanamoku and the whole Waikiki Beach Boys crew. For the latter reasons alone it belongs on this list.
2. Aston Waikiki Circle Hotel
Even if you’ve never heard of it before the shape gives away the location of this budget friendly hotel. Standing out from the crowd of cookie-cutter constructed hotels on Kalakaua Avenue, the Circle is essentially a landmark that is a stone’s throw from the Kuhio Beach Hula Mound, and more importantly, near Queen’s and Canoes. It doesn’t hurt that Eggs n’ Things is located at the lobby, making for a perfect post-surf breakfast spot.
3. Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel
Another Aston property (mid-range pricing) makes the cut here, and it’s made notable by the lobby full of surfboards that collectively spell out A-S-T-O-N W-A-I-K-I-K-I. Once you step outside and cross the street on the golden sands famed Queens surf spot awaits. When done, tuck your board into hotel storage (by the valet desk in the rear) and head up to Tiki’s Bar & Grill to enjoy a Mai Tai at the bar and tell the barstool companion next to you about your recent session. They’ll be more than happy to listen, but will invariably return with a comment stating “It was much bigger yesterday”. Isn’t it always?
4. Hyatt Regency Waikiki
Affordable luxury is at your beckon call, directly across from the Duke Kahanamoku statue which immediately lets you know that the location for Waikiki Beach surfing is prime. The Hyatt Regency is indeed the most conveniently located, central to all of the area’s surf spots, giving you a proverbial pick of the litter depending on how much you feel like paddling. The hotel also boasts one of the cooler surf apparel shops on the block, The Stoke House, should you feel like getting fitted up in the latest surf fashion after a day of riding saltwater.
5. Any Hotel
We suppose we could have started with this one, but we know some of you demand absolute convenience, especially when every minute of your Waikiki vacation counts. We totally get it, and the hotels above will provide you with the convenience you need.
But in the end, if you’re staying in Waikiki with a hotel on Kalākaua Avenue, Kuhio Avenue, or somewhere in between, you’re just a few slippah (best get used to the lingo) steps away from a prime surf spot for those of all skill levels, especially beginners. And if you and/or someone in your party falls in that latter category then you’ve come to the right place as Sparky’s Surf School will meet you right in the heart of Waikiki Beach’s most consistent break. With us, you get instant local cred, and we’ll paddle out together and get you catching waves faster than an Uber ride to Ala Moana Center. It all starts with a simple phone call to 808.724-4208 for a friendly conversation. Or, if you’re ready to roll you can book your lesson or refresher course (all skill levels) today by choosing your experience here.
~ ALOHA ~
