YAHglobal In Hawaiian culture, wayfinding refers to the practice of navigating the seas. Wayfinders rely upon their knowledge of celestial bodies, wind patterns, and the ocean’s behavior to guide their vessels from one island to the next. As someone seeking the best boutique hotel in Waikiki Beach by using our authentic guide to the Hawaiian Islands, one may say that you’re doing a bit of wayfinding on your own. And it just so happens that today’s featured accommodation may very well be exactly what you’re searching for.
We recently went undercover at the Wayfinder Waikiki, booking our stay without letting management know of our intention to write a comprehensive summary of the experience. It’s important to note this, because popular “mom bloggers” (ahem) inform management ahead of time in order to score a free stay which automatically biases their accounting of any hotel. That’s right, we coughed up our own dough in order to pen this trustworthy Wayfinder Waikiki review. It’s a good thing that it’s not only a candidate for the best boutique hotel in Waikiki, it’s also one of the most affordable when considering all that the recently renovated (2023) property has to offer.
Below is an inside-and-out review of the Wayfinder Waikiki that’s light on words (you’re welcome) and delightfully heavy on the imagery. When it comes to a place like this, it’s best to let the photos do the talking. Let’s review!
Updated Local-Guide Review of the Wayfinder Boutique Hotel in Waikiki Beach
Off the Beaten Path of Waikiki
In addition to being one of the best boutique hotels, the Wayfinder is also one of Waikiki’s hidden gems. Unlike the other enticing accommodations that line the avenues of Kalakaua and Kuhio, this 228 room secret spot is located along Ala Wai Blvd at the corner of Kānekapōlei Street. Even the signs, written in a noto sans simplified font, are somewhat hidden by the palms that surround the vintage concrete construct.
Authentic (and fun) Decor
As you may know, no business gets listed on YAHglobal unless it pays tribute to Hawaiian culture. The Wayfinder absolutely does, but with a blended 1950s, 60s, 70s, and 80s aesthetic that feels contemporary at the same time. The pastel toned interior decor of the hotel’s common spaces is too cool for school, making it ideal for a vacay in the North Pacific.
Rooms that Pay Attention to the Right Details
Everything about Wayfinder Waikiki’s rooms are thoughtfully designed. The items placed within are carefully curated to convey island living that’s playful and refreshing. This includes the restroom’s hygiene products, which come courtesy of Grown Alchemist, whose skincare and haircare products are powered by mother nature.
In-room browsing materials
Branded robes for guests to wear (and purchase if desired)
Request a corner suite for a breezy canal view
Wellness at Wayfinder Waikiki
The hotel boasts a swimming pool that’s long enough for laps, in addition to a spacious fitness center with free weights, machines, and emblemed gym towels. Front reception also promotes wellness through an activity center that allows guests access to boogie boards for the nearby beach and more.
Island Dining and Refreshments
The Wayfinder’s B-Side Coffee Bar is one of the best on-site hotel coffee shops in Waikiki. It’s also a destination for both locals and visitors who need to get some work done thanks to WiFi that always connects and an espresso / pastry selection that keeps patrons well-fueled.
The Wayfinder’s on-site restaurant, Redfish, is also popular with locals and visitors, thanks to authentic Hawaiian cuisine that rivals some of the top eateries in the area.
The Lost + Found poolside bar is a highlight on this glowing Waikiki Wayfinder review. It has a daily Happy Hour featuring 50% OFF cocktails, and guests will also enjoy the tokens that get handed to them upon check-in. These tokens are good for FREE cocktails at the poolside bar. Outside of Happy Hour, cocktail prices range between $14 to $16 which is fair when compared to what other poolside bars charge in the resort community of Waikiki. The bar also pours local craft beers such as Hana Koa Brewing Co., Maui Brewing Co., Honolulu Beer Works, and a rotating seasonal tap. Beer prices ranging from $7 to $10. Lost + Found also offers a variety of local Hawaiian wines, seltzers, and mocktails.
Meanwhile, Lost + Found’s poolside munchies menu features Hawaiian fare which includes the following (subject to change):
- Fresh Hawaiian Pineapple (li hing shaker, toasted coconut, togarashi)
- The Double Dip (creamy avocado, beet hummus, choice of taro chips or crudités)
- North Shore Garlic Fries
- Chicken Wings
- Rainbow Poke Bowl
- Pulehu Chicken Sala
- Shrimp & Chips
- Honey BBQ Burger
- Pop Culture Artisan Pops (assorted flavors)
Check-in tokens for FREE cocktails
Hidden Island Oasis
The pool is another unexpected surprise that is designed to be an island oasis, on an island oasis. It’s family friendly by day, but when weekend evenings arrive it becomes a pool party zone complete with a local DJ. The late afternoon and evening atmosphere is vibrant and conducive to mingling, whether you’re in a group or flying solo.
Morning scene by the pool (watch video)
Shop Locally Made Goods
The Wayfinder Waikiki gift shop is located within the B-Side Coffee Bar. It features locally designed aloha shirts, accessories, and non-tacky souvenirs. The hotel pool also hosts a small weekly market that invites local artisans and designers to showcase their goods. Guests can buy body jewelry and even get their ears pierced while poolside!
Waikiki Wayfinder Address: 2375 Ala Wai Blvd, Honolulu, HI (directions)
Do you have any questions or comments about this Wayfinder Waikiki Review? Leave a comment below and we’ll get back to you!
