The Surfjack, one of Hawaii’s most famous boutique hotels

Jake Nicholas
19 hours ago
3 min read

Tucked into a quieter pocket of Waikiki, The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club offers a nostalgic yet modern take on the Oʻahu hotel experience—one that blends 1960s surf culture with local artistry, culinary creativity, dog-forward fun, and a strong sense of community. With a retro aesthetic and a welcoming, come-as-you-are attitude, this boutique property delivers a refreshing alternative to the island’s more conventional resorts.

Guests can choose from 112 thoughtfully styled rooms and suites, all featuring mid-century furnishings, custom artwork by local creatives, and private lanais. From one-bedrooms to spacious three-bedroom suites, each accommodation combines laid-back charm with modern comforts like wireless speakers, flat-screen TVs, and curated lighting.

At the center of the property is the iconic “Wish You Were Here” pool—a relaxed gathering space that hosts film screenings, DJ nights, and poolside events. It’s also the backdrop to Mahina & Sun’s, a standout restaurant in Oahu, led by Kanaka Maoli Executive Chef Erik Leong.

Open for lunch and dinner, the menu reinterprets Hawai‘i’s comfort food through a modern lens, with dishes like Seared Ahi with kalo and chili pepper aioli, A’u Crudo with smoked soy and yuzu, and a Grilled Pork Chop lu‘au. Leong’s signature banana pudding, inspired by his mother’s recipe, rounds out the lineup.

Mahina & Sun’s also features an acclaimed bar program, led by Executive Bar Czar Christian Taibi. Known around town for his master technique and use of locally sourced ingredients, Taibi crafts cocktails like the ‘Kahiko’—a Hawaiian riff on the Old Fashioned—and the island-spiced ‘Hanalei Moon.’ His new ‘Martini Royale’ menu introduces a more luxurious spirit-forward experience, while the six-drink ‘Unplugged’ list offers a sophisticated, zero-proof alternative.

The Surfjack is also known for its one-of-a-kind pet-friendly amenities. Dogs of all sizes are welcome with no added fees, and the property goes above and beyond with offerings like paddleboarding lessons for pups and professional dog portraits. It’s a truly pet-inclusive stay—uncommon in Waikiki.

Beyond the design and hospitality, what sets The Surfjack apart is its deep connection to the local creative scene. The hotel hosts monthly art workshops, rotating exhibitions, and community events that showcase the island’s contemporary voices in music, design, and visual arts. Murals from Honolulu-based artists line the walls, reinforcing the hotel's role as a canvas for local expression.

Sustainability is another core value, with initiatives that include reusable water bottles, the elimination of single-use plastics, and a continued focus on environmental responsibility. Guests can explore Honolulu’s creative neighborhoods—like Kaka‘ako and Chinatown—on complimentary bikes, or walk just three blocks to Waikiki Beach, the Royal Hawaiian Center, and the International Market Place.

During your next stay, be sure to say hi to Jack, the Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club’s beloved canine concierge, who is more than just a mascot—he’s a local celebrity and the heart of the hotel’s pet-friendly culture. You'll find the photogenic French/English Bulldog mix is often seen lounging in the lobby, greeting guests with a wagging tail, or enjoying the view from his second-floor lanai above the pool. Every Tuesday at 3 p.m., Jack makes a special appearance at the Swim Club to meet and mingle with guests.

With consistent recognition from Condé Nast Traveler and TripAdvisor, The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club remains one of Waikiki’s most distinctive stays—welcoming travelers who seek substance, soul, and local connection.

For more information or to book a stay, visit surfjack.com

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