This October, OUTRIGGER Resorts & Hotels unveiled the newly reimagined OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Paradise Hotel, the brand’s second craft hotel following OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beachcomber Hotel.
Formerly known as OHANA Waikīkī East, this transformed property merges modern amenities with cultural authenticity to offer guests a truly unique and immersive Hawai‘i experience.
Built on the historic land that was once part of Princess Ka‘iulani’s esteemed Waikīkī estate, ‘Āinahau—meaning “cool land”—the OUTRIGGER Waikiki Paradise Hotel draws its name and inspiration from the estate’s former title, “Paradise Garden.” Known for its lush greenery, serene lakes and Hawai‘i’s first banyan tree, this natural beauty is integrated into the hotel’s design. The hotel is now a refreshing escape for today’s travelers, reflecting both the heritage and spirit of the land.
“As our second craft property, OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Paradise Hotel blends Hawai‘i’s vibrant cultural heritage with modern energy through local art and artisans,” said Sean Dee, EVP and chief commercial officer at OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group. “Our thoughtful design honors the deep history of this place, also paying tribute to Queen Emma – whose legacy of compassion and leadership continues to inspire and uplift Native Hawaiians and the broader community alike.”
Located steps from the beach and adjacent to International Market Place, OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Paradise Hotel features 443 newly renovated guest rooms and suites, each designed as a royal retreat. Local artists and influencers — collectively known as “The Paradise Originals”—have curated the hotel, ensuring guests are immersed in the sights, sounds and flavors of Hawai‘i from the moment they arrive.
This talented group includes visual artists like Jack Soren, a wave-surfing, mural-painting Native Hawaiian from the North Shore of O‘ahu and Lauren Roth, whose art graces galleries and collaborations with brands such as Hermès and Nordstrom. Other contributing artists include Leslie Cariaga, creative director at Refinery Creative, who designed the fun “Come Be Here” mural at the pool and JT Ojerio of Aloha de Mele, the visionary behind the life-size surfboard lobby mural.
Lobby artwork includes pieces from large-scale muralist Kamea Hadar and contemporary visual artist Marques Hanalei Marzan. Guests can learn about Hawaiian culture in their guestroom through the Lei Aloha book by iconic Hawai‘i stylist and lei maker Meleana Estes, alongside custom wallpaper designed by Hawaiian tattoo scholar Kalehua Krug, which honors the land’s deep-rooted stories.
“The Paradise Originals” also include culinary crafters: Alison “Bo” Tanaka, EVP and chief financial officer of Tanaka of Tokyo and Jonathan Rotmensch, CEO and founder of Hawaiian Aroma Caffé alongside The Gallery Waikiki, who bring their unique expertise to the hotel’s dining scene. Guests can savor the flavors at Appetito Craft Pizza & Wine Bar and experience the artistry of Teppanyaki at Tanaka of Tokyo.
Kiana Beimes, general manager of OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Paradise Hotel, shared her personal connection to the project: “Princess Ka‘iulani’s enduring legacy, her spirit and love for this place inspired us to reimagine the hotel as a sanctuary befitting a modern-day princess. We crafted a space where world-class hospitality seamlessly intertwines with the warmth, elegance and natural beauty she cherished. As someone born and raised in Hawai‘i, I carry a profound sense of kuleana (responsibility) to ensure that every guest feels the grace and the spirit of Aloha that reflect her timeless influence.”
Beyond its artistic flourishes, OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Paradise Hotel will offer exclusive experiences that connect guests with Hawaiian culture and history. Craft programming will include the Ka‘iulani Garden Experience which invites guests to hand-pick local flowers and create their own lei bracelets, while the weekly Aloha Sunday Kanikapila will bring a lively mix of food, fun and music to the poolside.
The hotel also boasts two state-of-the-art conference rooms, a fully remodeled pool, and an advanced fitness center stocked with Peloton and Technogym equipment. Additionally, the OUTRIGGER Activities & Experiences concierge is on hand to help guests explore the best of Waikīkī and beyond.
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