Outrigger Hospitality Group has launched a $100m transformation of the Outrigger Waikīkī Beach Resort, its original flagship property located on one of Hawaiʻi’s most historic beachfront sites. The redevelopment aims to reposition the resort as a design-led, barefoot luxury destination while keeping it fully operational throughout the project.
The resort sits on the sands where Duke Kahanamoku first introduced surfing to the world and on the historic grounds of the original Outrigger Canoe Club. Newly reimagined guestrooms are expected to debut in Q3 2026, with the full transformation to follow.
The project focuses on strengthening the connection between the resort, the ocean and Waikīkī’s surf culture. Design elements draw inspiration from the land, water and history of the area, with features referencing the ʻĀpuakēhau Stream, which once flowed from the Koʻolau Mountains to the shoreline.
Key venues including Duke’s Waikīkī, Hula Grill and Blue Note Hawaiʻi will remain open during the renovation, preserving the atmosphere that has long attracted both local residents and visitors. The resort will continue to offer its established dining, music and beachfront experiences throughout the upgrade.
A central highlight of the redesign is the Voyager 47 Club Lounge, which will expand to three times its original size. The new space will offer panoramic views of Waikīkī Beach and Diamond Head, reinforcing the resort’s oceanfront setting.
The transformation has been developed in collaboration with local artists, designers and cultural practitioners, including DTL, a Hawaiian strategy studio, alongside PowerStrip Studio and WCIT Architecture. The aim is to ensure that the redesign reflects local identity and cultural heritage.
“This stretch of Waikīkī is both culturally significant and foundational to OUTRIGGER’s identity. Our role is to steward this iconic resort with care while thoughtfully evolving the experience to meet the expectations of today’s traveler. This investment reflects a clear direction for the company — advancing our position in barefoot luxury, grounded in place, culture and connection, while continuing to lead the market and inspire lasting guest loyalty,” said Jeff Wagoner, President and CEO of OUTRIGGER Hospitality Group.
“To design in Hawaiʻi is to remember. Our work at OUTRIGGER Waikīkī Beach Resort was shaped by the ʻĀpuakēhau Stream, by the genealogy of the land, aliʻi and people of this place, and by the rhythm of the kahakai. For kamaʻāina and malihini alike, we wanted the generational abundance of Waikīkī to be felt in every material, every motif, every moment,” said Mālia Kaʻaihue, President of DTL.
The resort’s transformation also builds on its long-standing connection to surf culture. Programmes such as Duke’s on Sunday with Henry Kapono, partnerships with surf schools and storytelling initiatives will continue to highlight the legacy of Waikīkī Beach Boys and the global influence of Hawaiian surfing traditions.
Outrigger said the redevelopment reflects a broader strategy to strengthen its position in the luxury travel segment while maintaining a strong connection to place and culture. Guests will continue to experience the resort as it evolves, with phased upgrades introduced over time.
