My recent trip back to Oahu gave me the opportunity to check out and stay a few nights in the recently opened Wayfinder hotel in Waikiki. It’s located a couple blocks back from the main strip (Kalākaua Ave) and kind of faces the mountain side, right off Ala Wai canal.
The building it’s housed in was originally built in 1969, by Joe Ferrell, who was one of the Hawaii’s leading architects and is a great example of the many brutalist structures that were built during that time on the island. I’ve always been a fan of brutalist architecture so it was really exciting to see that The Wayfinder fully embraced it. “Brutalist Waikiki” is even a catchphrase they have put on a bumper sticker (available to purchase), poster, and even a vinyl album compilation that is available in the room.
Being that it’s an old building, the rooms are a little on the small side, but all the fun details in the room make the most out of the limited footprint. I stayed in a “Corner King with Lanai” and I highly recommend it because it gives not only a great view, but also they’re located towards the end of the hall so you don’t have anyone next to you on one side, making things a little more quiet and relaxing.
I have to give kudos to Hawaii based design firm, The Vanguard Theory for doing such a great job, and also to Welcome Stranger Co. for all the incredible graphics that really just make the whole place come together.
I’ve been really excited about all the new boutique hotels that have been popping up over the past few years in Waikiki. They’re really redefining the “Waikiki” experience, blending traditional Hawaiian culture and reinterpreting what Hawaii means today. The Wayfinder is doing just that, and I can’t wait to get back and to see what will come next!
More on The Wayfinder, here.