Stay: Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club

Adrienne and I have a much needed Hawaii vacation set for early next year. Not only am I excited to go back to my second home, I’m even more pumped to bring Adrienne since it will be her first time in O’ahu. It’s been a few years since I went back, but I’ve heard that the creative scene is thriving.

Quick back story: My mother immigrated to the United States back in the early ’70s. Before she settled down and met my dad in California, the first place she called home in the U.S was Hawaii, specifically Kalihi, a suburb of Honolulu. She still has fond memories of Hawaii; the constant beautiful weather, endless rows of pineapple plantations, the smell of plumeria in the air. It’s no wonder that I feel a deep connection to the island.

After doing my research, I knew my next trip would include a stay at The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club in Waikiki. Their goal is to create an authentic connection for its guests to Hawaii, its people, and its history. The idea is that by creating this type of experience, travelers would gain a better understanding of the rich culture of the island and (hopefully) work towards appreciating, preserving, and respecting it.

I’m a big fan of how the Surfjack highlights local designers and makers. From serving Hawaii sourced food at their on-site restaurant, Mahina and Sons, to hosting an outpost of Olive and Oliver, an O’ahu-based boutique, this attention to supporting local is key to what makes the Surfjack extra special to me.

The blending of vintage Hawaii and modern details makes for such a well designed hotel without being kitschy. Far too often, I’ve felt hotel design can be stuffy and nauseating. The Surfjack is far from that. I love how the geometric printed walls and tiles brings a sense of whimsy and playfulness to the space. These thoughtful decorative touches always reels me.

The Surfjack has a very 1960s Explorer’s Club vibe theme akin to Wes Anderson’s Moonrise Kingdom. The interior continues with the keeping it local vibes by filling the space with Hawaii-based artists and designers. It’s no wonder that the Surfjack has been become the hub for an artistic movement.

And, of course, we want to spend the afternoon lounging (or yoga-ing) by their famous postcard worthy pool. Don’t you just want to jump in it?

Stay tuned as we continue to prep for our very first Style Approximately getaway to Hawaii. We can’t wait to share with all of you the things we are excited to do, explore, shop, and eat!