Stay Here: Honolulu, HI 🌺
Hawai'i seems to be the pandemic-era vacation hotspot in our friend circles, and for good reason. The pristine beaches, the incredible food, the breathtaking waterfalls... the list goes on and on. Ophelia and her family traveled to the islands earlier this year, and she tacked on a trip to visit her dear friend Kai, who is currently living in Honolulu. The trip was so restful and rejuvenating, and Ophelia can't wait for her ensured return. Michelle hasn't visited Hawai'i yet, but when she does, she'll probably be using one of the stays on this list. 😉
The Laylow
Honolulu, HI
Starts at $209/night
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Ophelia walked past the Laylow while strolling around Waikiki and looked it up immediately. Designed by the Portland-based agency OMFGCO, the style feels very mid-century modern meets classic island charm. Dwell did a great feature of the Laylow here.
We love a statement wallpaper.
This pool looks dreamy.
Hideout Coffee is on the ground floor of the hotel — we love the slatted wood and Marmoreal countertop.
Surfjack Hotel
Honolulu, HI
Starts at $122/night
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Surfjack feels like a local watering hole, where "locals and visitors can come together" via "poolside film screenings, workshops led by local businesses, talks, live music." Surfjack's interiors were designed by The Vanguard Theory in Honolulu and Studio Collective in Los Angeles.
This gorgeous typography seen in the pool was hand-painted by artist Matthew Tapia.
The custom ceramic floor tiles are such a statement.
Spacious Tropical Guest Suite
Honolulu, HI
Starts at $149/night, sleeps 2
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Note: this home is only available for a 30-day minimum rental.
The natural light and the thoughtful use of wood throughout the space are great.
Honorable mentions
This beautiful Waikiki studio apartment with a hotel-like experience ($160/night, sleeps 2).
The ocean view in this North Shore Surf Loft has us heart-eyeing and is only a 6-minute walk to the beach ($300/night, sleeps 2).
We love how cozy and warm this cute Waikiki studio is($140/night, sleeps 2).
This condo with a balcony and cozy living space in Waikiki ($130/night, sleeps 2, minimum 30-day stay).
Do this
During Ophelia's trip to Oahu, Kai (who also runs an amazing food IG) took Ophelia to some of her favorite spots on the island. One standout meal we had was at Mud Hen Water, a restaurant owned by a Hawai'i native and takes "ingenious inspiration from local and Hawaiian dishes." We shared small plates and each was so unique, flavorful, and delicious.
Apparently, there's a debate between Waiola and Matsumoto for the best shaved ice on the island. Ophelia only tried Waiola, and the consistency of the ice was fantastic. Honestly, you can't go wrong with food on the island. There are so many delicious places to eat — Ophelia especially loved poke bowls from local grocery stores (shoutout to Foodland).
Reading on Kailua Beach — also a great spot to float! On Sundays, check out the KailuaTown Farmers Market and stop by Mother Bake Shop for some treats.
Hiking the Wiliwilinui Ridge Trail — if you go when the weather is good, you will be rewarded with incredible views (after some intense stairs at the end).
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Next up on Stay Here: New York City. Let us know if you have any recs or favs from the area (reply to stayhere@substack.com)! We'll be sure to give you a shout-out. :)
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wow...that tub in Spacious Tropical Guest Suite is gorgeous <3_<3