Why Right Now Is the Best Time to Go to Waikiki

Fall is one of the best times of the year to visit Hawaii—you can expect fewer crowds and some great deals. Book these next-level experiences in Waikiki for the ultimate warm-weather getaway.

Hawaiian Airlines Dreamliner

Hawaiian Airlines

Multiple Dreamliners have been added to the Hawaiian Airlines fleet, making it even more seamless to get to the islands in style. The luxe new aircraft—which include lie-flat beds, amenities from NOHO HOME, and overhead LED lighting systems meant to mimic the constellations used by Polynesian wayfinders to navigate the sea—operate on routes from Los Angeles and Phoenix. At Honolulu International Airport, guests can book into the airline’s newly opened Apartment 1929, which can be ordered à la carte with any ticket and includes private rooms, craft cocktails, and upgraded meal offerings. Hawaiian Airlines recently launched direct service from Salt Lake City on their A321 as well, making it even easier to get to the land of aloha.

Launch of ‘Auana

Erik Kabik/@erikkabik for Cirque du Soleil

Planning a winter trip? Cirque du Soleil is opening its first residence on the Islands at the Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel, entitled ‘Auana, which translates to “wander off the beaten path.” Renowned Hawaiian designer Manaola Yap is part of the costuming and design team for the show, which features an awe-inspiring cast of acrobats, comedians, musicians, and hula dancers shining a light on the spirit of Hawai‘i. Tickets are on sale now for the show, which premieres in December. 

First Fridays at the Wayfinder

Read McKendree

Brutalist architecture accented by retro natural fiber furniture and native botanicals give a groovy island vibe to this new Honolulu hotel. Watch outriggers glide down the Ala Wai from your breezy rooftop lanai while sipping a cup of Kona coffee, then pop down to Redfish for a proper bowl of poke. The restaurant is the second outpost from the iconic Hawaiian grocer Foodland. Then, unwind to the sounds of vinyl selections by the pool from Aloha Got Soul to round out your weekend evening. Be sure to stop by its Honolulu shop for some fresh pressings for the ultimate local-approved souvenir.

Pāpale Lau Niu at Kō Hana Rum

Coco Kealohi/@cocokealohi

Visit this boutique distiller of Hawaiian agricole rum bringing back heirloom varieties of sugarcane, which were first brought to the Islands as a canoe crop by Polynesian wayfarers. Today, guests can indulge in tours and tastings year-round. But for a truly unique experience, book into one of Kō Hana’s new artisan workshops including papale lau niu courses, where guests can learn the traditional art of using coconut fronds to make beautiful traditional hats while sipping craft spirits.