The Aloha State is a perennially popular destination known for its exciting food scene, beautiful beaches, laid-back surf culture and abundant activities. Visitors looking for the best places to stay should consider ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach and Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows – both hosting events as part of the festival. In addition, just in time for big wave winter, The Twin Fin, a new surf-inspired hotel in Waikiki, will open in November 2022, and Oahu’s hottest new surf-centric entertainment destination is set to open in February 2023.

‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach sits where the city meets the sand with awe-inspiring design and programming that pays homage to Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage. The resort includes two restaurants from internationally acclaimed Iron Chef Morimoto, a 17,000-square foot seascape pool deck with cabanas and Swell restaurant, captivating 280,000-gallon Oceanarium and a rooftop fitness experience. The resort recently introduced new offerings focused on holistic wellness and cultural experiences. Held throughout the week at sunrise, the Hi’uwai ceremony is a traditional ocean cleansing ritual to purify one’s body mind and spirit while honoring the ocean. Fit Waikiki is ‘Alohilani’s new holistic wellness center with a new full-service spa. The resort is also home to Waikiki’s first IV lounge and med spa. In addition, the resort will be transformed into a winter wonderland for festive season, complete with a Candy Cane Lane speakeasy with holiday drinks and over-the-top décor, champagne flights and seafood towers at O Bar, brunch with Santa and much more.

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows is one of Hawaii’s original oceanfront escapes that has charmed guests for generations. Located on Maui’s world-renowned Ka’anapali Beach, the iconic resort unfolds across 27 acres of sun-kissed, tropical gardens and offers an island-inspired ambiance in a regal, beachy and timeless setting. The resort has newly partnered with Kiawe Outdoor for a unique weekly communal, alfresco dining experience set under its legendary 100-year-old rubber tree. The immersive culinary experience includes appetizers and five-course prix-fixe dinner with impeccable wine and cocktail pairings. In addition, the Royal Ocean Terrace Restaurant & Lounge features new menus celebrating the island’s unique bounty.

On October 23, 2022, Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows is hosting Stars, Beards & Diamonds featuring four acclaimed chefs who have a combined total of five James Beard Award wins, 12 Michelin Stars and both a AAA Four Diamond and Five Diamond recognition.

The Twin Fin, a new surf-inspired beachfront hotel in Waikiki, will open in November 2022 following a multi-million-dollar renovation. Lovingly named after a surfboard with two fins, the updated hotel embraces Hawaii’s laidback and lively spirit with an oceanfront backdrop and tropical ambiance. Accented with hints of midcentury modern design, the updated guest rooms and suites feature a contemporary aesthetic that celebrates the energy and attitude of modern surf culture, with a playful nod to the timeless charm of surfing’s past. The pool deck will be updated with six new cabanas featuring playful pops of color and pool service will be offered overlooking Waikiki’s iconic backdrop. A rotating series of DJs and musicians will provide an upbeat ambiance in the evenings along with talk story sessions, star gazing activities, vinyl nights and more.