Surf, Sand, Spa: 5 Ways to Enjoy Your Waikiki Beach Experience

Headed to Hawaii? With newly available nonstop flights, Bostonians are flocking to paradise now more than ever. If you’re planning your own retreat to the Aloha State, here are a few reasons why you should make waves in Waikiki Beach—and how you can enjoy your stay to the absolute fullest.

Catch some killer waves

Want to learn how to surf, but don’t know where to start? Moniz Family Surf offers both kids and adults a crash course in surfing Waikiki waves. The prominent surfing family is based in the Billabong flagship store across from the beach. Receive a land demonstration, safety instructions, and a brief history of surfing before you hit the water to hang 10 like the pros. No matter your skill level, they guarantee that you will stand up and ride some waves during the course of your lesson. Surfboard, leash, and jersey are included, plus photos of your lesson are available for purchase. Schedule a group or private lesson when booking your trip.

Learn about legends

Located directly across from the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, the Duke Kahanamoku Statue is a must-see attraction. Duke Paoa Kahanamoku was the leader of the Beach Boys of Waikiki, a group of surfing buddies who formed the Hui Nalu (Club of Waves) in 1905. The “Father of Modern Surfing” cemented his name in history when he broke the world record in the 100-yard freestyle during his first competition, then won three gold, two silver, and one bronze medal in four Olympic games between 1912 and 1922. Elected the sheriff and official greeter of the city and county of Honolulu, Duke was known as the “Ambassador of Aloha” before his death in 1968. Pay a visit and snap a pic of the statue.

Unwind in a spa setting

The Na Ho’ola Spa at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach offers a tranquil oasis overlooking the beach. Select a specialty treatment like the Hawaiian Lomilomi, a healing massage that combines rhythmic kneading and flowing strokes to relieve tension and improve blood circulation, or opt for a Nanea, a soothing hot stone massage that uses a blend of geranium rose, sandalwood, lavender, and orange essential oils to help balance the body’s energies. For the ultimate spa experience, purchase a package for a massage, facial, and body treatment all in one visit.

Dive deep into water activities

Go for an aquatic adventure—or three! The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach offers three different ways to experience the ocean with snorkeling, outrigger canoes, or catamaran cruises. But if you’d rather stay dry while observing ocean life, you can always check out the local aquarium to view more than 2,500 organisms and 420 species of protected South Pacific marine life, including endangered monk seals and sharks.

Stay in style with a special discounted room rate

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa offer some of the largest luxurious rooms and suites in Waikiki—and if you book your summer stay today, you can enjoy a discounted room rate starting as low as $199 per night! With a 24-hour StayFit club, swimming pool, 60-plus on-site boutiques at the Pualeilani Atrium Shops, and a variety of dining options, there’s no shortage of amazing amenities. Enjoy a serene ocean breeze or the breathtaking view of the city scenery from a private lanai, and relax on crisp white linens after a long day in the sun. You can connect with the island culture right at the resort by partaking in daily activities within the Pualeilani Atrium Shops. On Mondays and Wednesdays, listen to the soothing sounds of Hawaiian music as the evening winds down. Pick up fresh fruit and delicious snacks at the Waikiki Farmers Market on Tuesdays and Thursdays. End the week with Aloha Friday, a weekly performance which includes a Polynesian show, lei-making demonstrations, hula dancing, art tattooing, and a Samoan fire knife dancer.

For more information on planning your tropical trip to the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, visit hyattregencywaikiki.com.

This is a paid partnership between Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa and Boston Magazine