EXPERIENCE MIDCENTURY MODERN WAIKIKI
While the focus tends to be on all that nature—famous surf breaks, spectacular sunsets, and the jungle-covered hills that frame the city—Honolulu itself has some surprising architectural gems. The swinging 50s and 60s left a mark on state capital in the form of midcentury modern constructions that are still visible today, especially in the neighborhoods of Kaimuki, Moiliili, Kalihi and Waikiki. Three-story apartment buildings in pastel colors accented by breeze block and vintage lettering are sprinkled throughout town and hark back to a bygone era, while major architectural landmarks by Vladimir Ossipoff and John Carl Warnecke punctuate the cityscape. You, too, can experience the island’s heyday at these vintage-inspired hotels.
White Sands Hotel
One of the newest jewels in Waikiki’s midcentury crown is a groovy boutique hotel originally built in 1957. The brainchild of Vanguard Theory—the designers behind The Surfjack as well—was recently renovated to fit the needs of the modern traveler (and kamaaina!). Have a sip by the pool under frilly white umbrellas or enjoy the mishmash of Polynesian décor—this is the Waikiki experience you always dreamed about.
431 Nohonani St, Waikiki, (808) 924-7263, whitesandshotel.com
The Surfjack Hotel & Swim Club
Nestled in the heart of Waikiki in a retrofitted midcentury building, the Surfjack is a boutique hotel whose vibe is an ode to 60s Hawaii. Stop by the cute poolside restaurant Mahina & Sun’s for some of Chef Ed Kenney’s eats, or take one of their Midcentury Modern tours, hosted by Docomomo. The pool’s Insta-famous tiling says it all: Wish you were here!
412 Lewers St., 808.923.8882, surfjack.com
The Laylow
The Marriott Autograph Collection’s Hawaiian outpost on Kuhio Avenue quickly became one of Waikiki’s hotspots. The breezy tropical décor pays tribute to the glory days of the 1960s jetset, from the vintage dashboard hula dancers that greet you at the lobby to the original Arthur Umanoff stools that line the bar. Be sure to order the Hideout Bar’s “Hawaiian Style” mai tai, a modern take on the 1944 Trader Vic’s classic tiki beverage.
2299 Kuhio Ave., 808.922.6600, laylowwaikiki.com
Queen Kapiolani Hotel
The eye-catching façade of this Waikiki staple across from the zoo remains the same, but the Queen Kapiolani hotel has undergone a major, 35-million dollar renovation, complete with midcentury modern branding. Head to the hotel lobby’s Greenroom Gallery and pick up artwork by Nick Kuchar, who was responsible for the hotel’s new lettering and makes vintage-inspired posters about the early days of surfing and beach culture on the islands.
150 Kapahulu Ave, Waikiki, 808.922.1941, queenkapiolani.com
Want to see what Waikiki really looked like in the swinging 60s? We love @fotoaloha on Instagram which showcases vintage photos and postcards from the era.
