Somewhere in Waikiki on the Island of Oahu in Hawai’i, on Lewers Street between Kuhio und Ala Wai Blvd you will find a wooden wall with a relatively small sign «Surfjack». On walking by, it feels like the complex is one of the many condo buildings in world-famous Waikiki Beach.
Upon closer inspection you would notice a reception and a small pool next to the lobby area. The Surfjack is a hotel, maybe even a boutique hotel. Immediately after entering I got this «coming home feeling.» Comfortable chairs, built in couches, soft elevator music and smiling faces.
I was first introduced to the Surfjack by a local friend who is familiar with the food scene in Honolulu. She suggested meeting for dinner at «Mahine & Suns», the restaurant located inside the Surfjack. I was suspicious as restaurants in hotels are usually not my thing as they tend to be overpriced and sometimes not that good. Mahine & Suns is different. The menu offers a wide variety of Hawaiian specialties and spectacular cocktails. You may choose to sit next to the pool or on a lanai, inside the restaurant or at the bar. World-class food and service.
One of the reasons I chose to come back to the Surfjack was the pool. In fact, somebody had the idea to add «Wish You Were Here» at the bottom or the pool. Super cool!
The rooms are specious and all suites as they consist of equally sized living room and separate bedroom as well as a huge balcony. Bathroom is bright and offers a walk-in shower. Everything you would need for a comfortable stay is available.
The Surfjack got to be the most dog-friendly hotel on the planet. Even on their homepage they advertise the resident dog named «Jack» and the fact that guests will be able to bring their favorite pooch (please note: bringing a dog from the mainland US or abroad to Hawai’I is not easy and involves a process). Still, there are lots of dogs and guests connect over drinks and bragging about their dogs.
The Surfjack also offers has this very specific Hawaiian neighborhood vibe. There are surfboards stacked in hallways, guests discuss surf conditions on the North Shore, dress code: «beachy» … a cool crowd.
The Surfjack is not your usual hotel but checks all boxes from cool vibes to vacation with my dog. Check it out: Surfjack.com
(The author did not receive any compensation nor was discounts offered by the hotel for writing and publishing this travel blog.)