Enjoy a Day Trip to West Oahu at Wai Kai

Kids playing in the outdoor pool area at Waikiki Resort Hotel by Sono

Looking for a change from the beach life and shopping of Waikiki? Experience the thrills and excitement of Wai Kai, where first-rate watersports, ono grinds (delicious food), and Hawaiian traditions set the scene for the perfect day trip for ohana (family) members of all ages. Opened in 2023, Wai Kai is a celebration of Hawaiian’s love of the water. Here’s the lowdown on West Oahu’s newest attraction.

 

Catch a Wave at Wai Kai

  • The Wai Kai Wave is the first deep-water standing wave in Hawaii and perfectly replicates a real surfing wave.

  • Waves can be configured to three settings and adjusted to suit all levels: 30-foot channel, for beginners; 60-foot channel, for intermediate surfers; and 100-foot channel, for advanced riders.

  • Choose your level, grab a board, and enjoy a 45-minute session with orientation and tips from experienced surf coaches.

  • Surf sessions are for visitors aged 10 and over. Under 13s must be accompanied by an adult.

 

Family-Friendly Adventures on Wai Kai Lagoon

  • More excitement on the water awaits at the 52-acre Wai Kai Lagoon, filled with three million gallons of fresh groundwater. 

  • Paddle a kayak or outrigger canoe, try your hand at standup paddleboarding, sail an electric Duffy boat, ride a hydro bike, and more beneath the hot sun and blue skies. 

  • Don’t miss the AquaVenture, a fun-filled inflatable playground complete with everything from slides and monkey bars to hurdles and balance beams. 

  • Or enjoy a 2-hour private party at one of the Aquabanas inflatable cabanas, including the use of SUPs and kayaks.

  • The lagoon is accessible to visitors aged 4 and over.

 

Ono Grinds in West Oahu

  • When hunger strikes, ono grinds and local delicacies are not far away on your West Oahu day trip. 

  • Drop by The WaveBar for pizzas, salads, sandwiches, specialty cocktails, and a daily pau hana (happy hour) accompanied by sunset views.

  • The Lookout is a lagoon-front spot with a menu inspired by locally sourced products, live music, and the signature Wai Kai cocktail (rum, orgeat syrup, pineapple, and lime). 

  • Need a quick pick-me-up? Foam Coffee & Bar caters to your coffee needs, in addition to offering craft cocktails, beers, and both savory and sweet treats.

 

Exclusive Luxury at Wai Kai VIP Lounge

  • Take your day trip to the next level by checking into the Nalo Kai Club Lounge.

  • Get access to club-style amenities like upscale bathrooms and changing areas, concierge services, an air-conditioned lounge, and lagoon-front loungers. 

  • Option to pick from half and full-day passes.

Save up to 40% offer poster used at Waikiki Resort Hotel

 

Events and Experiences at Wai Kai

  • With a busy schedule of events, Wai Kai is much more than fun on the water.

  • Witness the travels of Polynesian kupuna (ancestors) at the all-singing, all-dancing, all-surfing Wai Kai Show: A Waterman’s Journey, held every Monday. 

  • Shop for island-style arts, crafts, and food at Thursday’s Ono Grindz and Makeke Farmers Market.

  • Find your zen on the beachfront at Yoga at Wai Kai, which takes place on the last Sunday of the month. 

 

How to Reach Wai Kai

  • Situated in West Oahu, this action-packed park is roughly 25 miles (40 minutes) from the Waikiki Resort Hotel.

  • Free parking is provided to visitors.

  • A shuttle service operates between the park and select pick-up locations around Waikiki and West Oahu. Price: $35 per person.

 

Wai Kai Opening Hours

 

Wai Kai Admission Fees and Packages

  • Surf Session: From $20 to $60.

  • Learn to Surf - 30 Foot Beginner Session: $125.

  • AquaVenture: $25 to $35.

  • Lagoon One Hour Play-Your-Way (with access to non-motorized vessels): Children $15 / adults $25. 

  • Lagoon Four Hour Play-Your Way: Children $25 / adults $50. 

  • Adventure Package (shuttle, AquaVenture Pass, lunch, gift): Children $60 / adults $80.

  • Deluxe Package (shuttle, AquaVenture Pass, Play-Your-Way, lunch, gift):  Children $70 / adults $95).

  • Premium Package (shuttle, AquaVenture Pass or Play-Your-Way, Surf Session, lunch, gift): Children $100 / adults $120.

  • VIP Package (shuttle, AquaVenture Pass, Play-Your-Way, Surf Session, lunch, gift): Children $115 / adults $135.