Hawaii’s Heartbeat: Experience Authentic Traditions at OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort

Located right on the famed Waikiki Beach, OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort is known for its inimitable touchpoints of authentic Hawaiian culture. From nightly live music to an onsite cultural center, this is the destination for those who want a spirit of discovery and tradition with their modern Hawaii vacay.

Here are 7 of the cool cultural activities at this oceanfront resort.

1. Listen to live Hawaiian music under the stars

Welcome to the island’s most visit-worthy spot for Hawaiian music. Named after the backyard jam sessions of the legendary Pahinui family, Kani Ka Pila Grille features award-winning Hawaiian artists nightly in an intimate al fresco setting, making it worthy of the name “Home of Hawaiian music”. Stop by each night between 6 and 9 pm and grab a drink or meal poolside while you listen to the sounds of Hawaii.

2. Learn how to make your own lei and kupee

Receiving a lei is special moment, but learning to make your own lei and what it means when you gift it to someone else is a lesson you’ll always remember. Here you can learn traditional Polynesian crafts with complimentary classes without leaving the resort. String your own orchid-flower lei for a loved one, weave a kupee (bracelet) and more.

3. Take a hula lesson

Hula is more than just a dance – it tells stories of Hawaii’s past and present and gives insight into the Hawaiian culture. Learn to tell a story using your hands and feet and experience how the history of Hawaii was passed down through each generation.

4. Savor the sunset in a traditional Hawaiian ceremony

Waikiki is known for its spectacular sunsets, made even more magical with the resort’s Sunset Ceremony held on the beach fronting the resort. Unwind on the beach, watch the sunset and bid farewell to the day with Aloha.

5. Strum an ukulele

If there’s one instrument that’s synonymous with Hawaii it’s the ukulele. Get musical and learn to play this iconic instrument and discover how it got its name from an unlikely insect. You’ll leave the lesson being able to strum your first song!

6. (Re)tie the knot

Recommit your love with a Hawaiian vow renewal ceremony on one of the romantic sands of Waikiki Beach. Performed in the spirit of Hawaiian and Polynesian traditions, celebrate eternal love with your special someone and fall in love all over again.

7. View the voyaging mural

The “I Ka Wa Ma Mua, Ka Wa Ma Hope” mural depicts a waa (voyaging canoe) crewed by keiki (children) to share a story of passing along the traditions to the next generation to continue a vibrant future. Created by famed artist Kamea Hadar, the mural is just one of many art installations scattered throughout the resort by local artists to celebrate the culture of Hawaii.

Dive into the culture and aloha at the magnificent OUTRIGGER Reef Waikiki Beach Resort and come be here with great deals now!