Outrigger Beach or Outrigger Reef Resort?

Question

I'm looking for opinions on the difference between these two resorts, other than one is directly on Waikiki? It's our first time to the island and appreciate any input!

Answer

Both the Outrigger Beach Resort and the Outrigger Reef Resort are great options for a stay in Honolulu, but there are a few key differences that may influence your decision based on what you’re looking for in your first trip to Oahu. Here’s a breakdown of the two resorts to help you compare them:

Outrigger Beach Resort:

This resort is located directly on Waikiki Beach, giving it an ideal beachfront location. Here’s what to expect:

Location: Right on Waikiki Beach, so you'll have immediate access to the sand and surf. It's perfect if you want to be right next to the beach and enjoy oceanfront views throughout your stay.
Vibe: Outrigger Beach Resort tends to be more laid-back and casual compared to some of the other resorts in the area. It's a great spot if you're looking for that classic beachfront vacation experience where the focus is on enjoying the beach and ocean activities.
Size and Amenities: The resort has a more boutique-like feel with a smaller, more intimate setting. It’s not as large or luxurious as some of the other larger hotels in Waikiki, but it’s very comfortable and offers a relaxed atmosphere.
Atmosphere: Family-friendly with a fun and social vibe. You can expect a casual ambiance, with guests enjoying beach activities like swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Food & Drink: The resort has an onsite restaurant and bar, but it’s relatively low-key compared to larger resorts. It’s a good place to grab a casual bite after a day on the beach.

Outrigger Reef Resort:

This resort is also located in Waikiki, but it’s just a short distance from the beach (a block or so). Here’s what sets it apart:

Location: While not directly on the beach like Outrigger Beach Resort, Outrigger Reef is still in a great location with easy beach access. It’s slightly set back from the water, but it’s still part of the bustling Waikiki area with lots of shops and dining nearby.
Vibe: The Outrigger Reef has more of a resort feel with larger facilities and a slightly more upscale ambiance. It caters more to guests looking for a high-end experience with more refined amenities, without losing the laid-back spirit of Waikiki.
Size and Amenities: This is a larger resort with more upscale amenities. It offers a pool, spa services, and more dining options. The rooms tend to be larger, and some offer ocean views or city views depending on the side of the building you’re staying in.
Atmosphere: Outrigger Reef is a bit more tranquil and polished compared to Outrigger Beach, making it ideal for those who want a more resort-like experience but still want to be close to the heart of Waikiki.
Food & Drink: The resort offers several dining options, including a well-regarded seafood restaurant and a popular bar with nightly entertainment. If you’re into fine dining and live music, this place is great.

Other Considerations:

Here are some things to consider when deciding between the two resorts:

Beach Access: If direct beach access is a priority for you, Outrigger Beach Resort wins. However, the difference is minimal, and Outrigger Reef is still just a short walk away from the beach.
Budget: Outrigger Beach Resort may offer more budget-friendly pricing compared to Outrigger Reef Resort, which could be a deciding factor if you are looking to keep costs down while still enjoying a beachfront vacation.
Family or Romance: If you’re looking for a family-friendly atmosphere with lots of beach activities, Outrigger Beach Resort might be better for you. However, if you want a more polished, quieter stay with a bit more luxury, Outrigger Reef may be a better fit.
Dining & Nightlife: Outrigger Reef offers more options when it comes to dining and nightlife, including restaurants and entertainment on-site. Outrigger Beach Resort is a bit more relaxed with fewer dining options on the property.

Conclusion: If being right on the beach with a laid-back, beachy vibe is your priority, then Outrigger Beach Resort is your best bet. However, if you’re looking for a slightly more upscale resort with better dining options, entertainment, and a larger pool, then Outrigger Reef Resort would be a great choice. Both are fantastic options, and either way, you’ll be staying in the heart of Waikiki with easy access to all the best shops, restaurants, and activities in Honolulu.

I hope this helps you decide which resort best fits your needs for your first trip to Oahu!