Outrigger Hospitality Group celebrated a significant milestone with the grand reopening of the company’s flagship property, Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, after an $80 million transformation. Jeff Wagoner, president and CEO of Outrigger, divulged that the group is spending upwards of $300 million across its Hawaii assets to uplift the destination while preserving and perpetuating the heritage of the islands.
Approximately 500 guests, including elected officials, key executives, partners, musicians and community members gathered at the resort for a traditional Hawaiian blessing by Kumu Blaine Kia. The lineup of local musicians for the event included Amy Hānaialiʻi with Jeff Peterson, recording artist Kalani Pe‘a and slack-key guitarist Sean Na‘auao, besides impromptu appearances by Hawaiian music artists such as Kimié Miner, Josh Tatofi and Bobby Moderow, among others. A highlight of the night was the dedication of the stage at Kani Ka Pila Grille to Cyril Pahinui, the slack-key guitarist who was a regular performer at the venue, which is named after the jam sessions performed there. “Kani Ka Pila” means “Let’s play music” in Hawaiian.
Peter Merriman, chef and Outrigger partner, will spearhead the resort’s newest oceanfront eatery, Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman, slated to open later this year. Fresh Hawaii grown oysters from Kualoa Ranch were served and shucked at the mobile oyster bar, Oysters Hawai’i, alongside fish stations from Superb Sushi.
Every grand Hawaii celebration includes fresh flower lei and this was provided to guests in abundance by Orchid Lei Co. Outrigger’s director of cultural experiences, Luana Maitland, re-introduced guests to the brand’s Signature Experiences, the A’o Cultural Center and newly adorned Herb Kāne Lounge. Outrigger also hosted Deon Kāne, wife of the late Herb Kāne, whose art is found throughout the resort. Ethan Estess, Marques Marzan and Kari Noe, who all have their artwork displayed inside the resort, were also present at the event.
Additionally, a canoe from the Friends of Hōkūle’a and Hawai’iloa served as the evening’s centerpiece in the swimming poo—a nod to the group’s voyaging heritage.
Outrigger CARES, a newly established company foundation was the event beneficiary, with $5,000 going to support local Hawaii hosts and non-profit organizations.
For more information, visit www.outrigger.com.
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