Wai Kai Set to Open in Oahu in February 2023

From Wave Pool Magazine:

Wai Kai, set within Hoakalei Resort in Ewa Beach on West Oahu, today announced its grand opening date of February 10, 2023. The development is the first of its kind in Hawaii and is poised to become an active year-round destination that inspires locals and visitors to connect to the water, land and rich Hawaiian culture. 

Located 35 minutes from Honolulu overlooking the Pacific Ocean, amenities include the world’s largest deep-water standing surf wave, the 52-acre Wai Kai Lagoon for water sports, three delectable restaurants, sprawling event lawn with waterfront fire pits, waterman’s club and a unique retail shop. The LineUp at Wai Kai will serve as a social and recreational activity hub of water sports and activities headlined by the Wai Kai Wave. 

Powered by citywave, the technology creates an endless and adjustable wave ranging from two- to six-feet for all skill levels. The 100-foot-wide adjustable wave allows up to three surfers at a time with an additional 30 in the barefoot zone and emulates famous natural standing river waves like the Oahu North Shore’s famous Waimea River Sand Bar. The Wai Kai Wave was created in collaboration with Oahu’s-own Shane Beschen, X Games Gold Medalist and a former world No. 2 ranked surfer. Shane and other former and current professional surfers will be available for hands-on instruction and training sessions.

The Wai Kai Wave overlooks the Wai Kai Lagoon, a protected area for stand-up paddling, kayaking, outrigger canoeing, peddle boats and piloted electric boat cruises. Aquabanas and sun loungers will line a sandy beach area near the water. Optional monthly memberships will be available for frequent visitors with preferred rates and access to special events and programming. Major surf and waterman competitions are being planned for the Wai Kai Wave and Wai Kai Lagoon.

Dining is set to be an integral part of the Wai Kai experience. A dual-concept restaurant presented by Michelin awarded Chef Todd Humphries of Kitchen Door Napa sits at the heart of the expansive property. The signature restaurant, the Plaza Grill, is situated on the upper level featuring a full-service dining room with lanai seating and unobstructed lagoon views. Contemporary yet casual, it will showcase a globally diverse menu, driven by local and seasonal ingredients. The second concept, the Boardwalk Café, will offer an interactive and intuitive counter-service restaurant concept on the ground level featuring an all-day menu of eclectic yet traditional favorites. Other restaurants include The LookOut Bar and Restaurant, which will offer front-row views of the surf action, and the Foam Coffee & Bar just off the boardwalk.

Hawaii-based Events International has partnered with Wai Kai to curate a robust schedule of unique, interactive and engaging events and experiences for all ages. The company will work closely with corporate clients, destination management companies and the team at The LineUp at Wai Kai to coordinate memorable group functions and catered events ranging from intimate gatherings to full buyouts. Venues include a 61,200-square-foot Event Lawn, Fire Pit Terrace and Promenade along the adjacent Wai Kai Lagoon, a 12,600-square-foot Surfside Lawn at the Wai Kai Wave, and a variety of other function spaces.

Event bookings are currently available for groups, and general activity reservations are expected to go live in November. Kama’aina rates will be available as well.