Revamp for these Hawaiian hotels is a circus, literally

Outrigger is a heritage resort operator with plenty of loyal repeat customers. But it’s not one to rest on its laurels, or leis, as the case may be here.

The Honolulu-based company has recently expanded to include more than 30 properties in considered locations, and it has also carefully repositioned itself into the premium space.

And that has meant exciting developments, most recently in its home state of Hawaii where a new residency by Cirque du Soleil Entertainment Group is set to debut this year at Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel.

The Hawaii-inspired production, Auana is Montreal-based Cirque du Soleil’s first such show in the US’s 50th state, and will be a stylised depiction of mo’olelo (stories) and historic milestone events with the islands’ beauty and traditions woven through.

The home for Auana is a new custom-designed, intimate theatre space, seating 784.

Meanwhile, sister property and group flagship, Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort has just unveiled a $129 million refurbishment which comprises major upgrades to rooms and suites and poolside areas, and a revamped Kani Ka Pila Grille where live Hawaiian music is performed every night.

There’s also a new Wellness Wing with oceanfront rooms, the Coral Kids Club, a fitness centre, and the Voyager 47 Club Lounge. It also houses the award-winning Monkeypod Kitchen by pioneering Hawaiian chef Peter Merriman.