The heart of Wai Kai lies in its unique offerings, creating a holistic experience that seamlessly blends the natural beauty of the island of Oahu with its historic surf culture. Immersing locals and visitors in the dynamic experience of Wai Kai, Arcadis’ design approach integrates the elements of land and sea, offering a multifaceted journey that embraces the surrounding landscape of Ewa Beach. The design approach is rooted in a profound respect for Hawaiian and surf cultures. The key design elements are harmonized through a careful selection of textures, patterns, natural materials, and local art to ensure that the design reflects the Hawaiian heritage and soul of the locale.
Some highlights of the Wai Kai campus include:
The LineUp at Wai Kai: The LineUp is a recreational paradise that connects visitors to land and water with one-of-a-kind attractions. This side of the island is characterized by its vibrant surf culture and community engagement. The venue features a bar, changing rooms, lockers, showers, and rentable cabanas for the entire day. It is thoughtfully designed to cater those of all ages, allowing them to revel in the scenic beauty of the island while either participating in or observing the dynamic Wai Kai Wave and Wai Kai Lagoon. Wai Kai is a place for Ohana to gather and connect. With an on-site bar, open seating, and a railing overlooking Wai Kai Wave, it serves as an extension of the boardwalk, welcoming all visitors to experience the world's largest wave pool without the need for a specific ticket. The entertainment during the day revolves around surfers taking lessons and occasional competitions, fostering a strong sense of community. At night, it becomes a lively hub for the island’s nightlife. This area is accessible to everyone, whether you're a tourist, a local resident, or a seasoned surfer.
The LookOut: This transformative space, overlooking the Wai Kai Wave, shifts its personality from day to night, with the wave pool acting as the centerpiece during the day and the sunset and landscape taking the spotlight at night. The oversized center bar infuses energy into the space and can evolve into an engaging atmosphere with live music from four-to-five piece bands. Throughout the month, this area can also be utilized as a lively nightlife space, hosting local DJs on ocassional events throughout the month. In this area, an ambient glow emanating from uplighting casts a warm, inviting aura.
Foam: This boardwalk coffee and light snack bar offers outdoor seating facing Wai Kai Lagoon, where visitors can relax and immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of Wai Kai.
Sessions Lifestyle & Apparel: The ultimate surf apparel and accessories shop, Sessions Lifestyle & Apparel, is designed to be a visual and tactile store for men, women, and kids. It artfully combines classic surf brands, local brands, and artisan products. The design incorporates fixtures, furniture, textures, and finishes that subtly pay homage to waves and the simplicity of Hawaiian design and architecture.
Nalo Kai Club and Waterfront: The Nalo Kai Club features slatted wood décor, a vibrant tropical print accent wall, and warm wood tones throughout the locker room. It offers a serene space for guests to unwind. Whether you're arriving from Honolulu Airport and seeking a tranquil spot to recharge by the Wai Kai Lagoon waterfront or desiring an elevated experience with shower facilities, guests will find a soothing ambiance brought by warm materials and spa-like elements that invite relaxation and offer visitors a true escape.
Lagoon Promenade: This versatile and welcoming area serves as a dynamic space that can adapt to a variety of events and gatherings, such as weddings and events. It provides a versatile canvas for fostering community connections and inviting people to come together and celebrate. As within other areas of Wai Kai, the design team placed a strong emphasis on highlighting the local culture and the importance of community, creating a space where the heart and soul of the area shine through.
Wai Kai prioritizes the interconnectedness of people and spaces, emphasizing the significance of incorporating local flair into the design to create a fresh, familiar, and authentic space with a modern point of view. Arcadis’ expertly crafted spaces transcend aesthetics, fostering an engaging and artistic atmosphere that inspires visitors to embrace the rich heritage and culture of Hawaii fully.
