Watch: Beachcomber Originals Talk Inspiration, Art, and the Singular Beauty of the Islands
A Grammy Award-winning musician. An underwater photographer. A (true) tastemaker. What these artists have in common: They're all Beachcomber Originals.
The team that helped create the aesthetic and vibe of Hawaii's first (and only) craft hotel, Waikiki Beachcomber, the Beachcomber Originals are a collection of local artisans that continue to be culture movers-and-shakers both at the resort and around the world.
From Makana's slack-guitar soundtrack that plays as guests arrive, to world-famous surf photographer Zak Noyle's backdrop photos in each guest room, to the acai stylings of Hawaiian Aroma Caffe founder Jonathan Rotmensch, to the award-winning beers of brewmaster Garrett Marrero, this group of artists and influencers curated every aspect of Waikiki Beachcomber.
"Being a Beachcomber Original, to me, is all about living the lifestyle ... living that aloha spirit, and being a good partner to your community," says lifestyle photographer Matt Bauer. "And honestly, chasing your dreams—doing what you love the most."
Our latest project features the artists themselves sharing how they're inspired by the unique sights, sounds (and tastes) of Hawaii.
A few of our favorite right-now highlights:
Margo Ray
Artist | from Waimea, Hawaii Island
See the Art: A 64-foot, wide-scale mural in Maui Brewing Co.'s lobby
Highlight: Margo's mural features a mix of her signature collage and mixed-media printmaking with a focal photograph of famous hula dancer "Aunty" Bev Noa.
Jonathan Rotmensch
CEO & Founder, Hawaiian Aroma Caffe | based in Waikiki, Oahu
Taste the Art: In the unique flavors and oh-so-cool Hawaiian vibe of the Hawaiian Aroma Caffe
Highlight: The cafe breaks the mold of traditional coffeeshops by mixing in bar cocktails and events—making it a place for gathering in (uniquely Hawaiian) style.
Erin Ibarra
Muralist | based in Waikiki, Oahu
See the Art: In the Waikiki Beachcomber elevator lobbies (and see her newest mural at sister Outrigger resort Waikiki Malia)
Highlight: Hand-drawn artwork next to the elevators of each floor features local flora and fauna placed in the order of elevation in which they grow in Hawaii.
Vince Lim
Portrait & Aerial Photographer | based in Honolulu, Oahu
Highlight: The essence of Vince's drone-driven work: capturing beautiful moments from cool vantage points.
Matt Bauer
Lifestyle Photographer | frequent traveler to Waikiki, Oahu
See the Art: The vibes and vision throughout the hotel
Highlight: Matt's work is all about documenting his own experience, from within the resort to being one with the waves.
Makana
Hawaiian Musician | born and raised on Oahu
Hear the Art: Playing in the common areas throughout the hotel
Highlight: Makana's music marries the storied history of Waikiki with fresh, modern sounds.
Zak Noyle
Underwater Photographer | from Honolulu, Oahu
See the Art: A 75-foot image in the tunnel leading to the elevators and on the wall behind the beds in every guestroom.
Highlight: Zak's work brings a sense of being at peace—and transports you "under the sea."
Garrett Marrero
Founder, Maui Brewing Co. | based on Lahaina, Maui
See the Art: In perfectly crafted craft beer
Highlight: Maui Brewing Co. not only makes really great beer, but has a fiercely local commitment to local brewing that captures a sense of place and community.
As Beachcomber Zak says, "It is so important to have that understanding and respect for our culture around us, and that is what you'll find at the Waikiki Beachcomber."
Check out the art and chill vibes at Waikiki Beachcomber for a three-day weekend (or weeklong!) stay soon.
