TRAVEL People of all ages come here


to learn, from kids barely old enough to carry a board to retirees checking off bucket list goals. If you’ve ever wanted to surf, Waikiki is where to start. I booked my lesson with Moniz


Family Surf. The family-run company offers group lessons and board rentals. Josh Moniz, my instructor for the


day, grew up riding these same waves with his siblings, including sister Kelia, a two-time world champion. The board was longer than I


expected — heavy, awkward to carry, and somehow even harder to balance on. But I was determined. Paddling out was a workout.


Popping up took multiple tries and more wipeouts than I care to count. Still, eventually, I caught one. It


wasn’t a big wave, but standing up, gliding toward the shore, was just as satisfying as I’d imagined.


WHERE TO STAY


I checked into the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa. It sits right across the street from the beach, directly facing the famous Duke Kahanamoku statue — a central landmark in the heart of Waikiki. I stayed in the Surf House Suite,


which features subtle nods to Hawaii’s surfing heritage. There’s a full-size surfoard mounted in the room, tropical artwork, and a large balcony overlooking the beach and break. It’s a great spot for couples or


friends traveling together, with a layout that balances comfort and space. The location is tough to beat


— nearly everything in Waikiki is within walking distance, including restaurants, surf shops, and cultural sites. There’s a small pool with cabanas,


a full-service spa (my post-surf massage was exactly what I needed), and several dining options on site.


70 NEWSMAX MAXLIFE | SEPTEMBER 2025 WHERE TO EAT


I started my day with breakfast at SHOR, the Hyatt’s breakfast buffet, which is massive. For lunch, I often ended up at


SWIM, the Hyatt’s poolside café. Their tuna poke bowl was light, flavorful, and perfect after a few hours in the sun. In the evenings, I made time for


The Buffet at Hyatt, which offers a broad mix of dishes — from sushi and crab legs to Korean short ribs and roast beef — along with a third- floor view over Waikiki Beach. Some nights, the restaurant also hosts a luau experience with live music, hula, and traditional Hawaiian cuisine. A few other eateries stood out.


Duke’s Waikiki is a casual beachfront


HOTEL COURTESY OF HYATTHOTELS.COM / MONIZ FAMILY/MONIZFAMILYSURF.COM / PEARL HARBOR/ADAM JAMES BOOTH/SHUTTERSTOCK / ILLUSTRATIONS©ISTOCK


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