DoubleTree by Hilton Alana – Waikiki Beach

The Doubletree Alana Hotel Waikiki is a mid-range, business-friendly hotel housed in a modern 19-story building. Quieter and less crowded than this chain's beachfront properties, it has a relaxed atmosphere that's best suited for travelers seeking a low-key vibe. When it comes to style, this resort isn't much different from other Hilton outposts, with simple interiors that can appear a little dated in some areas. Guests arrive through the escalator entrance into a bright lobby with glossy marble-effect floors and Hawaiian-inspired decor. The color scheme is soft and neutral, with blue accents making the subtlest of nods to the near-beach location. The hotel mostly caters to business travelers, though some tourists also stay here. The bar is a popular area for socializing, typically filled with guests grabbing a beer post work (note that it's only open in the evening). Although communal areas are surprisingly uncrowded, the breakfast area can feel busy during events or corporate conferences. 

This hotel is situated opposite a picturesque green park at the quieter western end of Waikiki. It’s a 10-minute walk from Kahanamoku Beach and a 10-minute walk from Waikiki Beach. Kalakaua Avenue, Waikiki's main tourist drag, is a 15-minute walk away. The Ala Moana Shopping Center and the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center are also about a 15-minute walk away, while Honolulu Zoo and the Ala Wai Golf Course are five minutes from the hotel by car or cab. It's a convenient spot for business travelers, as the Hawaii Convention Center is a short 10-minute walk from the hotel. Pearl Harbor and the Diamond Head Crater are a 15- to 20-minute drive in either direction. Honolulu International Airport is roughly a 15-minute drive, depending on traffic.

Like the rest of the hotel, all 317 rooms and suites are simply decorated with Hawaiian-inspired decor, though they appear a bit tired. Sagging furniture and dinged-up walls were both spotted during our 2017 visit, though the wear is relatively minor. Configurations range from standard doubles to sprawling penthouse suites, and all are spacious and bright with soft, neutral tones, carpeted floors, dark wood furniture, ergonomic work desks, and floral artworks adorning the walls. Accessible rooms are also available. Each room has a furnished lanai offering lovely sea or city views. Other amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs with on-demand movies and game rentals, coffeemakers, safes, phones, alarm clocks, and ironing facilities. Wi-Fi is included in the mandatory resort fee. Suites add separate living areas, sofabeds, and efficiency kitchenettes with fridges and microwaves. Bathrooms are basic, but clean, and equipped with walk-in rainfall showers and free toiletries. Upgraded rooms add deep-soaking bath tubs. Guests should note that street-facing rooms can be noisier.

The Doubletree Alana Hotel Waikiki mostly caters to business travelers, though it has some nice leisure facilities too. The extensive 24-hour business center features a computer station and 4,000 square feet of meeting space in 10 stylish rooms. The all-day Trees Restaurant serves American cuisine in a casual setting, though the hotel's bar only opens in the evenings. It offers daily happy hours and regular sports screenings. A varied breakfast buffet is served here in the mornings, with made-to-order omelettes, though it costs extra. For convenience, light snacks and beverages are available from a small cafe next to the lobby. Leisure facilities include a heated outdoor pool with a deck and padded sun loungers, plus a small 24-hour fitness center. There's also an ATM and vending machines. Room service is available, though hours are limited. Guests should be aware of the daily resort fee, which covers Wi-Fi, but not the expensive parking fees.