Hilton Waikiki Beach

The Hilton Waikiki Beach Hotel is housed in a tall high-rise building overlooking the picturesque city, mountains, and ocean. It mostly caters to business travelers, but tourists also stay here due to its close proximity to the beach and shopping areas. Interiors are typical of the Hilton brand, with modern decor and island accents, while green gardens bring a tropical feel to outdoor spaces. Winding pathways and tiki torches leading to koi ponds and trickling water features. The softy-lit lobby has a grand appearance with high wood-paneled ceilings, chunky stone columns, ornate light fixtures, and flowers for freshness. There are plenty of quiet seating areas to take a break with curved rattan chairs and glass-topped coffee tables. The atmosphere is relaxed, if a tad lifeless, though the lobby bar has nightly entertainment, which creates a more lively vibe on select nights.

This hotel is set back from the beachfront on busy Kuhio Avenue, just a five-minute walk from the typically less-crowded Kuhio Beach. Kalakaua Avenue is also a short five-minute walk away, with plenty of upmarket shopping and dining options. Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium are also within walking distance, while the nearby Waikiki Wall offers some unforgettable views of the ocean and skyline. The famous Diamond Head Crater viewpoint is around a 10-minute drive away, while Fort DeRussy U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii is a 20-minute walk. Guests have easy access to bus lines right outside the hotel, taking travelers all the way north to Pearl Harbor. The hotel is conveniently located for business travelers, with the Hawaii Convention Center only a 10-minute drive away. Golfers can tee off at the Ala Wai Golf Course, which is a short 10-minute walk across the canal. Honolulu International Airport is around a 20-minute drive from the hotel.

The hotel has a total of 601 rooms and suites that are decorated in a bright, modern style with warm gold tones and exotic hardwoods. Double or king beds are backed by attractive statement headboards and dressed in white linens, while sliding glass doors open out onto small furnished lanais, offering gorgeous views of the ocean, mountains, or city. Tropical floral paintings add a touch of Hawaii, while modern lamps create a soft glow. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, large 42-inch flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, empty mini-fridges, safes, phones, radio alarm clocks, iPod docking stations, ironing facilities, and free bottled water. Unfortunately, while there are no resort fees here, Wi-Fi costs extra in rooms. Upgraded suites offer extra living space and some include basic efficiency kitchenettes. En-suite bathrooms are spacious and modern, with glass-enclosed showers and free eco-friendly toiletries. Each has a glass window through to the bedroom, though blinds are provided for privacy. Guests should note that upper-floor rooms pick up less external noise and better views.

Firstly, this hotel has no pesky resort fees, which is a big perk. However, you should expect fees for in-room Wi-Fi and parking. It mostly caters to corporate travelers and has an extensive 24-hour business center equipped with a computer station, 13 high-tech meeting rooms, and several stylish events spaces. Leisure facilities include an outdoor pool with reclining sun loungers, plus a rooftop hot tub and poolside bar. The hotel has a casual lobby bar that serves a daily happy hour and nightly entertainment, plus an on-site Starbucks. The M.A.C 24/7 Restaurant is open around the clock and serves American cuisine in a modern, diner-style setting. A varied breakfast buffet with hot and cold options is served here daily, though this is an expensive extra. Room service is available 24/7. Other facilities include a modern 24-hour fitness center with cardio machines, resistance equipment, and free weights, and a stylish Executive Lounge that has free refreshments for members. Executive-level guests also get free breakfast. There's also a gift shop selling souvenirs, plus an ATM and tour desk. Hotel services include a 24-hour front desk, concierge, laundry, and free Wi-Fi in public areas. On-site valet parking is available, but this costs extra.