Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei

This Hampton Inn opened in 2016 and the business-friendly property feels like a tech startup with its modern, neutral decor. The bright, airy lobby is filled with boxy couches and armchairs and a big communal table that doubles as a co-working space. Tables and chairs are all around, but are usually empty except during the morning breakfast rush. For some, the hotel’s missing tropical vibe (and eight-minute drive to the beach) could be a deal breaker. This isn't a property that says paradise, but for a clean and functional base, it can fit the bill. Guests are mostly corporate, government, and business travelers who need an straightforward, quiet place to bed down for a night or two.

This property sits next to a big outdoor shopping mall in Kapolei, Oahu’s so-called Second City. The hotel is situated in the mall’s parking lot and its shops and restaurants are a one-minute walk from the front door. There’s an adventure park with zip lines, rock climbing, and ATV rides a five-minute drive from the hotel, and multiple golf courses are within an eight-minute car ride. White Plains Beach is an eight-minute drive as well, and is the closest beach to the hotel. Downtown Honolulu, Chinatown, and the Hawaiian royal family's former home, Iolani Palace, are a half-hour drive away (depending on traffic). Waikiki takes around 40 minutes to reach, though traffic is often quite bad along the way. Kaena Point State Park, Oahu’s westernmost point and a nesting ground for albatross, is a 50-minute car trip from the hotel. Budget 20 minutes to reach Honolulu's international airport by car.

Rooms here are fresh and modern, whether you weigh them against other Hampton Inns or any mid-range hotel, really. Their neutral-toned interiors mix earthy green ottomans, charcoal gray lounge chairs (or sleeper sofas), and red desk chairs to create attractive -- if utterly un-Hawaiian -- spaces. Beds are a mix of one king or two queens, and integrated power and USB plugs are strategically located in nightstands, desks, and lamps. Other tech amenities include flat-screen TVs with cable channels plus free Wi-Fi and Ethernet ports. All rooms have air-conditioning, mini-fridges, coffeemakers with free coffee, irons, ironing boards, luggage stands, basic alarm clocks, and safes. Depending on the room type, sleek, white-countered bathrooms have either glass-walled showers or shower/tub combos. They’re comfortably sized and include full-length mirrors, Neutrogena toiletries, and hairdryers. It’s worth noting that corner units are slightly larger and Suites feature efficiency kitchenettes with sinks and microwaves. 

The amenities here don't depart from brand standards, and everything is geared toward short stays. Without a doubt, the freshwater pool -- surrounded by loungers -- is a great bonus. There’s lots of shade and the pool doesn’t get too crowded. The fitness center overlooks the pool and has treadmills, elliptical machines, a recumbent bicycle, basic resistance equipment, and a small selection of dumbbells. There’s no on-site restaurant, but free continental breakfasts include juice, cereal, waffles, and fresh fruit. Free coffee and local newspapers are available in the lobby. A sundry shop sells snacks, drinks, and other necessities. The small business center has two computers and free printing. There’s also a meeting room that can fit up to 75 people. A coin-operated laundry room is handy for on-the-go travelers. Free Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property, and while parking is free it can be hard to score close to the hotel.