The Equus

For travelers who want a clean, budget-friendly place to crash near the beach and shopping in Waikiki, The Equus can be a fine bet. However, expectations need to be managed. First impressions are retro -- at best -- and the equestrian theme is a bit random for a hotel located in Waikiki. The horse motif was dreamed up by the longtime owner, who is a polo aficionado, and manifests itself in historic photographs of polo players and Hawaiian cowboys on the walls. The family-owned property is much smaller than almost everything option it, giving the hotel a more personalized vibe. However, compared with the Aqua properties nearby -- including the Park Shore, The Palms, and Waikiki Wave -- the Equus is a little more basic. To be sure, it's cheaper than the Hawaii Prince across the street and the Aqua Palms around the corner, but it also has less to offer. Unless, of course, you're a horse enthusiast. 

The Equus is conveniently located on busy Ala Moana Boulevard, among northern Waikiki's high-rise hotels, motels, and condos. The hotel is across the street from the Waikiki Marina. Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon is just a six-minute walk from the hotel, and is perfect for kids, as the water is warm and shallow. Kahanamoku Beach ad well as Waikiki Beach at the Hilton Hawaiian Village both take a little less than 10 minutes to reach on foot. The Ala Moana Shopping Center is also a 10-minute walk from the property. While the hotel has no restaurant of its own, there are a number of fast food options nearby. Honolulu operates a local bus that's a great way to cruise Waikiki and explore nearby Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor. Consider using a ride-hailing app or a local taxi service if you're only staying in town, as daily parking fees and car rental rates will likely be costlier. Expect a 20-minute cab ride to Honolulu International Airport. 

The rooms at The Equus are clean, but the style is certainly lacking (as are some amenities). Expect to see bamboo furniture, lots of pale or neutral hues, and a few pieces of equestrian or tropical artwork. The views from the rooms are limited and are blocked by the many tall surrounding buildings in the area. They also have tiny balconies with oddly placed furniture, and all rooms are accessed by exterior hallways -- motel style. Standard amenities include flat-screen TVs, down comforters and pillow-top mattresses, free Wi-Fi, coffeemakers, safes, and mini-fridges, but no microwaves. Layouts across all categories are fairly compact, though there is generally a bit of additional seating in addition to the beds. Suites have separate bedrooms. Bathrooms are plain, decked out in tan tiling and granite surfaces. They include stall showers, toiletries, and hairdryers. Previous guests have reported audible traffic noise from the busy surrounding area, particularly in street-side rooms.

Features of The Equus hotel are slim, and while the hotel does have a pool, it's not the most enticing we've ever seen. The space receives limited sun during the day and there's not much poolside seating. During our 2017 visit, the hotel did mention making upgrades to its pool, so check ahead. Free coffee and muffins are provided in the mornings, but there's nothing else available for breakfast. The hotel provides free tickets to polo matches during polo season (April to August) and guests receive a 30 percent discount off beachfront trail rides at the Hawaii Polo Club, which is located on the North Shore (about a 45-minute car ride away). There are two iPad stations for guests to use for internet browsing in the lobby, though Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel. Parking comes with a hefty fee, but there are no resort fees.