Waikiki Shore

Waikiki Shore opened in 2003 and in many ways, the 15-story condo-style hotel doesn’t feel like a hotel at all. While that may suit independent travelers looking to have a local experience, the property can be a bit impersonal. There’s no one to help unload luggage or even a public bathroom for guests. The hotel’s mirror-walled lobby is welcoming enough, with plush wicker couches, bamboo-accented furniture, and a beautifully carved surfboard and canoe paddle on the wall. However, services are few and each condominium is individually owned. Without a doubt, the beach is the hotel’s best feature and reached via a long hallway lined with mostly vacant storefronts. We assume they’ll become occupied eventually, but until then, it feels pretty desolate. Hotel guests are mostly from the United States and Australia, including many families.   

Waikiki Shore is located on Waikiki's west end, along one of the narrower sections of the beach. Directly next to the hotel -- and a one-minute walk from its front door -- is Fort DeRussy Park and Fort DeRussy U.S. Army Museum. The Hilton Hotel sets off their weekly fireworks show directly across the park, and many of Waikiki Shore's units have fabulous views of the spectacle. Restaurants serving Asian, sandwiches, barbecue, and American food are a three-minute stroll or less from the hotel. Ala Moana, Hawaii’s biggest mall (and the United States’ seventh biggest shopping center), is a six-minute drive away. Honolulu Zoo is a 10-minute car ride, and the Waikiki Aquarium is just a minute farther. Diamond Head State Monument, with its stunning Waikiki and Honolulu views, is a 15-minute drive away, with hikes to the top taking about 45 minutes. Downtown Honolulu, Chinatown, and the Iolani Palace (the former royal home) are a 15-minute drive away (depending on traffic). The Pearl Harbor Memorial is a 25-minute commute, though traffic is often quite bad along the way. Honolulu International Airport takes around 20 minutes to reach. 

With floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies (some with ocean views), Waikiki Shore’s air-conditioned studios, one-, and two-bedroom units are beachy and bright. They’re all individually owned, though, so the decor and maintenance are a mixed bag, especially in the bathrooms. Overall, expect pastel blues, greens, and lots of shell-inspired decor, though some units are tricked out in fresh, modern styles. They're definitely homey and the one- and two-bedroom units have airy living rooms with plush tan couches, bamboo armchairs, and glass-topped tables. Big flat-screen TVs with cable channels are standard in all room types. Arguably the hotel's biggest selling point are the full kitchens or kitchenettes. Expect granite, tile, or Corian counters and stainless-steel appliances (refrigerators, gas ranges, and ovens). The dish washers, rice makers, blenders, and coffeemakers are a nice plus and free coffee is included, too. Apartment bathrooms -- with either stall showers or shower/tub combos -- are the definite the wildcard. While mostly tolerable, some need a deep cleaning. All rooms also have stackable washers and driers (with free starter detergent), irons, ironing boards, and luggage stands. Cribs and rollaway beds are available for a fee. Free Wi-Fi is included. Daily housekeeping is provided.

As a condo-style hotel, Waikiki Shore’s amenities are limited. Its beachfront is definitely a top draw, but we wish beach chairs or umbrellas were included. They’re only available to rent from an outside vendor (for a fee). Near the beach are shops including a salon, gift shop, and a sub shop. The hotel’s independently-owned tour and activity desk can assist in excursions, car rentals, and other activities. Grocery provisioning is available for a fee. There’s also secure bike and surfboard storage. Wi-Fi is free and parking is available for a fee. There are no resort fees, which is rare in Waikiki. It's worth noting that while pricier, stays booked through Outrigger Waikiki Shore -- and not the hotel directly -- include access to a concierge, pool, and gym (all of which are off-site).