Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach

The pool was a real highlight after a day out, and the rooms felt modern, clean, and comfortable. Big windows brought in lots of natural light, with a relaxed island feel throughout the property. Check-in went smoothly, and the staff were friendly and professional. You’re right across from Waikiki Beach, which made morning walks and sunset views especially easy. It can get pretty busy at peak times, and some amenities cost extra, so that’s why I’m at four stars. Still, it’s a stylish, convenient place to stay, and I’d consider coming back.

Getting around by Lyft was easy, and the fitness center had plenty of room, cardio equipment, machines, free weights, towels, and showers. The building is older but has modern updates. Our room was clean and comfortable, though the bathroom was small and the water pressure low. The area outside gets noisy and crowded, which comes with the location. Our family had a lovely stay because the staff treated us so well. Kim at the tour desk was a rockstar and helped book tours with spot-on recommendations. If you’re traveling with kids, the “Be a Marine Biologist” program is a must. The educators were informative and professional. Despite the noise and small plumbing gripes, we’d come back for the service.

The pool was the best part of our six nights at Alohilani. The view was breathtaking, and the pool and spa area were great. Go early if you want a chair, they filled up fast after our first day. There were pool rules, but nobody seemed to enforce them until I asked staff to step in about toddlers splashing in the spa and jumping into the pool from it. The pool and bar staff were very attentive, and we had an amazing time there. Our room was just right for two, with two queen beds and comfortable pillows. The location was brilliant, walk out, cross the road, and you’re at the beach. We didn’t eat at the resort, so can’t comment on the food. Service was hit and miss. At check-in, we were told there’d be a $100 hold for incidentals, but the charge didn’t make sense at first. It was $100 per night, up to five nights, plus $400 in resort fees, which felt expensive. We weren’t given information about the resort. The bell desk held our bags and asked if we wanted them brought up. The man who delivered them made a fuss when we didn’t tip, and with $400 in resort fees, I didn’t understand why we’d need to tip too. We didn’t need room service, but the lovely cleaner was happy to empty the bin and replace the towels. We got a great rate, so shop around. Still really happy with the stay.

The location is convenient, but the beach right outside was packed and noisy, and I wouldn’t recommend the area if you want somewhere calm. There were always lots of kids at the pool, so it wasn’t a place to relax if you’re not traveling with children. The pool view was nice, and the food was decent, though overpriced, as I imagine it is at hotels around here. The spa treatments were good, but the setup felt awkward. You wait in your robe, half dressed, right beside the gym. It also wasn’t clear how to find or use the amenities. We were just told to walk a couple of blocks for beach equipment, which wasn’t helpful. This did not feel like a five-star hotel. The room photos showed ocean views, but at check-in we were asked to pay extra for a poor partial view. We had to switch rooms after one night because grease from the restaurant fryers below kept filling ours with a horrible smell. I nearly threw up walking back in. The next night, a false fire alarm went off at 11 p.m. and woke the whole floor. It took nearly half an hour to stop. We called the front desk to ask whether to evacuate since there was no smoke or other sign of fire, and the person said they didn’t know if there was a fire and couldn’t help. I won’t be back.