Oahu Hotels
If there’s one vacation destination where you’ll want to spend as little time indoors as possible, it’s Hawaii. That being said, Oahu can have periods of heavy showers, so it’s helpful to be set up in a hotel where you won’t mind taking some shelter. From affordable hotels that recreate casual beach living to purely luxurious resorts, Oahu offers it all.
Affordable Abodes: The Aqua Continental on Kuhio Ave. in Honolulu is just a block and a half away from the beach. In most cases such a prime location would mean astronomical room rates, but the Aqua Continental provides its clean, spacious rooms and friendly staff at a shockingly low price. The hotel rooms even come stocked with some amenities not found in higher-end hotels, including free wireless Internet. Like many hotels in the area, the Aqua Continental is a high rise building, meaning that the lucky guests facing the ocean will get an incredible view, especially at sunset. The décor is cheery and basic; there’s no swimming pool, but really — who needs a swimming pool in Hawaii?
For even more affordable accommodations, try the Hokondo Waikiki Beachside Hostel. As with most hostels, younger guests and those without kids are probably most comfortable in these settings. Although the Hokondo offers private rooms and shared dorm rooms, most guests go expecting to mingle heavily with other travelers. The communal lounge area is filled with foreign tourists and staff members alike, all eager to get to know you and maybe have a drink or two. If you’re looking to socialize and are up for adventures with strangers, there’s no better place to start than the Hokondo.
Rooms at a Value: It’s hard to believe that the new Wyland Waikiki hotel offers its rooms at such affordable rates. This spotless location features all the fun details of a much more expensive boutique hotel. From its sleekly modern lobby to its spacious sunny rooms, the Wyland has truly committed itself to quality at a reasonable price. Located on Royal Hawaiian Ave., the Wyland is close to the important things in Oahu: shopping and the beach. And unlike many hotel breakfasts, the Wyland makes the bold departure from stale danishes to more authentic fare including Spam. Kids and kids at heart should be sure to check out the entertainment room next to the lobby, which features video games and massage chairs.
One of the best things about ResortQuest Waikiki Beach Hotel is its “Breakfast on the Beach” program. The hotel’s free continental breakfast can be packaged up and taken to the beach for a lovely meal by the ocean. Why hasn’t anyone thought of this before? The rooms reflect the same Hawaiian spirit, with cheerful floral motives. There’s no mistaking that you’re on a tropical vacation when staying at ResortQuest. For around $120 or less per night, guests enjoy flat screen televisions, comfy beds and a gym. For lazy nights, a ride down to the first floor leads guests right to Tiki’s a bar with live music and renowned Mai Tais.
Luxury Lairs: The site of many magical moments, especially weddings and romantic getaways, The Kahala Hotel and Resort creates an enchanting island experience. From the majestic lobby area with its impressive chandeliers and sumptuous furnishings to its always-lush grounds with breathtaking views at every turn, the Kahala was built for pure indulgence. The events staff at the hotel is well-known for creating beautiful and hitch-free weddings, but the Kahala is a fantastic location for purely recreational getaways as well. Guests can swim with dolphins or relax on the hotel’s private beach, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. For even more relaxation, visit Kahala’s spa, fully stocked with massage, facial and wrap treatments.
Another famously luxurious beachfront hotel is the Halekulani in Waikiki. The Halekulani manages to meld true elegance with island spirit. With a small-scale private beach, the hotel caters mostly to an exclusive group looking for privacy, peace and quiet. The Halekulani also offers a spa that continues its decadent theme, and many on the island visit the hotel on special occasions just for the spa treatments.