Ilikai Hotel
If you've ever watched Hawaii 5-0, you've seen the Ilikai featured in the opening credits and as a frequent set for the show. This hotel was the first high-rise hotel on Waikiki and overlooks the Waikiki Marina and the Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon. Top-floor rooms have great views of Diamond Head past the next-door Hilton Hawaiian Village, as well as views of the Ko'olina Mountains and the beach. Partial ocean rooms have a very good view of the lagoon and the ocean. The hotel itself is somewhat run-down, with frayed carpet and closed shops on the first floor, but the rooms are in great shape and are a fantastic value, especially for families and small groups. A spa is located on the first floor next to the disappointingly-small pool. If you want to swim, you're better off going to the lagoon or the beach. (You can probably get into the Hilton pools as well, as they are not very well policed by staff.)
Because the Ilikai is on the edge of Waikiki, guests have easy access to all the attractions of Waikiki as well as the marinas on both sides of the nearby Ala Moana Beach Park. Hint: if you don't like the rates or rooms offered at the hotel, try the privately-rented condos in the same building.
Ilikai Hotel & Suites
1777 Ala Moana Blvd
Honolulu, HI 96815
1 (866) 406-2782
(808) 949-3811
ilikaihotel.com
reservations@ilikaihotel.com
Outrigger Reef on the Beach
The Outrigger Reef Hotel is right on the beach and near all the best spots in Waikiki. Part of the Outrigger chain found throughout the islands, this hotel is top-rated by tourists and kama'aina (people born in Hawaii) alike because of its relaxed, authentic Hawaiian atmosphere. Most of the shops here are Hawaii-themed and run by Hawaiians, and the Kani Ka Pila Grille features music every night by popular Hawaiian entertainers, often accompanied by hula dancers.
Complimentary wireless Internet is available in most public areas, and the 24/7 fitness room is great for guests on the go. Included free for guests are special extras, like free calls to the mainland (to make your family and friends jealous), free hula and lei-making lessons, and opportunities to renew your wedding vows on the beach.
Outrigger Reef on the Beach
2169 Kalia Rd
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815-1989
808-923-3111
outrigger.com/hotels-resorts/hawaiian-islands/oahu-waikiki/outrigger-reef-on-the-beach
Royal Grove Hotel
If you're looking for a place just to lay your head and maybe cook some breakfast, the Royal Grove is an incredible bargain. Only two blocks from the ocean and right in the heart of Waikiki, this little family-owned hotel offers room rates comparable to a Motel 6, including by-the-week deals. You're not going to get many amenities; the rooms are older, and the cheapest ones don't have air conditioning. All rooms have kitchenettes and some have balconies.
Royal Grove Hotel
161 Ulunui Avenue
Honolulu, Hawaii 96815
808-923-7691
royalgrovehotel.com
