AC Hotel by Marriott Honolulu – All-New Hotel

Hotel Description

You know what struck me first about the AC Hotel by Marriott Honolulu? It’s genuinely new – like, you can still smell that fresh paint and feel the crispness of everything. I mean, we’re talking about a hotel that hasn’t had thousands of tourists tramping through it yet, which honestly makes a huge difference in Honolulu where so many places feel worn down by the constant flow of visitors. The lobby has this clean, minimalist European vibe that AC Hotels are known for, but they’ve managed to blend it with subtle Hawaiian touches without going overboard on the tiki bar aesthetic that can feel so forced elsewhere.

The location is actually pretty smart if you think about it. While everyone’s fighting for spots right on Waikiki Beach (and paying through the nose for it), this place sits where you can easily walk to the action but escape the chaos when you want to. I found myself appreciating that balance more than I expected – you’re close enough to grab dinner in Chinatown or hit the beach without the constant noise of tour buses and street performers that never seems to stop in the main tourist zone. The rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows, and depending on which side you’re on, you’ll catch glimpses of the ocean between buildings or look out over the city spreading toward the mountains. Nothing groundbreaking, but the beds are actually comfortable (not always a given, even with nice hotels), and the bathrooms have that rainfall shower situation that works better here than most places.

What I really liked – and this might sound weird – is how the staff seems to genuinely know their stuff without being overly rehearsed about it. Maybe it’s because they’re still figuring things out too, but when I asked about getting to Hanauma Bay, the front desk person gave me actual practical advice about timing and crowds rather than just handing me a brochure. The fitness center is small but has decent equipment, and honestly, the pool area is where this place shines. It’s not massive, but it feels like an urban oasis with the city backdrop, especially in the late afternoon when the light hits just right. Sure, you’re not getting that classic beachfront resort experience, but if you’re the type who wants to explore Honolulu beyond the typical tourist trail while still having a solid, comfortable base, this place makes sense. The 8.3 rating feels about right – it’s doing what it promises well, just don’t expect it to blow your mind or redefine your Hawaii experience.

Rooms

• Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and City View with 2 large double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• Deluxe Queen Room with Two Queen Beds and City View with 2 large double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• Deluxe King Room with City View with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• King Room with City View with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child

Reviews

• Joan from United States (9/10)

  Newly renovated rooms. Staff were very friendly and helpful.

• Daniel from United States (9/10)

  Great location, clean and comfortable room, friendly staff.

• Michael from United States (8/10)

  NA

• Jim from United States (9/10)

  Everything is new and modern. The bed was comfortable.

• Wright from United States (9/10)

  Staff very professional and accommodating.
  Excellent customer service.

• Michael from Tonga (9/10)

  Love the location and the service. Very clean and comfortable.

• Matthew from Malta (9/10)

  The hotel is very close to the cruise pier. it is in a good location whilst having a nice decor. rooms are great. everything went smooth.

• Marcel from Switzerland (9/10)

  Clean and comfy room. Friendly and helpful staff. It’s downtown area, so away from beaches. good restaurants/cafes nearby

• Sara from United States (9/10)

  We stayed one night. Looking for a place convenient to the airport and it was perfect. We enjoyed drinks at the attached restaurant.

• Christine from United States (8/10)

  We did not use any of the facilities but the staff were superb!! They were attentive, helpful and what you would HOPE to experience at a Marriott in Hawai’i! The valets and front desk staff were the ones we had the most contact with but housekeeping were quite friendly as well.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities