Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about the Aqua Aloha Surf Waikiki – it’s not going to blow your mind, but it gets the job done in one of the most expensive beach destinations on the planet. When I first walked into the lobby, honestly, it felt a bit like stepping into a time capsule from maybe 2005 (and I don’t entirely mean that in a bad way). The surf-themed decor is laid on pretty thick – think vintage longboards on the walls and that sort of weathered beach shack aesthetic that’s clearly designed for tourists, but you know what? It actually works better than you’d expect.

What really matters here is that you’re literally a few blocks from where the waves break at Waikiki Beach, and the price point reflects that three-star reality instead of trying to pretend it’s something it’s not. The rooms are… well, they’re clean and functional. Don’t expect marble countertops, but the AC works (crucial in August, trust me), and most rooms have at least a partial ocean view if you crane your neck a bit. I mean, the furniture’s seen better days and the carpet’s got that slightly worn hotel feel, but honestly? You’re not here to hang out in your room anyway. The staff actually seems to know their stuff about the area – I had a front desk guy tell me exactly which beach access point to use to avoid the crowds, and he was spot on.

Here’s what I really appreciated: the whole place has this relaxed, no-pressure vibe that matches the surf culture they’re going for. The pool area’s nothing fancy, but it’s got decent shade and you can actually hear the ocean from the deck chairs. Parking’s tight (welcome to Waikiki), but they’ve got a small lot and the rates aren’t completely insane by local standards. Check-in was smooth – no hour-long waits or complicated key card situations. The location puts you within walking distance of everything that matters: Duke’s for sunset drinks, the International Market Place when you need to buy overpriced sunscreen, and yeah, that gorgeous stretch of beach that makes you forget about the slightly threadbare towels. It’s not luxury, but it’s authentic in its own way – like staying at your surf buddy’s place if your surf buddy happened to run a small hotel and knew exactly what travelers actually need versus what they think they want.

Hawaii hotels range from charming beachfront bungalows in traditional Polynesian style to elegant oceanfront luxury resorts and modern accommodations with panoramic Pacific views.

Rooms

• Moderate Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Superior Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Deluxe Room with 1 extra-large double bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Room Selected at Check-In with 2 single beds, or, 1 double bed and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 3 children

Reviews

• Michalembe from Poland (8/10)

  Very friendly & helpful staff. Hotel really close to the beach. They have laundry in the basement. There is a fridge, microwave and the Coffee machine in the room.

• Toola from Australia (8/10)

  1) Location was an easy walk to beach, shops, cafes and restaurants.
  2) Bed was very comfortable.
  3) Although the room seemed not to have had any decor updates in decades it was very clean.
  4) Staff were very polite and helpful.

• Connie from United States (7/10)

  Stayed in Room 713. The room is not as big as I thought. It felt little cramp. It was nice to have a microwave in the room. The coffee maker did not work for us during our stay. There is also a small fridge. In the lobby there is a filter water re-fill station and ice machines, that was very nice. Bring water bottle. The hotel is located on a busy rood, so at night it can be some what noisy from cars driving by. It is very close to Waikiki Beach, less than 10 min walk. The lobby can give you clean beach towels and rent beach chairs. Close to many restaurants and stores. We felt safe walking at night.

• Martin from Australia (8/10)

  Comfortable bed.
  Amenities & location consistent with price-point

• Geoff from New Zealand (7/10)

  Staff were awesome. Location is perfect!

• Wendy from Australia (9/10)

  Comfortable, clean and reasonably central to all we needed.

• Laura from United States (7/10)

  Fantastic location

• Sujit from United States (7/10)

  Staff was good

• Kuwamura from United States (7/10)

  It’s was affordable and perfect area.

• Jardine from United States (7/10)

  Pool

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities