Castle Bamboo Waikīkī Hotel

Hotel Description

You know what? The Castle Bamboo Waikīkī Hotel isn’t going to win any design awards, but there’s something refreshingly honest about this place that I actually appreciate. It’s one of those solid 3-star spots that doesn’t try to be anything it’s not – which honestly feels rare in Waikīkī where so many hotels are either pushing luxury they can’t deliver or budget accommodations that feel like afterthoughts.

The bamboo theme runs throughout the property (hence the name, obviously), and while it could easily veer into cheesy tiki bar territory, they’ve managed to keep it tasteful. The lobby has this lived-in feel with actual wear patterns on the furniture that somehow makes it more comfortable rather than shabby. I mean, you can tell people actually sit in those chairs instead of just walking past them for photos. The front desk staff seems to stick around – I’ve seen the same faces over multiple visits, which tells you something about how they treat employees. Check-in is usually pretty smooth, though if you’re arriving during that 3-4 PM rush when half of Honolulu is trying to get to their rooms, you might wait a few minutes.

What really works here is the location without the insane price tag of being right on the beach. You’re close enough to walk to Waikīkī Beach in about eight minutes (I’ve timed it), but far enough back that you’re not dealing with the constant street noise and crowds that can make some of the beachfront places feel like you’re sleeping in the middle of a party. The rooms are clean and functional – not Instagram-worthy, but honestly, when was the last time you spent your Hawaiian vacation hanging out in your hotel room anyway? The AC works well, which matters more than fancy pillows when it’s 85 degrees and humid. Some rooms can pick up a bit of street noise from Kūhiō Avenue, but it’s mostly just the normal city hum, not the late-night party chaos you get closer to the main strip.

I’ll be straight with you – this isn’t where you go for a spa experience or fancy poolside service. The pool area is pretty basic, and don’t expect fluffy robes or turndown service. But here’s the thing: it’s priced fairly for what it delivers, and sometimes that’s exactly what you want. The 7.4 rating feels about right – it’s doing its job well without any major surprises, good or bad. If you’re the type of traveler who wants a clean, comfortable base for exploring the island without blowing half your budget on accommodation, this place makes a lot of sense. Plus, you’re within walking distance of some great local spots that the resort crowds never find – there’s this little plate lunch place about three blocks makai that honestly serves better food than most hotel restaurants at a fraction of the price.

Rooms

• Studio Kitchenette with 1 large double bed, or and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 2 children
• Studio Kitchenette City View with 1 large double bed, or and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 2 children
• Studio Kitchenette Deluxe City View with 1 large double bed, or and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 2 children
• Hotel Room Partial Ocean View with 1 large double bed, or and 1 sofa bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Hotel Room City View with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• 1 Bedroom Suite City View with Kitchenette with 1 large double bed, or and 1 sofa bed for 3 adults, 3 children
• 1 Bedroom Suite City/Mountain View with Kitchenette with 1 large double bed, or and 1 sofa bed for 3 adults, 3 children
• 1 Bedroom Tiki Terrace with large double beds, 2 large double beds, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 5 adults, 4 children

Reviews

• Bev from Canada (8/10)

  Location was excellent. Liked the bus to Ala Moana shopping Center was across the street. Many good restaurants close by. A/C worked well. Sufficient supplies in unit. Very nice, friendly staff. Comfy loungers by the pool.

• Jacobson from United States (6/10)

  The property is a budget property. It is dated but clean. We had all we needed and honestly didn’t spent much time in the hotel because we like exploring. Great food nearby and access to all things if shopping and restaurants is what you like. Walking distance to everything.

• Donald from Canada (7/10)

  A reasonably priced option in Waikiki with good amenities nearby (restaurants, groceries, convenience stores) located only a few minutes’ walk from the beach and with an attractive pool area.

• Andrew from New Zealand (7/10)

  Hotel location was very good. Close to everything, Very easy walk to beach and The International Marketplace

• Jayson from Australia (8/10)

  The location of the property is very good as it is minutes from the main beach, shops,restaurants and cafe’s.
  All within walking distance.
  The room was a good size with a kitchenette and a balcony.
  Bed was very comfortable 😌 😴
  Pool area had lounges and chairs could do with a makeover as the property has been around for a long time.
  We chose this Hotel based on the location and price.

• Michael from United States (6/10)

• Helen from New Zealand (8/10)

  Great price, good sized room. Bed was comfortable. Loved the fact you only pay for room cleaning if you want it. We stayed for 2 weeks so you get free room service and sheets changed after 7 days. Was perfect as we keep it tidy ourselves. We got any towels, toiletries, coffee etc from reception if you need.

• Yongbing from China (8/10)

  Good location and nice staffs，very close to Waikiki beach and bus stops.

• Matheus from Spain (8/10)

  The location and the facilities in the room.

• Martines from Canada (8/10)

  NO bed bugs!! That’s always a bonus because I’ve stayed at other hotels and always get bit and this hotel did not have any!😁

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities