Ilikai Apt 308 – Spacious Studio with Stunning Ocean & Harbor Views

Hotel Description

Look, I’ve stayed in a lot of Waikiki places over the years, and the Ilikai tends to get overlooked because it’s not right on the beach strip – but honestly, that’s exactly why apartment 308 works so well. You’re up on the third floor with these massive windows that give you this incredible sweep of the harbor and ocean that honestly beats a lot of the pricier beachfront spots. I mean, you can watch the sunset cruise boats heading out while you’re having your morning coffee, which is pretty much the perfect way to start any Hawaiian day.

The studio itself is actually quite spacious – you know how some of these Waikiki places feel like you’re sleeping in a closet? Not here. There’s enough room to spread out your stuff without tripping over everything, and the kitchenette is functional enough that you can skip the overpriced hotel restaurant breakfast if you want. The building has that classic 1960s Hawaii vibe (it was in the opening credits of Hawaii Five-O, if you’re into that sort of trivia), so don’t expect ultra-modern finishes, but everything works and it’s clean. What I really appreciate is that you’re literally a two-minute walk to the Ala Moana Beach Park, which locals actually prefer to Waikiki Beach – less crowded, better for morning runs, and the sunset views are incredible. Plus you’re right next to the Ala Moana Shopping Center, so if you need anything from groceries to that souvenir your aunt will never forgive you for forgetting, you’re covered.

The neighborhood positioning is what makes this place, though. You’re far enough from the main Waikiki chaos that you can actually sleep at night without drunk tourists singing karaoke under your window, but close enough that you can walk to Kalakaua Avenue in about ten minutes when you want the action. The marina right there means you can book fishing charters or dinner cruises without dealing with transportation, and honestly, watching the boats come and go never gets old. The 7.6 rating seems about right – it’s not going to blow your mind with luxury, but for the price point and location, it delivers exactly what you need for a solid Hawaiian vacation without the tourist trap markup.

Rooms

• Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults

Reviews

• Philippa from New Zealand (8/10)

  The location was perfect for us and the unit was very spacious. So close to everything and a wonderful place to sit on the balcony and relax. We also experienced very good prompt communication with the management company. The instructions for door entry were clear and easy to activate. We appreciated having laundry facilities in the building for our 10 day stay.

• Julia from New Zealand (7/10)

  Location was excellent
  Good facilities – cooker/hob etc

• Leonie from United States (8/10)

  Location was great. Hotel staff were friendly

• Becky from United States (8/10)

  The property was clean. I live here on island and had friends coming to visit. We rented the studio and it was perfect for our girls weekend. We have two little ones under 5 and we had a blast! It was great being able to make lunch in the unit and not go to a restaurant with tired kids. The unit is also in a great location. Perfect if you do want to walk around the area. Also liked the fact that there was a pool for kids too.

• Kathryn from United States (7/10)

  Convenient location, good ac, comfortable bed, clean. Can listen to live music on patio on balcony.

• Andrew from Australia (9/10)

  The location is second to none, amazing views, everything is close by withjout feeling like you’re in the thick of it all

• Sharron from United States (8/10)

  Property location is the best as it about halfway between Ala Moana shopping center and Lewers St. The bus stops right outside as does the trolley. The room is huge by Waikiki standards. Bathroom is a little tight though and door is only 28" wide so small for a wheelchair. Did like that the walking shower had a curb at bottom to keep water in. And the grab bars were good especially since the toilet is a very low model. The bed was very comfy and linens were quite good. The view is good, but with the film they had put on the glass was in such bad shape and peeling that we could only see the view if the door was open. If items 1-4 were fixed this could be a 9 out of 10 OR even a 10/10 for those who like a some noise.

• Aryana from United States (5/10)

  room was big, bed was comfortable, view was ok as it was on the third floor and limited.

• Richard from Australia (8/10)

• William from United States (8/10)

  The best love the staff

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities