Ilikai Hotel with Ocean View

Ilikai Hotel with Ocean View Overview

Look, I’ve stayed at plenty of hotels in Waikiki, and the Ilikai is one of those places that just gets it right. You know what struck me first? It’s that whole retro-Hawaii vibe without feeling like they’re trying too hard – I mean, this place has been around since the ’60s and honestly, they’ve embraced that mid-century charm instead of fighting it. The lobby has this open-air feel that immediately makes you slow down and remember you’re actually on vacation.

The ocean view rooms are where this hotel really shines, and I’m not just talking about the standard “you can see water if you crane your neck” situation. Most of the oceanfront rooms give you this sweeping view of the Ala Wai Harbor and beyond to the Pacific, especially from the higher floors. Actually, here’s something most people don’t realize – the harbor view is surprisingly peaceful in the mornings before the boats head out, and you get these incredible sunsets that paint the whole lagoon golden. The rooms themselves are spacious by Waikiki standards (which, let’s be honest, isn’t saying much most places), but the Ilikai actually has proper room to move around. The bathrooms are updated enough that you won’t feel like you’re roughing it, though don’t expect some ultra-modern spa experience.

What I really appreciate is how the staff seems to know the island beyond just the touristy spots. The front desk guy – I think his name was Marcus – pointed me toward this little poke place on Kapahulu that locals actually go to, not the overpriced stuff right on the beach. Parking is valet only, which runs about $35 a night, but honestly that’s pretty standard for this area and at least you don’t have to circle blocks looking for street parking. The pool area gets busy around mid-morning when families start showing up, but if you’re an early riser like me, you can have that whole deck basically to yourself with your coffee. There’s something pretty perfect about floating there around 7 AM watching the harbor wake up – fishing boats heading out, paddlers getting their morning workout in, that whole peaceful Hawaii morning thing happening.

The location puts you right at the quieter end of Waikiki, which means you’re close enough to walk to all the action on Kalakaua Avenue (maybe 10 minutes to get to the heart of things), but far enough that you’re not dealing with the constant street noise and crowds right outside your door. The beach access is solid too – you can walk straight down to the lagoon area which is actually great for kids since it’s more protected, or head over to the main Waikiki Beach stretch if you want the full scene. That 9.2 rating makes sense to me – it’s not trying to be the fanciest place on the strip, but it delivers on what matters: great views, decent space, and that authentic Hawaii feeling that’s getting harder to find these days.

Ilikai Hotel with Ocean View Accommodations

Reviews of Ilikai Hotel with Ocean View

• Selina from United States (10/10)

  Good size for our family. Love the location

• Kim from New Zealand (9/10)

  Locality
  View
  Away from the crowds
  Well stocked unit
  Buses easily accessible
  An amazing experience

• Nancy from United States (10/10)

  So nice to have both beach chairs, boards, and towels, as well as a kitchen and bathroom that were perfect for our family.

• Kim from Australia (8/10)

  Beautiful view and an excellent location.

• Paulina from United States (10/10)

  John was very communicative. We didn't realize when we booked that our flight didn't leave until 2200. We would have been left without anywhere to relax for 9 hours! Booking.com wasn't very helpful in editing my reservation either. John reached out a make sure everything was taken care of for us.

• Dorothea from Germany (10/10)

  Great location, well equipped kitchen, nice view over the marina and close to the beaches. Very clean, the pools are nice. Beach towels are provided. Everything is very up to date and it is great that it is possible to book this apartment for five people. It is easy to access all the major sites of Honolulu without a rental car, good access to public transportation.
  Stunning sunset view from the balcony!

• Kathryn from Australia (8/10)

  Property is located in a great spot in Waikiki close to the beach, shops and bus stop out front.

• Christine from United States (9/10)

Surroundings

Facilities