Ilikai Marina 1381 City View Studio

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about the Ilikai Marina – it’s one of those places that grows on you, even though your first impression might be “well, this is very… 1970s.” The building itself is this massive concrete tower that’s been a Waikiki landmark forever (you’ve probably seen it in old Hawaii Five-O reruns without realizing it), and honestly, that retro vibe is part of its charm once you embrace it.

The City View Studio on the 13th floor – room 1381 – is pretty much what you’d expect from a solid four-star spot, though I’d say it punches slightly below its weight class. The room’s clean and functional with that typical condo-hotel setup, but don’t expect anything Instagram-worthy. What you’re really paying for here is the location and that sweeping view over Honolulu’s urban sprawl toward the mountains. Actually, the city view grows on you – especially at sunset when all those high-rises catch the light. The studio’s got everything you need (decent kitchenette, comfortable enough bed, air conditioning that actually works), but the furnishings feel a bit tired. I mean, it’s not shabby, just… lived-in.

Here’s what I wish someone had told me before booking: the marina location means you’re about a 10-minute walk to the main Waikiki Beach area, which is actually perfect if you want to avoid the worst crowds but still be close to everything. You’re right next to the Ala Wai Harbor, so you’ll hear some boat activity during the day – not annoying, just part of the ambient sound. The building can feel a bit maze-like when you first arrive (seriously, bring your room number with you), and parking is valet-only at around $35 a night, which stings a bit. But you know what? You’re literally across from the convention center and walking distance to Ala Moana Center, which locals actually use – not just tourist shops. The hotel’s pool deck is where this place really shines though. It’s this sprawling area that feels way more resort-like than the rooms suggest, and you can actually find a quiet spot even when it’s busy. Check-in was smooth enough, though the front desk staff seemed like they’d answered the same questions about nearby restaurants about a thousand times that day. For a 7.0 rating, it delivers exactly what it promises – nothing spectacular, but nothing disappointing either. It’s the kind of place that works really well if you’re planning to be out exploring most of the time and just need a comfortable home base with a decent view and a pool to come back to.

The concierge service in Hawaii can arrange exclusive volcano helicopter tours, secure reservations at oceanfront luau restaurants, and organize personalized snorkeling adventures with marine biologists.

Rooms

• Apartment with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 2 adults

Reviews

• Laura from United States (5/10)

  Location

• Martin from Czech Republic (9/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities