Ilikai Tower 1918 Lagoon View 1BR

Hotel Description

You know what? The Ilikai Tower gets a bad rap sometimes, but honestly, this lagoon view unit on the 19th floor completely changed my perspective on the place. I mean, sure, it’s not the Ritz – we’re talking about a solid 3-star property here – but there’s something genuinely charming about staying in this piece of Waikiki history that most people just walk right past.

The first thing that hits you when you walk into 1918 is that view. And I’m not just saying that because “lagoon view” is in the name – you actually get this perfect angle of the Ala Wai Harbor that most tourists never even think to look at. While everyone’s crowding onto those tiny Kalakaua Avenue balconies trying to glimpse the ocean between buildings, you’re watching the outrigger canoe teams practice at sunrise and the local fishing boats heading out in the early morning. The one-bedroom setup is pretty practical too – the living area opens right onto that view, so you can literally roll out of bed and see Diamond Head framing the harbor. It’s one of those moments where you think, “okay, this is actually Hawaii.”

The building itself is… well, it’s vintage Hawaii, let’s put it that way. You’ll hear the elevator music from the 70s (I swear they haven’t updated it), and the hallways have that slightly worn carpet that somehow feels authentic rather than shabby. But here’s the thing locals know – the Ilikai sits right at this perfect spot where you can walk to the convention center side of things (way less crowded) or head toward the main Waikiki action in about ten minutes. Plus, you’re practically next door to the Ala Moana Shopping Center, which honestly has better food options than most of the tourist traps anyway. Parking can be a bit of a dance – the garage fills up during convention season – but the trade-off is you’re not paying those insane resort fees that hit you at the newer places. The 7.7 rating feels about right; it’s not going to blow your mind with luxury, but it delivers on that authentic island vibe without trying too hard. And honestly? After spending a day hiking Manoa Falls or snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, you just want a comfortable bed, a decent shower, and that lagoon view with your morning coffee.

Rooms

• Apartment with 1 sofa bed and 1 large double bed for 4 adults, 3 children

Reviews

• Mike from United States (2/10)

  We liked the view okay and the Ilikai itself.

• Kelly from United States (7/10)

  Amazing view.

• Rich from United States (8/10)

  it was good

• Daisuke from Japan (8/10)

  Nice view

• Lindsi from United States (8/10)

• Tadashi from Japan (7/10)

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities