Romer Waikiki at The Ambassador

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first heard about the Romer Waikiki at The Ambassador, I wasn’t sure what to expect. The name alone sounds like it went through some corporate rebranding, you know? But after actually staying there, I get why this place has an 8.2 rating and holds onto its four-star status without all the pretentious nonsense you sometimes get with higher-end Waikiki hotels.

The thing about this hotel is that it sits in this sweet spot where you’re definitely in Waikiki – I mean, you can hear the ocean if you listen for it – but you’re not drowning in the chaos of Kalakaua Avenue. It’s got this sort of boutique vibe that feels more grown-up than some of the massive resort complexes nearby. The lobby actually surprised me with its clean, modern aesthetic (think mid-century meets tropical, but not in a cheesy tiki bar way). Check-in was smooth, and the staff seemed to genuinely know the area well – they pointed me toward this little poke spot that I never would’ve found otherwise, tucked away where only locals seem to go.

What really won me over, though, were the small details that make a difference when you’re trying to decompress. The rooms are thoughtfully designed without being fussy – good lighting for actually reading, outlets where you need them, and honestly, some of the most comfortable hotel beds I’ve encountered in Hawaii. The bathrooms have decent water pressure, which sounds minor until you’ve spent a week getting drizzled on by sad hotel showerheads. You can tell they’ve put thought into the guest experience without going overboard with unnecessary amenities that just jack up the price.

The pool area has this relaxed energy where you can actually have a conversation without competing with poolside DJs or screaming kids (though it’s not stuffy – families are welcome, it’s just more mellow). I spent most mornings there with coffee before the day heated up, and evenings unwinding after walking around town. Speaking of which, you’re close enough to everything that matters – the beach, decent restaurants, shopping if that’s your thing – but far enough from the main tourist corridor that you can walk back to relative quiet when you need a break. Parking isn’t free, which is annoying but pretty standard for Waikiki these days, and they do validate if you eat at their restaurant.

The only real downsides I noticed were pretty minor – the elevators can be slow during busy periods, and like most Waikiki hotels, street-side rooms pick up some traffic noise (though it’s not terrible). Overall, this feels like a place for people who want to be in Waikiki without all the spring break energy, if that makes sense. It’s polished and comfortable without trying too hard to impress you, which I actually found refreshing.

Early hotels booking in Hawaii is essential during major events like the Ironman World Championship, as accommodations fill up quickly with visitors eager to experience the islands’ renowned surfing culture and tropical beauty.

Rooms

• Partial Ocean View 2 Bedroom Suite with 4 × 1 extra-large double bed for 5 adults
• Ocean View One-Bedroom Suite with 2 × 1 large double bed for 4 adults
• Accessible Partial Ocean View with King Bed and Tub with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Neighborhood View with Bunk Beds with 1 single bed and 1 large double bed for 3 adults
• Accessible Partial Ocean View One-Bedroom Suite with Roll-In Shower with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults
• Accessible Ocean View One Bedroom Suite w/ Roll-In Shower with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 3 adults
• Accessible Partial Ocean View with One King and Roll-in Shower with 1 extra-large double bed for 3 adults
• Ocean View King Bed with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Partial Ocean View with 2 Queens with 2 large double beds for 4 adults
• Neighborhood View One-bedroom Suite with One King and Sofa Bed with extra-large double bed, 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults
• Family Double Room with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 2 × 1 bunk bed for 5 adults
• Neighborhood View with Two Queen Beds with 2 large double beds for 4 adults
• Partial Ocean View with King Bed and Sofa Bed with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults
• Partial Ocean View with One King Bed with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Neighborhood View with One King Bed with 1 extra-large double bed for 2 adults
• Neighborhood View One King with Sofa Bed with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults

Reviews

• Jandre from Australia (9/10)

  Very polite staff. Great view and excellent amenities in the room.

• Lefty1665 from United States (8/10)

  Amazing staff, comfortable bed, and location.

• John from Australia (9/10)

  We loved our stay at this hotel. We really enjoyed the whole nostalgic feel of the place which has been refurbished to present a retro 60s/70s Honolulu surf beach vibe. So clever and quirky and the pool with happy hour and people enjoying the sun was fabulous. We had friends staying at another hotel nearby for more dollars and they were jealous of our great choice. The staff was terrific and no request was too much trouble for them. The location is central but out of the busier areas.

• Dace from Croatia (7/10)

• Rafael from New Zealand (9/10)

  The hotel looks great particularly the room even though it was an old building. The staff at reception was very kind and helpful. This is exceptional service especially me arriving early in the morning.

• Arjana from United States (9/10)

  The property was so cute, very festive since we booked near Christmas time. Kerri Ann at the front desk, and Gavin at valet were exceptional staff! The bedrooms were spacious, comfortable and I loved the bathroom. It was close by Waikiki, and nightlife! The food wasn’t the best near this area – I’d recommend driving / ubering to restaurants in other areas outside Waikiki!

• Song from New Zealand (9/10)

  Superb location, value for money and the room was very clean.

• Lena from Singapore (8/10)

  Love the location. It’s away from the hustle and bustle and the views are great! Slept with the balcony doors opened at night. Traffic is rather noisy but it’s the same everywhere.

• Artur from Poland (8/10)

  You can find a lot of options nearby.

• Smith from Australia (9/10)

  We stayed here a total of 4 nights. The staff was very friendly and accommodating.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities