VIVE Hotel Waikiki

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about VIVE Hotel Waikiki – it’s one of those places that punches way above its weight class. When I first walked in, I honestly wasn’t expecting much from a 3-star spot in Waikiki (let’s face it, this area can be hit or miss), but this place actually gets it right in ways that matter.

The thing about VIVE is they’ve figured out how to do boutique style without the boutique price tag, you know? The lobby has this clean, modern vibe that feels more like a trendy mainland hotel than your typical Hawaiian tourist trap. I mean, don’t get me wrong – you’re not getting marble floors and crystal chandeliers, but the design is thoughtful and the staff actually seems to care about what they’re doing. Check-in was surprisingly smooth, and they knew I was coming, which sounds basic but you’d be amazed how many places in Waikiki mess that up during busy season.

Here’s what really impressed me though – the rooms are way more spacious than you’d expect for the price point, and honestly, the views depend entirely on which side you’re on (ask for ocean-facing if it’s available, obviously). The AC works well, which is crucial because Waikiki can get pretty stuffy, especially those humid summer nights when the trade winds die down. Parking is going to run you extra – this is Waikiki after all – but it’s actually on-site, which saves you from hunting around the crowded side streets. The neighborhood itself is solid; you’re close enough to the beach action but far enough from Kalakaua Avenue that you won’t be dealing with the nonstop party noise until 3 AM.

What really sets VIVE apart is the attention to small details that show someone’s actually thinking about the guest experience. The WiFi works everywhere (seriously, try getting decent internet in some of the older Waikiki properties), the beds are comfortable enough that I didn’t wake up feeling like I’d been wrestling with a rock, and the bathroom toiletries are actually decent quality. It’s not luxury, but it’s thoughtful – there’s a difference. The pool area is pretty compact, but it’s clean and gets good sun in the afternoons.

The location puts you within walking distance of pretty much everything you’d want to hit – the beach, decent restaurants, ABC stores for those inevitable forgotten essentials – without being right in the chaos of the main tourist corridor. I found myself walking to dinner most nights instead of dealing with parking or rideshares, which honestly made the whole trip more relaxed. For what you’re paying at a 3-star level, VIVE delivers a solid 4-star experience, and that 8.7 rating makes complete sense once you spend a few nights there. It’s the kind of place where you feel like you got a good deal rather than wondering what corners they cut.

Rooms

• Standard Queen Room with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Junior Suite with Mountain View with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Family Suite with 2 × 2 large double beds for 4 adults, 3 children
• Junior Suite Ocean View – Accessible with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children
• Queen Room with Sea View with 1 large double bed for 2 adults, 1 child
• Standard Twin Room with 2 single beds for 2 adults, 1 child
• Junior Suite with Ocean View with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children

Reviews

• Diana from Colombia (9/10)

  Friendly staff, the hotel has great customer service, breakfast was amazing, if you need staff to enjoy the beach they are able to provide everything for you (umbrella, towels and surf boards). I had really great experience.
  Highly recommended!

• Karin from United States (9/10)

  Super close to the beach, shopping and food

• Sharon from Canada (8/10)

  The location is perfect. They also provide beach towel, chairs, and umbrella which is amazing. The hotel also provides breakfast.

• Alan from Australia (9/10)

  We chose Vive for our anniversary getaway, and it was absolutely wonderful! The location was perfect—just a short stroll to the beach, shopping, and an amazing poke spot just steps away. The staff were all so friendly and welcoming, and Cory went above and beyond to make sure we had everything we needed. The amenities were top-notch, and the complimentary breakfast was such a sweet bonus. We loved being able to enjoy free tea and coffee anytime, and the beach gear available for guests was a thoughtful touch. Overall, we had an unforgettable stay at Vive, and I’d highly recommend it to anyone visiting Hawaii!

• Francesco from Italy (9/10)

  We were really pleased by the availability and kindness of the staff (valet was awesome!). The possibility to get a coffee whenever during the day and the beach stuff were amazing too. We really enjoyed our stay

• Codog from Philippines (9/10)

  First of all, I would like to thank the whole valet parking team, they are very efficient, helpful, cheerful and most of all super friendly. Also the front desk, specially the lady who checked me in it’s a gem to this hotel. Breakfast is more than enough, cleanliness is in tiptop shape most of all the location of Vive hotel is the best. Keep it up and will definitely return to this hotel.

• Toby from United States (9/10)

  The breakfast was very impressive

• Marorin from United States (9/10)

  Vive is located two blocks from Waikiki Beach and a block away from various restaurants (Marugame Udon is a few blocks away!) and shopping areas. We were upgraded to a king room and had a ton of space. The bed and pillows were comfortable. The front desk had items that I needed throughout my stay (band aids, toothbrush, and a phone charging cord). I also liked that they had beach gear rentals, which made it so much easier to enjoy the beach. There is an included breakfast, which was pretty similar each day, but I can’t complain about free breakfast. The lobby also had water filters. Bring your reusable water bottles!

• Diaz from United States (9/10)

  ARNEL, treats you like family, always friendly and with a big smile.

• Federica from United Kingdom (8/10)

  In the city center, good breakfast, beach towels, beach umbrella and other items (even sun cream!) to go to the beach given daily for free!
  Very friendly staff

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities