Waikiki Banyan #908

Hotel Description

You know what really caught me off guard about Waikiki Banyan #908? It’s actually on the quieter side of the Banyan complex, which honestly makes all the difference when you’re trying to sleep off jet lag or just want to decompress after a day at the beach. I mean, you’re still right in the thick of Waikiki, but unit 908 sits high enough that you get this nice buffer from the street noise that can drive you crazy in some of the lower-floor places around here.

The thing about staying in the Banyan is that you’re basically living like a local for a week – well, sort of. You’ve got that full kitchen setup, which becomes pretty essential when you realize how expensive it is to eat out for every single meal in Waikiki (trust me on this one). The lanai gives you decent views, and depending on the time of day, you can actually catch some ocean glimpses between the other buildings. It’s not a postcard-perfect ocean view, but it’s real Hawaii, you know? Plus, you’re literally a three-minute walk to Kuhio Beach, and if you wake up early enough – like 6:30 AM early – you can grab a decent spot on the sand before the tour groups descend. The building itself has that classic 1970s Hawaii condo vibe (the elevators are… well, they’re vintage), but everything in 908 feels well-maintained and actually comfortable. What I really appreciated was having the washer and dryer right there – after a few days of beach and hiking, you’ll understand why that matters. The ABC Store downstairs is clutch for basics, though you’ll want to hit the Foodland on Keeaumoku Street for actual groceries if you plan to cook. One heads up though: the trade winds can make the lanai pretty breezy some afternoons, which is great for cooling off but not so great if you’re trying to read without your pages flying around.

Honestly, this spot works best for people who want to experience Waikiki without feeling like they’re stuck in a hotel bubble. You’re close enough to walk to Duke’s for sunset drinks, hit the Friday night fireworks at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, or catch the bus to other parts of the island (the stop is right on Kuhio Avenue). The building can get pretty busy during peak times – January through March, and summer months – so the elevators move a bit slower, but that’s just Waikiki life. For a 4-star place with solid ratings, it delivers on being a real home base rather than just somewhere to crash. It’s not fancy, but it’s genuine, comfortable, and puts you right where you want to be without the resort prices.

Visitors often choose Hawaii apartments over traditional hotels because they provide more space, kitchen facilities, and the opportunity to live like a local in this magnificent Pacific paradise.

Rooms

• One Bedroom Apartment with extra-large double bed, 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities