Waikiki Marina Resort at the Ilikai

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about the Waikiki Marina Resort at the Ilikai – it’s one of those places that actually gets better the longer you stay there. When I first walked into the lobby, honestly, I wasn’t blown away. It’s got that distinctly 1960s Hawaii vibe going on (the building’s been around since ’64), and while some might call it dated, I mean… there’s something charmingly authentic about it that the newer resorts just can’t fake.

Here’s what you need to know – and this is coming from someone who’s stayed at way too many Waikiki hotels – the Ilikai sits right at the western edge of Waikiki Beach, which is actually perfect. You’re close enough to walk to all the action on Kalakaua Avenue in about ten minutes, but far enough away that you’re not dealing with the constant crowds and street performers outside your window. The marina location means you’ll hear boats puttering around in the morning instead of traffic, which is… well, it’s pretty great for your sanity. Plus, you’re literally next to the Ala Wai Harbor, so if you’re into any kind of water activities – sailing, fishing charters, whatever – you’re in the right spot.

The rooms themselves vary quite a bit since this is technically a condo-hotel situation, but most have those floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the ocean or marina views beautifully. I stayed in a partial ocean view room on the 18th floor, and honestly, watching the sunset from that lanai became my daily ritual. The trade winds actually work in your favor here too – the building’s positioned so you get that natural air conditioning flowing through most of the time. Parking can be a bit of a headache (it’s valet only and not cheap), but that’s pretty much standard for this part of Waikiki. What I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night compared to the hotels closer to the main strip – you can actually sleep with the windows open and just hear the ocean. The pool area isn’t huge, but it’s never packed, and there’s something to be said for being able to grab a lounger without planning a military operation. You know what really sold me on this place though? The local families who come to the little beach area right in front – it feels more like real Hawaii and less like a tourist bubble.

Rooms

• Studio City View with 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children

Reviews

• Constance from Singapore (9/10)

  Kitchen amenities were really useful. I was able to have meals there without having to look for something like cutleries or microwaves or coffee machines.

• Linda from New Zealand (8/10)

  Location was perfect but the property is tired and could do with a refresh

• Mavis from United States (7/10)

  It could sleep (3) comfortably. The location was good. Laundry room. Kitchen facility.

• Simon from Switzerland (9/10)

  Top location – walking easily to Waikiki beach – with everything you might need at your doorstep. Spacious, clean and comfortable.

• David from United States (8/10)

  Location was great to access the beach, shopping and restaurants

• Elena from Australia (9/10)

  We have stayed there several times, love location,staff and pool facilities

• Elena from Australia (9/10)

  Location is great

• Mahdi from United States (9/10)

  Location

• Dawn from United States (9/10)

  Good location, free fireworks at the property next door on Friday nights.

• Faisal from United Kingdom (9/10)

  Very nice big spacious hotel and room, staff were friendly and welcoming was close to the beach and had alot of shops on the resort which was convenient. Had a easy check in and out experience we arrived late at night and explained this to the staff a day before by phone and they arranged for us to get our room by the security team which was helpful. Rooms were clean we had a enjoyable stay.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities