Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

This huge beachfront resort is centered around a bright 40-story atrium with an aquaponic garden and towering palm trees. Aloha dancers add to the lively atmosphere, while talking parrots and trickling waterfalls all scream, "Tropical island getaway." That sort of unsubtle touch is fitting here, as it's a big and busy place. Even so, this Hyatt is a nice option for the area, with fresh and modern interiors. While most guests flock to the beach during the day, others are found at the freshwater pool, which has nice beach views. However, given the hotel's size, the outdoor spaces here are surprisingly small, which makes everything feel that much more crowded. The family vibe continues into the evening, with nightly entertainment and families dining on the terrace as the sun sets. The hotel mostly attracts Japanese and American families, though some business travelers and couples also stay here. 

This hotel is located right across from the Duke Kahanamoku Statue, marking the most famous stretch of Waikiki Beach. It's also situated along Waikiki’s main strip, Kalakaua Avenue, putting a mile-long stretch of restaurants and shops within an easy walk. Just south of the property is quieter Kuhio Beach, with an outer sea wall for protected swimming in case there’s a large south swell (this also makes it a popular spot for families). There are plenty of shopping complexes nearby, including the International Marketplace and Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, plus attractions like Honolulu Zoo and the Waikiki Aquarium. The famous Diamond Head Crater is a 20-minute drive from the Hyatt, while Ala Wai Golf Course is 10 minutes away by car. Budget 25 minutes to reach the Pearl Harbor memorial sites by car. Honolulu International Airport is a 30-minute drive away, depending on traffic.

The Hyatt Regency Waikiki has a grand total of 1,230 rooms and suites. They're all spacious and bright, decorated in a modern style that includes light blue hues and subtle island accents. Rooms are finished with sleek mid-tone wood-veneer furniture, crisp white bed linens, and colorful tropical artwork on the walls. Each room has a narrow furnished lanai offering picturesque sea, city, or mountain views -- though some guests have complained that north and east facing rooms look down on alleyways and roofs. Amenities are generous, and include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, empty mini-fridges, iPod docking stations, laptop-compatible safes, phones, ironing facilities, and free Wi-Fi. Robes and slippers are provided. Suites add separate living areas and kitchenettes with microwaves and sinks. Modern bathrooms are spotless, equipped with rainfall shower/tub combos and free spa-branded toiletries. 

Like any good Waikiki mega-resort, the Hyatt Regency is packed with features, though some are a little underwhelming and fees have a tendency to add up (despite an already obnoxious daily resort fee). An outdoor freshwater pool is ringed with daybeds and includes a hot tub. It's located on the third-floor terrace, though the pool is relatively small considering the massive size of the hotel. It can get crowded and busy. Guests can grab a cold beer or cocktail from the poolside bar and take in the beach views, and there are also kid-friendly activities at the kids' club. Keep in mind that kids' club access isn't free. Aloha Fridays provides free entertainment and activities like making lei, hula dancing, or fire dancing. There's also an attractive spa for those who want to relax, offering massage and beauty treatments in a tranquil setting overlooking the ocean. Those craving adrenaline can head to the modern fitness center, which is small, but sufficient enough for a basic work out.The resort's modern American restaurant serves seafood and steak in a relaxed setting, with outdoor terrace seating for alfresco dining. A generous breakfast buffet with hot and cold options is served every morning, though this is an expensive extra. Bars are located throughout the hotel. Those staying in Club Rooms have access to the Regency Club Lounge, which includes free drinks and snacks, as well as breakfast. It has views of Diamond Head that are particularly nice in the mornings. On-site shopping includes three levels of boutiques and specialty stores. There's also a 24-hour business center with modern meeting rooms. Other hotel services include a concierge, coin-operated laundry, tour assistance, car rentals, and free Wi-Fi. On-site valet parking is available, but this costs extra.