Waikiki Resort Hotel

Waikiki Resort Hotel opened in 1971 and while it’s been updated over the years (most recently in 2008), it’s still a budget property. Splashes of color filter through a wall of stained-glass windows in the partially open-air -- but surprisingly dark -- lobby. It's a pleasant-enough welcome, and as one of the cheaper hotels in the Waikiki area, you could do far worse. The property is owned by Korean Air and its flight crews as well as Koreans on package tours are a fixture here. For some, the hotel’s tired (and in places dated) appearance could be a dealbreaker, but the great location and unfussy atmosphere make it a decent Waikiki option for those on a budget. However, it doesn't live up to the "resort" claim in its name, and instead feels a bit disjointed overall -- the spa is more strip-mall than luxe retreat, though the Korean restaurant cranks out some excellent authentic fare. In addition to its many Korean guests, the hotel attracts quite a few Japanese and American couples and families seeking bargain rates near the beach. There are better, similarly priced, options in Waikiki though. Try the Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel or the Park Shore Waikiki -- both are livelier and closer to the beach.

This hotel is situated in central Waikiki and the two-minute walk to Kuhio Beach is easily its best selling point. This stretch of beach is protected, making it better for families with children wanting to swim (though the hotel itself doesn't have many kid-friendly amenities). Water-sports rentals can be found along the shore, and surf lessons are available at the beach for a fee. Shops, convenience stores, and restaurants serving cuisines ranging from steaks to sushi are found in any direction from the hotel's front door. Other Waikiki attractions include the Honolulu Zoo (a four-minute drive) and the Waikiki Aquarium (six minutes in a car). The trailheads at Diamond Head State Monument are 10 minutes away by car and hikes to the top -- for outstanding Waikiki views -- take around 45 minutes. Downtown Honolulu and Iolani Palace are about a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Budget 30 minutes to reach Hanuama Bay for excellent snorkeling, while the North Shore is around an hour away by car for those looking to tap into Oahu's surf culture. Honolulu International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the hotel depending on traffic. 

Rooms here are a decent value if you can overlook their slightly tired and generic tropical decor. You'll find an abundance of neutral tones, plus old-school details like nylon patterned bedspreads, pineapple-carved headboards, and colorful paintings of tropical scenes. Beds are a mix of kings, queens, or two doubles. Overall, the rooms are spacious, though they won't impress on a style level. Thankfully, the central location means most guests are out and about all day. Standard features include small flat-screen TVs with cable channels, DVD players, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi (included in resort fee), alarm clocks with integrated USB plugs, irons and ironing boards, mini-fridges, and coffeemakers with free coffee and tea. All rooms have private balconies with two plastic armchairs, but most views -- including the marketed ocean views -- are partially obstructed by surrounding high-rise buildings. Upgraded rooms can include kitchenettes, two balconies, and multiple rooms.Unfortunately, bathrooms are a mixed bag. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with fixtures like tiny sinks and stall showers or roomy granite vanities and shower/tub combos. We spotted a bit of rust on details like vintage Kleenex dispensers during our 2017 visit.

While this hotel calls itself a resort -- and charges mandatory resort fees -- its slim offerings don't live up to those claims. Indeed, features are few, and what's on offer is quite basic (especially since other similarly priced, beach-adjacent properties are available in Waikiki). Dining, though, is well-liked by previous guests. Perhaps it's no surprise that as a hotel run by Korean Air, the Korean restaurant here serves authentic Korean fare (which might be the highlight of the hotel's features). The other restaurant offers American fare, including the buffet breakfast, which costs extra. There’s also an independently-owned bar on-site.There is a pool, but keep in mind that it's small, unheated, and lacks any views. Waikiki Resort Spa offers massages, facials, and waxing services. However, it feels more strip-mall than tropical resort, so expectations should be measured. Korean Air has an office and airport-check in desk in the lobby. Also in the lobby is a free DVD rental machine, business center with free printing, and free newspapers. You can find multiple shops in the lobby as well, including a gift store, vitamin shop, and a convenience store. The hotel has meeting rooms and there's also a laundry room near the parking garage. Wi-Fi is included in the hotel’s mandatory resort fees. Parking is available on-site, but costs extra.