Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani

Couples seeking tranquillity are in luck at Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani, where the atmosphere is peaceful and more intimate than is often the case in this part of town. It’s quieter and less crowded than Waikiki's mega-resorts, attracting fewer families with noisy kids. The high-rise, 22-floor glass-front building offers lovely ocean views -- albeit with some obstruction from neighboring hotels -- and contemporary interiors are almost like an art gallery. There are limited communal spaces for socializing, hence the low-key vibe, but the hotel has a stylish restaurant and bar with modern decor. An evening wine reception by the pool is an added bonus for those who do wish to mingle. Most guests are tourist couples on vacation, including many visitors from Japan.

Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani has a convenient location near the Sheraton in central Waikiki, just a two-minute walk from the white sands of Waikiki Beach. It's set back from the shoreline, making it feel quieter and less hectic than the hotels that abut the beach, with a narrow pathway leading right to the sand. There are a number of shops and restaurants just around the corner at Waikiki Beach Walk, while Kalakaua Avenue -- Waikiki’s main drag -- is just two blocks away. The iconic Diamond Head State Monument and Waikiki Aquarium are around a 15-minute drive from the hotel, while the Fort DeRussy U.S. Army Museum of Hawaii is a five-minute walk away. Pearl Harbor and the Honolulu International Airport are both a 25- to 30-minute drive north.

Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani has a total of 297 rooms and suites that are decorated in a simple, yet modern, style. They're all bright and clean, though a little on the small side, with furnished lanais that offer views of the city, mountains, or ocean. White walls are offset by soft pastel tones to create a fresh and cozy feel. Standard amenities include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, empty mini-fridges, coffeemakers, safes, phones, free Wi-Fi, and free robes and slippers. Simple bathrooms are tiny, but adequate, and equipped with small shower/tub combos, spacious single vanities, hairdryers, and free toiletries. Guests should be aware that some noise from morning delivery trucks has been reported, so light sleepers might like to request quieter, higher-floor rooms.

Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani's restaurant is located on the lobby level and has modern decor. The kitchen serves hot and cold American and Japanese fare in a relaxed setting, plus a varied breakfast buffet for a fee, consisting of fresh fruit, cereals, crisp pastries, meats, eggs, tea, and coffee. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day. The rectangular eighth floor pool offers a furnished sundeck and an obscured ocean view, but there’s no poolside bar. Although there’s no spa, the hotel has a small poolside fitness center with modern cardio equipment, a universal machine, and small selection of free weights. For corporate guests, there’s a stylish business center with a computer station and a modern meeting room. Attractive freebies include a free evening reception with wine and snacks, access to the Bishop Museum, Contemporary Museum, and the Honolulu Academy of Arts, and free Wi-Fi throughout. Hotel services include a 24-hour front desk, laundry services, and tour assistance. Self-parking is available, but this costs extra.