The Breakers Hotel

The Breakers' cheap island decor does have some kitschy appeal, though much of it is substantially worn down. The open-air lobby has some homey touches, which include wooden shelves filled with loaner books for guests. Atop the bookshelves are framed pictures of an overfed cat, who can often be found lazing about in the lobby. Though the hotel is definitely showing its age after more than six decades in operation, a certain old Hawaiian charm continues to draw repeat guests year after year, including some families who have been visiting The Breakers for generations.

Located on the western edge of central Waikiki, The Breakers sits on the somewhat deceptively named Beachwalk Street, a one-way road off Kalakaua Avenue that leads toward but is not on the beach. An array of restaurants, including the Hard Rock Cafe and other chains, are within walking distance up and down Beachwalk. Nearby touristy Kalakaua Avenue is a busy stretch of shops, restaurants, and high-rise hotels that cuts across Waikiki. Diamond Head, Ala Wai golf course, and the Honolulu Zoo are all short drives (15 minutes or less) from the hotel. Honolulu International Airport is a 20- to 25-minute cab ride away.

The rooms are dated and in need of updates, especially where the rugs and tube-style TVs are concerned, though retro pieces like hanging chain lamps add character. Each room has a kitchenette with appliances so old they could be in a museum. They add an authentic vintage touch that's not typically found in other area hotels, but some guests may prefer their kitchens to be more functional than these. The bathrooms are equally dated, but some have new sinks and fixtures. A highlight of the second-floor rooms are the Japanese-style sliding patio doors that open onto private balconies. Rooms on the first floor offer less impressive shuttered doors that lead to the central pool courtyard.

The hotel's six buildings surround a small pool, which has a pleasant deck with lounge chairs and some umbrella-shaded table and chairs where guests sometimes gather to eat outside. Adjacent to the pool is Wasabi Bistro, which is a popular Japanese restaurant that serves a full menu featuring sushi and local seafood specials. The lobby has free coffee and the free Wi-Fi there is also functional in the pool area, but may or may not be accessible from the guest rooms. The hotel also has free parking in the back, but it's limited to a handful of spots.