Hotel Spotlight: An Oceanfront Gem in Waikiki

The location: Beachfront & walkable

The Alohilani sits directly across the street from Waikiki Beach. I could be out of my room, across Kalakaua Avenue, and on the sand in minutes. No beach shuttle or long walk required. You’re also just a short walk from great shopping, restaurants, and cultural spots like the Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium.

Even though Waikiki can get busy, the resort feels like its own little pocket of calm. Perfect if you want to be in the heart of it all, without feeling overwhelmed by it.

Lobby

Ocean views from the room / Stephanie Ivy

Oceanfront room / Stephanie Ivy

What makes the property stand out

There are a lot of hotels in this area, but these features really made Alohilani memorable:

1. Infinity pool with a view
   The pool deck on the fifth floor overlooks the ocean and feels like a scene out of a travel magazine. It’s the kind of place you can easily spend a lazy afternoon, cocktail in hand, toes in the water. There’s also a kids’ splash area nearby, but the space is designed in a way that keeps it peaceful even with families around.

2. The Oceanarium in the lobby
   This was such a cool surprise. The lobby boasts a massive, two-story saltwater aquarium full of reef fish and coral. It’s beautiful, calming, and adds a really unique energy to the space.

3. Thoughtful amenities

   • Spacious fitness center and wellness classes through a local fitness club partnership

   • On-site dining including Momosan (a ramen and sake bar) and Morimoto Asia, both from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto

   • Clean, modern rooms with ocean or Diamond Head views (highly recommend splurging on the view if you can)

4. Sustainability efforts
   Alohilani is the first hotel in Hawai'i to commit to a carbon-neutral future, with a clear sustainability pledge. They’ve partnered with local organizations to plant native trees and reduce environmental impact. For travelers who care about responsible tourism, that’s a major plus.

5. Cultural programming
   The resort occasionally hosts cultural experiences like lei-making, ukulele lessons, or live Hawai'ian music. It’s not always heavily advertised, but it’s worth checking with the concierge or front desk when you arrive.

Oceanfront room with balcony / Stephanie Ivy

Infinity pool / Stephanie Ivy

Whether it’s your first time in Waikiki or you’ve been before, here are a few useful tips to make the most of your stay at Alohilani and the destination overall:

• Book early for ocean views
  Rooms with oceanfront or Diamond Head views are limited and tend to book out quickly, especially during peak seasons (winter holidays, spring break, and summer). If waking up to ocean blues is a priority, it’s worth locking that in early.

• The beach is public
  Like all beaches in Hawai'i, Waikiki Beach is public, which means it can get busy. For a quieter spot, head toward the east end near Kapiʻolani Park, or venture out early in the morning when the crowds are thinner.

• Use the beach rentals included in your stay
  With your resort fee, you’ll have access to complimentary boogie boards, chairs, and umbrellas, so no need to rent them separately. These are available through a local partner just across the street from the hotel.

• Plan around traffic
  Waikiki is walkable, but if you plan to explore other parts of the island (like the North Shore or Ko Olina), keep in mind that Oahu traffic can be unpredictable.

• Reef-safe sunscreen is a must
  Hawai'i’s sun is strong year-round. Reef-safe sunscreen is not only recommended, it's required by law. Bring your own or purchase from local shops. It’s easy to find and better for the environment.

• Respect local culture and environment
  Small actions make a big difference: follow posted signs at the beach, avoid stepping on coral, and be mindful when visiting sacred or historic sites. Hawai'i’s natural beauty and culture are deeply rooted and widely appreciated. Treating both with care makes the experience better for everyone.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Hawai'i page.