The Kaimana Beach Hotel: Site Inspection

I recently did a site inspection of the Kaimana Beach Hotel, on the peaceful “Gold Coast” end of Waikiki. The Kaimana draws a loyal, mostly older crowd—people who really know and love Hawai'i and prefer to avoid the busier, more commercial stretch of town. The hotel has a relaxed, low-key, “elevated surf bungalow” vibe that is very unfussy.

The hotel is older and its focus is on its direct beach access—and that stretch of sand feels noticeably calmer than the rest of Waikiki. You don’t stay here for the most updated rooms with all the bells and whistles—you choose the Kaimana because you want to walk right outside onto the sand.

Facade and parking area

Lobby

I toured several of their room categories and I recommend the updated, higher-up ocean-view rooms, some of which have cool design details like a window that opens from the bathroom so you can enjoy a semi–open-air bath with a view. The mountain-view rooms have lovely views of Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park so you can see the sunrise. If you pick ocean-view rooms, you will enjoy all-day sun (which can be intense) and a perfect Hawai'ian sunset. For mountain-view rooms, you get morning sun for the early risers and a softer sunlight the rest of the day. The rooms are smaller because, again, the emphasis is on the outdoors. At the time of writing in 2025, the décor is being updated to a very authentically Hawai'ian surf/beach theme.

Diamond Head "mountain view" refreshed suite

Oceanview room

Breakfast is served at the iconic Hau Tree, and I’d definitely recommend reservations if you want to dine there at sunset—every table has a peek at the ocean and the atmosphere is incredibly charming. If you have children who wake up early, the Hau Tree restaurant is right on the beach, so they can play while you sit there and have a cup of coffee. Don’t miss the ube cinnamon roll—it’s an incredible experience to have one while watching the sunrise!

The Hau Tree bar area; restaurant and beach on the left

In terms of amenities, the Kaimana is pretty chill—no spa, fitness center, pool, or kids' club. They have beach items (boards, umbrellas, beach chairs, etc.) to rent, as well as beach towels. There is valet-only parking, or ample off-street parking around Kapiolani Park. Most of their bookings are for the hotel (specifically ocean-view rooms; the rooms on lower floors that overlook the parking lot are rarely booked), but they do welcome events or buyouts as well. Because the Kaimana is a smaller property, they can host intimate group events or weddings on site. There is an event space upstairs that spans two floors with sweeping ocean views and would be beautiful for a small wedding or private gathering.

Diamond Head corner suite

Ocean-view room balcony

Kaimana is best suited for couples, families who do not mind smaller rooms, or groups who appreciate location and tranquility over lots of bells and whistles or the newest luxury amenities. The location on the quiet end of Waikiki is perfect—easy access to the aquarium, Diamond Head, and more—and right on the beach and Kapiolani Park.

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