Honolulu Summer 2005
Jul 18th, 2004, 08:51 AM
#21
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HI all. I also love Oahu. It has it all.
Bonnie, I looked up the New Otani Hotel. Can you tell me where this is in relation to say, HHV? I am not placeing where it is. Is it far to walk to the action? It is a beautiful hotel and seems pretty reasonable compared to others.
Bonnie, I looked up the New Otani Hotel. Can you tell me where this is in relation to say, HHV? I am not placeing where it is. Is it far to walk to the action? It is a beautiful hotel and seems pretty reasonable compared to others.
Jul 18th, 2004, 09:09 AM
#22
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Heavens, it is all the way down at the other end of the "Waikiki Strip", not technically Waikiki. Right across the street from Kapiolani Park, nestled at the foot of Diamond Head, so to speak. It is upscale but not super-luxurious. The cheapest, standard rooms are tiny, and I wouldn't be happy in one but what they call their suites, especially oceanview jr. suites, are wonderful, with terrific views. The building itself is average, the lobby, etc. are fine but nothing overwhelming. It's the location on Sans Souci Beach (glorious place to swim), the views from the suites, the quieter location and the immaculate, nicely-decorated rooms that we like. (See their virtual tours of their rooms - spare, slightly Oriental style decor but quite nice.) And the Hau Tree Lanai restaurant, right on the sand.
All their rooms are smoking (and I AM sensitive about smoke, and wouldn't have known it), and they do not have a pool BUT you don't need one with the calm ocean there.
Yes, we walked up to the "action" although you probably shouldn't late at night....... The whole Waikiki strip is, I believe, "about" two miles from HHV to the Park. So it's quieter down there, but you can easily get to the center of things. We really enjoyed the place, and will have a hard time going somewhere else now.
All their rooms are smoking (and I AM sensitive about smoke, and wouldn't have known it), and they do not have a pool BUT you don't need one with the calm ocean there.
Yes, we walked up to the "action" although you probably shouldn't late at night....... The whole Waikiki strip is, I believe, "about" two miles from HHV to the Park. So it's quieter down there, but you can easily get to the center of things. We really enjoyed the place, and will have a hard time going somewhere else now.
Jul 19th, 2004, 07:06 AM
#23
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Whoo-hoo, I think I've hit the jackpot here!
Awesome comments by everyone. It's fascinating to see such passions stirred up. Now I'm very much looking forward to this trip!
For those who suggest at least splitting our time between Honolulu and North Shore-- it's a possibility, but we're both fine with headquartering in HNL and having a car to explore the island on day trips. I just don't like checking in and out of hotels and schlepping the luggage around more than I have to.
Again, I thank everyone for their comments. A lot to think about before the reservations are made! And if this helps anyone else in their plans, all the better. Thank you!!!!
Awesome comments by everyone. It's fascinating to see such passions stirred up. Now I'm very much looking forward to this trip!
For those who suggest at least splitting our time between Honolulu and North Shore-- it's a possibility, but we're both fine with headquartering in HNL and having a car to explore the island on day trips. I just don't like checking in and out of hotels and schlepping the luggage around more than I have to.
Again, I thank everyone for their comments. A lot to think about before the reservations are made! And if this helps anyone else in their plans, all the better. Thank you!!!!
Jul 20th, 2004, 05:57 PM
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If you can possibly afford the Halekulani, book it, and book it now, as it fills up fast. When I was there earlier this year, I stayed in one of the suites overlooking the pool and the ocean--probably the nicest hotel room I've ever been in. The service is impeccable and the food is excellent. It is within easy walking distance to the Waikiki shops. Just be prepared to open your wallet, but they do have some Internet specials on their web site.
Jul 22nd, 2004, 06:21 PM
#26
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rjw:
Congrats on your trip. Count me in on those who LOVE Oahu. It really has it all. We visited last year and just couldn't get enough of the mix that appears to be unique to this island. I literally cried when I had to go.
Waikiki is a really fun city -- it has such energy, diversity, and history. But, it is only one side of Oahu. The starkness of the west coast, the totally laid back feel of the north shore, the majesty of the Koolau mountains, and surreal beauty of the beaches at Lanikai and Waimanalo. It is the only place we have ever visited that has so entranced us that we are going back 2 years in a row.
The routine we settled into was exploring/beach flopping during the day and joining in the spectacle that is Waikiki at night.
Our very favorite spot on the island was Lanikai beach. Heavenly. You just have to see it to know what I mean. Maybe you want to consider renting a beachfront home on Lanikai or Kailua beach for part of your stay. Try to catch a sunrise there if you can.
As for Waikiki accomodations, we did not stay at Halekulani, but did visit and found the public areas wonderful.
Ocean front House without a Key was a perfect place for sunset drinks and had live music. We also visited the New Otani -- the lobby was OK, but the Hau Tree Lanai was especially nice in the evening and is practically on the beach. GREAT sunsets here and the Beach at New Otani is wonderful for swimming and people watching. No pool though if that's an issue for you.
We stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, which wouldn't be a good choice in summer if you would prefer less kids. Do visit though - Friday night is an especially good time with the fireworks and King's Jubilee show. The grounds alone are worth a look see and you may want to catch some live entertainment here. Olamana was especially good -- I believe you can see them on Friday or Saturday nights.
Do spend some time watching the surfing/body surfing at Sandy Beach and snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is worthwhile -- just go early.
Hope you have a blast!
Congrats on your trip. Count me in on those who LOVE Oahu. It really has it all. We visited last year and just couldn't get enough of the mix that appears to be unique to this island. I literally cried when I had to go.
Waikiki is a really fun city -- it has such energy, diversity, and history. But, it is only one side of Oahu. The starkness of the west coast, the totally laid back feel of the north shore, the majesty of the Koolau mountains, and surreal beauty of the beaches at Lanikai and Waimanalo. It is the only place we have ever visited that has so entranced us that we are going back 2 years in a row.
The routine we settled into was exploring/beach flopping during the day and joining in the spectacle that is Waikiki at night.
Our very favorite spot on the island was Lanikai beach. Heavenly. You just have to see it to know what I mean. Maybe you want to consider renting a beachfront home on Lanikai or Kailua beach for part of your stay. Try to catch a sunrise there if you can.
As for Waikiki accomodations, we did not stay at Halekulani, but did visit and found the public areas wonderful.
Ocean front House without a Key was a perfect place for sunset drinks and had live music. We also visited the New Otani -- the lobby was OK, but the Hau Tree Lanai was especially nice in the evening and is practically on the beach. GREAT sunsets here and the Beach at New Otani is wonderful for swimming and people watching. No pool though if that's an issue for you.
We stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village, which wouldn't be a good choice in summer if you would prefer less kids. Do visit though - Friday night is an especially good time with the fireworks and King's Jubilee show. The grounds alone are worth a look see and you may want to catch some live entertainment here. Olamana was especially good -- I believe you can see them on Friday or Saturday nights.
Do spend some time watching the surfing/body surfing at Sandy Beach and snorkeling at Hanauma Bay is worthwhile -- just go early.
Hope you have a blast!
Jan 12th, 2005, 08:27 PM
#27
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Happy New Year! I'm now seriously looking at Hawai'i for late June. And I have two words to float for comment:
Aston Hotels.
Good properties? Book now? Run away screaming in the night? Of the Aston properties, are any particularly great/awful?
As always, your views are welcome. Love to everyone!
Aston Hotels.
Good properties? Book now? Run away screaming in the night? Of the Aston properties, are any particularly great/awful?
As always, your views are welcome. Love to everyone!
Jan 12th, 2005, 08:52 PM
#28
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Aloha rjw,
We've stayed at the Aston Waikiki Beachside and the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower. We used the Entertainment card for the best rates for both.
AW Beachside is small, pretty clean, no pool, GREAT location... we had the VIP OF Suite and loved the views. The hotel is nothing fancy, but a good value for the location & $$.
AW Beach Tower has large condos w/ full sized kitchens. We booked OF. I really liked this property, and enjoyed the HUGE lanai w/ 2 walk out sliders. Very spacious, also a good location. Make sure you request a high floor to avoid noise from the rooftops below you. This is a very tall building. The view is spectacular. Clean and again a great value. Pool was ok, nothing special. This place has gotten great reviews on tripadvisor.com.
These are not "resort" properties, if that's what you're looking for. I appreciated the simlicity of both of these hotels, and the staff was very accomodating.
Happy planning!
We've stayed at the Aston Waikiki Beachside and the Aston Waikiki Beach Tower. We used the Entertainment card for the best rates for both.
AW Beachside is small, pretty clean, no pool, GREAT location... we had the VIP OF Suite and loved the views. The hotel is nothing fancy, but a good value for the location & $$.
AW Beach Tower has large condos w/ full sized kitchens. We booked OF. I really liked this property, and enjoyed the HUGE lanai w/ 2 walk out sliders. Very spacious, also a good location. Make sure you request a high floor to avoid noise from the rooftops below you. This is a very tall building. The view is spectacular. Clean and again a great value. Pool was ok, nothing special. This place has gotten great reviews on tripadvisor.com.
These are not "resort" properties, if that's what you're looking for. I appreciated the simlicity of both of these hotels, and the staff was very accomodating.
Happy planning!
Jan 12th, 2005, 09:30 PM
#29
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Bravo to Juanita and others about Oahu. I LOVE OAHU and I've been to Kauai, Maui, and BI They each have their specialness, but Oahu has it all--gorgeous lush mountains, perfect beaches, coastside villages, gerat food,AND a great, international city!!!
And you know what??--Even if you don't have the time or inclination to leave the Waikiki area, you can still have a marveloous vacation, and learn and experience loads that IS Hawaii!
And you know what??--Even if you don't have the time or inclination to leave the Waikiki area, you can still have a marveloous vacation, and learn and experience loads that IS Hawaii!
Jan 13th, 2005, 06:37 PM
#30
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May I be added to the list of those that absolutely love Oahu? And I have been to the other three islands.
There is nothing, so to speak, that I can add about the beauty and diversity of Oahu so won't, just a waste of words.
But do want to say that I think that those that do not like Oahu have not really explored this paradise island.
And if all works out, I will be there in April! Aloha!
There is nothing, so to speak, that I can add about the beauty and diversity of Oahu so won't, just a waste of words.
But do want to say that I think that those that do not like Oahu have not really explored this paradise island.
And if all works out, I will be there in April! Aloha!
Jan 14th, 2005, 11:50 AM
#31
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Add me the list of people who love Oahu! I must have looked so sad when it was time to leave that the woman behind the American Airlines counter handed me a flower. I'm still upset we didn't get to see the Bishop Museum (we did tour the Hilton's branch of the museum though).
Frommer's Oahu, Waikiki and Honolulu is another excellent guidebook that you might want to check out.
Ah, Oahu! I still miss you!
Frommer's Oahu, Waikiki and Honolulu is another excellent guidebook that you might want to check out.
Ah, Oahu! I still miss you!
Jan 17th, 2005, 07:52 AM
#32
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makai1: Thanks for the input. Resort-type properties are NOT necessary; I generally like to get off the hotel grounds and explore-- and don't like having to spend all my time getting my money's worth with the resort amenities. Clean and well-located are my main priorities.
Anyone else with Aston property experiences?
Anyone else with Aston property experiences?
Jan 17th, 2005, 08:57 AM
#33
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(1) Best beachfront, money no object: Halekulani Hotel. Beautiful rooms and public spaces; lots of service. Second runner up: Sheraton Moana Surfrider, for similar reasons.
(2) Bang for buck: Waikiki Marriott. Has recently undergone renovations, and often has very competitive rates for a very nice property, rooftop pool, etc. It helps that there are A LOT of rooms. I also hear good things about the New Otani Kaimana (although a little out of the way, closer to Diamond Head) and the Waikiki Parc (near the Halekulani.)
Also check, if you are on a budget: some of the Outrigger and Aston properties, although these vary a lot. Read the reviewer comments when possible.
(3) So many of the hotels along Kalakaua Avenue are right across the street from the beach that it's really not necessary to be beach-front -- the street is not that difficult to cross, but you'll need to brong your own beach stuff.
(2) Bang for buck: Waikiki Marriott. Has recently undergone renovations, and often has very competitive rates for a very nice property, rooftop pool, etc. It helps that there are A LOT of rooms. I also hear good things about the New Otani Kaimana (although a little out of the way, closer to Diamond Head) and the Waikiki Parc (near the Halekulani.)
Also check, if you are on a budget: some of the Outrigger and Aston properties, although these vary a lot. Read the reviewer comments when possible.
(3) So many of the hotels along Kalakaua Avenue are right across the street from the beach that it's really not necessary to be beach-front -- the street is not that difficult to cross, but you'll need to brong your own beach stuff.
Jan 23rd, 2005, 06:31 PM
#34
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We loved Outrigger Waikiki on the Beach when we stayed there last August. We paid about $200/night through AAA. They upgraded us 2 categories, from City View to Ocean View, and the view was awesome. It was recently renovated, and all the rooms are new. Staff was extremely helpful and friendly, and the hotel is in amazing location -- smack in the middle of Waikiki Beach.
Jan 24th, 2005, 02:42 PM
#35
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Add me to the list of Oahu lovers too!
Oahu has it all, it's my favorite island. Oahu has the best beaches, the best shopping and the best nightlife and activities. I've been to 5 islands in Hawaii and each one lacked something I was looking for except for Oahu.
Sesamee
Oahu has it all, it's my favorite island. Oahu has the best beaches, the best shopping and the best nightlife and activities. I've been to 5 islands in Hawaii and each one lacked something I was looking for except for Oahu.
Sesamee
Jan 25th, 2005, 06:07 AM
#36
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Another Oahu Lover!!!
For those people who continue to malign and denigrate Oahu, I have one question: It's nickname is the Gathering Place, and with good reason. Do you honestly think that people would have continued to visit Oahu for so many, many years if it didn't have a lot to offer?
For those people who continue to malign and denigrate Oahu, I have one question: It's nickname is the Gathering Place, and with good reason. Do you honestly think that people would have continued to visit Oahu for so many, many years if it didn't have a lot to offer?
Feb 8th, 2005, 12:31 PM
#37
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Topping to see if anyone else has comments on Aston Waikiki properties. I'm looking at airfares bouncing around like ping-pong balls in a clothesdryer, and want to pull the trigger and reserve something soon. BTW, for those anxiously awaiting updates on this developing soap opera, we WILL be renting wheels after all. So we will be getting out of Honolulu at some point! 
Mar 10th, 2005, 04:59 AM
#38
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My daughter and I are leaving for Oahu in one week. I was so excited to find this long thread and read all the wonderful comments. We will be at the JW Marriott at Ko Olina. Please offer suggestions for a wonderful time. I have really enjoyed all the comments on this post.
Mar 10th, 2005, 07:14 AM
#39
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I'm shutting down this thread myself. We've had a change of plans due to our need to do major renovations on our house. We can't leave the state for more than a few days with all the work that will be going on, so.... 
Thanks for everyone's comments and advice-- it looks like we'll try again in 2006. We'll probably spend a few days in San Diego and Vegas to make up for no Hawai'i.
Thanks for everyone's comments and advice-- it looks like we'll try again in 2006. We'll probably spend a few days in San Diego and Vegas to make up for no Hawai'i.
Mar 18th, 2005, 04:47 AM
#40
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Hi Everyone,
Subject: Sleeping on the beach
Ive just been reading through really interesting posts.
We are travelling to Honolulu in October, but we were wondering what the laws *if any* are regarding sleeping on the beach. We are due to board a ship the day afer we arrive, but we were really hoping to cut costs and just doze down on the beach the night before and catch the sunset etc. Has anybody done this.
Any Info would be greatfully appreciated.
With Kind Regards
Martin
Subject: Sleeping on the beach
Ive just been reading through really interesting posts.
We are travelling to Honolulu in October, but we were wondering what the laws *if any* are regarding sleeping on the beach. We are due to board a ship the day afer we arrive, but we were really hoping to cut costs and just doze down on the beach the night before and catch the sunset etc. Has anybody done this.
Any Info would be greatfully appreciated.
With Kind Regards
Martin
