Fodor's Expert Review Doubletree by Hilton Alana Waikiki Beach

A convenient location—10 minutes' walk from the Hawaii Convention Center—a professional staff, pleasant public spaces, and a 24-hour business center and gym draw a global business clientele to this reliable chain hotel. But these perks also appeal to vacationers. The intimacy of the property, the staff's attention to detail, and the signature Doubletree chocolate-chip cookies upon arrival resonate with leisure travelers. All the recently redesigned rooms in the 19-story high-rise have private lanai, but they overlook the city and busy Ala Moana Boulevard across from Fort DeRussy. It's not exactly oozing that Hawaiiana feel, but the location, dependability, and service make it a solid choice.

room

City/mountain and partial ocean view rooms make up the options at the Doubletree, in both standard rooms and suites that have more sitting space and wet bars. Each has its own private lanai, Sweet Dreams by Doubletree beds, air conditioning, and workstation. Bright, beachy-colored linens and soft furnishings combine with darker woods furnishings and accents to create a nice look for each room.

Though the rooms only offer partial ocean views, the higher your room, the better chance of a really great view.

bathroom

The dark brown accents in the vanity, mirrors, and floor help to turn an otherwise boring bathroom into something a bit more serene and aesthetically pleasing. The bath/shower combos have rain shower heads and toiletries include Crabtree & Evelyn products.

lobby

The hotel lobby is bright and spacious, with a few benches for seating. It doesn’t really stand out in the decor or warmth department, but it gets the job done.

pool

The heated rectangular pool isn’t too large, but big enough to hang out and maybe swim some laps. It’s surrounded by a sundeck with patio chairs and a few outdoor couches.

YOU SHOULD KNOW The gym overlooks the pool. Like directly next to and into the pool. It’s a little weird if you’re hoping for a little privacy while you swim.

gym

The long, narrow fitness center is open 24-hours and features a nice selection of cardio machines, weight machines, and free weights.

dining

This hotel has plenty of dining options, including Hiking Hawaii Cafe with smoothies and other fresh foods, an express kiosk with snacks and beverages in the lobby, breakfast and dinner room service, and Trees Restaurant & Bar. Trees stands out thanks to its small breakfast buffet and dinners featuring pizzas, burgers, steaks, and more.

drinking

The bar area of Trees Restaurant & Bar enjoys a daily happy hour from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. with cocktails, beer, and bar food on special. Note that the bar does not open until 4:30 p.m.