Fodor's Expert Review Hyatt Regency Waikiki Resort & Spa

Even though it's across the street from Kuhio Beach, the Hyatt is actually considered oceanfront, as there's no resort between it and the Pacific Ocean. An open-air atrium with three levels of shopping, a two-story waterfall, and free nightly live entertainment make this one of the liveliest lobbies anywhere. Its 10,000-square-foot, two-level luxury spa, Na Ho'ola, has 16 treatment rooms and an array of specialty therapies including the Lomi Wawea, a traditional healing massage focusing on the feet. Dining options include SHOR, which has sustainable seafood and outdoor seating and Swim, a poolside bar and lounge. Authentic daily on-site activities, including lei making and hula dancing, are led by a Native Hawaiian cultural practitioner.

YOU SHOULD KNOW A resort fee of $37 plus tax will be applied to each night of your stay. Though this is definitely one of the highest resort fees in Waikiki, it includes complimentary ½ hour Biki bikeshare for two, two water bottles, Hyatt tote bag, savings coupons, StayFit gym access, cultural activities, and more.

room

Rooms at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki are smartly designed and decorated utilizing timeless style and vibrant ocean inspired accents, with ocean or Waikiki views. Four types of suites are also available for guests wanting more space and elegance. All rooms include private furnished lanais, mini coolers, slippers, and Chromecast casting ability on large flat screen TVs. Upgrade for a room with club access and receive VIP extras with complimentary continental breakfast and evening hors d'oeuvres.

bathroom

Bathrooms feature Toto Washlets, large mirrors and vanities, and products from Na Ho’ola Spa, along with tub/shower combos. Some of the bathrooms can be a bit small.

lobby

Featuring a large waterfall, the lobby has tropical-inspired decor and a family-friendly atmosphere but feels a bit crowded. The hotel lobby is connected to the Pualeilani Atrium Shops, which features 60 boutiques and shops.

pool

The freshwater pool and sundeck is relatively small and can get crowded quickly. Private pool cabanas are available for full or half day rental for up to three people per cabana. While the pool is open 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., the whirlpool hot tub is open until 10 p.m.

spa

Na Ho’ola Spa has extensive offerings with a wonderful website, making it easy to book a treatment in advance. A relaxing setting with incredible views of the beach and ocean, the spa has 16 private rooms, a dry sauna, and a beauty salon.

gym

A small fitness center is stocked with towels and water. Offering a variety of machines and free weights, the gym isn’t overly appealing visually, but it gets the job done. A fitness concierge assists guests with any forgotten equipment.

dining

Wake up to the largest breakfast buffet in Waikiki at SHOR Restaurant, grab lunch poolside at SWIM (evening menu available as well), or try The Buffet for dinner and enjoy fresh island foods and prime rib. Room service is also available, and those with access to the Regency Club Lounge can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast, afternoon beverages and snacks, as well as evening cocktails (for a fee), with canapés for World of Hyatt members.

Save $5-$10 on the breakfast buffet by arriving early for the Early Bird Special, available daily from 5:30 to 7 a.m.

drinking

SWIM also fulfills your evening needs with cocktails and live music on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. Drinks include beer, wine, and island inspired cocktails, with a killer happy hour from 4 to 6 p.m. that includes three $6 cocktails and three $5 beers.