Incredible, spacious and luxurious suites – Ilikai Hotel was my next stop.
Ilikai Hotel is located just 10 minutes west from The Hyatt (which is where I stayed at previously). Overlooking the Ala Wai Boat Harbor and steps away from the Lagoon Beach; I was excited to explore a new area.
One big difference I noticed while moving from downtown to the marina area was the temperature. It was way warmer and less windier by the marina than it was downtown – I was very happy about that!
MY EXPERIENCE
Pulling up to the Ilikai I noticed a flight of stairs to get to the front desk area, to the right of it are escalators. Just FYI you cannot bring your luggage on the escalators, but just around the corner to the right of the entrance is an elevator. Or if you prefer bellhop service, you can head over to the left of the front area and they should help you out. As I arrived, I found a bellhop to take my bags while I checked in.
Like the Hyatt, this hotel is also very massive. When walking in using the escalators, it was a bit confusing at first. The check-in location is a bit hidden – located on the right end side of the escalators and before the pool area. The check-in process was quick and everyone was beyond friendly; I even met their manager who quickly gave me a tour of the hotel property.
Room:
Ilikai Hotel & Luxury Suites offers guests with modern luxury suites featuring fully equipped kitchens, a private lanai (balcony), and WiFi internet access. I stayed in their Luxury Junior Suite Sunset Ocean View with Kitchen – perfect size for a solo traveler (like myself).
They also welcomed me with some Hawaiian goodies and beverages, as well as a nice personalized note. P.S. if you have never tried the Honolulu Cookie Company, you must! They are so good!!
The room instantly gave me a homey-feel; as it replicated an apartment layout – it honestly felt like I was just moving into my new place! This is a great alternative to an Airbnb – you get a beautiful spacious room with a full kitchen and even better, a lanai with gorgeous breathtaking views of the ocean.
My room was located on the 25th floor, just under the Penthouse – so you better believe I had one of the best views to date. I probably spent most of my time outside on the balcony looking out – I mean how could you not???
Hotel Dining and Cocktails: Cinnamon’s Restaurant aka one of Honolulu’s most favorite breakfast spots for both locals and visitors alike – so if you stay here, you’re in luck. I conveniently was; so I had to come see what the rave was all about – I tried their red velvet pancakes, which were massive by the way; it was very sweet, but still really good.
Cinnamon’s serves an array of specialty plates including kalua pork eggs benedict, guava chiffon pancakes or French toast made from Portuguese sweet bread. View their website here.
Aroma Caffe Calling all coffee lovers – if you want a good cup of coffee in the mornings, Aroma Cafe has got you covered! Located on the 2nd floor, next to Cinnamon’s; enjoy authentic, high quality, Italian coffee.
Kuai Market Luckily inside the Ilikai there is conveniently a convenient store (haha). Make use out of your kitchen and stock up with some food and drinks from the store downstairs.
Hotel Amenities: Ilikai Massage Spa Nothing better than pampering yourself on vacation; on the second floor you can indulge in an array of spa services from full body and hot stone massage, facials, and so much more. Book your treatment here. Swimming Pool The iconic hotel offers guests with two swimming pools, one in the lobby level and a second on the second floor.
The second floor is considered more for adults as it’s more of a shallow pool. Nearby Spots: Situated steps away from various restaurants and bars you need to check out.
OVERALL RATING
If you are looking for spacious luxurious suites with jaw dropping views of the ocean or mountain views, Ilikai Hotel is one to consider during your next visit to Waikiki.
This was my personal favorite spot to stay at – I really did not want to leave, lol.
