On the way home from Maui, we had a layover in Honolulu and decided to stay a couple of nights so we could explore. After reading hundreds of reviews on TripAdvisor, I couldn’t pass up Halekulani. Not only is it featured in just about every travel magazine, the reviews were outstanding. We normally don’t spend this much on a hotel, but thought we would splurge as this was a special trip for us. We booked through the Platinum Amex website since they had extra amenities such as complimentary dining credit and a room upgrade on arrival. We had chosen an oceanfront room in hopes that we would be upgraded to the next category up, Diamond Head view, but they were sold out when we checked in. I was a little disappointed, but knew that it was based on availability so wasn’t too surprised.

The check in process is really neat. They take your name when you arrive and then take you up to your room to complete the check in process. The actual room was beautiful and had the best bathroom I have ever seen in a hotel.

There is a small beach directly outside the resort but is public and swarming with people. The pool was very nice but too small for the amount of people staying at the hotel. The location is fantastic though. There are so many things within walking distance, it’s nice.

I strongly recommend Restaurant Suntory. It is a teppenyaki restaurant about 10 minutes (walking) from the hotel. We both love teppenyaki and try to visit a new place each time we travel, but this was by far the best one we have ever been to. In fact, we tried to get reservations for the second night we were there as well, but couldn’t get in.

The spa is also extremely expensive but worth every penny. We got a couple’s massage and it was one of the best massages I have ever had. There is a foot ritual that they do before your treatment, and it just sets the mood. The spa area where they send you to relax before your treatment is near the pool, so I highly recommend an early morning or late afternoon appointment if quiet is what you are looking for.

Other than the check in process and the spa, the service wasn’t what I was expecting after reading so many glowing reviews. Aside from the location and fabulous bathroom, I didn’t find anything that made this hotel worth the price we paid.

Overall, we enjoyed our stay at Halekulani but will be choosing another hotel next time we are in Honolulu.

My wife and I stayed here for 10 days last month and it was un-believeable. The Hotel and Staff were better than any Hotel we have stayed at in the States. Beautiful, spacious rooms, awesome views, large pool, and great Restaurants. The list goes on. The Staff attends to every need or question you might have. Head and shoulders above the rest. I would not stay at any other Hotel. Halekulani is the Best. Don't believe me? Walk around like we did and see for yourself. You will not be dis-appointed........

This property is maintained to perfection with an attentive staff. We stayed there for three days on our way to China from the east coast. A great way to get over jet lag, if you ave the time. Coffee is available starting at around 5:30 for early risers. The first morning I was taking two coffees back to our room when someone at the front desk ran over to call the elevator and push my floor for me, i was very thankful and impressed.

The Halekulani is an oasis inside the madness of Waikiki. A perfect location... waterfront on a excellent beach.Fabulous pool where your served muffins, fruit and ice cream through out the day.
The rooms are well appointed,lanais with table and chairs,DVD player & bar fridge for your personal selection.
Lovely bathroom, with all amenities...plus bath tub and separate rain shower.
Service is excellent....as is the food at "Orchids"....this is the only place to stay in Waikiki!