Jul 26, 2010

Where to stay in Waikiki ~ OHANA West Hotel

Where to stay in Waikiki ~ OHANA West Hotel 

The OHANA West Hotel, is one really one of my personal favorite hotels in Waikiki. Yes, I know you want one of the resorts, and maybe that is the best fit for you, but personally, I come to Oahu to do things, not stay at the resort.  I like that it is easy to get to things on the bus system during the day, but at night it is a real fun time, to sit on your balcony and watch the world go by, mind you at night.  I will warn you, the strip outside the hotel can be a little colorful until 2am or more. Go into Denny’s across the street at 3am, and you will find a collection of characters.

When I can, I stay at the OHANA West Hotel, and love it. I always ask for a Kuhio street view room, as low as I can, like the 4-6 floor if I can. I love the corner suites when I can book them, well worth the couple of extra dollars.

OHANA West Hotel General description:

• The OHANA West Hotel has been a familiar name in Waikiki for a long time, part of the well known and well established
• Ohana/Outrigger hotel chain, this centrally located family hotel was originally built in the 70′s and has undergone several extensive renovations over the years.
• It offers over 600 rooms most of them in the kitchenette category even though they also have regular Standard rooms, and what they call Kitchenette City View rooms.
• The common areas are comfortable and ample; they include an inviting pool area, good size lobby and front desk. Several eateries, bars and shops operate in the building including one from the national restaurant brand “Chili’s”. Like all Outrigger hotels, the West follows a strict maintenance and renovation program that keeps it updated all the time. 

What we like about the OHANA West Hotel:

• The central location of the OHANA West Hotel is very convenient and allows its guests to be literally steps away from the main Waikiki spots, especially if you are only going to spend a few days in Waikiki.
• Like all Ohana hotels, with your reservation the hotel also includes the following (please be advised that it is subject to change without notice)
  • Free rides to the Waikiki Trolley Pink line that covers all Waikiki area all the way to the Ala Moana Shopping Center that is outside Waikiki.
  • Free local and long distance calls to US and Canada.
  • Free use of in room safe
  • Free local newspaper daily
  • Free in room coffee and tea daily

What you may not like about the OHANA West Hotel:

• Like all Waikiki hotels, parking is charged even to those guests staying in the hotel.
• Standard rooms are smaller than the rest and only come with a Queen bed; you should book at least a kitchenette room even if you do not need cooking facilities, because those rooms are regular size.