Jul 26, 2010

Where to stay in Waikiki ~ Wave Hotel

Where to stay in Waikiki ~ Wave Hotel  

Wave Hotel General description:

• Originally built in 1969 next to the back entrance of the well known open air market called “International market Place”, the 15 story Wave Hotel features just fewer than 250 rooms and was operated for most of its existence under the name “Coral Reef” managed by the former Aston Hotels and Resorts.
• Over the years it underwent several renovations until 2006 that was last renovated and reopened under the name “Aqua Wave”. The small lobby is on a higher level and is accessed via a flight of stairs and the hotel features in house restaurants and a very small swimming pool.
• High speed internet access is available
• At the Wave Hotel all rooms have a refrigerator, a coffee maker and a microwave oven.
• For an extra fee, parking is available but very limited. 

What we like about the Wave Hotel:

• Since it was originally built in the 60′s, the room layout design allows for more space than modern construction and all rooms have a balcony.
• At the Wave Hotel a small continental breakfast is included for guests.
• The Wave Hotel is literally at the geographical center of Waikiki, which alone will place you a few minutes walk to the ocean, restaurants, shops and nightlife.
• At the Wave Hotel all rooms have free internet access, refrigerator, coffee maker and microwave.

What you may not like about the Wave Hotel:

• The common areas are too small, especially the swimming pool that is so small that is not very used by the guests.
• The lobby area is on a higher level than the street and requires the climbing of several steps.
• Noise can be a problem since the building is on a major 4 lane 2 way avenue and sits on top of an intersection with traffic lights and the hotel is surrounded by open air shops, restaurants and bars.