Usually when we look at a renovated hotel, we can detect the bones of the previous property. In this case, the $60 million renovations to the old Aqua Waikiki Wave have made this property’s lobby and pool area completely unrecognizable to us. In fact, the whole lobby, restaurant and pool area used to be the roof and office space. The transformation is remarkable, fun and relaxed. The whole design is based on 1950s Hawai‘i without being too kitschy. Many of the furniture pieces are actually vintage refurbished items from that era. There are hanging chairs scattered about and plenty of couches where you can plunk down in the open-air lobby lanai. The staff runs around making sure you have everything you need, and they truly seem to enjoy their jobs while showing plenty of aloha.
The pool area is not big or deep (3 feet), mostly a splash pool with some lounge chairs in the shallower wading section. The chairs are very comfy around the pool, and there are cabanas for rent. A large fitness room on site has all that you need to get your sweat on. Their restaurant/bar Hideout is a favorite for visitors and locals (particularly for first and second dates) and is a great place to catch a little fresh-air Hawai‘i vibe (and live entertainment) with a cocktail in hand (opt for happy hour if you can).
All of the rooms have king-size beds; some even have two king-size beds and daybeds as well. All bathrooms have large walk-in showers, no tubs.
You get a gift basket with snacks and their signature “slippahs” in your room as part of the resort fee. If you need a different size, they have them at the front desk. There are books about Hawai‘i in your room, such as Mark Twain’s “Letters From Hawaii,” and an ‘ukulele that you can use for the free weekly lessons. (You can also buy the ‘uke and take it home with you.)
All in all, a fun and trendy place in the middle of Waikiki. Rooms are 328-479 sq. ft., suites are 479–519 sq. ft.
2299 Kuhio Ave, Waikiki