The Equus, a Boutique Hotel

Tucked away on busy Ala Moana Boulevard is The Equus, an Ascend Hotel Collection Member.

We had a corner room; some rooms have balconies

From the outside, the building may look a bit underwhelming, but once you walk up the stairs to the front desk, the true character of The Equus, a boutique hotel, shines through.

With decades-old ties to Hawaii Polo Club, the hotel was aptly named to signify its roots with the beloved sport of polo (it was originally named the Hawaii Polo Inn).  A decor style that combines Hawaiian and equestrian themes is reflected throughout the building and its 67 guest rooms.

The lobby displays beautiful art, and hallways are adorned with vintage photographs.

I was quite impressed with the City View Double room.  Although small, I loved the decor and coziness of the room.

City View Double Room

A mirrored wall made the room's space seem larger, and equestrian artwork filled the room.

Cozy and comfy!

Equestrian artwork

Although we could hear the engine hums (and sometimes roars) of the busy street fronting the hotel, and the air conditioning didn't seem to cool the room down enough because of where it was positioned, the room was very welcoming, particularly the plush, pillow-top beds. These same beds beckoned us back the next day, where some of us took a nap before checking out.

Bathroom

A flat-screen TV, table and chairs, refrigerator, and coffee maker provided some of the comforts of home.

Flat Screen TV

Coffee maker and refrigerator

At night we opened up the window to get a glimpse of the Friday night fireworks!

Fireworks!

Elegant touches, like the handmade Italian Mascioni duvey comforters, a beautiful coffee-table style in-room hotel guide, and Earth Tempo eco-friendly bath amenities, gave the cozy room a luxurious feel.

Nicest in-room hotel guide I've ever seen!

At The Equus, a pool-side patio will keep you relaxed, a dipping pool will keep you refreshed, water and coffee in the lobby will keep you hydrated, and lanai seating, where you can sip on complimentary Mai Tais (Thursdays and Fridays) will keep you comfortable.

Patio

Pool

Lobby

Lanai

Complimentary Mai Tai

Just a short walk from The Equus is the serene Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon.

It's also a quick 5-minute walk to Ala Moana Center, Hawaii's largest shopping center, and numerous eateries are within walking distance as well.

With its connection to Hawaii Polo Club, The Equus offers complimentary Sunday Polo Tickets and transportation during the polo season (April-August).

Other amenities include an in-room safe, use of beach towels and chairs, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary newspaper.

The Equus also implements green initiatives, such as the use of the Green Star energy saving system, in which your key card controls the air conditioning and lighting system in the room.

Service at The Equus was fantastic, and I was very impressed with our stay.

Don't underestimate The Equus, a boutique hotel.

You'll find excellent service, cozy and comfortable rooms, and a variety of amenities to make for a pleasant stay!

The Equus
1696 Ala Moana Blvd

Honolulu, HI 96815
(808) 949-0061

For more information and rates, click here.

Note: Stair access only to get to the front desk. Valet Parking 25.00 USD per night (in and out privileges).

Thank you to The Equus for hosting our stay. Gratuities were paid on our own.