Our Staycation at the Newly Renovated Queen Kapi‘olani Hotel Waikiki Beach

Gorgeous view of Diamond Head.

The Queen Kapi‘olani Hotel is an iconic hotel on the edge of Waikiki right across the Honolulu Zoo. It was built in the mid-1960s and underwent a major glow up in 2018. We’re talking a $35 million renovation plan that included upgrades to guest rooms and suites, lobby, common spaces, and the addition of a pool deck and lanai connected to the hotel’s new open air and much buzzed about restaurant, Deck. The changes did not go unnoticed as the Queen Kapi‘olani hotel earned second place in Best Boutique Hotel on Oahu in HAWAIʻI Magazine’s 2021 Readers’ Choice List.

This past weekend, my family stayed at the Queen Kapi‘olani hotel for the first rime. It was also the first time we staycationed on the Diamond Head side of Waikiki putting us just a short walk to Waikiki Beach and the Honolulu Zoo. When you stay here, you’re also in great position to enjoy nearby restaurants, shopping, and attractions like the Waikiki Aquarium, Kapi‘olani Park, and Diamond Head. During our stay, I even drove out to hike Koko Head because it was so close!

But honestly, you don’t even have to leave. You can start your day with a cup of Kona coffee from Knots Coffee Roasters in the lobby. Then, get a workout from the hotel’s fitness center or take a dip in the swimming pool with the prettiest view of Diamond Head. What’s great is that the pool is open from 8am until 10pm so you could swim under the stars if you choose. Deck is right next to the pool serving breakfast, brunch, happy hour, and dinner. Other hotel amenities include yoga, lei making, run club, and hula lessons! The hotel lobby is also home to the Greenroom Surf Art Gallery and the Hans Hedemann surf shop that offers daily lessons, rentals, and excursions.   

Spacious lobby with plenty of seating.

Vintage Hawaii vibes.

Bright hallways.

Double Queens with Serta Dream mattresses.

Shower/Tub.

Large counterspace with Hawaiian Tropics bathroom amenities. 

I love this full length mirror and the shelves in the closet were convenient.

Private lanai with city view.

Common tables located on the second floor.

Royal art gallery.

Our table at Deck.

Currently, the Queen Kapi‘olani Hotel is offering a great kama‘aina deal. In addition to discounted room rates for Hawaii residents, the daily hospitality fee is waived and valet parking is discounted to $5 a day. However, valet parking is available first come, first serve and can run out. Other overnight parking options are at the Zoo parking lot, Aston Waikiki Sunset, or Aston Waikiki Banyan. 

Thank you to the Queen Kapiolani Hotel for hosting our family's stay! We had a super fun and relaxing time enjoying the hotel.