Hawaii is one of our favourite family destinations. Great beaches, loads of pineapples and tonnes of sunshine. But where should you stay? We sent Elisa Elwin to Hawaii to check out one royal hotel. Here’s her Prince Waikiki review.
Location
Overlooking Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, the Prince Waikiki lies at the centre of Honolulu. It’s within a stone’s throw of Waikiki’s famous beaches, walking distance from the fabulous shopping at the Ala Moana Center, and just 25 minutes’ drive from Honolulu International Airport.
The sunrise alone makes the trip worth it. Picture: Supplied.
Why we stayed here
Having recently undergone an extensive 55-million-dollar renovation, this luxury resort features an infinity pool, refurbished guest rooms with ocean views, and contemporary art installations that bring the cultural heritage of the area to life. We couldn’t resist the delicious hotel seafood buffet, while being within easy access of family-friendly restaurants and many of Oahu’s most popular attractions.
Accommodation
Prince Waikiki features spacious guest rooms and luxurious suites, with both one and two-bedroom options that are ideal for families. All rooms offer panoramic views of the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor and the Pacific Ocean beyond, with front-row seats to an unforgettable Hawaiian sunset. There are separate lounge areas where kids can play and blackout remote-control blinds for trouble-free naps, with extra touches like Keurig coffee makers, bathtubs and balcony cabanas where you can relax with a good book.
The pools so luxurious you might forget to explore Honolulu. Picture: Supplied.
Activities
In addition to Prince Waikiki’s new infinity pool, where you can soak up the sweeping ocean views, you can splurge on pizza and cocktails in one of their private poolside cabanas. Rise early for a beachside Tai Chi class or get a taste of Hawaiian culture during their family-friendly Hula dancing lessons and Pua Mau Loa lei-making workshops.
Food & beverage
Feast on the delicious seafood buffet at 100 Sails Restaurant & Bar while soaking up the harbour views, or select international favourites from their a la carte and small bites menu. High-quality sushi is crafted each day at Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo, while the Honolulu Coffee offers farm-to-cup brews accompanied by savoury pastries and delectable cakes. If you want to eat out, Prince Waikiki is also within a short stroll of the New England-themed Red Lobster restaurant and the surf-inspired eatery, Goofy Cafe & Dine.
The Marina is a great place to watch the sun go down. Picture: Supplied.
Explore
Prince Waikiki is within walking distance of the golden sands at Duke Kahanamoku Beach and across the canal from the Ala Moana Center – the largest open-air shopping centre in the world. Head to the southern end of Waikiki to spend a day at the Honolulu Zoo or Waikiki Aquarium, then soak up the coastal views from the nearby summit of Diamond Head. Venture further afield to get a glimpse of Oahu’s windward side from the Nu‘uanu Pali Lookout or enjoy a scenic drive to the North Shore that’s famed for its big-wave surf beaches and Dole Plantation.