Ka La'i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts

We’re writing this review because a disappointing experience at another Amex FHR property made us truly appreciate our stay at Ka La‘i. From start to finish, every single staff member was exceptionally gracious and accommodating. They went above and beyond to care for my kids and mother-in-law as if they were part of their own family. This level of warmth and hospitality made all the difference in our trip. We’re already planning another visit to Hawaii in 2026 and can’t wait to stay here again. Thank you, Ka La‘i, for making our experience unforgettable!

We stayed at Ka Laʻi for 10 days, and the highlight of our entire experience was the exceptional service provided by Mr. Hiroshi at the front desk. From the very beginning—when I called ahead to confirm our midnight arrival—Mr. Hiroshi’s thoughtful and detailed responses immediately put me at ease. He anticipated our needs in every possible way, ensuring our stay was comfortable and smooth. Upon arrival, we were placed in a quiet corner suite, perfectly suited for our family’s early routine—we wake around 5am and go to bed by 7pm, so avoiding the evening noise was essential. Mr. Hiroshi even arranged sandwiches for both me and my husband, including a specially prepared one for our 6-year-old daughter, along with a bottle of sparkling wine. Pre-cooled waters in the fridge added another touch of care. He truly made us feel at home. Throughout our stay, Mr. Hiroshi continued to go above and beyond—recommending wonderful beaches and family-friendly swimming spots, like Ala Moana Beach Park, where we were lucky enough to spot a seal! Each recommendation felt personal, like a local sharing his own family favorites. Knowing we had a late-night flight, Mr. Hiroshi went the extra mile to secure a late checkout in the same room—an absolute blessing when traveling with a young child. His kindness, attention to detail, and warm hospitality elevated our entire experience. While it’s true that some aspects of the hotel, such as furniture, could use updating—and although we encountered one restaurant staff member, Miss Lani, whose negative attitude disappointed us and who showed her poker face to me and my 6-year-old —Mr. Hiroshi’s professionalism and genuine care more than made up for it. He is the reason Ka Laʻi stands out. I wholeheartedly recommend Ka Laʻi to anyone visiting Honolulu—especially because of Mr. Hiroshi. He is the heart and soul of this property, and we are deeply grateful for all he did to make our stay unforgettable.

Staff? Amazing. Room? Very nice. Why the 1 star?? If you come to Oahu, on vacation, why wouldn’t you stay at a relaxing oasis like the Ritz Turtle Bay or even the Ko Olina Marriott. This is a great hotel if you are on strictly business or if you are in NYC. Don’t bring your kids here… they will be bored. When paying top dollar on vacation, I just expected a RESORT feel on an island.

From the time I first booked and communicated with the staff I know I would have an amazing stay but not until my arrival and the 3 subsequent days being there did I truly know what a special hotel this was and it’s people set it apart - kudos to all the team we interacted with - mahalo, and also to the leadership team that provided the training and support that has enabled the team to care so much of the guest experience. First, the hotel is under renovation - and to those reading means little to nothing of the experience, the areas undergoing work our artfully covered and without signage apologizing for the work I would have no idea it’s going on - bravo for the lack of disruption to guests and while the property is already amazing I can’t wait to go back to experience the enhancements. The gentlemen at check in was more than welcoming and went through my Amex FHR benefits for my two rooms (and I feel that I received true value here as opposed to other hotels) and also bell and valet were engaging and I felt my business was truly appreciated. The team at the restaurant and bar was always lovely whether it was breakfast or an amazing mai tai at the bar - thank you! The amenities for local chocolate, to cookies and prosecco on top of complimentary bottled water and our wonderful room upgrade made for a truly memorable stay. I feel terrible but the gentleman working the pool this past Wednesday to Friday was truly remarkable. He took his job so seriously and wanted everyone to have an exceptional time. He embodied true hospitality from setting up pool chairs, to taking orders, to running drinks to you in the pool and greeting every guest that arrived - someone I would definitely love to have the privilege to work with and it seemed like he did all this while training another team member. His aloha spirit will always be remembered, truly appreciated. Lastly, my 1:30 flight was delayed until 11:30pm and they gave me a 9:00pm check out complimentary, I would never expect this but completely wrapped up what I would easily say is my best hotel experience ever. While I don’t hold Hilton in very high regard, this hotel should be a training ground for how all the properties operate and should be rewarded for changing my mind and referrals to others of how I consider the brand. Mahalo team!!

A great hotel stay with some minor setbacks. The front desk staff and room service were wonderful. They explained the layout of the hotel and helped me with my bags. The room was a bit dated but it sounded like they will be going through a renovation. The water pressure for the shower was great! The only thing I didn’t appreciate was valet. At least the few I interacted with seemed to expect a tip, and I would have preferred to avoid them all together given how uncomfortable they made me feel - self parking was not an option. By the way, do the morning breakfast - it was great.