The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach

OK, so "Beach" is a bit of hyperbole, since the property is not on the beach at all (nor was I expecting it to be, having read previous reviews!) That said, the hotel lives up to Ritz-Carlton's brand promise of top-notch hospitality. Having been to Waikiki one other time, I knew that it would not be a calm, tropical oasis. Full of tourists, to be sure, Waikiki is also a densely populated, quirky, urban residential neighborhood... definitely run-down in parts but also charming and upbeat in others. Though not at the beach, the property is a close-enough walk to it. More important to us, there are many, many restaurants and shops just a few blocks away. We'd stay here again based on that accessibility alone. The hotel is quite nice and modern. We liked the restaurants, the fitness center, and the adult pool. It's billed as an infinity pool, which I suppose it is. And while you can see the ocean from it, your gaze must first clear the roofs of the building, albeit roofs that cover luxury retail shopping, right next door. Again, when you're here, you're in a city environment. Our room was spacious and comfortable. We had a corner view, featuring both the ocean and the city. We live in NYC so the traffic/sirens didn't bother us... but it does exist. For us, starting our vacation in Waikiki makes sense, given how easy it is to get to after a long flight. Next trip to Hawaii, I imagine we'll be back at the Ritz-Carlton!

The Ritz Carlton is close to something akin to 5th Avenue. There are so many luxury boutiques a few blocks away with many restaurants and eateries. This is not (IMO) a place to unwind and unplug to bask in the glories of nature. It is however a place of respite in a fairly busy area. The lobby is open air (as is the restaurant) and it’s modern, sleek and stylish. It’s more cosmopolitan than resort - just don’t come here expecting a nature preserve. Rooms are large, well appointed and ours had a washer dryer (not sure they all do). I hate this modern trend where there is a window from the bathroom that opens up into the room. The blinds do nothing to block the light if someone uses the bathroom and the other person is sleeping. Plenty of outlets and charge ports to make sure everyone can plug in whatever electronics they bring. Staff is so friendly. Not over the top but kind, gracious and warm. They really embody hospitality here. Food is quite good both at the main restaurant and pool. Our servers were able to give great recommendations for the menu. The pool is large - two spots for hot tub and a separate area for families. I did not venture to the beach. If you’re looking for upscale hotels - this is an amazing choice. There is a Dean and DeLuca downstairs for fast snacks and sandwiches - not fantastic food honestly) and a Starbucks a few long blocks away. I think there are enough cheap eats (a Dennys) and moderately priced food (upscale chains like Cheesecake Factory and PF Chang’s) nearby. Roy’s is a Hawai’ian institution that is close by and there are other restaurants worth visiting at different price points.

Amazing! What a fantastic stay. Service was impeccable. Every employee is service oriented and smiling. The 2 bedroom deluxe ocean view suite exceeded expectations: size, comfort, amenities! Hotel is well located and walkable to shopping, restaurants and beach. Can’t wait to come again!

Amazing service and facilities for kids! Great attention to detail: The pack and play arrived quickly with comfy sheets and kids bath amenities, water bottles for all of us (not just adults), and they even gave us a diaper genie to dispose of used diapers. Pool was never too crowded and had a great slide for the little ones. The in-room washer dryer and fridge with freezer was so helpful. Oh and our ocean view was fantastic. All and all great stay!

Had a wonderful time. Food was good. Service was good. We had three rooms but one room had bedbugs. For a hotel that charges 7000 a week per room, this should have never happened. I would think twice staying here again.