Arrival/Check-In: Honolulu International Airport lies just 20 minutes from downtown Waikiki and serves as the major hub for airlines into the islands, so it is convenient for leisure and business travelers. I took a quick cab ride to The Prince Waikiki. I was greeted by the doorman, who quickly helped me with my luggage and guided me through the expansive lobby to the front desk. While checking in I got my first look at the $55 million full renovation The Prince Waikiki debuted earlier in 2017. The lobby reaches more than two stories tall with locally inspired art suspended overhead, plush seating and its Honolulu Coffee Co. for guests to enjoy the best local coffee.

Guest Quarters: My oceanfront harbor room boasted the most unique and clearest views I’ve experienced in Waikiki; the windows opened wide to let in the ocean breeze and natural light. The Prince Waikiki offers ocean views from every room, giving you floor-to-ceiling vistas of the yacht-filled harbor, crashing waves near Ala Moana Beach Park and amazing sunsets — everything you look for when coming to the islands for work or play. Since I was here for work, I was pleased with the brandnew rooms. Calm, cream-colored walls were handpainted with Naio flowers for a touch of local Hawai’ian art. The king-sized bed was plush, and bedside stands held plenty of outlets. A small desk sat against the windows; however, I used the full sectional facing the windows the most, propping up my feet, opening the windows and getting some emails done on my laptop (free WiFi!) while listening to the ocean. The bathroom offered great lighting over creamy marble countertops, a full spa tub and separate shower, and a private toilet area with modern frosted glass. The room included two full-length mirrors.

Services/Amenities: Although the property is not beachfront, it offers guests plenty of sunshine with its saltwater infinity pool with views overlooking the harbor. Cabanas and Hinana Bar with a casual dining menu make for a perfect lazy day, or enjoy the pool party hosted on weekends. If you are looking for the beach, it’s just a 10-minute walk to Waikiki Beach.

The four dining options on property include the casual Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo for excellent sushi; and 100 Sails for brunch buffets, dinner and drinks. The long marble bar at 100 Sails has friendly staff; I tried its uniquely flavored mai tai and ended up having two. The Ala Moana Center sits just across the street — this open-air shopping destination features premium shops, nightlife and different dining concepts.

A 15-minute ride gets golf lovers to The Prince Waikiki Golf Club, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay. The concierge can arrange tee times and any other activities during your stay.

TOP TAKEAWAYS:

◆ Love the dining options, from the Honolulu Coffee Co. to the Hawai’ian-inspired small bites at 100 Sails bar.

◆ With its $55 million renovation, The Prince Waikiki offers modern rooms and amenities perfect for business travelers, millennials and vacationers.

◆ The property is centrally located just minutes from downtown Waikiki, the Ala Moana Shopping Center and the beach.

The Prince Waikiki

100 Holomoana St.
Honolulu, HI 96815
tel 808 956 1111
princeresortshawaii.com