The Lotus at Diamond Head

Description:

• It's ultra-expensive but this luxury hotel located on the outskirts of Waikiki, in a quieter, more residential neighborhood, will make your stay in Waikiki a memorable one. If you crave peace and quiet but want to be close enough (about a 15-min. walk) to shops and restaurants, this is a perfect location. The hotel lobby looks like an elegant living room, guest rooms are decorated with handmade teak furniture from Bali. In addition to the large balconies with great views of Diamond Head, numerous excellent touches prevail: dual-line cordless phones, plush robes, top-drawer bathroom amenities, daily maid service, and business equipment on request. Although the hotel is not on the beach, guests have access to the small, private beach in front of the Colony Surf (great swimming here), less than a 60-second walk away; Kapiolani Park is across the street, and the Waikiki Aquarium is just a few steps away. The famous W pledge (whatever, whenever) still lives up to its reputation -- I asked for the best place to get a manicure and pedicure late at night: Not only did they make an immediate appointment, but they Googled a map and directions for me; and within 10 minutes of making my request, I was soaking my feet in warm bubbling water. If this is too pricey for you, book at the Hotel Renew where the same philosophy and decor prevails but at rates about 40% less.

  Name: The Lotus at Diamond Head. Phone: 800/367-5004, 808/922-1700. Web site: www.castleresorts.com. Room information: 48 units. Prices: Name: The Lotus at Diamond Head. Phone: 800/367-5004, 808/922-1700. Web site: www.castleresorts.com. Room information: 48 units. Prices: $420 - $480 double; $2,000 2-bedrom ocean penthouse suite. Extra Person is $30. Children under 18 stay free in parent's room. Review: Remove all references to W. Third sentence, remove "check-in occurs in the privacy of the guest rooms". Remove "Hawaiian-music CDs", daily maid service is only once instead of "twice".
• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010