Prince Waikiki Oahu, Hawaii
Oahu has long been a place we have wanted to visit together. It’s only a short 5 hour flight from the west coast of the USA, but still feels like another world. Hawaii is unique because it has all the dreamy paradise vibes of a remote island in the middle of the ocean, but still the convenience and luxury of being connected into the network of the United States economy and industry. On one side of the island is Honolulu (a full scale city and capitol of Hawaii) with an amazing international airport, world class restaurants and high end shopping, while on the other end is North Shore, a low key surfer vibe with smoothie huts and remote beaches.
If you plan on visiting Hawaii, Oahu is a great starting point, as Honolulu is one of the largest airports and perfect if you plan to do any island hopping, or just stay and explore the many things Oahu has to offer. When we came we opted to stay on Oahu for our full trip to really take in the diversity of the island, and because there is so much to see and do from all the hikes, to beaches, to cafes, to palm tree forests.
During our stay we chose to spend a few nights at Prince Waikiki. It was a perfect landing spot between adventures giving us easy access to all sides of the island, and only 30 minutes from the airport. And while the location was convenient, we chose this hotel for its gorgeous unobstructed sunset views out into the harbor every night right from our room. They also had an amazing infinity pool that we enjoyed with the same romantic sunset and sunrise views out into the ocean.
BEST TIME TO VISIT OAHU, HAWAII
To be honest, the rain comes and goes. And as we heard one local say, “if you don’t like the weather on Oahu, just wait 5 minutes.” While being in the middle of the Pacific Ocean does have its perks, there are a couple things to consider regarding the timing of your visit:
High Season coincides with their dry season and revolves around European/US holidays in mid-December through March or mid-April. Specifically the last 2 weeks of December. This is when you will find the highest prices and most limited availability. You will want to make your reservations far in advance if you plan to travel during this time. And then of course, July and August, due mainly in part to the large number of families on summer vacation. You will do better on pricing in the summer though than the winter months as Hawaii is a favorite for those wanting to escape the winter blues!
Low Season falls in the spring (mid-Apr to mid-June) and fall (Sept to mid-Dec). Visiting during this time means lower rates and much less crowds, and oddly, the best weather, so it when we would recommend visiting! One thing to note: If you plan to come at the last week of April or early May, make sure you do book in advance. This time window happens to be called ‘Golden Week’ because three Japanese holidays take place in succession and Japanese tourism increases drastically.
Big Waves are found mostly in the winter between November - February so if you are looking to surf some of the world famous waves Oahu, this is your best time. Alternatively if you have young children and are looking for the calmest water, summer will be your best bet with the smallest swells between June - August.
Leeward vs Windward: the Leeward (west and south) is sheltered from the wind and are going to be more dry and arid while the windward (north and east) will typically have more lush and wet weather. So if you are looking for something a little hot and dry, stay leeward, but if you want jungle vibes, head to the windward side!
AIRPORT TRANSFER / ARRIVAL
Prince Waikiki is located about 35 minutes from Honolulu International airport. Prince provides a transfer service to make this transition as smooth as possible. But if you plan to explore around the island a bit, we highly recommend renting a car for the duration of your stay! If you do rent a car, be sure to note that most (if not all) hotels in Waikiki charge a parking fee of around $30 – $40 per night. Though it is really the best way to see the island as there is so much more than just Waikiki, and local transportation such as buses doesn’t typically go to all the secret remote spots on the island.
ACCOMMODATION
Ocean View Rooms
One of the best parts about Prince is that every single room on property is ocean facing, so you don’t have to worry about getting and amazing view right outside our window. The rooms are a little private oasis with mesmerizing views of the ocean, harbor and sunsets. All the accommodations have an insane view out into the coast, and will just vary slightly on floor layout and view. We loved the set up they all include with floor to ceiling glass and windows that opened up straight to the harbor. This was the ocean front Harbor view that we booked. TIP: Ask if you can book your room on one of the hotel’s highest levels - the closer you get to the top, the more insane the view becomes!
Ocean View Cabanas
With your room you can also book a cabana for the day. If you plan to spend a day lounging at the hotel (which we would highly recommend doing) its the perfect way to have a little more privacy. The cabanas are situated to all perfectly look over the ocean, with easy access to both their main and infinity pool.
AMENITIES
There’s a full variety of amenities to be utilized at Prince. We were impressed with the Prince team as they really created a nice oasis inside the bustling Waikiki, where you can relax and unwind.
Pools
The pools are elevated above sea level, and provide some stunning views. They have two pools on location, one infinity pool looking out to the sea and also a large salt water main pool. There are private poolside cabanas that allow you to enjoy the beautiful pools while still having some privacy. The pool is also a great spot to catch an iconic Waikiki Sunset!
Spa
Naio Bliss is the perfect getaway to relaxation. With multiple treatments from peaceful massages to refreshing facial services, Naio Bliss is the ideal way to spend an afternoon at Prince Waikiki. We enjoyed a couples hot salt stone massage that was the ultimate relaxation experience after a day of adventuring around the island. Treatments can be reserved indoors in a secluded treatment room or in an exclusive oceanfront cabana.
Beaches
While Prince is not located right along it’s own beach (rather you walk out into the beautiful Waikiki Harbor), it is within walking distance of a few beaches including Ala Moana Beach Park and Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon and Beach. And it is only 5-10 mins drive from many others such as the iconic Waikiki beach and maybe 30 minutes drive to Ko Olina Lagoon.
MEALS
Prince Waikiki offers a variety of food options, each with it’s own specialty and flare.
100 Sails Restaurant & Bar is the main restaurant on site. The restaurant features a bar and seating area with views out into the harbor along the wall of glass floor to ceiling windows. The staff were very attentive and accommodating to our dietary restrictions. Our favorite was the Buddha Bowl with fresh ingredients grown on their rooftop garden.
Katsumidori Sushi Tokyo is the restaurant’s first location outside of Japan. Located in the lobby area of the hotel, this restaurant is set to provide authentic Japanese fare combined with local Hawaiian cuisine. We did not have time to dine here ourselves, but every time we passed by the restaurant was full, with a line going out the entrance.
Hinana Bar is a great poolside option during the day for snacks and a light lunch. They even have live music on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday.
Honolulu Coffee Company is also located in the main lobby area of Prince Waikiki. In business now for almost 30 years, Honolulu Coffee Company provides the is a fun way to try the true Kona coffee experience. Additionally, they include small indulgences like pastries, cakes, and deserts.
When planning a trip to Oahu’s famous Waikiki Beach, definitely check out Prince Waikiki. We had such a great time during our stay, and with ocean views from every room, it’s hard to make a bad choice.
As always let us know if you have any questions in the comments below!