Happy July 4th! The photo I’m sharing today was taken during my stay at the Ilikai Hotel last month. It has one of the best views of the Waikiki firework show on Friday nights.
This was my first time actually staying at the Ilikai. I always have a Hawaii Five-O flashback driving by its 1960′s now “vintage” exterior.
The TV theme is still much a part of the hotel. At check-in a large flat screen TV in the lobby silently plays the original Hawaii Five-O.
There’s now a new vibe and energy at the Ilikai thanks to General Manager Terry Dowsett. He has many things planned for the Ilikai and this is just the beginning.
My guest experience was better than I expected. The Valet service was friendly with hardly a wait. All six elevators were prompt although a ride to the higher floors takes time. My room was spacious and clean. The kitchen while adequate could use some updating. Everything else was right on target. My lanai view was amazing and I was only several floors below where fictional character, Steve McGarrett, opened each week’s episode of Hawaii Five-O.
I’m a coffee snob and the hotel scored points with its Mt. Kaala Coffee bar. They are a North Shore roaster and come recommended by coffee guru and author Shawn Steinman. The coffee here is fresh and good. Next time I stay here I’ll try Sarento’s restaurant which is located at the top of the Ilikai.
Hawaii Double Five-O offer. Yes there’s a Hawaii travel deal to mention. $50 for the first night (3 night minimum and 50% off valet parking). Based on availability through 2011.
If you have stayed at the Ilikai or are planning to please share your comments.
Ilikai Hotel is located at 1777 Ala Moana Boulevard in Waikiki. Local telephone is 808.949.3811
Beat of Hawaii received no compensation for this review.
Bitter (10 months ago)
I didn’t stay at the Ilikai when I was there last fall, but we did repeatedly stop by for drinks or a quick bite to eat in their outdoor bar. We loved the atmosphere and service.
One of our favorite memories took place at the bar when an elderly Australian woman came up to the bar and ordered a double shot of vodka – at 11am. I had no idea I would meet my hero that day.
Nadege S. (10 months ago)
Happy Fourth of July to you and Jeff!
Rob (10 months ago)
Thanks for the comments. Happy 4th to you too Nadege. We hope to see you over here soon.
Aloha, Rob
AlohaKarina (10 months ago)
I love the Ilikai. I hope they don’t update it too much–at least outside. The look is iconic…and it’s one of the few things that still looks the same as I remember it from my childhood!
Karen Blede (10 months ago)
I will be staying there in december . I am very much looking forward to it .
Kris (10 months ago)
Two friends and I had a reunion girls trip and stayed at the Ilikai last year. Wonderful memories flodded back from the early 70′s when we actually lived there! Love the location and each staff member was great!!!! We were fortunate enough to be there two Friday’s and got to see the fireworks…so fun!
Rhoda (10 months ago)
Along with the Friday evening fireworks display, be sure to enjoy the music from Kawika and Friends in the patio area. They play from 6-8 Friday evenings. Have a cocktail, listen to the mellow Hawaiian music, enjoy the hula dancers and top it off with the fireworks display.
casacaudill (10 months ago)
This is good to hear. We were there back in 2005 (our timeshare has units there) and I thought everything looked a bit tired. I did, however, enjoy the view. I kept saying, “if only that lagoon had water.” Looks like things are on the upswing and it’s time for a revisit.