Park Shore Waikiki Hotel Surprise

I have a new and perhaps surprising favorite on the Waikiki Strip after my recent six night stay.  It’s Aqua’s Park Shore Waikiki Hotel.  This is my pick for best views and location in the moderately priced category.

Just look at the view from my spacious oceanfront lanai.  With a view like this, who cares about the hotel’s vintage (1960’s), basic room furniture and old air conditioning.  My room also had a side window looking out to Diamond Head.

Price tag for this category starts at $154 a night (depending on Aqua’s deal at the moment).  There are also partial ocean view rooms available for considerably less.

Standard Rooms are a bargain starting at $89 a night, but have no ocean view.  If you’re stuck with this type of room there may be paid upgrades available at check-in.

Best Feature:  The hotel faces away from the strip and looks to the ocean, Diamond Head and Kapiolani Park.  You have the feeling of space and privacy.  In that way, it is reminiscent of old Waikiki.

You’re a good fit for the Park Shore if:

You prefer location and view over luxury accommodation.

I liked the comfortable king size bed (from which you could watch the ocean), roomy lanai which compensated for the smaller room, spectacular ocean views, and unpretentious feel.  The staff were also courteous and helpful.

Things I’d Change: Most rooms do not have a microwave.  There’s also no guest laundry on site.

Amenities:  Two restaurants, swimming pool, ABC Store and Starbucks on property.  Free daily newspaper except on Sunday.  Coffee maker, refrigerator and ironing set included.

Money Savings Tip: Pass on the $20 a day valet.  I parked each night at the Waikiki Shell which is a five minute walk.  During the day I used the Zoo parking lot across from the hotel at 25 cents an hour.  The Waikiki Shell lot was full during the day but not at night.

Note:  This property had one of the oddest set of TripAdvisor reviews I’ve seen.  While that caused me considerable trepidation, all concerns went out the window on arrival.