I just returned from a three-night stay at the Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach and came away very impressed. I was not quite sure what to expect since this is a residences property rather than a traditional hotel, but in hindsight I actually preferred this format. The extra space, residential feel, and overall comfort made the stay feel more relaxed and elevated.
I originally planned to book the entry-level suite but decided to upgrade to a Grand Ocean View Suite based on the photos on the hotel’s website. When I checked in and reached my room, something felt off. After reviewing the website photos again, the suite I was placed in looked identical to what was shown as a standard suite. Thankfully, I returned to the front desk and the team handled it very well. They moved me to a different suite in another tower that matched exactly what I had booked and what was shown online. Interestingly, they mentioned the original room was also categorized as a Grand Ocean View Suite, though it clearly looked different from the website images. My advice to future guests is simple, pay close attention to the room category and compare it carefully with the photos and description to ensure you receive what you expect.
Service throughout the stay was outstanding. Every interaction, from valet to concierge to front desk to pool staff, was warm and professional. Housekeeping was especially impressive. I rarely saw them, yet the room was always perfectly maintained, and the thoughtful touches, like leaving an eyeglass cleaning cloth for my reading glasses, really stood out.
The pools are somewhat small, but perfectly adequate for a Waikiki property. I rented two side-by-side cabanas and was very pleased with both the service and the value. Immediately after this stay, I flew to Maui and spent five nights at the Grand Wailea, where cabanas were three to four times the price of a single cabana at the Ritz-Carlton Waikiki, making the value here even more noticeable.
While Oahu has always been my least favorite Hawaiian island due to the urban feel of Waikiki, the overall experience at this property, especially the value of the cabanas and quality of service, has made me reconsider how I plan future Hawaii trips. I will very likely include the Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki again, even if it means fewer nights on another island.
Highly recommended.