Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Waikiki Beach is a long-running Waikiki hotel occupying the former estate of Princess Kaiʻulani, now part of Marriott’s Sheraton brand and positioned as an affordable, central base a block from the ocean. With more than 1,000 rooms spread across multiple towers, it feels like a classic high-rise city resort rather than a boutique hideaway, and its scale brings both convenience and crowds. Many public spaces and a large portion of rooms have been refreshed with lighter, coastal-inspired décor, but the property still shows its age in some layouts and bathrooms, especially in older, unrenovated sections. The hotel primarily attracts families, couples on a budget, and loyalty members who want to use or earn points in a prime Waikiki location without paying top-tier resort prices. If you’re picturing a relaxed base with a sizeable pool, a well-regarded poolside bar, and easy access to shopping, dining, and the beach—and you can live with some dated elements and potential noise—this hotel belongs on your shortlist.
Location and accessibility
Sheraton Princess Kaiulani sits on Kaiulani Avenue, just off Kalākaua Avenue, in the dense heart of Waikiki’s main resort strip. Waikiki Beach is about a 3–5 minute walk away, with a crosswalk and beach access just across Kalākaua, so you can be on the sand quickly without needing to drive or plan around shuttles. The hotel is also within a roughly 5-minute walk of the International Market Place and Royal Hawaiian Center, two major open-air shopping and dining complexes that make meals and evening wandering very straightforward. Families benefit from being about 10–15 minutes on foot from Honolulu Zoo and the edge of Kapiʻolani Park, giving kids an easy, stroller-friendly outing without a car.
From Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, the drive is typically 20–30 minutes in normal traffic, via taxi, rideshare, or shuttle, and the hotel’s central location makes it a logical base for day trips around Oahu even if you’re not driving every day. Public bus stops along Kuhio Avenue are a short walk away, giving you access to TheBus routes that reach Ala Moana Center, downtown Honolulu, and beyond, though families with gear may still prefer rideshare. Onsite self-parking is available for a fee in a structured garage, which is convenient but adds to the nightly cost and can feel tight during busy periods. The area is highly walkable, but that also means it’s busy; traffic noise, sirens, and late-night street activity are part of the urban Waikiki experience, especially in rooms facing major streets.
Accommodations overview
The hotel offers more than 1,000 guest rooms and junior suites spread across multiple towers, including the recently renovated Ainahau Tower, which features refreshed coastal-inspired rooms designed with soft blues, neutrals, and light woods. Standard rooms typically feature one king or two double beds, a compact sitting area, and a small work desk, with layouts that feel functional rather than spacious, particularly for families sharing a room. Many rooms include a private lanai (balcony), and higher-category units offer partial ocean, full ocean, or city/park views; guests often praise front-facing ocean-view rooms, while noting that rear-facing rooms trade views for quieter nights. In-room amenities are what you’d expect from an upper-midrange city resort: air conditioning, mini-refrigerator, coffee/tea maker, in-room Wi-Fi (often included in the daily resort or destination fee), blackout curtains, and a TV with cable and streaming capability in many units.
Bathrooms tend to be on the small side, frequently with shower/tub combinations and relatively low showerheads that taller guests may find awkward, and some guests note that the bathrooms feel more dated than the sleeping areas. Renovated rooms are generally reviewed as clean, comfortable, and significantly nicer than older stock, so requesting or booking a renovated category can make a noticeable difference in overall feel. There are a limited number of junior suites, which add a bit more space and may work better for families who want extra breathing room without booking two separate rooms. Accessibility features such as roll-in showers, grab bars, and visual alarms are available in specific ADA-compliant room types, but these should be requested and confirmed directly with the hotel before arrival for peace of mind.
Amenities and facilities
For a city-style Waikiki property, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani offers a solid, if not extravagant, amenity set centered around a sizable outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, and flexible event spaces. The main pool sits in an open courtyard surrounded by loungers and is sunny for much of the day, which guests appreciate for midday breaks from the beach; however, it can feel busy during peak family travel periods. A poolside bar and dining venue anchors the deck, creating a lively but generally relaxed atmosphere with drinks, casual meals, and occasional live entertainment in the evenings. Beach access is not direct, but the hotel provides beach towels and is close enough that many guests simply walk across to the sand and rent beach chairs or umbrellas independently.
The 24-hour fitness center offers a mix of cardio machines and basic strength equipment, sufficient for keeping up a routine but not a standout wellness facility; there’s no full-service spa onsite. The property is popular for group events and weddings, with more than 14,000 square feet of event space and several meeting rooms, plus wedding services that leverage the hotel’s historic grounds and proximity to the ocean. A business center, concierge services, luggage storage, and coin or valet laundry (depending on current offerings) help longer-stay guests manage practical needs. For families, occasional resort activities—such as cultural demonstrations or kid-friendly events—may be offered, though these can vary by season and are best confirmed closer to your dates.
Dining and nearby options
The hotel’s signature dining option is Splash Bar, a poolside restaurant and bar that serves breakfast, lunch, happy hour, and dinner with a strong focus on local flavors and casual fare. It has earned multiple Hale ʻAina awards from Honolulu Magazine for its bar food, highlighting dishes like poke, local-style plates, and creative bar bites that appeal to both hotel guests and locals. Breakfast at Splash Bar ranges from continental-style plates and hearty items like pineapple sausage hash to indulgent pancakes, offering a convenient start to the day without leaving the property. Tiki-style cocktails and classic tropical drinks such as mai tais and lava flows are a major draw in the afternoon and evening, especially with live music adding to the atmosphere on select nights.
Beyond Splash Bar, the property has historically offered buffet-style dining and a food court-style setup, though offerings have evolved over time; check current listings, as some venues may be seasonal or adjusted post-renovation. In practice, many guests rely heavily on the wealth of nearby restaurants within a 5–10 minute walk, from quick grab-and-go spots at the International Market Place to sit-down restaurants along Kalākaua Avenue and Kuhio Avenue. This density of choices is a big plus for families and budget travelers, since you can mix affordable plate lunches, food-court meals, and splurge dinners without needing a car. If breakfast isn’t included in your rate, you can still easily walk to coffee shops and bakeries nearby, which can save money over daily restaurant breakfasts for larger groups.
Guest experience and value
Guest experience
Recent reviews tend to highlight friendly, helpful staff, especially at the front desk and in housekeeping, with many repeat guests noting they feel remembered and welcomed back. Cleanliness scores are generally strong, particularly in renovated rooms, where guests appreciate fresh finishes and comfortable beds, though some older rooms and bathrooms still draw criticism for dated décor and wear. The urban Waikiki location brings typical noise tradeoffs: some guests report quiet stays in higher, rear-facing rooms, while others note street noise, pool activity sounds, and hallway noise, especially in lower or front-facing units. Crowd levels can be high during school holidays and peak tourism seasons, leading to busy elevators, a lively (rather than serene) pool deck, and occasional waits at check-in.
The overall vibe skews toward casual and family-friendly rather than romantic or ultra-relaxing, although couples who prioritize location over ambience still stay here happily. Loyalty members appreciate the ability to earn and redeem points and sometimes receive upgrades to higher floors or renovated rooms, which can noticeably improve the experience. Some detailed third-party reviews point out functional quirks such as small bathrooms, low showerheads, and somewhat thin walls, so travelers who are sensitive to these aspects should consider that when choosing room type and location. Still, many guests ultimately feel they got a solid stay in a very central spot, particularly when they secured competitive rates or promotions.
Value proposition
Within Waikiki’s dense hotel market, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani usually prices in the mid-to-lower range among major branded properties in this central area, making it attractive for travelers who want brand reliability and location without luxury-level costs. Nightly rates fluctuate significantly by season, view category, and renovation status, but this hotel is often marketed as a more affordable alternative to its oceanfront sister properties along the same strip. The mandatory destination or resort fee adds to the nightly total but typically includes Wi-Fi and some resort-style inclusions like towels and select activities, so it’s worth factoring into your comparison. For many guests, the strongest value comes from the ability to walk to nearly everything in Waikiki, reducing transportation costs and time.
You’ll get the best value here if you: prioritize location over room size or luxe finishes, can take advantage of points or loyalty benefits, and are comfortable with a lively, sometimes crowded environment. Travelers who expect a quiet, resort-like escape, large bathrooms, or consistently modern rooms may feel underwhelmed and might prefer to pay more for a newer or more upscale property nearby. Families and groups who can share standard rooms or book connecting options, then spend most of their time at the beach or out exploring, tend to come away the most satisfied. Overall, this is a pragmatic choice: not the showstopper of Waikiki, but a sensible base with enough comfort and amenities to justify its rates when priced competitively.
Pros (when expectations are calibrated):
- Excellent central Waikiki location, a short walk to the beach, shopping, and dining.
- Large pool with a well-regarded poolside bar and award-winning bar food.
- Renovated rooms available, offering improved décor and comfort.
- Strong cleanliness reputation and generally friendly, helpful staff.
- Good fit for families and budget-conscious travelers wanting a branded hotel.
Cons:
- Building is older; some rooms and bathrooms still feel dated and small.
- Urban noise and crowds, especially in front-facing rooms and peak seasons.
- Daily fees and paid parking add to the total cost.
- Limited resort-style features (no full spa, beach is nearby but not directly on-site).
Hawaiian cultural elements and sustainability
The property leans into its historic connection to Princess Victoria Kaʻiulani with naming and occasional references, and some public spaces incorporate Hawaiian motifs, artwork, and place names. Wedding and marketing materials often emphasize the hotel’s location on the princess’s former estate, giving the site a sense of cultural storyline even if the overall feel remains that of a busy city resort. The broader Waikiki Collection, of which this hotel is part, promotes “Stay at One, Dine at All” cross-property dining, occasionally highlighting local cuisines and island-inspired menus. Some activity calendars mention family-friendly cultural experiences such as lei-making, hula, or ukulele sessions, but offerings can change over time and should be confirmed near arrival.
On the sustainability side, the hotel lists eco-friendly touches like energy-saving switches, water-efficient showers, and eco-friendly toiletries, which are increasingly common in large branded properties. Broader Marriott environmental initiatives may apply here—such as linen reuse programs and efficiency efforts—though property-specific certifications or detailed sustainability reporting are not prominently highlighted in major booking overviews. Travelers who prioritize deep, documented sustainability practices may want to reach out directly to the hotel or consider other properties with explicit green certifications.
Nearby things to do
Staying at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani puts much of classic Waikiki within a short walk, making it easy to fill your days without a car. Waikiki Beach and Kuhio Beach Park are just across Kalākaua Avenue, offering calm swimming areas, surf lessons, and sunset views ideal for families, first-timers, and casual swimmers. The International Market Place and Royal Hawaiian Center provide extensive shopping and dining, plus occasional free performances, making them good evening destinations for couples and families alike. Honolulu Zoo and the east end of Kapiʻolani Park are about a 10–15 minute walk away, giving kids playground time, animal exhibits, and open grassy spaces to run around.
For more active outings, you can drive or rideshare to Diamond Head State Monument in around 10–15 minutes, where popular hikes offer panoramic views back over Waikiki. Ala Moana Center and Ala Moana Beach Park are accessible by bus or a short drive, adding more shopping and a broader, often less crowded beach option. Many tour operators pick up from central Waikiki hotels, so day trips to Pearl Harbor, the North Shore, or circle-island excursions are straightforward to arrange from this base.
Hotels you might also like
If you want a more upscale beachfront feel
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa offers a more historic, upscale atmosphere directly on the sand, with a spa and grand veranda, but at typically higher rates than Sheraton Princess Kaiulani. It suits couples and travelers who value charm and beachfront ambiance over budget savings.
If you want newer, resort-style pools
Sheraton Waikiki sits a short walk away and delivers large oceanfront infinity pools, waterslides, and a more resort-like experience, especially appealing for families with kids who will spend hours at the pool. Expect higher prices and a busier, more high-energy vibe compared with Princess Kaiulani.
If you want a quieter, park-side location
Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa, near the eastern end of Waikiki by Kapiʻolani Park, offers multiple pools and restaurants with slightly more breathing room from the busiest strip. It’s a good option if you still want easy beach access but prefer a less hectic immediate neighborhood.
If you want condo-style space
Aston Waikiki Beach Tower (or similar condo-style properties nearby) provides multi-bedroom units with kitchens and living rooms, ideal for larger families or groups who want to self-cater and spread out. You’ll trade the big-brand hotel experience for more residential comforts and often pay more per night, but can save on meals.
Booking tips and insider knowledge
If budget allows, aim for a renovated room in the Ainahau Tower or another refreshed category, as these receive consistently better feedback on décor and comfort than older stock. Ocean-view rooms facing toward Waikiki Beach offer the most memorable views but can pick up more street noise, while rear-facing or higher-floor city-view rooms tend to be quieter. Families often find two double-bed rooms with connecting doors or adjacent rooms to be a flexible setup; if that’s important, contact the hotel in advance to note your preferences.
Room rates typically rise during holidays, summer, and major events, so visiting during shoulder seasons (such as late spring or early fall) can help you secure better prices and slightly calmer crowds. Watch for packages that include food-and-beverage credits or parking, which can offset the impact of daily fees and eating out in Waikiki. Loyalty members should add their Marriott Bonvoy number early to maximize chances of upgrades and late checkout, especially during less busy periods. Finally, if you’re sensitive to noise, request a higher floor away from elevators and note that city-center hotels can never guarantee complete quiet.
Quick FAQ
How far is Sheraton Princess Kaiulani from Waikiki Beach?
The hotel is roughly a 3–5 minute walk from Waikiki Beach, located just across Kalākaua Avenue from the shoreline.
Is this hotel good for families with kids?
Yes, many families stay here for the central location, pool, and relative value, though rooms and bathrooms can feel small for larger families.
Does the hotel have a gym and pool?
The property features a large outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center with basic cardio and strength equipment.
What are the main downsides guests mention?
Common complaints include dated or compact bathrooms in some rooms, urban noise, crowds in peak season, and added costs from daily fees and parking.
Is parking available on-site?
Yes, there is self-parking available for a nightly fee in the hotel’s garage, which is convenient but increases the overall trip cost.
Can I walk to restaurants and shops from the hotel?
Absolutely; International Market Place, Royal Hawaiian Center, and many restaurants, shops, and bars are all within a short walk.
Conclusion
Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Waikiki Beach is best for travelers who want a central, walkable Waikiki base with a pool, reliable brand standards, and relatively budget-friendly rates compared with nearby beachfront resorts. You’ll trade away some space, modern polish, and quiet in exchange for location, value, and the convenience of being steps from the beach, shopping, and dining. Families, budget-conscious couples, and loyalty members who spend most of their time out exploring Oahu or on the sand are likely to feel they chose well. Travelers seeking a tranquil, high-end resort experience may be happier at one of the area’s newer or more luxurious oceanfront properties instead.
Located in the heart of Waikiki, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani offers a delightful blend of Hawaiian culture and contemporary comfort. The hotel provides a range of amenities including modern rooms with stunning ocean views, an inviting outdoor pool, and cultural activities that offer a glimpse into the rich history of Princess Victoria Kaiulani. Sheraton Princess Kaiulani stands out for its prime location, just a block away from the iconic Waikiki Beach, ensuring easy access to sun, surf, and local attractions.
At this hotel, you’ll enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and exceptional service. The accommodations cater to diverse preferences, featuring different wings with distinct amenities. From plush bedding to free Wi-Fi, each room enhances your stay, while the cultural offerings add depth to your Hawaiian experience.
Whether you’re in town for business or leisure, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani provides the resources you need for an efficient and enjoyable visit. The proximity to Honolulu’s attractions makes it an ideal choice, while the attentive staff ensures a seamless experience from check-in to check-out.
Key Takeaways
- Prime location near Waikiki Beach.
- Offers renovated rooms and cultural experiences.
- Suitable for both business and leisure stays.
History of Sheraton Princess Kaiulani
The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani Hotel is located on the historic site of Princess Victoria Kaʻiulani’s royal estate, which was known as ʻĀinahau. The estate was removed in 1925, to make way for a hotel project by the owners of the Moana Hotel.
The original structure for the hotel was built by Matson Navigation Co. It started as a collection of wooden bungalows, offering a unique blend of traditional Hawaiian cultural design.
In 1959, Sheraton Hotels acquired the property. Under Sheraton’s ownership, the hotel underwent significant development, transforming into a modern resort. Despite the new developments, the hotel retained elements of its traditional architecture.
Pictures and historic information about Princess Kaʻiulani are strategically placed throughout the hotel. This offers guests a glimpse into the rich history associated with this significant location.
Over the years, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani has become a staple in Honolulu, offering easy access to Waikiki Beach and surrounding attractions. It successfully merges historical significance with modern amenities, creating a unique experience for its visitors.
Location and Accessibility
Sheraton Princess Kaiulani is located at 120 Kaiulani Ave, Honolulu, Hawaii 96815, placing you in the vibrant heart of Waikiki. Being just a crosswalk away from Waikiki Beach, you’ll find yourself steps from the island’s stunning coastlines and bustling city life.
This prime location ensures easy access to popular tourist attractions and local dining options. With a variety of shops and entertainment venues within walking distance, there’s plenty to explore right at your doorstep.
Accessibility is a key focus at this hotel. It offers a range of accessible amenities including specially designed rooms and facilities. These features enhance convenience and comfort for all guests, ensuring that your stay is as enjoyable as possible.
The hotel’s proximity to public transport makes it easy to navigate Honolulu. Whether you’re heading towards historical sites or exploring nature trails, transportation is straightforward and efficient.
For those traveling by car, the hotel provides parking facilities. This ensures hassle-free arrivals and departures for guests who prefer personal transportation.
Accommodation and Amenities
At Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, you can expect comfort and convenience with a range of accommodations tailored to your needs. The dining options provide both international and local flavors. Leisure facilities offer a chance for relaxation and recreation.
Rooms and Suites
The guest rooms at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani have been revitalized to encapsulate the spirit of Waikiki. You will find rooms in the Ainahau Tower with new platform beds and modern design elements. Enjoy views of the Honolulu skyline or Waikiki Beach from your private lanai. These balconies are perfect for enjoying the tropical atmosphere. Each room includes standard amenities like Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning to ensure a comfortable stay.
Dining Options
Dining at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani offers a delightful experience across various venues. You can explore Hawaiian flavors and international dishes that cater to diverse palates. Take advantage of the onsite restaurants that feature fresh, local ingredients. For a more casual experience, grab a quick bite at one of the 【cafés】. Enjoy delicious meals while taking in the beautiful surroundings of Waikiki.
Leisure Facilities
Whether you are looking to relax or stay active, Sheraton Princess Kaiulani offers various facilities for your enjoyment. Spend time lounging by the outdoor pool or sipping a drink at the poolside bar. A fitness center is available to help you maintain your workout routine with modern equipment. Join in various organized activities or explore nearby attractions, such as Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Beach.
Events and Conferences
The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani offers versatile facilities for various events, with distinct meeting spaces and elegant settings for weddings and banquets. Located near Waikiki Beach, it combines Hawaiian cultural elements and modern amenities to create memorable experiences.
Meeting Spaces
You will find a range of meeting spaces designed to cater to diverse event requirements at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani. With a total of 14,451 square feet of event space, the venue can accommodate various gatherings, from small meetings to large conferences.
Four meeting rooms can host up to 930 people. The largest conference room spans 7,071 square feet, providing ample space for larger functions. Modern audio-visual equipment and customizable layouts enable efficient presentations and productive discussions.
The central location near top shopping and dining areas further enhances the convenience for attendees.
Weddings and Banquets
For weddings and banquets, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani offers picturesque backdrops with a touch of Hawaiian charm. The venue’s proximity to Waikiki Beach provides scenic settings for ceremonies and receptions. You can host a wedding that integrates both traditional and contemporary Hawaiian elements.
The adaptable spaces are perfect for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations. Customized catering menus are available to suit various preferences, ensuring culinary excellence. The attentive staff work with you to personalize every aspect of the event, ensuring it reflects your unique style and vision.
Guest Services and Policies
When staying at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, you have access to a variety of guest services designed to enhance your stay. A frequently used amenity is the ATM/Bank service available within the hotel, providing convenient access to cash at any time.
For your arrival, transportation is simplified with options to book a shuttle service through Hawaii Island Transport Services (HITS). This service operates between Daniel K. Inouye International Airport and the hotel. It’s advisable to reserve your spot in advance, as fees and availability may vary.
The hotel imposes a mandatory fee of $33.00 plus tax per room per night. This charge can be settled either at check-in or check-out. Note that this fee is distinct from the package prices and subject to change.
All rooms are non-smoking to ensure a pleasant environment. Smoking is permitted only in designated areas, such as in front of the hotel and near the parking garage entrance.
Hotel guests are encouraged to book services and make arrangements well ahead of time to secure availability and a seamless experience. Whether it’s arranging transport or managing your financial needs with the ATM, the hotel staff is available to assist you.
Sustainable Practices
The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani is committed to sustainability on its historic grounds. As a guest, you can appreciate their focus on preserving native Hawaiian fauna. Built on the site of the ‘Ainahau Estate, the hotel maintains the cultural heritage of the area.
You are likely to notice sustainable design elements throughout the property. This includes initiatives that support local ecosystems, like landscaping with native plants. These efforts encourage biodiversity and create a natural environment for local wildlife.
Resource conservation also plays a key role in their sustainability practices. The hotel implements water-saving technologies and energy-efficient lighting systems. By prioritizing renewable energy, they reduce environmental impact.
Moreover, waste management strategies are employed to minimize waste. You’ll find recycling stations conveniently located throughout the property. These efforts aim to lower the resort’s carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable future.
Supporting the community is another pillar of Sheraton Princess Kaiulani’s approach. The hotel partners with local organizations to foster environmental education. These collaborations not only enhance guest experiences but also benefit the broader community’s ecological awareness.
For further detail, be aware that sustainable practices at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani are part of a broader commitment by Marriott Bonvoy. Marriott International, known for its eco-friendly initiatives, integrates similar sustainable efforts across its properties globally.
Frequently Asked Questions
When considering a stay at Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, you might have questions about other accommodation options nearby, fees, recent upgrades, transportation services, and ownership information. Here is clear and concise information to address these queries.
What are some other hotels I should look at besides the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani?
Several hotels are comparable to The Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, each offering unique amenities and a prime location in Waikiki. The OHANA Waikiki East by Outrigger provides comfortable accommodations and is conveniently located near shopping and dining, making it ideal for travelers seeking convenience. Another excellent option is the Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach, which features modern amenities and a rooftop pool, perfect for relaxation after a day of exploring. For those wanting a beachfront experience, the Outrigger Waikiki Beach Resort boasts stunning ocean views and direct access to the beach, along with various dining options. Additionally, the Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa offers spacious rooms and a large pool area, catering to families and couples alike. Lastly, the historic Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa combines luxury and charm with its beachfront location and elegant facilities, making it a standout choice in the area. Each of these hotels provides a comfortable stay with easy access to the vibrant attractions of Waikiki.
Is there a resort fee at the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani, and what does it include?
Yes, the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani charges a resort fee. This typically covers amenities such as Wi-Fi access, fitness center usage, local calls, and perhaps some cultural activities. It is advisable to check with the hotel directly for any updates or changes to what the fee includes.