Aloha Bruce shares his personal best Oahu hotel picks, from budget to luxury for the latest Hawaii Vacation Connection Podcast. He starts off with some of the latest news affecting Hawaii travel, including potential plans for a “vaccine passport” possibly letting travelers with proof of a full COVID-19 vaccination avoid a mandatory quarantine without testing required by the Hawaii Safe Travels program.
Bruce asks visitors to please “be patient with us” here in Hawaii, as workers in the tourism industry have been nearly overwhelmed with soaring demand for flights, rooms, cars, and dining and entertainment options.
Bruce begins his list of favorite best Oahu hotel picks with properties in the “budget” category, between $120-$200 per night. He mentions the White Sands, which had deteriorated before a recent remodel and rebranding project. He also mentions the Hilton Garden Inn, which has also undergone a recent renovation in a great location on Kuhio Avenue in Waikiki.
Aloha Bruce moves on to “boutique hotels” ($200-$250), starting with the Queen Kapiolani Hotel, and talks about the rich history of the unique property next to Kapiolani Point and close to Diamond Head. He also mentions the LayLow, another older property near International Marketplace modernized and taken over by Marriott. The nearby SurfJack is also mentioned, and Bruce says that it is a well-marketed property.
The “Upscale” range includes the Alohilani ($250-$350), which Hawaii Aloha Travel books regularly. It has great restaurants, and Bruce says, “It’s skewed a little younger.” The Aston Waikiki Beach Hotel also gets a mention of the best Oahu Hotel Picks.
Moving on to “high end” properties, Bruce starts with the Halepuna ($350-$500), which hasn’t officially opened due to the COVID pandemic. It is a sister property to the famous Halekulani Hotel, which has also undergone recent renovations. Bruce says July is a good month to book at the Halepuna.
Bruce says the high-end Ritz Carlton Residences, a 5-Star property, is an amazing property and talks about the location of the posh accommodations. He also notes The Kahala, a luxury property that also offers beachfront cottages and a long history of welcoming world-famous luminaries for decades. Bruce gives Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore an “Honorable Mention”, and notes its remote and exotic location.
Bruce also reminds listeners about Hawaii Aloha Travel’s private tour company Secret Hawaii Tours!