Hotel Help !

Question

Aloha,

My two teenage daughters and I are currently staying at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa. I choose this hotel for the beach and location. I think I choose poorly for us and am thinking about moving.

The hotel is beautiful. Staff is great. The Pool is terrible and everywhere I look is a McDonald’s or ABC store. Not what I expected. My fault.

Here is what I wanted: a great pool, very tropical grounds, oceanview, some shopping nearby but can be a shuttle or uber away. 4* quality is fine.

We are here for 6 more nights.

Answer

Aloha! It sounds like you’re looking for a more tropical, resort-style experience with a great pool, lush grounds, and still close enough to enjoy Waikiki’s offerings. While the Hyatt Regency Waikiki is excellent in terms of service and location, it is more urban in feel, and the pool and landscaping may not meet the “resort escape” vibe you’re hoping for.

Here are some alternative options you might consider for the remainder of your stay, all generally 4-star quality or higher, with ocean views and more tropical, resort-style grounds:

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort: Classic beachfront location with better pool areas and tropical landscaping. Central location but still has a resort feel. Good balance of access to shopping and oceanfront relaxation.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa: Known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” this hotel offers a historic, tropical-feeling courtyard, a beautiful pool, and beach access. It is closer to shops and restaurants but retains a resort ambiance.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort: Massive property with multiple pools, waterfalls, and tropical gardens. It’s a true resort feel, right on the beach, and offers a variety of dining and shopping options within the property. Slightly farther from central Waikiki attractions, but shuttle and walkable options are available.

If you prefer to move for a better pool and lush grounds, consider contacting the hotels directly to check last-minute availability for ocean-view rooms. Many hotels offer upgrade options if you explain your situation, especially mid-week.

Additional tips:

Check resort fees and inclusions: Some properties include pool towels, beach chairs, or shuttle service, which can improve your experience.
Consider weekend vs. weekday: Pool areas can get crowded on weekends, so if you switch hotels midweek, you might enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Book directly if possible: Direct bookings sometimes provide better room placement, especially for ocean views or pool-adjacent rooms.

In summary, for a more tropical, resort-style experience with your teenage daughters, the Moana Surfrider or Hilton Hawaiian Village would likely provide the ambiance and pool experience you’re looking for, while still allowing you to enjoy Waikiki’s shops and beach.

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