Where to Stay in Waikiki: A Sheraton Waikiki Review
Inside: An in-depth review of the Sheraton Waikiki, one of Oahu’s Best Hotels.
When I think of Hawaii, this Waikiki icon is always the first hotel that comes to mind.
Perched on the best stretch of white sand along Hawaii’s most famous beach, the towering Sheraton Waikiki is perhaps best known for the sweeping views from 80% of its 1,636 rooms and suites.
The 31-story hotel is a dominant fixture of the Waikiki skyline and when you imagine a postcard-perfect view of Diamond Head in your mind, chances are you’re thinking of the view from the Sheraton Waikiki.
Even before moving to Waikiki, this was the hotel I always chose when visiting to run the Honolulu Marathon every year.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice. All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you.
But a mega hotel like the Sheraton Waikiki isn’t necessarily a good fit for everyone. Here’s how to decide if it’s right for you.
Sheraton Waikiki Overview 🏨
This 4-star hotel enjoys a perfect location in the heart of Waikiki Beach within walking distance to nearly everything Waikiki has to offer. From upscale shopping venues to family-friendly activities, you’ll find it all nearby.
As one of the four “Waikiki Collection” properties under the Marriott brand, guests of the Sheraton Waikiki enjoy the benefits of the “Stay at One, Dine at All” program with sister properties The Royal Hawaiian, the Moana Surfrider and the Sheraton Princess Kaiulani.
This allows guests to experience a variety of dining and entertainment options at any of the four properties with the convenience of charging back to their room.
History & Renovations 🛠️
Built in 1971, the Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort took advantage of downtime during the COVID-19 pandemic to complete a staggering $200M renovation.
Guest rooms and lobby spaces all received a much-needed facelift during this multi-year renovation. With 1,600+ rooms, the Sheraton Waikiki is the 2nd largest hotel on Oahu, second only to the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Read More: The Ultimate Hilton Hawaiian Village Review (2024)
Why You’ll Love It ❤️
Views. For. Days. From nearly all the rooms. In fact, if you’re in an oceanfront room, you will likely be able to spot turtles from your balcony if you look closely.
Also, the Sheraton Waikiki’s award-winning pools are widely considered the best in Waikiki and have even been voted the #1 Best Hotel Pools in America by readers of USA Today.
Why You Might Not 👎
Despite its cosmopolitan allure, the Sheraton Waikiki might not be everyone’s idea of Hawaiian paradise. If you’re looking for a more intimate hotel experience, the Sheraton is not the best choice.
Tip: For a smaller, boutique hotel experience, head just down the beach to the Halekulani or try one of These 7 Waikiki Boutique Hotels So Chic You’ll Forget You Saved a Fortune.
This is a BIG hotel and it’s popular with Japanese tour groups. Also, while it is oceanfront, it doesn’t really have its own beach area. Instead, it shares a fairly crowded section of Waikiki Beach with the Royal Hawaiian next door.
Location & Accessibility 📍
Hotel Address: 2255 Kalakaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
Hotel Phone: (888) 236-2427
Situated right on Waikiki Beach, the Sheraton offers unparalleled access to the ocean and beach activities. It’s also conveniently located just 9 miles from Honolulu International Airport.
Nearby attractions include the upscale shops of the Royal Hawaiian Center, the Waikiki Aquarium, the Honolulu Zoo, and Diamond Head State Monument. The hotel also has convenient access to the Hawaii Convention Center.
Parking & Transportation 🚗
If you choose to rent a car, self-parking is available on-site for a fee of $55 per day. They also offer valet parking for $65 per day.
If you’re looking to explore beyond Waikiki without a car, public transportation options are readily available, and the hotel’s location makes it easy to hail taxis or use rideshare services.
Tip: For exploring the island, I do recommend renting a car but you won’t need it for your entire stay. For the best rates on the island, I like Discount Hawaii Car Rental.
Discount Hawaii Car Rental
For rental cars in Hawaii, go to the local experts. They’ll find you the best rate among all the major companies with no booking fees. And their customer support is top-notch.
What are the check-in and check-out times? 🕒
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM, and check-out is at 11:00 AM. Late check-out may be available upon request and subject to availability.
How much does it cost to stay at the Sheraton Waikiki?
Room rates at the Sheraton Waikiki can fluctuate based on the time of year, room type, and how far in advance you book. Rates start from around $400 per night but expect higher prices during peak seasons.
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
There’s plenty to love about this iconic Waikiki hotel. Rates vary depending on room type and the time of year, check your dates here.
What’s the Resort Fee & What Does It Include? 💸
No one likes a resort fee but, unfortunately, they are a necessary evil at Hawaii’s resort hotels. At the Sheraton Waikiki, the resort fee is $42 + tax per night. This mandatory charge covers a wide assortment of value-added amenities including:
- Daily MiFi rental with unlimited high-speed internet access for island exploration
- Daily GoPro Hero 5 Rental with accessories
- Daily Morning Yoga (1 hour for 2 people)
- Cultural activities like lei making, ukulele lessons, hula lessons, bracelet making
- Intro to Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (a 15-minute land demonstration)
- Moana Surfrider Historical Tour
Rooms & Suites – An Overview 🛌
The Sheraton Waikiki’s newly renovated rooms and suites are designed with comfort and convenience in mind, featuring contemporary furnishings and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head, or the Honolulu skyline.
Each room is equipped with impressive features like the Sheraton Signature Sleep Experience beds, spa-like bathrooms, and private lanais designed to showcase this hotel’s best feature – the panoramic views.
View Options – Diamond Head, Oceanfront, or City View
The good news at the Sheraton Waikiki is that pretty much all of their relatively spacious rooms (by Waikiki standards) have some kind of fabulous view.
And the vast majority of rooms have at least partial ocean views. There are three room types to choose from, based on which view you prefer:
City View – Obviously, this is the most budget-friendly choice. But don’t discount the beauty of majestic views of the Honolulu skyline and Koolau mountains (that’s the view from our Waikiki condo and I adore it!).
Diamond Head View – I have a hard time choosing between the Diamond Head View and Oceanfront View as my favorite room type. Honestly, they’re both fabulous.
The Diamond Head view is the iconic image of Waikiki, with the historic pink facade of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel in the forefront, Diamond Head in the distance, and the idyllic curve of Waikiki Beach in between. It’s a true stunner.
Oceanfront View – The way the hotel juts out onto the beach, the oceanfront rooms almost feel like you’re on a ship at sea. I also love the view over the Edge Pool from these rooms. And nature lovers will adore the fact that you can spot turtles swimming in the coral just below.
Beach Access & Activities 🏖️
Directly fronting Waikiki Beach, guests have immediate access to one of the world’s most famous beaches. Unfortunately, while the hotel is on this beautiful beach, there’s not a lot of sandy beach real estate to go around.
All beaches are public in Hawaii so no hotel truly has a private beach area but the Sheraton has less than most.
And that’s one of this hotel’s few drawbacks.
However, if you get there early, you’ll have no trouble securing a prime spot by the sea. Beach amenities include loungers, umbrellas, and a range of water sports, from surfing lessons to catamaran rides, available for an additional fee.
The Waikiki Beach Boys are also ready and waiting, with fun activities like surf lessons and outrigger canoe rides.
Pools & Amenities🏊
If you’re more of a pool person than a beach person, the Sheraton Waikiki has you covered. The hotel is home to not one, but TWO award-winning freshwater pools.
Edge Infinity Pool
First, for the grown-ups, a stunning infinity edge pool that’s sandwiched between two poolside bars. It’s the place to see and be seen in Waikiki and lounge chairs here are often gone by 9:00am.
This striking, adult-only infinity pool seems to melt into the glittering, turquoise waters of the Pacific. A favorite amenity for couples, the Edge Infinity Pool is a tranquil retreat in the heart of busy Waikiki.
Helumoa Playground Pool
On the opposite side of the building, a kid’s pool I once heard referred to (by a kid in the elevator) as “Hawaiian Disneyland” is cleverly separated from the adult crowd keeping all guests in perfect harmony.
With two freshwater pools, two whirlpool spas, beachfront cabanas, and an interactive splash pad for kids, there’s something here for everyone in the family to love.
Pools are open from 8:00am – 8:00pm daily.
Does the Sheraton Waikiki Have a Spa? 🌸
The Sheraton Waikiki does not have a spa. However, guests can take advantage of the full-service Moana Lani Spa, located in the sister property, Moana Surfrider.
It’s the only oceanfront spa in Waikiki showcasing creative treatments inspired by traditional Hawaiian healing techniques. Indulge in a wide variety of relaxing and rejuvenating spa treatments at this award-winning spa.
It’s also one of my top picks for a fun couples activity on Oahu.
Read More: 12 Fun Activities on Oahu for Couples (#9 is a MUST!)
Fitness Center 🏃♂️
Located on the 4th floor, the Sheraton’s fitness center is simple but functional. Guests will find all the basics including treadmills, ellipticals, and free weights. But if you’d rather get in a great workout with a view, try the challenging Koko Head Crater Hike.
Restaurants & Bars 🍹
One other drawback of the Sheraton Waikiki is the dining options, there aren’t many. However, you’ll barely notice because the hotel is surrounded by fabulous dining options, all within walking distance.
Read More: The 10 Best Cheap Eats in Waikiki (#4 is literally a hidden gem!)
Within the hotel, these are the dining options:
Kai Market – This is the Sheraton’s breakfast restaurant and it offers standard breakfast fare with indoor/outdoor seating overlooking the ocean and the adult pool.
RumFire – One of Waikiki’s most popular nightlife venues, this oceanfront cocktail bar serves up signature cocktails with live music and epic sunset views. It’s more of a bar than a restaurant but they do offer a full menu.
Edge of Waikiki – This oceanfront pool bar accompanies the stunning adults-only infinity pool. It’s a great place to sip a mai tai, watch for turtles, and generally just enjoy Waikiki’s sensational weather.
That’s it for actual restaurants and bars but within the hotel there’s also a Baskin Robbins ice cream shop, a coffee shop, a cookie shop, and a sundry shop with snacks, drinks, and souvenirs.
Entertainment & Activities 🎶
Other fun amenities worth mentioning:
Daily Koi Feeding – This is a great one for the kids (keiki). Learn the history of koi at the daily 11:00am feeding located at the koi pond just off the main lobby.
Lobby Games – Older kids (and adults) will enjoy the vintage table games including billiards, shuffleboard, and foosball located near the koi pond.
Poppins Day Care – If you need some adult time at the Edge Pool, the Sheraton does offer daycare for kids 3 months to 12 years old on the 4th floor (reservations needed).
FAQs 💡
Is the Sheraton Waikiki a good choice for families?
Absolutely, with various children’s programs, family-friendly pools, and activities, the Sheraton caters to families of all sizes.
Does the Sheraton Waikiki have laundry facilities?
Yes, there are coin-operated laundry facilities on the 5th and 18th floors.
Does the Sheraton Waikiki allow pets?
No, there are no pets allowed. Humans only at this Waikiki resort.
Does the Sheraton Waikiki have its own beach?
Yes, the Sheraton Waikiki boasts a prime location right on Waikiki Beach. Guests can step out and enjoy direct access to the sand and surf. Though all beaches in Hawaii are public so it’s not a private beach just for hotel guests.
Does Sheraton Waikiki have breakfast?
Yes, there’s breakfast. The Sheraton Waikiki offers various dining options, including breakfast. Whether it’s included in your room rate depends on the package you book.
But there are way better places to find breakfast in Waikiki. So unless your room package includes breakfast, head to one of these incredible Waikiki spots for breakfast instead:
7 Divinely Delicious Waikiki Breakfast Spots You Can’t Miss
How far is Sheraton Waikiki from the Honolulu airport?
Not too far. The Sheraton Waikiki is about 9 miles from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport. Depending on traffic, that’s roughly a 20 to 30-minute drive.
How many pools does the Sheraton Waikiki have?
Two stunning pools. The hotel features two pools, including an infinity pool that offers breathtaking views of the ocean. It’s a perfect spot for relaxation and Instagram-worthy moments.
Does the Sheraton Waikiki have a luau?
No, but the hotel’s sister property, The Royal Hawaiian, offers a fabulous beachfront luau called Ahaaina every Monday and Thursday.
It’s a bit on the pricey side, though. My three favorite luaus on Oahu are Germaine’s Luau (for a spectacular beachfront location), the Mauka Warriors Luau (for a fantastic show), and the Hale Koa Luau (military members & veterans only, but if you’re eligible, this one is an excellent and affordable option).
Wrapping up…
The Sheraton Waikiki Resort stands as a beacon of luxury and comfort for travelers seeking the ultimate Hawaiian getaway. With its prime location on world-famous Waikiki Beach, this upscale hotel promises an unforgettable experience where modern amenities meet breathtaking natural beauty.
For more great things to do on Oahu, start here:
The 7 Absolute Best Things to Do on Oahu (if time is short!)
