Waikiki has become sooo expensive, especially for Canadians, it's amazing and rare to find such an affordable suite with every amenity you could need, plus stunning views of Diamond head, Kapiolani park, the zoo and Waikiki beach all from two huge balconies. Plus, you could take your happy hour cocktail and food up to the 10 th floor and enjoy the totally amazing views on the roof top patio anytime, particularly at sunset on lovely patio furniture set up for guests.
Everyone at the hotel is very friendly and helpful, as were Rob, Dave and Mark, the owners and hosts. Super fast responses to any issues at all like, is there any free parking in the area etc. We had an suv for two weeks and parked a block away on Monsarrat for free throughout our entire two week stay.
There's no bugs, tons of beach towels, lots of hot water for showers, beach chairs, beach glassware, French press, toaster oven, microwave, cooking utensils, fridge, two great ice makers, etc. Good Wi-fi and HD satellite tv.
The AC worked perfectly. There's an amazing burger place right in the hotel and you can phone your order in. There's even a quiet pool, a clean laundry room, drink machines etc.
We had two queen beds, lots of room and can't think of many cons whatsoever.
Considerations for some people are that the unit is two floors above an open balcony bar (with 2$ tacos on Tuesday) so the live music and street noise is significant and noticeable in the evenings. That being said, my daughter and I didn't have trouble getting to sleep with AC on at 9 pm and there must be some agreement to turn off music by a certain time, say midnight?
The buildling is older so the plumbing issues cause the tub not to drain quickly while you're showering. As well, you can't use the toaster oven and microwave simultaneously or you overload the breaker. Front desk is fast at resetting if you call them.
There are a lot of choices in the Grand Hotel, some more upscale than others. But, if you are fine with clean, cheerful, cottagy or dorm like accommodations I would choose this unit everytime because of the balconies, views, space, two beds, etc. And the hotel is very secure, well maintained and homey. Everyone is very neighborly.
Beats staying at the noisy crowded, push and shove Hilton or Sheraton where there are no palm trees and parks on their beach to speak of, as well as exponentially more people.