Hotel Review: The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach
From Honolulu to Seoul (2022) | Travel Report
Introduction
The Ritz-Carlton Residence, Waikiki Beach is considered one of the few modern 5 star hotels on the island. Split into two towers, the Ewa Tower (where we stayed) and the Diamond Head Tower comprises of Japanese-influenced design elements mixed with the 5 star Ritz-Carlton service. Because we had two days in Hawaii before heading off to Hawaii (you can read the travel report here!) we decided to spend 95,500 Marriott Points for the night. For us, this was more than a fair trade at the hotel prices for the given room was around $900 after taxes.
Location
This luxury hotel is located closer to the northwest stretch of the Waikiki neighborhood of Honolulu. Situated on Kalakaua Ave, it runs through all the luxury shops and brands, along with several famed restaurants from around the world. Despite not being right on the beach, it’s a simple 7-10 minute walk to the beach and a 15 minute walk to the famed Waikiki beach. The location is primed to be more quiet and less touristy, which makes for a more private place to be. The famed Ginza Bairin Tonkatsu is literally 5 minutes walking distance along with all the famed luxury boutiques.
Check-In
As expected, the arrival experience at the Ritz-Carlton is always superb. Days before arrival, the staff consistently reached out to make sure that our check-in experience and all required information was taken and given, ensuring optimal experience when we arrived. When we arrived at the property, the proper leis and greetings were automatic. Our luggage was instantly taken and ensured that they would be delivered to the room a few minutes after we got our room keys.
Check-In was on main lobby floor, which you take an elevator to get to. We arrived early (9:45am) and thankfully the front desk team was able to grant us our room ahead of time. Great service and attention to detail makes for a great experience here. After the pleasantries and introduction to the Marriott benefits, the lovely front desk agent escorted us to the elevator, and up we headed!
Deluxe Ocean Room View (E1913)
Interestingly enough, when we booked with points, there was no difference in points when compared the Ocean View vs. Deluxe Ocean View. The deluxe ocean view definitely way less obstructed and felt complete with the given views.
We were greeted with a lovely foyer with a kitchen to the right. The hotel is technically a condo (managed by Ritz-Carlton but owned by Japanese investors) and thus, the units have more luxury apartment feels to it - no wonder we had Miele appliances! If only I could cook some ramen…Nespresso machine was there along with various pods. There was also a laundry machine and dryer that is included in the room - this is super nice for those heading to the pool or beach and needing to wash their clothes and swim suits.
The bathroom was spacious and included a shower and bathtub to my right. There is also the window blinds that can be open and closed to reveal the bathroom, so you can enjoy either the utmost privacy or lack of at your very whim! Unexpectedly, the toiletries were not the typical Asprey, but a completely new brand! They smelled fantastic and I would love to have brought some back home.
Even with it being a typical king bedroom, the views were marvelous. With an oceanfront view, the sunsets here were amazing as well. Heck, even the morning sunrise was fantastic. Chilling on the balcony in the early mornings was incredibly quiet and relaxing with the cool Hawaiian air.
We also received a Ritz-Carlton tote bag made from 100% recycled plastic bottles that I think I’ll be using for my groceries when I get back home! We also received a nice gesture of chocolates for our arrival. We even got two bath bombs (which I gladly used within minutes).
The Hotel
The luxury hotel includes two infinity pool areas, one for adults-only and one for families. A fitness center, spa and several high-end restaurants are also available. Oddly enough, I think I would prefer the family pool with its design rather than the smaller adults-only infinity pool. While we didn’t bother taking a plunge during our stay, it was still nice to unwind during the mornings near the pools.
The fitness center was great and even had a series of heavy bags and boxing equipments!
Conclusion
Honolulu hotels are always known to have the beachfront view. Yet, out of all the hotels that I’ve stayed in Honolulu, I actually preferred the Ritz-Carlton Waikiki (I know, it’s a five star hotel, but come on!). Location was prime and away from traffic, and it was close to all the great restaurants and shopping center. It’s a great use of points in my opinion and would also be a great use of the Amex Fine Hotels and Resorts credit of $200 for those with an Amex Platinum Card.
Honestly, it’s a perfect hotel for those that have frequent Honolulu a lot. Overall, this hotel is clean, modern yet incredibly private and peaceful for a luxury property in Hawaii.
