Waikiki Banyon?

Question

My wife and I (mid 60s) are making our first trip to Hawaii. Originally we hadn't planned on visiting Oahu, but decided to tack on another 5 days to our trip to round out our Hawaiian experience after visiting the other three main islands.

While we're not big fans of the whole urban, high rise, huge mega resort hotel type of vibe, it does seem like Waikiki probably would be the best place to base while exploring island. So we've decided to embrace the whole high rise thing and experience it for what it is--who knows it could be fun and we will have a car to explore other parts of the island.

That said, I've gotten a lot of great feedback as to where to stay, where to look for accommodations, etc. I think I have it narrowed down to a particular property, the Waikiki Banyon, as it checks off a lot of things that we are looking for: condo style rather than hotel room, reasonable price, balconies, ocean view, and included parking, which as I understand is kind of a nice perk in the area.

For those familiar with this property, I'd love to get impressions and feedback.

Is it accurate that the Banyon is only one block from the beach?

Am I correct that this might be located in a little bit quieter area of Waikiki?

As I understand it, there are two towers--is one preferable to the other?

Any general impressions about this property?

Thanks for any guidance you can provide!

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a fantastic trip, and Oahu can offer a great mix of urban and natural experiences. As for the Waikiki Banyan, it’s a popular choice for travelers looking for more space and a condo-style experience. Here are some details and impressions based on your questions:

Location

The Waikiki Banyan is indeed located just one block from the beach, so it's very close to the water, making it convenient for a quick walk to the sand. However, while it is close, the area is still part of the bustling Waikiki neighborhood, so it can get busy, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Regarding its quieter location in Waikiki: the Waikiki Banyan is situated on the Diamond Head side of the neighborhood, which tends to be a little less hectic than the central part of Waikiki, especially around Kalakaua Avenue. This might provide a bit of a quieter atmosphere while still being close to the main attractions and amenities in Waikiki.

The Towers

The Waikiki Banyan has two towers: the "A" tower and the "B" tower. Both towers are fairly similar, but there are a few differences worth noting:

The "A" tower is generally considered to have better ocean views, but this can depend on the floor you’re on and the specific unit you’re in.
The "B" tower faces more toward the mountains and can be quieter, though it might not offer the same views of the ocean.
If you prefer a better ocean view, you might want to request a unit in the "A" tower, but keep in mind that the "B" tower can offer a slightly more peaceful setting.

Property Impressions

The Waikiki Banyan is a more affordable option compared to other high-rise hotels in the area, offering the benefits of a condo-style unit, which includes a full kitchen and more space than a typical hotel room. Many units have been updated, though keep in mind that some may have older furnishings depending on the specific unit you book. It's generally a more relaxed, self-catering option compared to larger resort hotels.

Parking

As you mentioned, the included parking is a big perk in Waikiki, where parking can be scarce and expensive. Having that included with your stay at the Waikiki Banyan is a definite plus, especially if you plan to rent a car and explore the island.

Overall Vibe

Overall, the Waikiki Banyan offers a good balance of affordability, convenience, and a more laid-back vibe compared to the large resorts in Waikiki. It’s a great spot for those looking for a home base to explore the island while having a comfortable place to return to each day. However, since it is in Waikiki, you'll still experience some of the hustle and bustle of the area, although it’s not as overwhelming as staying in the heart of the action.

Summary and Tips

If you want better ocean views, request a unit in the "A" tower, but if you’re looking for a quieter atmosphere, the "B" tower may suit you better.
Be prepared for the busy Waikiki environment, though the location of the Banyan offers a slightly quieter setting compared to other parts of the neighborhood.
The proximity to the beach (just one block) and the inclusion of parking makes this property a solid choice for convenience and value.
If you're looking for a more traditional resort experience with amenities like pools, spas, or on-site dining, the Waikiki Banyan may not be for you, as it’s more condo-style and self-catering.

I hope this helps in your decision-making! The Waikiki Banyan can be a great base for exploring Oahu, with easy access to the beach, local shops, and restaurants, while offering the flexibility of a condo stay.

Waikiki Banyon?

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