Sheraton Waikiki Resort Beach Access

Question

Considering booking the Sheraton & Outrigger (not reef) on Waikiki Beach. One of the bigger cons for me on the Sheraton was that the beach is on the side of the hotel so it appears the hotel is waterfront but not beachfront. Not having the pool right near the beach seems a bit strange to me. Any of you have feedback on the beach access? What was the walk like? I know the beaches are public but did it feel strange like you're going to another hotel's beach? Did it feel inconvenient in any way?

Answer

The Sheraton Waikiki does have a unique layout compared with some other beachfront hotels. While it is technically on the beach, the main pool area is set slightly away from the sand, and the beach sits along the side of the property rather than directly in front of the main tower. Many guests note that this can make the experience feel a bit less “instant beach access” than some other hotels where the pool and sand are seamlessly connected.

Feedback from recent visitors regarding beach access includes:

The walk from the pool area to the sand is short—usually just a minute or two—but it is slightly offset, so you don’t step directly from your room or pool onto the beach.
Because Waikiki Beach is public, you may pass by or alongside other hotel areas when heading to the sand, but this is common along Waikiki and didn’t feel intrusive for most visitors.
Some guests mention that the beach area by the Sheraton can feel a bit narrower compared to hotels with wider beachfront stretches, but there is still plenty of space to set up towels or enjoy the water.
Beach chairs and umbrellas are available for guests but are not included in the room rate; fees are similar to other Waikiki hotels.

Overall impressions:

Most guests felt the walk to the sand was very manageable and not inconvenient.
While the layout is not “pool directly on beach,” it did not significantly detract from the experience.
The location still provides excellent access to the water, surf, and sunsets, and many appreciated the quieter feel of the beach side area compared with the more crowded central sections near Outrigger Reef.

For comparison, the Outrigger Reef puts you right in front of the sand with the pool and beach almost seamlessly connected. This can feel more immediately beachfront, but it also tends to be busier with foot traffic along the beach walk. Choosing between the two often comes down to whether you prefer slightly more private, relaxed beach access (Sheraton side beach) versus being directly at the more bustling central beachfront (Outrigger Reef).

Sheraton Waikiki Resort Beach Access

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