Waikiki with a 1 year old

Question

I’m visiting Waikiki in September next year with my 1 year old daughter. Flying from Australia.

First time parents and wondering whether it is essential to book accommodation that has a kitchenette or does it not matter?

Is there any recommended accommodations with a 1 year old?

Also should I be aiming to stay beachfront so that there is easy access to the beach for us?

Answer

Traveling to Waikiki with a 1-year-old can be a very enjoyable experience, but a bit of planning will make your stay much easier. Here are some considerations regarding accommodation and location:

Kitchenette vs no kitchenette: Having a kitchenette can be extremely helpful when traveling with a young child. It allows you to prepare bottles, heat baby food, or store snacks, which can save time and money and reduce the need to dine out for every meal. However, if you prefer to eat out and don’t mind relying on local cafes or restaurants, it isn’t strictly essential. Many hotels without kitchenettes are still family-friendly and provide amenities like bottle warmers or high chairs.

Accommodation with kitchenette: Best for families who want flexibility for feeding times, storing baby food, or making simple meals.
Standard hotel room: Works fine if you plan to eat out or order room service; many Waikiki hotels provide baby-friendly equipment on request.

Recommended accommodations for families with a 1-year-old: Look for hotels or resorts that provide cribs, high chairs, and laundry services. Some good options include:

Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort – family-friendly and centrally located.
Hilton Hawaiian Village – spacious rooms and multiple dining options, with pools and kid-friendly amenities.
The Royal Hawaiian – iconic beachfront location and good service for families.
Vacation rentals or condos with kitchenettes – offer more flexibility, especially for meal prep and nap schedules.

Beachfront vs non-beachfront: Staying beachfront can be very convenient with a toddler since you can easily return to the room for naps, diaper changes, or breaks from the sun. That said, Waikiki is compact and many non-beachfront hotels are still within a few minutes’ walk to the sand, so beachfront isn’t strictly necessary but can make your days more relaxed.

Other tips:

Check whether the hotel provides strollers for guest use or allows early check-in for flexible nap schedules.
Consider quieter floors or areas away from nightlife if you want restful evenings for your child.
Pack or rent baby gear locally if you prefer to travel light from Australia.

In summary, a kitchenette is a convenience rather than a necessity, but can make life easier with a young child. Beachfront hotels offer added convenience for beach access, but proximity to the sand within walking distance is also a reasonable option. Choose accommodations that are family-friendly and can provide the essentials you need for your 1-year-old.