The Kahala Hotel & Resort

This resort offers a luxurious and tranquil escape, distinguished by its private beach and unique dolphin lagoon, providing a memorable experience for guests. Its secluded location, away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, makes it an ideal choice for couples and families seeking a peaceful retreat. Many guests appreciate the authentic Hawaiian ambiance and the attentive service that embodies the "Aloha Spirit." The spacious accommodations and serene environment cater well to those desiring relaxation and a break from crowded tourist areas. For sightseers and business travelers, the resort offers convenient access to downtown attractions while maintaining a sense of calm. To enhance your stay, consider exploring the various on-site dining options and taking advantage of the complimentary shuttle service for trips into town.

Facilities & Amenities
The resort boasts a beautiful private beach that is consistently praised for its calm waters and uncrowded atmosphere, making it perfect for swimming and relaxation. The pool area is also well-regarded, though some guests note it can become busy with children. A highlight for many is the on-site dolphin lagoon, where guests can observe or even interact with dolphins, adding a unique dimension to their stay. The resort provides a fitness center for guests to maintain their routines. Convenience is enhanced by the availability of free Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity throughout the property. Guests also appreciate in-room amenities such as a Nespresso coffee machine and a refrigerator, along with the thoughtful provision of ice machines and vending machines in common areas. A complimentary shuttle service to Waikiki and nearby shopping centers is a valued amenity, offering easy access to external attractions.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests frequently describe the rooms as spacious and comfortable, often resembling small suites with ample sitting areas and desks. Many rooms feature a lanai or balcony, some offering stunning ocean or dolphin lagoon views. The beds are widely reported as comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. Bathrooms are typically large, well-planned, and often include separate areas with two sinks and generous closet space. While many reviews highlight the rooms' cleanliness and overall good condition, a notable number of guests mention that the resort's age is evident, with some reporting dated furnishings, chipped tiles, bubbling wallpaper, and a need for general renovation. Some guests have also noted a musty smell in certain rooms, though others found their accommodations quiet and well-maintained.

Dining & Food Quality
The resort offers a variety of dining options that generally receive positive feedback. The breakfast buffet at Plumeria Beach House is highly recommended by most guests for its extensive selection and quality, often enjoyed with ocean views, though some note it can be busy with lines. The on-site Italian restaurant, Arancino, is consistently praised as excellent. Hoku's is highlighted for its superb Sunday brunch and overall quality. The Veranda lounge provides a pleasant atmosphere with live music in the evenings. While the food quality is largely commended, some guests find the on-site dining to be expensive, and a few mention that other meals, beyond breakfast, could see improvement. Some also note that the bar service can be inconsistent or have limited hours.

Location & Accessibility
The resort's location is a significant draw, offering a peaceful and quiet neighborhood setting away from the crowds of Waikiki. Guests appreciate its secluded feel, often described as being in "another world," while still providing convenient access to Honolulu. It is approximately 15-20 minutes from Waikiki, with a complimentary shuttle service available for transport. The proximity to a beautiful, calm private beach is a major advantage, making it easy for guests to enjoy the ocean without feeling overwhelmed. Parking is available, with both valet and self-parking options, though it is frequently mentioned as being expensive. Despite the cost, the valet service is generally praised for its efficiency and friendliness.

Staff & Service
The staff at this resort consistently receives high praise for their exceptional friendliness, attentiveness, and professionalism. Guests frequently highlight the warm "Aloha Spirit" exhibited by team members across all departments. The check-in process is often described as quick and welcoming, with staff going above and beyond to accommodate requests, such as early check-ins or room upgrades. Housekeeping is noted for its thoroughness and efficiency, ensuring rooms are well-maintained. Valet service is also commended for its promptness and courteousness. While the vast majority of feedback is positive, a few guests mentioned isolated instances of impersonal service or being repeatedly asked if they were registered guests, though this was generally understood as part of the resort's security measures. Overall, the commitment to providing excellent customer service is a recurring theme.

Additional Information
A prominent and frequently discussed aspect of the resort is its dolphin lagoon, which, while a unique attraction, raises ethical concerns for many guests regarding the dolphin captivity. Some reviews express sadness over the limited space for these intelligent animals, advocating for their release. The resort is undergoing renovations, and while some guests appreciate the efforts to update the property, others have experienced renovation noise or noted that many areas still appear dated and in need of significant refurbishment. Guests should be aware of a destination fee or "carbon credit" charge, which some found unclear upon booking. The resort maintains a pet-friendly policy, though finding suitable outdoor areas for pets can be challenging. Unique offerings include cultural classes, such as lei making, which provide an immersive experience into Hawaiian traditions.