Oahu, HawaiiWaikiki
Hale Koa Hotel
Oceanfront military playground
Oceanfront military playground
Tropical gardens and beachfront lawns create a lively retreat where service members and military families gather beside the ocean.
What it’s good at
Notable
Sprawling across seventy-two oceanfront acres with an eight-thousand-square-foot aquatic complex, twin waterslides, and weekly luaus.
Notable
Welcoming military families to Fort DeRussy beach for generations since opening its Ilima Tower in 1975.
Listed
Casual beachfront drinks at Barefoot Bar and poolside tables create spaces for guests to connect.
In a lively part of town
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Set on Waikiki's western edge, the resort borders Fort DeRussy Beach Park and sits a short stroll from Kalakaua Avenue.
The rooms
Private lanais open to Pacific or resort grounds, with renovated Maile Tower rooms featuring porcelain tile and walk-in showers.
The pools
Bring a swimsuit.
Submerged loungers line the curved zero-entry pool, accompanied by twin waterslides, a 20-person hot tub, and ocean views.
Spa and gym
Outdoor massage tables sit framed by garden greenery, and a dedicated fitness center offers free weights.
At the table
Breezy terraces look out over the grounds for casual meals, and Barefoot Bar serves drinks along the oceanfront lawn.
How it began
Translating to House of the Warrior, this self-sustaining Armed Forces Recreation Center opened on Fort DeRussy land in 1975.
Oahu
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.