Waikiki – A major renovation has turned a longtime Waikiki high-rise into Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, the first LXR Hotels & Resorts property in Hawaii. The $100 million project preserved the building’s footprint while delivering apartment-style suites that feel more like private residences than typical hotel rooms. Hilton Honors members can now book the property with points, adding a new option for travelers who want space, kitchens, and laundry facilities steps from the beach.
Thoughtful Design Sets a Relaxed Tone
The open-air lobby immediately signals a shift from the building’s previous identity. Soft green accents, lava stone, and dark woods reference the island landscape without feeling forced. Staff members greet arrivals with genuine warmth that extends through every interaction, creating an atmosphere that mixes polished service with local hospitality. Public spaces draw a wide mix of guests, from families using the infinity pool to couples and groups enjoying the views. Minor finishing work continues in a few areas, yet nothing disrupts the overall experience. The result is a property that already feels settled even as it prepares for its full launch.
Spacious Suites Built for Longer Stays
Most units at Ka La’i are privately owned and range from studios with kitchenettes to three-bedroom apartments with full kitchens, multiple bathrooms, and private balconies. A one-bedroom layout easily surpasses the size of many city apartments, featuring a functional kitchen complete with oven, dishwasher, and dining table. The living area includes comfortable seating, a desk, and locally inspired details such as coral lamps and textured textiles. A separate bedroom offers floor-to-ceiling ocean views, while the spa-style bathroom includes a heated toilet seat and Byredo amenities. A washer and dryer stocked with detergent adds practical convenience rarely found in standard hotel rooms. Two private lanais provide quiet outdoor space, and turndown service includes slippers and blackout curtains. Smaller configurations maintain the same residential feel, making the property suitable for both short visits and extended trips.
Multiple Dining Venues Highlight Local Flavors
Three distinct restaurants operate under executive chef Yoshi Ohata. The Kini Room serves modern Hawaiian dishes with global touches, including a popular bento box at lunch and standout dinner options such as yuzu miso cod. Its signature Kini Kini pie combines Kona coffee, ube, and vanilla ice cream for a memorable finish. Muse Lounge offers open-air cocktails with views at sunset, while Bloom Cafe handles breakfast and lunch with an Ohana Breakfast package that includes a buffet plus a la carte choices. Room service remains available until 10 p.m., delivering items like tempura shrimp that suit relaxed evenings in the suite.
Practical Amenities and Easy Access
Key facilities include a fifth-floor infinity pool and hot tub, a 24-hour gym, and the Spa Ka La’i offering Hawaii-inspired treatments. The hotel arranges beach chairs, umbrellas, and towels for the short walk to the public shoreline. Additional services cover grocery delivery, in-room poke kits, and movie packages. The western Waikiki location sits roughly 20 minutes from the airport by rideshare. Walkable streets lead to shopping and dining, and multiple accessible rooms feature roll-in showers and visual alerts. Cash rates currently begin around $514 per night, with award nights starting at 100,000 points. Ka La’i Waikiki Beach gives travelers a genuine residential option in a prime location while still delivering the points flexibility and service standards associated with Hilton.
