Hilton Hawaiian Village, Waikiki

Looking for a great family hotel or just a place to spend some much needed alone time, Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki is the place. This hotel has everything anyone would want from a Hawaiian vacation. Local food, bars, a luau, entertainment, a view of diamond head, multiple pools, surfing, boat tours, and the beach! Even so, exploring outside the hotel is a must when in the Aloha state, but the hotel is still a great place to stay.

This hotel has been featured in episodes of the new Hawaii Five-0, and is actually offering a package through December 2012, based on the popular series. The package includes a stay at the well known Rainbow Tower (one of 5 towers on the resort), 1st Season of the show on DVD, $50 credit for the Tropics Bar & Grill (which is highly recommended to eat and drink at, great blue hawaiians-right where the drink begin), and several other perks. For anyone who has watched the series, this package seems like the ultimate five-0 experience, and the show does a lot at this resort. So, if a fan of the show, definitely go for this package while available.

The Towers

There are 5 towers at the resort: Ali'i, Rainbow, Tapa, Kalia, and Diamond Head. Each tour is uniquely decorated and themed. For families, the Tapa tower is perfect. Tapa is the cloth that makes the Hawaii fashions (shirts, dresses). The tower is full of beautiful Tapa cloth and Polynesian decor. The rooms are wonderful, and it is also a great place for a conference.

The Rainbow Tower is the most popular tower of the five. The rooms in this tower feature spectacular ocean views, and wonderful views of Waikiki and Diamond Head. It is also very close to all the shops and eateries on the resort. It also features a great way to start the day by eating breakfast on the lanai. There is nothing like watching the morning sun while enjoying a delicious Hawaiian breakfast on the beach, and for dinner go inside to Bali Steak and Seafood.

For those looking for the ultimate experience and chance to enjoy their own private pool deck and bar, stay in the Ali'i Tower. Ali'i means royalty, and one definitely feels like royalty while receiving a massage on the private deck of the Ali'i Tower. The tower is great for couples, but kid friendly as well. It is also the location of Tropics Bar and Grill.

Kalia Tower is the first tower upon entering the resort. It may not be the Ali'i, but it is the home to the resort spa, shop, and a Starbucks. It is surrounded by calming waterfalls and tropical gardens, and offers a large amount of ocean view rooms. While staying in the tower, try to visit the Mandara spa. In fact, go ahead and spend half a day there. It is welcoming and offers guests a chance to just forget about everything and enjoy relaxation in Hawaii.

Diamond Head Tower is close to the Village gardens, wildlife, and pools. It offers a short walk to all the main pools, shops, and a Starbucks. Which is located in the tower.

Activities and Entertainment

As was mentioned, one could visit this resort and never leave it. The resort not only offers shows and numerous activities, it also offers a childcare (Camp Penguin) so parents can take a day to themselves.





The resort actually has a boat (which has been in Hawaii Five-0) called, Spirit of Aloha. The Spirit sets sail throughout the day. There are several adventures one could take upon this fun catamaran, including a firework sail (only on Fridays). Other adventures include, snorkeling and sunset. No matter which one is picked, one is sure to see wildlife in this area.

Of course, the number one thing anyone wants to experience when visiting the Aloha State is, a Luau! Hilton Hawaii's Luau has also been in episodes of Hawaii Five-0, and is one of the best in the islands. There is the cuisine, traditional dance and dress, story telling, music, and everything (including fire dancing) one would want or expect. It is a must see show (a preview of the luau and the Rainbow Revue, is offered each Friday at the pool beside the Ali'i Tower).

Another popular show is the Rockin Rainbow Revue, which is a tribute to everything Hawaiian. Including a tribute to the famous Hawaiian surfer, Duke Kahanamoku. There is also nightly entertainment around the resort at the Tapa bar and Tropic Bar and Grill, as well as weekly Friday night fireworks.

Also, ask about tours and other area events.

Shopping and Pools

Be aware, if something was forgotten for this once in a lifetime journey, there are convenient shops to purchase travel needs. From sun glasses to soap or towels, the resort has the guests covered. Even so, there is also exquisite jewelry and home decor available, along with delicious eats. A must stop shop is Hawaiian Cookie Company. The cookies are worth it! The company offers exotic island flavors and the cookies make great take home items.

Moana Quilts is also a wonderful shop. It features traditional, light and comforting Hawaiian quilts. The traditional design is breadfruit design, and like everything in this enchanted land, there is a story behind the design. From quilts and pillows, to handbags and wall hangings, this is another great take home item.

 A great past time at the resort, besides shopping, is enjoying the many pools. There is one outside Tapa, Rainbow, and Ali'i Towers. All complete with a bar and lots of character. Of course, there is always the beach.

 No matter what one decides to do, Hilton Hawaiian Village is a terrific place to stay and experience Hawaii. Aloha! Hang Loose, and enjoy some more pictures.