Ka Lāʻi Waikiki Beach Review – Hilton LXR’s New Luxury Option in Honolulu

Ever since the Ka Lāʻi Waikiki Beach joined the Hilton portfolio as an LXR property in February 2024, this luxury property has been on my radar—and for good reason. Formerly the Trump International Hotel Waikiki, it now attempts to compete in a crowded luxury market in the heart of Waikiki Beach.

Booking & Value: Points, Price & Perks

Cash rates often exceed $600 per night, with peak-season stays reaching $1,545 or 110,000+ Hilton Honors points. I was able to stay for free using a Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card free night certificate, avoiding both the nightly rate and resort fee. My Diamond status added benefits like a $50 daily credit for two and room upgrades.

Arrival & Lobby Area

Guests arrive at the ground floor valet, where bags are whisked away to the elevated check-in lobby. Here, you’ll also find convenient beach gear pick-up. The hotel’s proximity to Kuhio Beach Park, with its iconic public art and oceanfront walkways, enhances the location of the hotel. You’ll take an elevator up to the main check-in lobby, where there’s also complimentary coffee in the mornings. While some design elements feel dated, Hilton has committed to a $100 million renovation in 2025.

Rooms & In-Room Kitchens

My junior suite featured a kitchenette—complete with cookware, fridge, and Sub-Zero/Wolf appliances—quite luxurious and indicative of this resort caliber. The layout included a king bed, desk area, large television, and a balcony with partial ocean and city views. Bathrooms were generous in size with Italian marble finishes, walk-in showers (no door), and ample LXR-branded amenities. And, since most of Hawaii caters to Japanese tourists, there are Toto toilets as well. Suites range up to two-bedroom ocean-view units over 1,600  sq  ft, with full kitchens, washer/dryers, wine chillers, and marble baths.

Pool, Spa & Fitness

The hotel's infinity-edge pool and heated whirlpool—framed by lush palms—offer some views of the ocean, but mostly of the building immediately in front of the Ka La’i. Poolside service includes snacks, salads, and handcrafted cocktails.

A 24-hour fitness center provides cardio and weight equipment, though felt a bit dated during my brief tour.

The Spa Ka La’i is also available next to the fitness center, but I didn’t have a chance to tour during my visit.

Dining & Drinks

In-Yō Café, with its inviting terrace, serves made-to-order breakfast, specialty coffees, and grab-and-go options. Wai‘olu Ocean Cuisine—a farm-to-table restaurant and bar—serves local seafood, craft cocktails (look out for their notable Mai Tai topped with pineapple sorbet), and an intimate ocean-view dining setting.

Guest Service & Guest Feedback

Service across all departments—from valet to poolside—was consistently efficient and warm. Staff genuinely went above and beyond, enhancing the luxury experience even before renovations refresh the design.

Location & Local Extras

Situated next to Fort DeRussy Park, the hotel offers unobstructed green views—rare for Waikiki. You're just steps from Waikiki Beach, Luxury Row shopping, and the Hilton Hawaiian Village fireworks show. Nearby resorts like the Hale Koa and Hilton Hawaiian Village host luaus—Ka Lāʻi does not—but local concierge can help you book.

Final Verdict: Worth the Splurge?

With points or certificate stays, Ka Lāʻi is absolutely worth it. The resort-level amenities, suite-size rooms, and top-tier service deliver major value. Paying cash (~$600+): consider the current pre-renovation condition—still a premium offering, but some cosmetic updates are pending soon. It's ideal for travelers seeking upscale comfort, generous space, flexible suite living, and Hilton loyalty benefits.