The Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach offers the best opportunity to discover O’ahu and hence it was my first choice during my recent trip to the third largest Hawaiian island. From location, amenities, to service, the Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach went an extra mile to ensure my stay was nothing but lavish.
The Luxury Bustle of Waikiki
The Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach opened its doors back in 2016 with the Diamond Head Tower being the most recent addition to the property. The tower is an architectural marvel housing 245 ocean-view residences and the second infinity pool of the resort. It is nearly a 20-minutes-drive from the HNL if the traffic is normal. The hotel is an epitome of perfection, so much so that President Trump chose to stay here instead of the Trump International just a couple of blocks away. The hotel is a resort that comprises of privately-owned residences that lead you to the magic and vibrancy of Kalākaua and Kūhiō.
Enamouring Service
Though Ritz Carlton brand is synonymous with extravagance, The Waikiki property takes the bar of luxury way above the other Ritz Carlton resorts. From the moment I pulled into the water inspired porte cochere to the moment I bid farewell, my stay was defined as an indulgent retreat. I am a sucker for a good view so a stay at Waikiki was right up my alley, with the ocean, warm weather, and sun being complimented by views for days! The excellent service was definitely the cherry on top. The valet greeted me with orchid leis and offered me a refreshing passion fruit drink with a shot of local Hawaiian rum. Talk about tropical indulgence, eh?
Tickle your Taste Buds
The dining area is an expansive area featuring a lounge and bar that leads to the restaurant. The food is delicious and you can take in the vast, blue waters, the play of sunlight on water, and beautiful scenery as you enjoy your meal. I love how the bar area is open so guests can enjoy the view day or night. One of my most memorable meals was the Eggs Benedict. I also throughly enjoyed the cocktail program. I would recommend the Waikiki Tai for an immersive experience.
An Oasis of Tranquillity
My cabana rental for the day at the eighth-floor infinity pool was a sight to behold. The cabana featured a mini fridge (stocked with water and juice to keep hydrated), a safe deposit to store my valuables, a TV and day beds. The attention to service is such that the smiling pool attendant offered help even as I walked towards the beautiful, blue water. The two infinity pools at Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach are the highest in all of Waikiki. The Tower pool features a small slide that every child makes a beeline for, and the second pool sports a jacuzzi.
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- Fun fact – the lights above the cabana are the lights hanging in the bar/lounge
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- Authentic Hawaiian Shirt – Jam’s World, Reef Safe Sunscreen – Kokua Suncare
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- Palm Frond Hat – Coco Shade, Lei – Koi & Kai’s Lei Stand, Beach Towel – Kawela
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- Men’s Grooming Products – got2b, Sunglasses – Hugo Boss, Palm Frond Hat, Coco Shade, Lei – Koi & Kai’s Lei Stand
Apart from the pool, the resort offers excellent accommodation. The best thing about Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach is that it combines the amenities of a hotel with the conveniences of a residence. All the suites face towards the ocean and are fully equipped with a full kitchen (Nespresso machine and real oak cabinetry!!) and washer/dryer, making it an ideal family retreat. My favourite, apart from the pool, was the open air lobby. The wide and expansive lobby is an emblem of the contemporary interior designing and offers unparalleled views of the deep blue sea.
Travel essentials for this trip included a Hawaiian Shirt made in Hawaii from Hawaiian brand Jam’s World, local palm frond hat from Coco Shade, Beach Towel from Canadian brand Kawela, Custom Lei from Koi & Kai’s Lei Stand, Sunglasses from Hugo Boss (by Safilo Group Canada), Men’s Grooming products from got2b Phenomenal, and Reef Free Sunscreen from Kokua Suncare.
Home Away from Home
The Ritz Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach is aptly named; it is an ideal choice for those who want the luxury and unparalleled service that is the Ritz Carlton forte without compromising on their privacy and enjoying a homely environment.
