If you’re reading this blog article, you may be considering spending your vacation at the Hilton Hawaiian Village on Oahu. So let’s just cut to the chase. In our opinion, there are better options. Now that’s out of the way, please allow us to explain why.

The Hilton Hawaiian Village

Before we get too far in, let’s discuss the basics. The Hilton Hawaiian Village (we will also refer to as HHV) is a sprawling, beachfront property on the outskirts of Waikiki. They have several towers to choose from, with the most iconic being the Rainbow Tower. In fact, the colorful rainbow vertically spanning the oceanfront-facing side of the tower is a classic part of the Waikiki skyline. Keeping with the “village” theme, there are numerous restaurants and shops located on site. Some of the towers function as part of Hilton’s Grand Vacations Club. The have a lagoon beach, and the property is touted as a good option for families.

In fact, we’re sure there are many people who have stayed at the HHV and loved the experience! We’re not here to say it’s not a good property – we just don’t feel like it is the best place to stay in Waikiki. That’s why we don’t include it in our Waikiki Beach All-Inclusive Vacations as a hotel option.

Reasons We Don’t Recommend Staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

Location

First and foremost, this is probably the main reason we don’t recommend the HHV. You won’t be in the heart of Waikiki, actually you’ll be on the outskirts of Waikiki. Our opinion is that the whole point of going to Waikiki is to be in Waikiki! Although technically still considered part of Waikiki, it is approximately a 20-minute (or more) walk to the main sections of Waikiki.

Waikiki is a treasure trove of things to do, see, taste and experience. In the evening, chic Kalakaua Avenue comes alive with street musicians and artists. The Honolulu Zoo and Waikiki Aquarium are within walking distance. Fabulous shopping is at your fingertips, such as the upscale Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center and mom & pop stalls at Duke’s Lane. To be fair, although Ala Moana Shopping Center is much closer to the Hilton Hawaiian Village, you can easily catch a No. 8 TheBus and be there super fast.

The best swimming in Waikiki are the beaches in the central district, which is from Kaiulani Avenue through Beachwalk Avenue. There you can hop on an Outrigger Canoe or a sunset catamaran sail. What’s more, if you’re inclined to, you can rent a surfboard or a SUP; and the best place to try these out is at central Waikiki beaches.

You Don’t Need to Stay in a Hotel Compound

The HHV is promoted as an all-in-one vacation “village” that contains all you’ll need on their vacation. While this comes in handy in places that deal with high crime and unreliable electricity and water, in our opinion it’s completely unnecessary in Hawaii. Waikiki is extremely safe, and you don’t need to stay at your hotel the whole time.

Yes, the Hilton Hawaiian Village does have restaurants and shops, but they are limited in number. Waikiki is bursting with a mind-boggling array of restaurants, shops and entertainment. Therefore, don’t feel like you need to limit yourself. Our Waikiki All-Inclusive Vacation Packages already include a wide-variety of meals and activities, but you’ll also have tons of open time so you can sample other dining and entertainment options, if you wish.

To Sum It Up

These are the top reasons we don’t recommend staying at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. It really all boils down to the essence of Waikiki. It’s our opinion that you’ll miss the vibe that makes Waikiki so iconic.

 Most of our Waikiki All-Inclusive Vacations offer a large selection of centrally-located Waikiki hotels. However, if you are staying at the HHV and still want the convenience and quality of our all-inclusive vacations, you can book one of our Dining & Activities Packages!  Please note: you will have longer than normal walking distances to our meals and activities. Contact us for more info.