My Honest Hale Koa Hotel Review

Considering staying at the military’s Honolulu, Hawaii resort? Here is my honest Hale Koa Hotel review!

The Hale Koa Hotel is a hidden gem for military families visiting Honolulu. In fact, when I tell most people about it they’re like “Wait what?”

Located on the scenic shores of Waikiki, this Armed Forces Recreation Center is exclusive to active duty, retired military personnel, and their families. The resort offers a relaxing retreat with an array of amenities, all at a fraction of the cost of neighboring hotels. If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii and are eligible, Hale Koa should be at the top of your list. And trust me, as someone who enjoys a luxury hotel, I’m just as surprised as you might be to read that…!

My Honest Hale Koa Hotel Review

Staying at Hale Koa is a great way to experience Hawaii’s beauty and culture while enjoying the comfort and affordability tailored specifically for military families. Whether you’re there for relaxation or adventure, Hale Koa offers everything you need for a memorable Hawaiian vacation. When we lived in Hawaii we stayed at the Hale Koa a handful of times, and on our most recent trip back to Hawaii in April 2024, we stayed a night there, too. This hotel is no frills, but the location and price cannot be beat in comparison to other hotels in all of Oahu. Plus, the last time we stayed, we got a free room upgrade, that was a corner ocean view room and it rivaled the view of the more expensive hotels down the street!

I figured it was time to finally put down all my thoughts in a proper review.

What Military Families Should Know
Hale Koa’s status as a military-only hotel means it offers a unique vacation experience for military families. It’s important to book early, especially during peak vacation times, as rooms fill up fast. The farther out you can book, the better chance you’ll be able to stay at Hale Koa the duration of your trip and not just a couple days here and there. The military uses this hotel for TDYs too, so you’re competing with them for availability.

The hotel offers a variety of room types, from garden views to oceanfront, with rates based on your rank and the type of room you choose. The affordability compared to other Waikiki resorts is one of the biggest draws, allowing military families to enjoy a luxurious Hawaiian vacation without breaking the bank, especially because it’s prime oceanfront real estate!

Review of Hale Koa Hotel in Honolulu, Hawaii

Rooms and Amenities:
The rooms at Hale Koa are clean, comfortable, and modestly decorated, reflecting the hotel’s focus on value over extravagance. While they might not have the high-end luxury feel of some nearby resorts (we personally love the Royal Hawaiian, but it’s legitimately 4x the cost…sigh), Hale Koa offers everything you need for a comfortable stay. Most rooms come with a private balcony, flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and free Wi-Fi.

Is the bed going to be the best sleep of your life? No. Is the bathroom going to feature a rain head shower or luxe toiletries? Also no. Here’s the thing: You are paying at least $500 less per night during high season to stay here. It’s really just a place to rest your body at night. If you’re on a budget, you cannot beat it. We ordered extra pillows to the room for sleeping, and knew to pack any sort of shampoo/conditioner/soap we favored. If packing toiletries is an issue, there are plenty of ABC Stores around Waikiki (at least 3 on the same block as Hale Koa) where you can stock up on essentials you might have forgotten.

The resort itself is packed with amenities. There are two large swimming pools, one of which is reserved for adults, and a splash pad for kids. The beachfront location provides easy access to Waikiki Beach, and the hotel offers beach chairs, umbrellas, and even surfboard rentals. For dining, you have several options, but I’ll be transparent…you can get much better food elsewhere. The best deal at the Hale Koa is the Barefoot Bar, which has the tastiest drinks for a fraction of Waikiki prices, plus you’re right on the beach. It’s a great sunset spot!

Hale Koa also features a fitness center and a PX (Post Exchange) where you can stock up on snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. For entertainment, the hotel hosts nightly shows, including a popular luau, which is a great way to experience Hawaiian culture without leaving the property.

Tips for a Great Stay At Hale Koa

Book Early: Rooms at Hale Koa are in high demand (it’s one of the most popular military hotels), so make reservations as soon as you know your travel dates, especially if you’re traveling during the summer or holidays.

Rank-Based Pricing: Be aware that room rates vary based on rank and room type. Check the hotel’s website for the most up-to-date pricing structure.

Explore the Grounds: The hotel grounds are expansive, with beautiful gardens and plenty of spots to relax. Take time to explore and enjoy the peaceful environment.

Dining Options: While the on-site dining options are convenient, Waikiki is full of great restaurants and much better food can be found elsewhere (IMO). Don’t hesitate to venture out and try some local cuisine.

Take Advantage of the Beach: The hotel’s beachfront location is prime. Get up early to secure a good spot on the beach, and consider renting a surfboard or paddleboard for a fun day in the water.

Military-Friendly Services: Take advantage of the on-site activities designed with military families in mind, like the fitness center, nightly entertainment (the luau specifically is very patriotic), and kids’ programs.

Transportation: If you’re looking to explore more of Oahu, consider renting a car. The hotel offers parking for a fee, and having a car makes it easier to visit popular spots like Pearl Harbor, Diamond Head, and the North Shore.

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