Stay in the Heart of Waikīkī at Waikiki Malia
This hidden resort is an oasis that places its guests in the center of Waikiki.
A chic sign welcomes me into the relaxed lobby of Waikiki Malia and I take a moment to appreciate my new surroundings—it’s an oasis away from the busy Waikīkī streets outside. This hotel mixes luxury with affordability, offering visitors or staycationing residents a new place to stay that places its guests in the heart of Waikīkī.
While everything in the Waikiki Malia—from the beach-chic signage to the green velvet armchairs in the lobby and rooms—looks undeniably new, it’s easy to see that the building is rich with history. Formerly The Aina Luana Apartment Hotel, “Malia” from “Waikiki Malia” was derived from Mary Au Tom, the wife of the original owner of the building, Francis J. Tom. In 2023, Waikiki Malia underwent extensive renovations and refurbishing—and it shows. From the rooms to the choice of amenities, and even the elevator lobbies on each floor, I admire the thoughtful design decisions that were made at every step of the hotel’s rebirth.
Photo: Courtesy of Waikiki Malia.
Rooms come with a variety of views, and my partial ocean view allows me to admire not just Waikīkī Beach but the city itself. Centrally located, the hotel makes it easy to truly appreciate Oʻahu’s visitor mecca and I enjoy looking at the nearby architecture and hotels from my cozy lānai (veranda). With a variety of food choices just outside the lobby doors—like Pāʻia Fish Market, with its popular fish tacos, and Zigu, which boasts high-quality sushi, sashimi and poke—and Waikīkī Beach just a block away, Waikiki Malia truly places visitors in the middle of all the best Waikīkī has to offer.
Tucked away in its own private nook on the property, the stretched-out pool at the Waikiki Malia provides plenty of wading space for guests, with a hot tub on the pool deck. Dining on-site offers a classic IHOP as well as a cool lounge – Rivals Waikiki – and right outside the lobby, there is a walk-up window serving the best pizza in town, Slice of Waikiki. In the surrounding neighborhood, there are dozens of other places to eat—from breakfast spots to late-night eateries— and a quick stop at the nearby ABC Store fills all of my snacking needs.
Photo: Courtesy of Waikiki Malia.
Hanging out by the pool with a few friends, I admire the gorgeous mural art on a nearby wall. From the lounge chairs to the wall art, I can see the hotel’s commitment to excellence in interior design. Rooms are furnished with simple, minimalistic chairs and tables that pair well with the resort’s overall modern design. And the beds are full and fluffy, every aspect designed to lull you to sleep.
It’s all about location, and the Waikiki Malia is where every visitor would love to be in the walkable neighborhood of Waikīkī.
