Does anyone have any experience with The Laylow in Waikiki? I'm looking for a modern version of the 60s Hawaii vibe if possible.
I have not stayed there but the pics look amazing.
I am not a huge fan of Waikiki but I do like Honolulu and one of the reasons I do is the boom of building that happened in the 50's and 60's and that period of architecture is reflected in so many structures.
I love what they have tried to do with the Laylow.
I am sure you have mapped the location and know it is set back into the city area bout a block and a half. This area on Kuhio is actually kind of ok, it is slowly being revitalized and the walk down takes you right out to the area of the main drag called Kalakaua ave. The beach is the other side of that street. This is cool area with a very strong buzzy vibe, kind of like a mini Las Vegas.
This is actually a good location for a hotel that is off the main drag.
I think what you
want to do and see in Oahu dictates where you should stay.
If you want the party atmosphere and night life of a major urban city with pretty great restaurants and bars and some fun shopping then Waikiki is great for a couple of nights.
The beach itself is dirty and can be crowded. Like wall to wall people crowded. I have seen a homeless guy relieve himself in the water and got out when I saw it float close enough to realize what it was.
Lost and lots of homeless people, lots of drug issues, it is sad but a total reality of this area.
Another issue I have with Waikiki is the traffic. Again, if you are just staying in the general area no worries. If you plan to tour in and around Oahu you will be fighting the brutal traffic into and out of the city.
There is traffic going West to Ko Olina and Aulani but it isn't as bad as the city proper traffic.
There are other hotels/resorts in the Ko Olina area like the Marriott Ko Olina Beach resort and even the Four Seasons. In Kapolei, about a 5 minute drive form Aulani, there are a few business hotels near the mall that can make for a decent home base to explore Oahu if you have not other choice. Places like Embassy Suites and Hampton Inn but these are not resorts and I think for my first time to Oahu I wouldn't stay here over Waikiki.