Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Overview
Now operating as Ka La'i Waikiki Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts following a February 2024 rebrand, this Forbes Five-Star property remains the only hotel on Oahu to hold that prestigious distinction — earning it six consecutive years running. The 38-story tower at 223 Saratoga Road houses 462 all-suite accommodations, each featuring full kitchens with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, Italian marble bathrooms, and floor-to-ceiling windows.
A transformative $100 million renovation — the first since the building opened in November 2009 — is currently underway with completion expected mid-2026. Led by internationally acclaimed Bryan O'Sullivan Studio, the redesign is refreshing every guest suite, the lobby, pool deck, spa, and dining venues while the hotel remains fully operational.
The property's condo-hotel format means every unit is individually owned and placed in the hotel rental pool, resulting in residential-caliber finishes you won't find in standard hotel rooms. Located on the Waikiki Beach Walk development just one block from the sand, the hotel combines the privacy and space of a luxury apartment with the service standards of a Forbes Five-Star resort.
Accommodation Options
Every accommodation is a suite with residential-grade amenities that set this property apart from traditional Waikiki hotels. Deluxe Studios feature kitchenettes, pull-out sofa beds, and Italian marble bathrooms with deep soaking tubs. One-Bedroom Suites add full kitchens with Sub-Zero refrigerators and Wolf ranges, separate living areas, and in-suite washer/dryers — genuine home-away-from-home comforts.
Two-Bedroom Suites (approximately 1,400 square feet) provide two full bathrooms, a spacious living and dining area, and the same full kitchen setup. For the ultimate experience, Executive Penthouses span the upper floors with 10-foot ceilings, three lanais, three full bathrooms, floor-to-ceiling glass, and sweeping unobstructed ocean views.
All suites feature Brazilian granite countertops, Turkish travertine flooring, and Hilton Honors point redemption options (approximately 100,000 points per night). The minimum check-in age is 21 years.
Pools, Beaches & Activities
The sixth-floor infinity-edge pool overlooks the Pacific with postcard-perfect ocean views. The pool deck was recently renovated (September-November 2025) with a refreshed design featuring plush loungers and redesigned cabanas on an expansive lanai sun deck.
A heated whirlpool adjacent to the main pool offers a warm soak with ocean views, and shallow wading areas make the pool area accessible for younger guests. Poolside food and cocktail service runs from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM — the award-winning Mai Tais are a guest favorite. On Friday evenings, the pool deck offers prime viewing of the Hilton Hawaiian Village fireworks show launched from the beach nearby.
Spa & Wellness
Spa Ka La'i features four private treatment rooms, each with its own shower and tub. Treatments draw on traditional Hawaiian botanicals and healing practices, with the Natura Bisse luxury skincare line featured in facials and body treatments.
Signature offerings include the Ka La'i Customized Massage, Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massage, and deep tissue/shiatsu options. Couples can book side-by-side treatments for a shared experience. The spa operates Wednesday through Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with Monday and Tuesday available by appointment.
Note: The physical spa facility is currently closed for a complete redesign (since December 2025). Select signature treatments are available as in-suite experiences during the renovation.
Dining
Bloom Cafe & Restaurant is the newest dining venue, offering Hawaiian seasonal cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in an open-air garden setting. The all-day menu spans breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily from 6:30 AM to 10:00 PM.
Wai'olu Ocean Cuisine is the hotel's signature restaurant, known for seafood, sushi, and steaks served in an open-air setting with panoramic ocean views. On Friday evenings, it's one of the best spots to watch the Hilton Hawaiian Village fireworks. (Currently closed for renovation; expected to reopen in early 2026.)
In-Yo Cafe serves breakfast from 6:30 to 10:30 AM and is being reconceptualized as part of the renovation. For a truly special experience, the hotel offers in-suite private chef dining — a professional chef prepares a multi-course meal in your suite's own gourmet kitchen, bookable through the concierge.
Nearby Attractions
The Waikiki Beach Walk development surrounding the hotel features upscale shops, galleries, and restaurants. Fort DeRussy Beach Park is roughly 450 feet away — one of the less crowded beach options in Waikiki, popular with locals.
The Royal Hawaiian Center and Luxury Row (home to Chanel, Tiffany, and Gucci) are within a short walk. The US Army Museum of Hawaii at Fort DeRussy is about 550 feet from the hotel — a free attraction worth an hour of your time.
For excursions farther afield, the concierge can arrange surfing lessons, snorkeling tours, and island day trips. The hotel's proximity to the western end of Waikiki means easier access to Ala Moana Center and the cultural attractions of downtown Honolulu.
Tips & Good to Know
This property offers exceptional value on Hilton Honors points — at approximately 100,000 points per night, it's one of the most aspirational LXR redemptions in the Hilton portfolio. If you have Hilton Honors status, this is a fantastic use of points for a Forbes Five-Star experience.
The complimentary beach bag service is a standout perk — the concierge sends you to the beach with towels, bottled water, fresh fruit, and sunscreen. Beach chairs and parasols are included in the resort fee.
If you're traveling with family, the suites with full kitchens can save significant money on Waikiki's expensive restaurant scene. The in-suite washer/dryer is genuinely useful for longer stays.
For 2026 visitors: The $100 million renovation is ongoing through mid-2026. The hotel remains fully operational, but some amenities and restaurants may have modified availability. Check specific restaurant hours and spa availability when booking.
Location
223 Saratoga Road, Honolulu, HI 96815

