Kuhio Banyan Club

This hotel offers a unique stay in Waikiki, characterized by its excellent central location and the practical inclusion of a kitchenette and Murphy bed in its rooms, providing a flexible living space. It's often seen as a good value for money option, particularly for budget-conscious travelers, independent travelers, and those planning long-stay visits who appreciate a more apartment-like experience. Sightseers and solo travelers also find it appealing due to its accessibility to attractions and amenities. Guests frequently highlight the friendly staff and general cleanliness of the property. To ensure a comfortable stay, guests are advised to bring earplugs, especially on weekends, and to be aware of the property's unique apartment-style approach to services.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel provides practical facilities and amenities designed for an independent stay. Many rooms feature a well-equipped kitchenette, complete with a large refrigerator, microwave, and stove, allowing guests to prepare their own meals and save on dining out. The innovative Murphy bed system, which folds into the wall, is a signature feature, creating ample living space during the day, though some guests choose to leave it down for convenience. Guests appreciate the availability of a clean laundry room with washers and dryers on-site, offering a cost-effective solution for longer stays. A significant perk is the complimentary loan of beach chairs, umbrellas, towels, and even boogie boards and floaties, enhancing the beach experience. While free Wi-Fi is available, it is important to note that the property does not have a swimming pool and lacks a dedicated parking lot, which can be a consideration for those with vehicles.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on cleanliness and room comfort is varied. While many guests find their rooms to be generally clean and spacious, some have reported issues with a musty smell or the presence of small bugs and cockroaches. The overall room condition is frequently described as dated, with old furniture and worn carpets that suggest a need for updating, and some rooms are noted as being dark. The bed comfort receives mixed reviews; some find the Murphy bed surprisingly comfortable, while others describe it as lumpy, hard, or cot-like. A significant concern for many is the noise levels, particularly from a nearby nightclub that operates late into the night, causing heavy bass and street noise that can disturb sleep, though some rooms are reported to be quiet. The air conditioning is functional but can be noisy or not sufficiently cool for some. Bathrooms are often described as small, with weird shower heads that are difficult to adjust, and issues with hot water consistency. Housekeeping is not daily; guests must request service and often need to ask for basic supplies.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel does not provide breakfast, but its prime location compensates with an abundance of eateries right outside its doors, offering diverse food options including a popular garlic shrimp shop. This makes dining out incredibly convenient for guests. A major advantage highlighted by many is the in-room kitchenette, which is often described as well-equipped with necessary appliances and utensils. This feature allows guests the flexibility to cook their own food, providing a cost-effective alternative to eating out for every meal. While some basic coffee is provided in the rooms, a few guests expressed a desire for more complimentary coffee, especially for longer stays. Overall, the focus is less on in-house dining and more on the convenience of nearby options and the ability to self-cater.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently praised as its strongest asset, placing guests at the heart of Waikiki. It is conveniently situated directly across from the International Market Place and just one block from Waikiki Beach, making it ideal for sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying the ocean. Guests appreciate being within walking distance of numerous restaurants, shops, and attractions like Target. The presence of a trolley stop and various bus stops right outside the hotel provides excellent public transportation access, allowing easy exploration of the wider area and even airport transfers without a vehicle. However, a significant drawback for those with cars is the complete lack of a dedicated parking lot. Guests must rely on limited street parking or expensive nearby public parking facilities, which can be challenging and costly.

Staff & Service
The staff and service at the hotel receive overwhelmingly positive feedback. Most guests commend the friendly staff for their helpfulness and accommodating nature, often describing them as awesome and cordial. Many appreciate the seamless late arrival process and the option for early check-in when available, along with convenient luggage storage services. The security personnel are also noted for their friendliness and presence, contributing to a sense of safety. While the housekeeping staff is generally seen as friendly and efficient when requested, there are mixed reviews regarding the front desk staff, with some guests reporting instances of unfriendliness or inflexibility, particularly concerning late check-in fees. A highly valued service is the ability to borrow beach chairs, towels, and other gear, which enhances the guest experience significantly.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware of a daily resort fee, typically around $35, which some find to be a surprise upon arrival as it is not always clearly explained during booking. However, many guests feel this fee offers good value as it covers the complimentary use of beach gear like chairs and umbrellas. For those arriving late, there may be a late check-in fee of around $50, especially after certain hours, which some guests found unexpected. The hotel offers convenient and free luggage storage for early arrivals or late departures, a much-appreciated service. It is important to note that there is no daily cleaning service; rooms are typically only cleaned upon checkout, and guests must request fresh towels or other supplies from the front desk. The property has an older, apartment-like feel, being described by some as former condominiums rented by the day, which contributes to its unique, independent stay experience.