Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu: Luxury Resort & Waikiki Views
Welcome to paradise. The Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu is a special place. It sits in the heart of Waikiki. This resort offers luxury and style. It is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers. You get amazing ocean views. You also get top-notch service. This guide will tell you everything. We will cover rooms, pools, food, and activities. You will learn how to plan your perfect trip. Get ready for an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation.
Waikiki is famous for its beautiful beach. The Modern Honolulu puts you right in the action. But it also feels private and calm. The design is sleek and modern. It uses natural materials like wood and stone. The atmosphere is relaxed yet sophisticated. Whether you want to surf, shop, or just relax, this resort is the ideal home base. Let's explore what makes it so special.
Introduction to Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu
The Modern Honolulu is part of the Hilton Vacation Club. This is Hilton's timeshare and vacation ownership program. It opened in 2010. The hotel was originally a luxury independent property. It later joined the Hilton Grand Vacations portfolio. This means guests can use vacation points to stay here. The resort has 353 rooms and suites. It spans two towers. The design is by famous interior designer Yabu Pushelberg. Their work creates a unique sense of place.
The location is perfect. It is at the western end of Waikiki. This area is called the Ala Wai Yacht Harbor. You are steps from the beach. But you are away from the biggest crowds. The resort feels like a peaceful retreat. You can walk to everything. Waikiki's main attractions are close by. These include the Royal Hawaiian Center and the Honolulu Zoo. The resort is also near the Ala Moana Shopping Center. This is one of the world's largest open-air malls.
Staying here gives you the best of both worlds. You get luxury resort amenities. You also get the excitement of Waikiki. The staff is known for excellent service. They offer a warm "aloha" spirit. The resort focuses on modern luxury. It is not overly traditional. This appeals to travelers who want a contemporary Hawaiian experience.
Accommodations and Room Types
The Modern Honolulu offers several room categories. All rooms have a balcony. They feature clean lines and a neutral color palette. Think whites, creams, and light woods. Accents of blue reflect the ocean. The rooms feel spacious and airy. They are designed for comfort and relaxation.
City View Rooms
These rooms offer views of the city and mountains. They are the most affordable option. You still get all the luxury amenities. The room size is around 390 square feet. It includes a king bed or two queen beds. The bathroom has a walk-in shower. Some rooms have a deep soaking tub. You get a 42-inch flat-screen TV. There is also a mini-fridge and a coffee maker.
Ocean View Rooms
This is a popular choice. You can see the Pacific Ocean from your balcony. The view includes the yacht harbor and Diamond Head. Waking up to this sight is magical. The room layout is similar to the City View. But the view makes a big difference. It is worth the upgrade for many guests.
Suites
The resort offers one and two-bedroom suites. These are great for families or groups. The one-bedroom suite is about 750 square feet. It has a separate living room. The living room often has a sofa bed. The master bedroom has a king bed. There are two bathrooms. The two-bedroom suite is over 1,100 square feet. It can sleep up to six people comfortably. Suites have full kitchens or kitchenettes. This allows for easy meal preparation.
Penthouse Suites
For the ultimate luxury, book a penthouse. These are on the top floors. They offer panoramic views. The penthouse suites have high-end finishes. They include premium appliances and large lanais (balconies). Some even have private hot tubs. This is perfect for a special celebration.
All rooms include high-speed Wi-Fi. They also have iPod docking stations. The beds are very comfortable with premium linens. Housekeeping service is daily. You can request additional amenities like cribs or rollaway beds.
Resort Amenities and Features
The Modern Honolulu is packed with great amenities. You may not want to leave the property. Here are the highlights.
Swimming Pools
The resort has two beautiful pools. The main pool is for adults only. It is a serene infinity-edge pool. It seems to spill into the yacht harbor. There are comfortable lounge chairs and cabanas. The pool area is quiet and relaxing. The second pool is for families. It is larger and has a zero-entry edge. This is safe for small children. Both pools are surrounded by lush tropical landscaping.
Beach Access
The resort does not have a private beach. But it offers direct access to Waikiki Beach. It is just a two-minute walk. The resort provides beach chairs and towels. You can also rent umbrellas and surfboards. The beach here is slightly less crowded. It is perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Fitness Center
The fitness center is open 24 hours. It has modern cardio and weight machines. You can watch TV while you work out. There are also free weights and yoga mats. The resort offers fitness classes sometimes. These include yoga and Pilates. Check the schedule when you arrive.
Spa and Wellness
The Lather Salon & Spa is on-site. It offers a range of treatments. Try a traditional Hawaiian lomilomi massage. They also offer facials, body scrubs, and manicures. The spa uses natural, organic products. It is a peaceful place to unwind. You can book a couple's massage for a romantic experience.
Business Center
There is a small business center. It has computers and printers. This is useful for printing boarding passes. High-speed Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.
Dining Options at The Modern
You have several dining choices. You can eat at the resort or walk to nearby restaurants.
Morimoto Asia Waikiki
This is the signature restaurant. It is by famous chef Masaharu Morimoto. He is known from the TV show "Iron Chef." The restaurant serves Asian-inspired cuisine. The menu includes sushi, dim sum, and Peking duck. The design is stunning. It has a large, dramatic staircase. Reservations are highly recommended. It is a great spot for a fancy dinner.
The Sunrise Pool Bar
This bar is by the adult pool. It serves light meals and drinks. Enjoy a tropical cocktail here. Try the poke bowl or a burger. The atmosphere is casual and friendly. It is open for lunch and afternoon snacks.
The Lobby Bar
This is a chic spot for evening drinks. They craft creative cocktails. There is often live music. It is a nice place to meet friends before dinner.
Room Service
Room service is available 24 hours. The menu has a good selection. You can order breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Enjoy a meal on your private balcony.
Many guests also explore nearby eateries. Waikiki has hundreds of restaurants. You can find everything from food trucks to fine dining. Ask the concierge for personal recommendations.
Activities and Things to Do Nearby
There is so much to do in Waikiki. You will never be bored. Here are some top activities.
Beach and Water Sports
- Surfing: Waikiki is the birthplace of modern surfing. Take a lesson. Many schools are on the beach.
- Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): Paddle around the calm harbor. It is easy to learn.
- Snorkeling: See tropical fish. Hanauma Bay is a short drive away.
- Catamaran Sail: Book a sunset sail. It is very romantic.
Shopping
Waikiki is a shopper's paradise. The Ala Moana Center is nearby. It has over 350 stores. You will find luxury brands and local shops. The Royal Hawaiian Center is also close. It focuses on Hawaiian-made products.
Cultural and Historical Sites
- Pearl Harbor: Visit the USS Arizona Memorial. It is a powerful experience. Book tickets in advance online.
- Iolani Palace: The only royal palace in the United States. Learn about Hawaiian history.
- Diamond Head: Hike to the top of this famous crater. The view is incredible. Go early to avoid the heat.
Nightlife
Waikiki has vibrant nightlife. Enjoy live music at many bars and lounges. There are also luau shows. These feature traditional Hawaiian food and dance. The resort concierge can help you book tickets.
Practical Tips for Your Stay
Planning ahead makes your trip smoother. Follow these tips for a great vacation.
Booking Your Stay
You can book through the Hilton Grand Vacations website. Use your vacation club points. You can also book as a regular hotel guest. Compare prices on different travel sites. Look for package deals. These might include airfare or a rental car. Book early for the best rates and room selection. Peak seasons are winter and summer.
Best Time to Visit
Hawaii is great year-round. The weather is always warm. Average temperatures are 75-85°F (24-29°C). The busiest (and most expensive) times are:
- December to April (whale watching season)
- June to August (summer vacation)
Getting Around
The resort is in a walkable area. You can reach many places on foot. For longer trips, use these options:
- TheBus: Honolulu's public bus system. It is cheap and reliable.
- Rental Car: Useful for exploring the whole island. The resort has valet parking. Self-parking is also available for a fee.
- Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate in Honolulu.
- Taxi: Taxis are always available at the hotel entrance.
Packing Tips
- Pack light, casual clothing. Resort wear is perfect.
- Bring a swimsuit, cover-up, and sandals.
- Don't forget sunscreen and a hat. The sun is strong.
- Bring a light jacket for cooler evenings.
- Pack comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
Money-Saving Advice
- Book a room with a kitchenette. Prepare some meals yourself.
- Take advantage of free activities. Enjoy the beach and pools.
- Look for happy hour specials at local restaurants.
- Use the resort's free beach chairs and towels.
- Ask about resort fees when booking. Know what is included.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is The Modern Honolulu part of Hilton Hotels?
Yes, but in a specific way. It is part of Hilton Grand Vacations. This is Hilton's vacation ownership program. You can use Hilton Honors points sometimes. But it is primarily a vacation club property. It offers a luxury hotel experience.
2. What is the difference between a hotel room and a vacation club room?
Vacation club rooms often feel more like apartments. They may have kitchens or kitchenettes. They are designed for longer stays. The service and quality are similar to a luxury hotel. At The Modern, the lines are blurry. It feels like a high-end hotel.
3. Are there any resort fees?
Yes, there is a daily resort fee. As of 2025, it is approximately $45 per night. This fee includes:
- High-speed internet access
- Beach chairs and towels
- Local and toll-free calls
- Fitness center access
- Daily newspaper (upon request)
4. Is the resort family-friendly?
Absolutely. The Modern Honolulu welcomes families. The family pool is great for kids. The suites provide space for everyone. Cribs and rollaway beds are available. The location is safe and convenient. There are many family activities nearby.
5. Can I book this resort without being a Hilton Vacation Club member?
Yes, you can. The resort accepts regular hotel bookings. You can book through travel websites or directly. Being a member gives you access to points. This can mean better rates or room upgrades.
6. What is the check-in and check-out time?
Standard check-in time is 4:00 PM. Check-out is at 11:00 AM. The front desk can often accommodate early check-in or late check-out. This depends on availability. You can always store your luggage with the bell desk.
7. Is parking available?
Yes. The resort offers valet parking. There is also self-parking in a nearby garage. Both options have a daily fee. As of 2025, valet parking is about $45 per day. Self-parking is about $35 per day. Rates are subject to change.
Real Guest Experiences and Statistics
Guest reviews are overwhelmingly positive. On major travel sites, the resort scores highly. It often gets 4.5 out of 5 stars. Guests love the design, location, and service. Here are some common praises from reviews:
- "The pool area is an oasis of calm."
- "The bed was incredibly comfortable."
- "Staff went above and beyond to help us."
- "The view from our ocean room was breathtaking."
According to tourism statistics, Waikiki hosts millions of visitors each year. Resorts like The Modern are key to the economy. Hawaii's tourism sector employs a large part of the workforce. Choosing a resort that supports local culture is important. The Modern employs many local residents. It also sources products locally when possible.
A 2024 survey of vacation club members showed high satisfaction. Over 85% of Hilton Grand Vacations owners said they were happy with their ownership. They cited flexibility and quality of resorts as top reasons. The Modern Honolulu is often listed as a favorite property.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planning Your Trip
Follow these steps for a stress-free vacation.
Step 1: Decide Your Travel Dates
Check your calendar. Consider weather and crowds. Book 6-12 months in advance for the best selection. This is especially true for suites and peak seasons.
Step 2: Book Your Accommodations
Visit the Hilton Grand Vacations website. Or use a trusted travel booking site. Enter your dates. Compare room types and prices. Read the cancellation policy carefully. Complete your booking and save the confirmation.
Step 3: Arrange Transportation
Book your flights to Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL). The airport is about 20 minutes from Waikiki. Decide if you need a rental car. Book it early for better rates. Alternatively, plan to use taxis or rideshares.
Step 4: Plan Your Activities
Make a list of must-do activities. Book popular tours in advance. This includes Pearl Harbor and luaus. Leave some days open for relaxation. Check the resort's activity schedule when you arrive.
Step 5: Prepare and Pack
Get your documents ready. Ensure your ID is valid. Pack appropriate clothing. Notify your bank of travel plans. Download useful apps like a weather app or a translation app.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Trip!
Arrive at the resort. Check in and unpack. Explore the property. Ask the concierge any questions. Relax and enjoy paradise.
Conclusion
The Hilton Vacation Club The Modern Honolulu is a top-tier resort. It combines modern design with Hawaiian hospitality. The location is perfect for exploring Waikiki. The rooms are comfortable and stylish. The amenities cater to both relaxation and adventure.
Whether you are a vacation club member or a first-time visitor, you will have a wonderful stay. The staff is dedicated to your comfort. The memories you make here will last a lifetime. From watching the sunset over the Pacific to enjoying a meal at Morimoto, every moment is special.
Start planning your Hawaiian getaway today. The Modern Honolulu awaits. It is more than just a place to sleep. It is a destination that captures the spirit of aloha. Experience luxury, comfort, and the beauty of Hawaii all in one place. Your perfect vacation starts here.
For more travel guides and tips, explore our other destination articles. Aloha and happy travels!