If you’re hunting for a solid stay in Honolulu, Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra deserves a look. It’s the only Accor hotel in the city, parked perfectly between the Ala Moana Center and Ala Moana Beach Park. I checked it out recently, and it’s got everything you need for a no-fuss trip. Here’s the rundown.
Where It’s At
Location’s a big win here. It’s right next to Ala Moana Center, the world’s largest open-air mall—over 300 shops and restaurants just steps away. Need a beach fix? Ala Moana Beach Park is a quick walk, with half a mile of sand and calm waves. The Hawaii Convention Center’s across the street too, so it’s a clutch spot for business travelers. You’re close to Waikiki’s buzz but not stuck in it.
The Rooms
They’ve got over 1,100 rooms split across two towers: Kona and Waikiki. I stayed in a Waikiki standard room—simple, functional but bathroomscleanliness is questionable. Wi-Fi’s free, there’s a fridge, microwave, and flat-screen TV. Some rooms have city, mountain or ocean views; mine faced the ocean, which was lovely. Bigger suites offer kitchenettes if you’re settling in longer. No resort fees either, so no surprise charges at checkout.
Beds are comfy, AC works, but the bathroom’s cleanliness is questionable. There were a few hairs lying around in the bathtub and a price tag not cleared from the previous guest—kinda off-putting. Otherwise, it’s clean enough and checks the boxes.
Food Options
Dining’s covered onsite. The Signature Prime Steak & Seafood sits on the 36th floor, serving up steaks, lobster, and solid seafood plates. It’s the priciest option but worth it if you’re into upscale eats. Downstairs, Café 410 does breakfast—think eggs, pancakes, nothing fancy but gets the job done. There’s also a Starbucks in the lobby for your coffee run.
Pool and Gym
The outdoor pool is rather small for a hotel with 1,100 room. It’s not a resort-style setup, but it’s good for a dip after a hot day. The fitness center’s got the basics—treadmills, weights, plus a sauna and steam room. I popped in for a quick workout; it’s decent and good enough to keep you moving. Both spots are open to guests, no extra cost.
Why It Works
As an Accor property, it’s got that chain reliability—consistent, no wild surprises. It’s not flashy or over-the-top, just practical. The staff’s friendly mostly (but not everyone unfortunately), check-in’s smooth and strict at 3pm unless you are somebody (Platinum and above). The no-resort-fee thing keeps it budget-friendly compared to Waikiki spots. It’s a great base whether you’re shopping, beaching, or working.
Getting Around
It’s 10 km or 6 miles from Honolulu Airport—about a 20-minute drive without traffic. Taxis or rideshares are easy to grab; I paid around US$50 for a large Uber XL to the airport in the weekday evening. Parking’s available onsite but costs extra—$35 a day last I checked. You can walk to the mall and beach, and Waikiki’s a 15-minute drive or a cheap bus ride. I didn’t rent a car and got by fine.
What’s Nearby
The Ala Moana Center’s the star—department stores, boutiques, food courts, all right there. The beach park’s got picnic spots and a running loop if you’re active. Downtown Honolulu’s 3 km away; Iolani Palace is a cool historical stop at 4 km. Pearl Harbor’s further out, about 16 km, but doable for a day trip. Plenty to explore without straying far.
The Vibe
It’s busy but not chaotic. The lobby can get crowded, especially with convention folks, but the rooms are quiet. It’s got a practical, get-stuff-done feel—not a luxe resort, just a solid hotel that delivers. I liked that it didn’t try too hard; it’s straightforward and lets Honolulu do the heavy lifting.
Booking Tips
Prices shift with the season. January and April are cheaper—around US$200 a night—while summer spikes closer to US$300. Sunday or Tuesday check-ins save a bit; Fridays cost more. I snagged a deal on a Wednesday for $250. Check-in’s at 3 PM, checkout’s 11 AM. Call ahead if you need early or late options—they’re usually cool about it if you are somebody 😉
Final Take
Ala Moana Honolulu by Mantra isn’t here to wow you with frills—it’s here to work. Great location, solid rooms, decent food, and no hidden fees.