Boutique hotels are all the rage these days. They offer a hideaway and respite from the monolithic resorts which dot Waikiki’s shores. Joy is what you’ll find at the better than boutique Waikiki Joy Hotel. What kind of Joy? Oh, don’t forget the joy of spas.

Assuming you know what you want, and what you want is a neat, clean, well appointed hideaway tucked into the center of Waikiki (close to everything, far from the madding crowd), the Joy is what you get.

This luxuriously appointed hotel will surprise you. Easy access along Lewers Street between Kuhio and Kalakaua Avenues is a start. You’ll be within walking distance (minutes, not hours) of nearly everything Waikiki has to offer. Shopping, dining, movies, beach, shows.

Of course, that’s if you’re inclined to simply walk around. Nestled between the skyscrapers that make up Waikiki’s profile, the Waikiki Joy Hotel is remarkably quiet, and self contained.

There’s a tour and travel desk for the adventurous. The hotel serves a sumptuous continental breakfast. As you’d expect, there’s even joy in the sauna, the lounge, the pool, and, of course, the restaurant.

You won’t need to leave Joy to have joy.

Surprisingly, but necessary in bustling Waikiki, all rooms in the Joy are soundproofed and feature color cable TV and a stereo system with Bose speakers.

Each room comes with a private, in room Jacuzzi, daily maid service, mini fridge (for the Mini Me in all of us), and a private balcony.

Waikiki Joy Hotel
320 Lewers Street
Honolulu, HI 96815
808-923-2300

Pros: Very friendly service, well appointed, quiet (considered you’re in the center of Waikiki), near everything.

Cons: Small. Definitely “boutique” in nature. Amenities limited. And I couldn’t find the spa. Hey, it’s 2004 already. Where’s the spa?

Want to know the best places to eat in Hawaii? Click over to Ono Dining for totally biased reviews on Hawai's best (and not so best) restaurants.