We’re in Hawaii on a Space A adventure, and we found out that the Hale Koa in Oahu had some open rooms (our third time now). So, we decided to book a few days to enjoy our Thanksgiving holiday one year and currently enjoying spring break.

If you’ve read our other reviews about AFRC (Armed Forces Recreation Center) resorts, you might know that sometimes you can get lucky and can book a room at the last minute.

Is Hale Koa Only For Military And Are You Eligible?

When Congress passed the Disabled Veterans Equal Access Act in 2018, it changed the rules so that more people could get benefits that used to be only for military retirees. Now, more people can enjoy these benefits and you can vacation on the Hawaiian Island of Oahu. 

Listed below are the eligible guests to stay at Hale Koa:

• Active duty service members
• Retired military personnel
• Purple Heart recipients
• Former prisoners of war (POW) 
• Military veterans with VA-documented service-connected disability ratings 

To make it simple, military members with honorable discharge paperwork and service-connected disabilities are eligible to stay at Hale Koa. Click here to view there updated eligibility requirements. 

Make sure you have your valid military ID for check in at the resort. If you’re sponsoring rooms for guests like parents, grandparents, or friends, you’ll need to be with them at check-in. And if you’re looking to stay at other military resorts, check out our reviews of Shades of Green and The New Sanno Hotel.

Things to See at the Hale Koa Hotel in Honolulu

Waikiki Beach and Duke Paoa Kahanamoku Statue

The Hale Koa Waikiki Beach property is located right on the famous Waikiki Beach towards the back of the hotel. This beach is well-known because Duke Paoa Kahanamoku, the father of modern surfing, taught people how to surf here.

The statue is a short walk down the beach. This walk lets you soak in Hawaiian culture and enjoy the natural beauty of the beach. 

Fort DeRussy Beach Park & Army Museum

Fort DeRussy was one of many shore batteries on Oahu, originally built to defend Hawaii’s coast. Since they’re not needed as much now, the large building has been turned into a museum. The 3-acre grounds are now a park that the general public can access and is located next to the armed forces hotel in Hawaii.

Magic Hawaii Show

If you can’t snag a seat at the Hale Koa Luau, don’t worry—you’ve still got options. You can catch the Kuhio Beach Hula Show (held Saturdays and on the 1st & 3rd Tuesdays of each month around 6:30 PM near the Duke statue on Waikiki Beach).

But if you’re looking to be really wowed, go see the Magic Hawaii Show with Marc Mauricio. His sleight-of-hand tricks with coins were next-level and had everyone, kids and adults totally amazed. He even pulled off the classic “cutting the girl in half” illusion and a few other crowd favorites.

The show was a blast, lasting about an hour, and Marc crushed it. He came out afterward for photo ops in the lobby, which was a fun touch. If you’re looking for great evening entertainment and can’t make the luau or hula show, the Magic Hawaii Show is totally worth it.

Friday Night Fireworks

Since 1988, the Hilton Hawaiian Village has been lighting up the Waikiki sky with fireworks every Friday night. The show lasts about 10 minutes and typically begins 30–40 minutes after sunset, just when the night sky is dark enough for the best viewing experience.

Some of the best views are from the beach or boardwalk. We like to grab a table early at the Hale Koa Pool Snack Bar. If you can snag one of the lounge areas closest to the beach, you’ll be front-row for the show, plus you’ll be watching from a super comfy couch.

Pro tip: set a reminder on your phone or smartwatch so you don’t miss it!

The Hale Koa Lua

If you’ve never been to a luau before, the Hale Koa’s luau is definitely worth checking out. It’s a fun way to experience traditional Hawaiian food, music, and dancing – all without even leaving the resort.

The setting is beautiful, the performances are lively, and it’s an easy add on to make your trip feel a little more special. Plus, it’s a great way to dive into some of the culture without the heavy touristy feel you sometimes get elsewhere.

Things to Do Near Hale Koa Hotel

If you’re looking for things to do near the Hale Hotel there’s so much to do. From grabbing local eats and shopping in Waikiki to planning easy day trips like Kualoa Ranch, the Dole Plantation, or a beach day at Aulani. You’ll have no problem filling your days with adventure. Whether you want to stay close or head out and explore more of Oahu, there’s something for everyone.

Visit the Royal Hawaiian

Just a short walk from the Hale Koa, The Royal Hawaiian isn’t just another pretty pink hotel. It’s a slice of Waikiki history. Grab a table at the Surf Lanai for their famous pink pancakes, sip on one of the original mai tais at the Mai Tai Bar, and soak in the vintage glam vibes that date all the way back to the 1920s (Amelia Earhart stayed here). It’s the perfect spot for a little nostalgia and a really good breakfast cocktail.

Sample Sweet Treats at Honolulu Cookie Company

Don’t leave Waikiki without grabbing a box (or two) from the Honolulu Cookie Company. Their buttery shortbread cookies are iconic. And trust me, they taste even better after a beach day. Keep an eye out for fun seasonal flavors too!

Learn to Hula at Yoga Waikiki

Feeling adventurous? Sign up for a hula dance class at Yoga Waikiki! It’s a fun way to connect with the culture, get your body moving, and pick up a few dance moves you can show off when you get home.

Browse the Hale Koa Weekly Art Fair

Twice a week, the Hale Koa hosts a local Art Market right on property. It’s the perfect spot to pick up handmade jewelry, paintings, and crafts directly from local artists. Plus, it’s such a chill way to spend an afternoon without even leaving the hotel grounds.

Step Back in Time at ʻIolani Palace

If you’re looking for a little history while you’re in Honolulu, Iolani Palace is a must. It’s the only royal palace in the United States, and you can tour the inside to see where Hawaii’s last monarchs lived. They offer self guided audio tours and guided options if you want the full experience.

It’s a beautiful way to slow down, walk through some amazing architecture, and learn a little more about Hawaii’s royal past.

Explore Oahua

Adventure Awaits at Kualoa Ranch

If you have time to explore beyond Waikiki, Kualoa Ranch is absolutely worth the trip. It’s about a 45 minute drive from the Hale Koa and offers everything from Jurassic Park movie tours to horseback riding, ziplining, and ATV adventures.

The scenery is unreal. Think lush mountains, secret beaches, and wide open valleys. It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’re in a movie (because, technically, you are).

Visit the Dole Plantation for a Sweet Stop

Another fun favorite to add to your Oahu adventure is the Dole Plantation. It’s about a 40-minute drive from Waikiki and an easy stop to work into your day. You can ride the Pineapple Express train, try out the garden maze, or just grab a Dole Whip and relax for a bit. It’s a light, easygoing stop that’s perfect for families or anyone who just loves a good pineapple moment.

Spend a Disney Day at Aulani Resort

Another easy add on for your Oahu itinerary is a day at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa. You don’t have to stay there to enjoy it. All beaches in Hawaii are public access, and you can explore the resort grounds for free (you’ll just need to pay for parking). It’s a fun way to spot Disney characters, grab some Mickey shaped treats, and soak up the Disney magic without booking a full stay.

We’ve actually stayed at Aulani ourselves (they offer a great military discount!). You can check out things to do at Aulani and our full Aulani experience if you want to plan a visit!

Free Petting Zoo and Horseback Riding

If you’re already out exploring the North Shore, Gunstock Ranch is another fun stop to add to your list. They offer a free petting zoo that’s perfect for families. You can meet goats, pigs, ponies, and more. It’s a super laid back spot to take a little break, especially if you have younger kids who love animals.

They also offer horseback rides, ATV tours, and hiking trails if you’re looking to make it more of an adventure.

Wrapping Up Nearby Adventures in Oahu

There’s definitely no shortage of things to do when you’re staying at the Hale Koa. Whether you’re heading out to explore the North Shore, snorkeling at Hanauma Bay, visiting the Dole Plantation, or chasing Jurassic Park vibes at Kualoa Ranch. Oahu’s got something for everyone.

If you want even more ideas for day trips and adventures, check out our full guide here.

Now, back to the Hale Koa! Let’s talk about what really makes your stay. The rooms, the views, and how to pick the best option for your trip.

Room Type Selection At The Hale Koa

​Our ​Resort View in the Maile Tower 

If you’ve been keeping up with our adventures, you probably know we tend to do things a bit last minute. It always reminds us of the TV show “No Reservations” with Anthony Bourdain. This time, our spontaneity paid off, and we snagged a room on the 8th floor in the Maile Tower, with a view of the resort overlooking the Ilima Tower.

If you check out the building’s design, the balconies in the tower rooms do provide an ocean view. Whether you’re sitting or standing on the balcony, you can enjoy the view of the ocean. I’d say this is still a great perk for hotel guests, especially considering the affordable price.

The room was big, with bright colors, and they even included some amazing Hawaii coffee that captured the distinctive tastes of the Hawaiian islands.

The room had two queen beds and a typical bathroom setup with a toilet, shower/tub, and a decent-sized vanity. The flat-screen TVs in the rooms looked new and offered a perfect chance for a movie night.

The Llima Tower at Hale Koa

After a few nights in the Maile Tower, we had to switch hotels for a bit, but we got lucky and scored another few days back at the resort but this time in a tower we hadn’t stayed in yet. 

The ʻIlima Tower is the older of the two, but the views are just as amazing. The main differences? The closets are in a different spot and the rooms have wood floors instead of carpet. Bonus: the elevator on the beach side makes the walk to the pool and beach way shorter, which is a win in our book.

Deluxe Ocean Front Room

Booking a room at the Hale Koa, the House of the Warrior, guarantees you an amazing Pacific Ocean view for your vacation. Waking up to the incredible views of Waikiki Beach from the Ilima Tower will make all your worries disappear with its endless ocean views.

Oceanfront rooms in the Maile Tower come with full balconies, perfect for kicking back on patio furniture and soaking in that uninterrupted beach view. These rooms start at $395.

Rooms in the ʻIlima Tower have a large picture window facing the beach and a smaller triangle-shaped lanai. Both towers give you incredible views no matter which tier rate you qualify for, it’s a solid value for a dreamy Waikiki stay.

Hale Koa Hotel Reviews and Amenity Specifications  

• Free Wi-Fi Speed: The Wi-Fi was okay, I’d give it a 3 out of 5 stars.
• Early Check-in & Baggage Holding Available: We didn’t end up using this service. They had a room ready for us when we arrived.
• Wall Sockets for Charging: They provided the standard American plug. 
• Bed, Sheets, and Furniture Comfort Level: The bed was just right, with a medium feel, and the bed sheets were super soft and comfy. There wasn’t a lot of furniture in the room, but the balcony furniture was just standard metal chairs. I’d rate it 3 out of 5 stars.
• Water Pressure & Water Temp: The water pressure was pretty good on the 8th floor, but the water temperature could have been a bit warmer. I’d give it 3 out of 5 stars.
• Shuttle Service: They don’t provide a shuttle from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport, but we had a rental car. Parking costs $20 per day.
• Customer Service: After our last stay at the resort, there’s a lot of room for improvement. I’d give it 2 out of 5 stars.
• Bell & Maid service: The maids did an awesome job cleaning our room, especially after we’d left it a mess from enjoying the resort. It felt great to come back to a freshly cleaned room. The bell service guys really hustle here, always taking great care of us. Definitely a 5 out of 5 stars.
• Customer Complaint Resolution Experience: We’ve had issues both times we visited here, and unfortunately, the resolution wasn’t handled very well. I’d rate it 1 out of 5 stars.

Pools at the Hale Koa Resort

The Hale Koa Hotel pool area is really new, and we were excited to check it out during our visit. It definitely lived up to our expectations! The renovation was completed in 2018, and everything was finished by the time we got there.

There are so many cool features, too many to mention here. We particularly enjoyed the Infinity pool on the upper deck. We managed to find a chair there and spent a lot of time hanging out. It offered the best view of the area while we relaxed in the pool.

The kids’ pool and splash pad are awesome! There’s a big pirate ship with lots of water features, like water jets shooting from the ground and water cannons to attack the ship.

The main pool has water slides that everyone can enjoy. The design is really cool, and they even have cabanas you can rent. You can check here for the latest rates. Just don’t forget your sunscreen. Hawaii has specefic sunscreens that keep the reef safe so if you want to make sure you’re packing the right kind you can check here.

Adult Only Pools at the Hale Koa

There are actually two adult only pool areas at the Hale Koa. The main adult only pool is tucked away before the main pool area on your left. It’s closest to the main hotel area. It feels like a hidden gem and gives off private pool vibes. We didn’t spend much time here because the new outdoor main pool complex was too exciting to resist. This is where the second pool is located.

If you’re seeking relaxation without all the commotion, this is the spot to unwind. The adult pool even features a hot tub, perfect for soaking away your stress.

Join The Facebook Group for the Hale Koa

We discovered this awesome Facebook group between our visits Hale Koa Tips & Tricks Group. It’s super helpful! Many people use it to plan their vacations and flights to Hawaii.

But what do you do with pool toys, coolers, and leftover beer that you didn’t use and can’t fit in your suitcase? Well, you can post them on the group, and they can be passed on to new families!

In the past, people used to leave items in the laundry rooms, but now the Facebook group is the place to be.

How To Get To The Hotel After You Arrive On Oahu

Catch the Bus from Daniel K. Inouye International Airport

If you’re stoked to kick off your Hawaiian vacation but want to skip the hassle (and cost!) of renting a car and paying for pricey parking, you’re in luck, public transit is a solid option. The bus you’re looking for is Route 20.

To catch it, head up to the upper level of the airport (not baggage claim level). There are two bus stops located in the center median, one near the rental car area, and the other closer to the parking garage. Just look for the bus stop signs, and you’re all set!

Space-A & AMC Passenger Terminal Shuttle Tip

We are always flying Space A Flights to get to Hawaii and you can get here for free too if you’re military affiliated. If you get lucky (like we have a few times) and land during the day at the AMC Passenger Terminal, head to your right after exiting. You’ll find the shuttle and bus pickup area just past the sidewalk.

The Bus picks up there and the last pickup is usually around 7:10 or 7:20 PM, depending on if it’s a weekday or weekend. Look for Route 303, which will take you to the airport where you can hop on Bus 20, or ride it to the Kalihi Transit Center for even more route options.

Rental Cars from the Hickam Passenger Terminal

After years of no rental car options at the passenger terminal, Sixt now has a small setup here, finally! Their main office is at the base mall, but they do have a counter and key drop box at the Hickam terminal.

If you land during their open hours (10 AM–6 PM on weekdays, 10 AM–2 PM on Saturdays), you’re in luck! Just keep in mind there’s no service on Sundays, so plan accordingly.

AAFES (Army Air Force Exchange Services)

Just like all the other AFRC resorts, they have an exchange store. If you forgot something simple like a toothbrush or a beach towel, they’ve got you covered. They have everything you’d find in a shoppette. And its located in the basement area of the resort. 

Where to Find Leis near Hale Koa Hotel Hawaii

If you’re looking to pick up a fresh flower lei during your stay at the Hale Koa, you’re in luck. Just next door, at the Outrigger Reef Waikiki Beach Resort, you’ll find Hale O Na Lei, a charming shop in the hotel lobby that offers handcrafted leis and floral arrangements. It’s a convenient spot to grab a beautiful lei for a special occasion or just to add a touch of aloha to your day.

Laundry at the Hale Koa Hotel

If you’re staying at the Hale Koa Hotel and need to do a quick load of laundry, you can do it here. The hotel offers credit card operated laundry rooms on every floor in the Maile Tower and on every floor from the fourth floor and above in the Ilima Tower. Laundry supplies are available for purchase in the laundry rooms or at the PX located on the ground level of the Ilima Tower.

Where to Eat at The Hale Koa Hotel Hawaii

Happy’s Snack Bar

If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal at the Hale Koa, Happy’s Snack Bar is a solid go-to. It’s cafeteria-style, super casual, and perfect for when you don’t feel like committing to a full sit-down restaurant. You’ll find a mix of burgers, sandwiches, fries, salads, and other simple “grab and go” options. Nothing fancy, but great for beach days, poolside lunches, or a low key dinner.

Prices are reasonable compared to other spots in Waikiki, and the service is fast, making it a good choice when you’re hungry and don’t want to wait around.

Fun fact: We were actually at the Hale Koa during Thanksgiving and ended up grabbing our holiday meal from Happy’s. Even without a reservation anywhere, they had a Thanksgiving spread ready to go with turkey, ham, mashed potatoes, corn, gravy, and dessert. It was a nice surprise and honestly a stress-free way to spend the holiday without the work. So if you happen to be there during a big holiday, it’s worth checking out!

Bibas Courtyard Grill

If you’re looking for an easy sit-down meal without leaving the Hale Koa property, Bibas Courtyard Grill is a convenient option. The menu is pretty typical American fare — think steak, fish, lobster, pasta, and some kid friendly options like chicken tenders.

Prices are on the higher side (expect to pay around $20+ for basic entrees), and while the food is decent, it’s nothing extraordinary for the cost. Portion sizes are fair, but if you’re looking for standout flavors or a “wow” dining experience, you might want to explore off property.

The big plus here is the atmosphere. The patio seating overlooks the hotel’s courtyard and a massive banyan tree, which gives the place a relaxed, tropical vibe that’s hard to beat after a long beach day.

Bottom line: Bibas is a solid, convenient choice if you want to stay close and keep it easy, but it’s more about the setting than the food itself.

The Barefoot Bar

If you’re planning to grab a few beers or cocktails, Barefoot Bar is the perfect spot. It’s just a few steps from the pool and the beach, with an unbeatable view of the ocean. They have a full list of cocktails, draft beers, and frozen drinks. Perfect for sipping while you soak up the Hawaiian vibes.

It’s super casual here, and you can even grab takeout from Happy’s Snack Bar to bring over if you want a bite with your drink. There’s usually live music in the evenings, which makes it a great hangout spot after a beach day.

If you’re around on a Friday night, this is one of the best places to catch the weekly fireworks show. Barefoot Bar doesn’t take reservations, so get there early if you want a good seat for sunset or fireworks!

Koko at Kalia HaleKoa Hotel Breakfast Buffet

If you’re looking for an easy breakfast option right at the Hale Koa, Koko at Kalia is a solid choice. They do a full breakfast buffet with made to order omelets, pastries, fresh fruit, and all the basics you’d want before a beach day.

The vibe is relaxed, and you can even catch some ocean views while you eat. It’s first come, first served seating, so if you’re aiming for a slower morning, it’s a good idea to head down early. Perfect for when you don’t want to think too hard about where to eat first thing in the morning.

Morning Fuel at Java Cafe

If you’re looking for a quick and convenient spot to grab your morning coffee, Java Café in the Maile Tower lobby has you covered. They serve all your Starbucks favorites, along with pastries, fresh fruit, breakfast bowls, burritos, and yogurt parfaits. It’s perfect for a grab and go breakfast before hitting the beach or heading out on an adventure. The café is open daily from 5:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., making it an easy stop to kickstart your day. ​

Nearby Dinning Options

Duke’s Waikiki

Duke’s Waikiki is a popular beachfront restaurant just a short walk from the HaleKoa, and it’s a great spot if you’re looking for casual food with a beautiful ocean view. The menu has a little bit of everything — seafood, salads, burgers, and tropical drinks served in tiki cups.

It’s a lively, family-friendly atmosphere, but it can get really busy, especially around sunset. Expect a bit of a wait if you’re going during peak times, but the beach right out front makes it easy to pass the time.

Portions are generous, and the food is solid (we recommend the burgers if you’re craving something hearty). It’s on the pricier side for what you get, but you’re definitely paying for the location and the views.

Bottom line: Duke’s is a fun choice if you want classic Waikiki vibes, beach views, and a lively atmosphere. Just be ready for a crowd, especially in the evenings.

Beyond Pastry Studio: 

If you’re visiting downtown Honolulu or heading to Iolani Palace, Beyond Pastry Studio is a must know stop for breakfast or a quick treat. It’s a small bakery tucked just across the street from the palace and isperfect for grabbing something on the go.

The pastries here are next level, crafted by pastry chef Cristina Nishioka (who’s even been featured in Forbes). Everything is made fresh daily, and the shop tends to sell out fast. Calling ahead or getting there early is definitely a smart move if you want the best selection.

Expect savory options like Hawaiian rolls stuffed with ham, cheddar, and chives, along with a rotating lineup of beautiful desserts. Even arriving late, we were seriously impressed by how good everything still was.

Beyond Pastry Studio is the perfect spot for a quick, high-quality breakfast or a treat before exploring the area. It’s small, local, and absolutely worth the stop.

Musubi Cafe IYASUME

Spam musubi is a must try Hawaiian staple, and this spot is just a block from the Army Museum, super easy to swing by. It’s the perfect blend of Japanese and local flavors, and this location offers over 10 variations with Spam alone, plus another 10+ featuring tuna, veggies, and more.

The Musubi Cafe IYASUME is located at the Waikiki Beach Walk. We grabbed a few Musubi’s for breakfast, but honestly, they’re the perfect grab-and-go snack whether you’re heading to the beach, lounging by the pool, or exploring downtown Honolulu.

Quick Eats at the Hilton Hawaiian Village

If you’re looking for an easy bite near the Hale Koa, the Hilton Hawaiian Village next door has a few solid options.

Round Table Pizza is a great spot for something quick and filling. Their pizzas are always a hit, but the real standout is their Italian sandwich! It’s so good and is packed with meats, cheeses, and fresh veggies. It’s a must try if you want something other than pizza.

Lappert’s Hawaii is perfect when you’re craving something sweet. They serve up creamy, local inspired ice cream flavors and classic Hawaiian shave ice. It’s the kind of place where you’ll want to grab a scoop (or two) before heading back to the beach.

There are also several sit down restaurants on the Hilton property if you’re looking for more full service dining options without wandering too far. This is also a good place to snag Shave Ice right next to the Hale Koa Resort.

Sunset Drinks at Monkeypod Kitchen

Just a short walk from the Hale Koa, Monkeypod Kitchen is a fun spot for sunset views, live music, and creative food. Their menu leans into fresh, local ingredients with a mix of seafood, pizzas, and unique small plates. Definitely not your basic resort food.

The mai tais here are fun here , topped with a honey lilikoi foam that takes them to the next level. Between the ocean views, laid back vibe, and nightly live music, it’s an awesome spot to kick back after a beach day.

Grab a Sweet Treat at Leonard’s Bakery

If you’re craving something sweet while you’re in Waikiki, Leonard’s Bakery is a must. It’s famous for its malasadas. They’re fluffy, sugar dusted Portuguese donuts that are served hot and fresh.

The bakery is about a 10 minute drive from the Hale Koa (or around a 45 minute walk if you’re feeling ambitious). These aren’t your basic donuts either. You can get them plain or filled with flavors like custard, chocolate, coconut (haupia), and even rotating seasonal specials.

Heads up: there’s almost always a line, but it moves fast, and trust me, it’s 100% worth it. Perfect stop if you want a quick snack before heading out for the day or a little dessert after the beach.

Waffle and Berry

If you’re strolling through Waikiki and craving something sweet, Waffle and Berry is a spot to consider. Located in the Waikiki Shopping Plaza (just behind Victoria’s Secret), this locally owned shop is known for its made to order waffles and refreshing açaí bowls. Their menu features a variety of options, from the indulgent Aussie in Paradise waffle to the health conscious açaí bowls topped with fresh fruits and superfoods.

While we haven’t had the chance to try it ourselves yet, it’s definitely on our list for our next visit. If you’ve been, we’d love to hear your thoughts!

The Best Time to Visit & Things to Know About Visiting Hale Koa Hotel

We found that they had availability during the holiday, which was perfect for us. We really enjoyed our time there, especially since it wasn’t on our radar until a flight popped up on the schedule from Travis AFB.

The worst time to travel is during the summer, spring break and other major holidays, so plan ahead. The off-season, which includes the coldest months of December, January, and February, is usually less crowded.

Hawaii has 10 different climates, so the weather can vary a lot depending on when and where you visit. For example, the windward sides of the islands get more rain and are cooler, while the leeward sides are warmer and drier.

Critique for the Hale Koa Hotel and Recommendations 

Our Second Visit to Hale Koa

We rushed from Boise, ID to catch a flight to Hawaii from McChord to Hickam. As expected with Space-A flights, our flight got delayed by about 3 hours. We finally landed in Hawaii around 1 am.

After arriving late at night via Space-A, we were lucky to get an Uber from the Passenger Terminal to the Hale Koa. We were absolutely exhausted from the C-17 flight, so we tried to book a room before we left the terminal and along the way, its about  20 minute car ride. 

Amanda tried to book a room and saw many available rooms. We thought we’d just show up and they’d give us a room, but the website was acting up a bit.

After arriving and unloading the car It was really disappointing when the lady at the front desk completely ignored us standing there with our four big bags and backpacks after being dropped off by a really nice retired Uber driver.

After standing there in the dark at 2 am, the front desk person seemed completely indifferent to our situation. She didn’t offer any hope of getting a room, even though just an hour before, there were rooms available online. She just said there was nothing she could do and that the system was down for maintenance overnight.

The lady didn’t offer much help and just suggested nearby accommodations instead. It was disappointing that she didn’t do more to assist a disabled veteran and her family in a time of need.

It’s strange that the front desk couldn’t check room availability manually if the system was down. They could have at least given us a room they knew was empty and let us come back in the morning to complete the reservation process and payment.

It’s frustrating that she couldn’t provide any solutions or show compassion towards our family. We understand that we’re not entitled to a room, but given how much we travel, her lack of assistance was really disappointing. It’s also strange that there was no idea of when the system would reset.

We decided to walk to the Hilton Hawaiian Village next door, and they really saved the day. They upgraded us to a suite for free and gave us late checkout since we arrived around 3 am and were completely exhausted. The front desk guy really went above and beyond for us.

In conclusion, their solution was to send us off property without even trying to find a room for us. We were looking forward to a few days of relaxation on the property, but their behavior and system issues made us decide not to stay there this time.

Our First Visit to Hale Koa

It was definitely a bummer that one of the elevators was broken during our first visit in November 2022. It led to longer wait times, especially frustrating for anyone staying on the upper floors or with mobility challenges.

They did give us a heads up about the issue at check-in, which we appreciated, but it left us wondering why it hadn’t been prioritized for repair. While it didn’t ruin our experience, I’m sure it made things harder for a lot of other guests.

Out of all the AFRC resorts we’ve stayed at, (Shades of Green & The New Sanno Hotel) this one unfortunately ranks the lowest for us. Not sure what’s going on behind the scenes, but if you have a Chase credit card and love earning points, staying at a Hyatt might be a better move. You’ll still be steps from the beach and rack up points for future stays. Curious how to get started? We’ve got a full breakdown here.

Should I stay at the Hale Koa while on a Hawaii Vacation With My family?

Of course! Yes, we had some minor issues with the staff and the broken elevator, but that’s life, things happen that are out of your control daily, sometimes even hourly. Our March 2025 trip was really smooth, such a refreshing change of pace compared to some of our more eventful past visits.

Overall, our experience at the Hale Koa was celebrated in the best way. Hawaii holds a special place in our travels, and watching the volcano erupt on the Big Island was pretty awesome.

Every time we pass through Hawaii, we always try to find a room at the Hale Koa because it’s a great value for the cost. If you can’t get into the Hale Koa, use those well earned Chase points and stay at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, just down the street and one of the best Hyatt redemptions out there.

Frequently Asked Questions on Visiting The Hale Koa Hotel

How long can I stay at the Hale Koa?

Guests are not allowed to stay for more than 30 days or register again within the following 90 days. This rule helps ensure that everyone has a fair chance to enjoy their stay.

Can anyone attend the Hale Koa Luau?

The Hale Koa Hotel is an Army facility, and all events require a valid Active or Retired US Military or DOD ID to attend the authentic island experiences offered during the Luau.

How much does it cost to park at the Hale Koa?

If you’re bringing a car, plan on paying $22 per day for self parking at the Hale Koa (updated for 2025). The parking pass includes “in and out” privileges during your stay, but it’s not transferable between vehicles. They also have overflow parking available nearby if the main garage fills up.

If you’re just visiting for a meal or event, you can get your parking ticket validated at the restaurant or the Bell Desk for a discount.

For the most up to date info (or if you need a golf cart shuttle from the garage), you can check out the Hale Koa’s official parking page here.

Can you swim in the pools while waiting to Check in at the Hale Koa?

Yes! Bell Service will hold on to your luggage and you’re free to start using the ammenities. You will want to stop at the Check-in Counter anyway to let them know you’re there. They will give you a card that will allow you to start using the amenities throughout the propterty without any issues.