Best Western The Plaza Hotel Honolulu Airport

The hotel serves as an exceptionally convenient hub for layover travelers and cruise passengers, offering a seamless transition with its signature free airport shuttle service. Its strategic location near the airport makes it an ideal choice for those seeking a quick and efficient stay, including business travelers and even pet owners, thanks to its accommodating policies. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's friendly staff, clean rooms, and the surprisingly varied breakfast buffet as key aspects of a positive experience, often exceeding expectations for an airport hotel. While the proximity to major highways can lead to noticeable noise, the hotel generally provides a comfortable and practical base for short stays. To maximize comfort, guests are advised to request a room situated away from the highway and to plan for early departures, as breakfast service begins later in the morning, which might not align with very early flights.

Facilities & Amenities
Guests find the hotel's facilities generally functional, though some aspects show their age. The outdoor pool is a popular feature, often described as clean and well-maintained, providing a pleasant area for relaxation. A fitness center is available, with some guests appreciating its views, though its operating hours can be restrictive. Wi-Fi connectivity is generally reliable throughout the property. However, the elevators are a frequent point of concern; many reviews mention them being slow, often with one of the two main elevators out of service, leading to significant wait times, especially during peak hours. Some rooms, particularly in older sections, lack elevator access entirely, requiring guests to carry luggage up stairs. The presence of a coffee shop and vending machines adds convenience for quick purchases.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Feedback on cleanliness is generally positive, with many guests finding their rooms well-maintained, though some note that the decor and furnishings appear dated. The beds are frequently described as comfortable, contributing to a restful night's sleep, though some double beds are considered small. A significant recurring issue is noise, primarily from the adjacent highway traffic, which can be very loud and disruptive, even with earplugs. The air conditioning units are also noted for being noisy, though some guests find this helps to mask the external sounds. Some reviews mention issues with bathroom conditions, including slow drains, non-functional showerheads, or small spaces. A few guests reported encountering ants or other small insects in their rooms, particularly on counters, though not typically on beds. Rooms are equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker, which are appreciated amenities.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast buffet is consistently highlighted as a major positive, often exceeding expectations for a hotel of this type. Guests praise the breakfast variety, which typically includes hot items like eggs, sausage, and waffles, alongside cereals, fruit, and pastries. The waffle stations are particularly popular, though they can lead to long lines. Despite the overall positive reception, several guests report issues with the food quality of hot items, describing them as lukewarm or running out quickly, especially during busy periods. The breakfast hours (typically 7-9 AM) are often inconvenient for guests with early flights, leading to disappointment for those who miss the service. A grab-and-go option is sometimes offered for early departures, though its availability and contents vary. A coffee shop is also available on-site for additional beverage options.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's location is its primary advantage for many, being exceptionally close to the airport and offering a highly valued free shuttle service. This makes it ideal for quick transfers, though guests note the shuttle runs hourly, requiring planning. A bus stop directly outside the hotel provides convenient public transport access to areas like Waikiki and Pearl Harbor. However, the hotel's immediate surroundings are less appealing; it is situated directly next to a major highway, resulting in significant traffic noise that permeates many rooms. Walkability to diverse dining options is limited, with mostly fast-food establishments nearby. Parking is available on-site, but guests frequently express dissatisfaction with the high parking fee, which is often seen as excessive.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness and helpfulness. Many guests commend the reception staff for their welcoming demeanor and efficiency during check-in and check-out processes. The shuttle service drivers are also frequently mentioned for their promptness and courteous assistance. Guests appreciate the housekeeping team for maintaining clean rooms. While most experiences are positive, some guests report issues with early check-in requests, where fees were charged even when rooms were available, leading to frustration. There are also mentions of staff being less accommodating regarding luggage assistance in certain areas, particularly where elevators are not available. Overall, the staff's dedication to providing good service is a recurring theme.

Additional Information
The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, which is a significant advantage for guests traveling with animals, though finding suitable outdoor areas nearby can be a challenge. A common point of contention among guests is the substantial parking fee, which many find unexpectedly high and a significant added cost to their stay. Some guests who are part of the rewards program mention receiving benefits, such as room upgrades or discounts on parking. The hotel also offers EV charging facilities, a modern amenity appreciated by electric vehicle owners. Guests should be aware that some sections of the hotel, particularly older courtyard buildings, do not have elevator access, which can be problematic for those with heavy luggage or mobility concerns, requiring them to use stairs. The hotel provides umbrellas in rooms, a thoughtful touch given the local climate.