There are so many things that set this luxury hotel apart from the others, the most important being the rooms: About 90% face the ocean, and theyre big (averaging about 620 square feet) with a separate sitting area and a large, furnished lanai. The bathroom features a deep-soaking tub, a separate glassed-in shower, and a marble basin. Other luxuries include a refrigerator, three phones, a safe, and luxurious bathrobes.

Dining/Diversions: Facilities are superb: Indo-Pacific Orchids; the oceanside main dining room; the award-winning neoclassic French La Mer; and House Without a Key, surely one of the worlds most romantic spots for sunset cocktails, light meals, and Hawaiian entertainment.

Amenities: Twice-daily maid and turndown service, complimentary daily newspaper, and free local phone calls. Concierge desk, business and secretarial services, fitness room, running sessions and aerobic workouts, in-room massage, magnificent oceanside swimming pool, and easy access to a superb stretch of Waikiki Beach.