Castle Bamboo Waikiki Hotel

A notable feature of this accommodation is its inviting pool and hot tub area, often described as a peaceful oasis that offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city, complete with a bar and restaurant. Guests consistently highlight the excellent central location, making it an ideal base for sightseers and explorers who wish to walk to the beach, shops, and restaurants. While many find it offers good value for money, particularly for budget-conscious travelers and those planning long-term stays due to the presence of kitchenettes and laundry facilities, some note that the property itself appears dated. To ensure a smoother experience, guests should be prepared for the significant and often unexpected cleaning fees, and it is highly advisable to reserve parking in advance due to very limited on-site availability.

Facilities & Amenities
The property offers a well-regarded pool and hot tub area, frequently praised as a beautiful and relaxing space, often serving as a peaceful oasis for guests to unwind after a day of exploring. Many rooms include a convenient kitchenette, which is highly appreciated for preparing light meals and offers a significant advantage for longer stays, though some guests found the kitchen equipment sparse or outdated, impacting their ability to cook effectively. For added convenience, there is an on-site washing machine and dryer, making laundry accessible during extended visits. Guests also benefit from an ice machine and filtered water access, which are useful amenities. However, feedback on the elevators is mixed, with frequent mentions of them being old, sometimes smelly, and one often being out of service, leading to frustratingly long wait times for guests trying to access their rooms. Some also noted minor issues with faucets in the rooms, such as water spilling out.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is varied. Many describe their rooms as clean, spacious, and comfortable, often highlighting good air conditioning and well-appointed bathrooms. Some rooms even offer a balcony with pleasant views. However, a significant number of guests reported issues, including uncomfortable mattresses and pillows, sheets that don't fit properly, and a general sense of the rooms being dated or old. More concerning complaints include the presence of mold in bathrooms and on walls, stains on furniture and walls, unclean floors or carpets, and even reports of roaches. Noise from the street is a common issue, impacting sleep for some. Additionally, many guests were disappointed by the lack of regular room cleaning service, leading to sand accumulation and a need to request fresh towels and supplies frequently.

Dining & Food Quality
The on-site restaurant and bar, often referred to as Sam's Kitchen, receives considerable praise from guests, despite being a separate business from the hotel. Many reviewers describe the food as excellent, with some even calling it "the best food ever," making it a highly recommended dining experience. The poolside bar and restaurant area contribute to a great atmosphere, especially in the evenings. However, some guests noted that the restaurant and bar do not open until 5:00 PM, which limits daytime dining options. There are also mentions of the bar sometimes lacking a liquor license, impacting the beverage service, and occasional reports of slow service. Most guests indicate that breakfast is not offered on-site, requiring them to seek options elsewhere.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's central location is consistently highlighted as its strongest asset, placing guests within easy walking distance of numerous attractions. It is just a short stroll, typically 3-5 minutes, to Waikiki Beach, allowing for convenient beach access. Guests appreciate being close to a wide array of shops, restaurants, and the International Marketplace, providing ample dining and entertainment options. Proximity to transit stops and bus stops also makes exploring the wider area convenient. However, parking is a significant concern for many. The hotel has very limited on-site spaces, often requiring advance reservation, and guests frequently report difficulty finding available spots, leading to expensive off-site parking or long walks. The parking garage entrance/exit is also noted as being steep and potentially hazardous. Some guests also mention that the surrounding area, particularly Kuhio Avenue, can be noisy due to traffic.

Staff & Service
Feedback on the staff and service is notably mixed. Many guests commend the staff for being friendly, helpful, and accommodating, particularly highlighting their willingness to assist with requests and provide a welcoming atmosphere. Specific positive mentions often refer to the efficiency of check-in and the overall pleasantness of interactions. However, a significant number of reviews express strong dissatisfaction, particularly regarding the front desk staff, with multiple reports of them being rude, unapproachable, and unwilling to help or provide clear information. The lack of consistent room cleaning service is a major point of contention, as guests often had to repeatedly request fresh towels and supplies, and some found staff unhelpful in addressing this. This inconsistency in service significantly impacts the guest experience.

Additional Information
A predominant theme in guest reviews is the issue of cleaning fees. Many guests report being surprised by a substantial, often mandatory, cleaning fee charged upon arrival, which was not clearly disclosed during the initial booking process and frequently exceeded the nightly room rate. This unexpected charge led to considerable frustration and disputes, with many feeling it was a "scam" or "bait and switch" tactic, especially given the general lack of daily room servicing. The property is often described as a "condo hotel" or "apartment-like," implying that traditional hotel services like daily housekeeping are not standard. Guests are typically responsible for emptying their own trash and requesting fresh towels and supplies from the front desk, which contributes to the perception of a non-traditional hotel experience.