Hyatt Centric Waikiki: What to Expect
I stayed here with the kids for a single night before heading back to Australia from San Francisco. Because we had already stopped in Honolulu on the way to the mainland United States, I figured a quick stop was enough to pop into our favorite food spots and enjoy a last view of the famous beach.
This location isn’t very far from the Hyatt Regency Waikiki but it’s a little more tucked away. Any Hyatt Centric is going to be a great location—the idea being that you’re central to the popular areas of the city. Overall, it felt like a much more lowkey and still quality stay. This property is modern, relaxed, and felt less busy than the larger resort-style hotels. Perfect for a short stopover in Honolulu, Hawaii.
What’s great about the Hyatt Centric Waikiki
Location
As I mentioned before, this property is still very close to the beach. It’s just a few blocks back from the main strip of Waikiki, so it’s quieter while still being walkable to the sand. I was able to head out in the morning and have my favorite breakfast at Island Vintage Coffee. There’s also excellent shopping nearby, including the International Market Place, and plenty of food options within a short walk.
Pet Fish
My daughter was so excited to learn that we could enjoy taking care of a pet fish and have it sent to our room to keep us company. We had to monitor how much it was fed and it was such a quirky and adorable amenity that I haven’t seen anywhere else. It made the stay extra memorable for her and added a bit of fun to what would have otherwise been a standard hotel night.
A few helpful tips before you stay at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki
Parking is valet-only
If you’re renting a car during your stay, keep in mind that the hotel offers valet parking only, and it comes at a premium (at last check, around $50 USD per night). There’s no self-parking option available at the property, and nearby public parking can be limited or timed. If you don’t need a car for your visit, you may want to rely on walking, rideshares, or public transit to save money and avoid the hassle. The location is very central, so it’s quite manageable without a vehicle.
BYO beach gear
Unlike some beachfront resorts, the Hyatt Centric doesn’t provide complimentary beach chairs, umbrellas, or towels for off-property use. If you’re planning to spend time at the beach, consider packing your own lightweight beach gear or purchasing inexpensive supplies from nearby ABC Stores. They’re everywhere in Waikiki and make it easy to grab what you need without spending too much.
There’s no pool, but there is a splash deck
The Hyatt Centric Waikiki doesn’t have a traditional swimming pool. Instead, there’s a shallow splash deck area with lounge chairs, which is more for relaxing than swimming. It’s good to know in advance if you're traveling with kids or planning a pool day. If a full pool is important to your stay, the nearby Hyatt Regency might be a better option.
Is there room service at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki?
There isn’t traditional room service at this hotel, but there is an on-site café/bar area called The Lanai that serves drinks, snacks, and light meals. It’s a relaxed space and handy if you want something casual without leaving the hotel. This wasn’t a priority , tend to head out to nearby cafes and restaurants, which are all close by.
Is there a Globalist breakfast at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki?
When we stayed there, breakfast was not available for Globalists. The person at the front desk let me know that instead of breakfast, I’d receive bonus Hyatt points added to my account. I didn’t mind that at all. It gave me an excuse to head to Island Vintage Coffee again. Hawaii has such great local breakfast spots that I didn’t feel like I was missing out.
What is the gym like at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki?
The gym was small but had nice views of the surrounding areas, which gave it a bit more atmosphere than your average hotel gym. I was there with maybe two other people and it already felt pretty full, so keep that in mind if you’re someone who prefers to work out in a larger space. That said, most people are out enjoying Hawaii’s weather and beaches, so it doesn’t tend to get too crowded.
View from the fitness center/gym at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki
Why stay at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki?
This hotel is a great option if you’re looking for a clean, modern base in the heart of Waikiki without needing a full resort experience. The rooms are comfortable and well-designed, and the property has a more relaxed, boutique feel. It’s ideal for solo travelers, couples, or families doing short stays or overnight stopovers.
You still get all the essentials like good service, walkable access to the beach and shopping, and a quiet place to rest, but without the bustle of a larger property.
Should I stay at the Hyatt Centric Waikiki or the Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa?
These are two very different properties, so it depends on what you want from a stay.
The Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa is a large, busy resort-style hotel right across from the beach. It has more facilities, including a Club Lounge, spa, and dining options, and suits families or longer stays where you want more amenities on-site.
The Hyatt Centric Waikiki, on the other hand, feels slightly more personal, almost like a boutique property. It’s much smaller, and you don’t get beach views or the same level of resort features. But if you’re mostly planning to use your room as a home base while exploring the city, it’s a great fit.