If you’ve been to Waikiki before and want to experience it from an entirely different perspective — literally — the Waikiki Penthouse at Imperial Hawaii Resort might be the most distinctive stay the neighborhood has to offer.
Perched on the 28th floor, the top of the building, this two-level private condo combines panoramic Pacific Ocean views with thoughtfully designed living spaces and a level of privacy that’s rare anywhere in Waikiki.
This is an honest, detailed look at what the penthouse offers, what makes it special, and who it’s genuinely best suited for.
The views: what makes this property one of a kind
There’s no understating the views here. From the upper living room — the highest point of the penthouse — you get an unobstructed, panoramic sweep of the Pacific Ocean and the Waikiki skyline.
Diamond Head is visible in the distance.
The ocean stretches out to the horizon.
At night, the city lights below and the water beyond create a setting that simply doesn’t exist anywhere else at this price point in Waikiki.
The living room has east-facing and west-facing balconies, which means you can watch the sunrise over Diamond Head in the morning and the sunset over the Pacific in the evening — both from the comfort of your own lanai.
Guests who have stayed here consistently describe the views as the highlight of their entire Hawaii trip.
The layout: a genuinely unique two-level space
What makes the Waikiki Penthouse structurally different from any other Waikiki condo is its two-level design.
The entry level contains the two bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchenette, dining area, laundry room, and a private sun deck.
A short staircase leads up to the elevated living room — a spacious, light-filled space with panoramic views on multiple sides and a sectional sofa that can be configured however you like.
This layout creates a natural separation between sleeping and living areas that gives the property a genuinely residential feel. You’re not living in a hotel room.
You’re in a private home at the top of one of Waikiki’s most well-located buildings.
The penthouse sleeps four guests across two bedrooms — a king bedroom with a 50″ Smart TV and lanai access, and a queen bedroom with a workspace and large mirror setup.
The upper living room features a 75″ 4K Smart TV and its own balcony seating areas on both sides.
The details that stand out
The interiors feature koa wood accents, natural rock tile, and artisan-style décor.
The king bedroom comes with a Westin Heavenly Bed — the same mattress used in five-star Westin properties worldwide. The queen is memory foam.
The full bathroom is a genuine highlight: a deep soaking tub, a spa-style shower with ocean views, and a washlet toilet.
There’s a second half-bath near the bedrooms.
Practical amenities include central AC, free WiFi, an in-unit washer and dryer, a Keurig coffee maker, and a kitchenette with a two-burner glass stove top, medium and mini fridge, and a dining set for up to six guests.
The kitchenette is well set up for breakfasts, snacks, and light meals — it’s not designed for full cooking, which is worth knowing in advance.
Having an in-unit washer and dryer is one of those practical advantages that makes a real difference on a beach vacation — sandy towels, wet swimwear, and sun-soaked clothes can be washed and ready again the same day, without hunting for a laundromat or packing twice as much as you need.
Location: the center of Waikiki
Imperial Hawaii Resort sits on Lewers Street in the heart of Waikiki, surrounded by some of the neighborhood’s most iconic properties — Trump Towers, Sheraton Waikiki, Embassy Suites, and Halekulani Hotel are all on the same block. Waikiki Beach is steps away. Kalakaua Avenue, Duke’s Waikiki, International Market Place, and the main surf break are all within easy walking distance.
Being this central means you never need a car for anything within Waikiki.
For Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, or exploring the rest of Oahu, a rental car or rideshare covers it easily.
There’s also an ABC Store on the ground floor of the building — handy for grabbing snacks, drinks, sunscreen, or anything else you need without stepping more than a few feet from the front door.
Building amenities and access
Guests have access to the Imperial Hawaii Resort’s pool on the 27th floor — one floor below the penthouse.
Access is via elevator to the 26th floor and one flight of stairs up to the pool deck.
It’s a minor quirk of the building layout, but worth knowing before you arrive.
The building also has a fitness center and sauna on the 3rd floor — a convenient option after a long day of exploring Waikiki.
A doorman assists with luggage transfer at check-in and check-out.
Who the Waikiki Penthouse is best for
Couples celebrating a special occasion — Honeymoons, anniversaries, milestone birthdays.
The panoramic views, spa-style bathroom, private lanais on every level, and two-story layout create an atmosphere that’s genuinely hard to replicate anywhere else in Waikiki.
Many guests choose this property specifically for milestone trips — and return for the same reason.
Travelers who want privacy in the heart of Waikiki — You’re steps from everything the neighborhood offers, but behind your own door at the top of the building.
For travelers who love Waikiki’s energy but want to retreat to something quiet and private, this is the balance the penthouse offers.
Two couples or small groups of adults — The two-bedroom layout with a separate upper living area works well for two couples traveling together who want their own sleeping space while sharing the views and common areas.
Longer stays in Waikiki — The in-unit laundry, generous living space, and home-like feel make this a comfortable base for a week or more.
Book with Ocean Vibe Hawaii
The Waikiki Penthouse is one of the most distinctive vacation rental properties in Waikiki — and one of the few that delivers a genuine “wow” moment from the moment you walk through the door.
If you’re planning a special occasion trip, or simply want to experience Waikiki from a perspective most visitors never see, this is the property for it.
Check availability and book the Waikiki Penthouse →
Exploring other Waikiki options? Our Waikiki Shore beachfront condo offers direct beach access and is a great fit for families and couples. Or browse all of our Oahu vacation rentals to find the right property for your trip.