This is another property that only US Military and government ID card holders can stay at. The room rates here at the Hale Koa are more than competitive to even the kama’aina or local rates of the other hotels nearby and there is parking right across the street for a fee of $4 per day for hotel guests, which is extremely convenient, as cheap parking is hard to come by downtown. Of course, the room rates are just like any other military resort and are dependent upon rank and room type, but it would be almost impossible to find anywhere else more affordable right on Waikiki.

One thing that has changed considerably since I was a child is the pool at the Hale Koa. It used to be a small square pool where we children spent the entire day playing sharks and minnows and Marco polo. Now, it is a beautiful lagoon-shaped pool, complete with bridges over some of the narrower parts of the pool, a poolside bar where you can have a nice cold drink brought to you, and dozens of chairs where you can lounge, soak up a little sun, and relax while the children play. There are several restaurants that you can visit after a warm, soothing day in the sun right at the resort that range from ultra-fine dining to a relaxed family atmosphere.

During my most recent stay at the Hale Koa the rooms were comfortable yet were like the average military hotel room as the beds were a little too firm, the towels had been bleached a few too many times, and the toiletries offered in the bathroom were the normal, cheaper variety. We had a partial makai, or ocean view, off our lanai, which allowed us to see the sun set over Waikiki, which was really romantic when paired with a little champagne and Maui Caramacs from Hawaiian Host. Whether you prefer an ocean or mountain view, however, it’s best to stay in the new tower, as you can’t hear as much from the hallway, the other guests, or the elevators.

If your plans take you to Honolulu, whether it is for vacation or business, and you’re U.S. Active Duty or retired military, I would definitely suggest the Hale Koa. Just make sure to reserve your room early because availability is extremely limited.

For more information, check out the following link: www.halekoa.com

The Hale Koa is a huge hotel complex within Fort DeRussey Park. Fort DeRussey Park in in on the Honolulu end of Waikiki, on the beach and next to the Hilton. At the entrances to the hotel complex are military personnel checking IDs. You can't even get on the property without proper ID.

It may not be any cheaper than staying at an average hotel in Waikiki, but this is not an average place. The grandeur, security, and location of this hotel make it worth the rate.