Waikiki Twin Fin Hotel’s Real Deal: Beach Perks, Hidden Costs & Honest Reviews

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Oahu is one of my all-time favourite places – surprising considering I’d wanted to go anywhere else before my first trip. But I went, I loved it, and I kept going back! Eventually I moved to the island, and I’m sooo glad I did.

Waikiki is the heart of the action for visitirs to Oahu. The iconic beachfront district is famous for its surf-friendly waves, scads of shops and restaurants, and central access to Oahu’s top attractions.

There are few things I love more than sitting beachside in the Waikiki sunshine, sipping a Mai Tai and staring out at the incredibly blue water. But sooner or later you’re going to have to go back to your hotel. Where are you staying?

The Twin Fin is a popular Waikiki hotel – simple, budget friendly, and right across the street from the beach. Here’s some info to help you decide if this is the hotel you want to go back to during your stay.

* Note that all prices quoted below are approximate and can change. They’re included to give you an idea of what things cost.

Welcome to the Twin Fin Hotel

If you’re looking for a place that’s close to the hub of Waikiki Beach and offers heartstopping ocean views without demanding you sacrifice your entire vacation budget, the Twin Fin might be just what you’re looking for.

Prime Location Near the Beach

One of the biggest perks of this hotel is its location in Waikiki. Step outside, cross a single street, and your toes are in the sand. You can even watch Friday night fireworks right from many of the balconies.

Plus, the neighbouring Honolulu Zoo and Diamond Head are easy to get to. And if you love to explore on foot, you’re in luck. Many of Waikiki’s best shops, eateries, activities, and nightlife are within easy walking distance.

Rooms: Comfy but Shows a Bit if Age

The Twin Fin’s rooms aren’t brand-new, and you might notice signs of age, like older doors or dated bathroom fixtures. Still, reviews consistently report that the rooms are clean and the beds are comfortable.

Handy extras include Keurig coffee makers and 2 refillable water bottles, and for a bit extra you can request a pour over Chemex coffeemaker with Hawaiian Coffee.

Some rooms also come with a little fridge and a microwave.

Ocean-view options are popular and highly recommended. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while gazing out at the Pacific Ocean. But honestly, even the city views are fantastic.

Liked everything. Room was clean with a tub. Excellent view from our ocean front room. Staff was excellent

– Gary (read more reviews)

Rooms run from a double with a city view for around UD$150 to a 3 bedroom suite with an ocean view for approximately US$940.

You’ll have a balcony, blackout curtains, and AC. A hair dryer and toiletries in the bathroom are standars, and you can request reef-safe sunscreen.

Amenities and Extras

• Beach Gear: The hotel partners with Beach Candy Beach Rentals for free rentals of beach chairs, umbrellas, SUP boards and more. Get there bright and early because items can run out fast.

• Rentals: Beach Candy also has surfboards, beach toys and coolers on the property for rent .

• Pool and Gym: If you’d rather skip the beach one day, there’s an outdoor pool and fitness center.

• On-Site Dining: Tiki’s Grill & Bar serves up meals (including kids’ options), and has the Sunrise Shack for your caffeine fix, as well as incredible smoothies and acai bowls.

• Staff Praise: Past guests rave about the friendly employees who go the extra mile to make your stay comfortable. That’s aloha.

Friendly and helpful staff, convenient location and beautiful view! Thank you Twin Fin for a wonderful stay!

– Michelle (read more reviews)

Parking: Cost Not Included

Parking in Waikiki generally does NOT come with your room cost, and the Twin Fin is no exception. Valet prices are around US$56.54 per day.

If you’re not planning to keep a car for your whole trip, you might consider renting one only for day trips to reduce costs. Several hotels/shopping centers nearby have car rental desks onsite to book for the day here & there.

Try at the Hyatt Regency, Royal Hawaiian, International Marketplace & Hilton Hawaiian Village. The HUI Car Share has owner-share cars parked around city that includes gas, insurance & parking spot for hourly or daily rates.

Another option is to park at the Waikiki Banyan. They offer public parking for US $43/24 hours and US $230/7 days.

Street parking is an option, too, though these spots are pretty competitive. If you go this route, keep an eye on street cleaning schedule signs to avoid getting a ticket.

Good to Know: Fees & Family Policy

Kids Stay Free
Families, take note—children 17 and under can stay for free as long as they’re using existing beds in the same room as a parent or guardian. That’s a win if you’re travelling with teens or little ones and don’t want to spring for an extra room.

Resort Fee Details
Like other Waikiki hotels, the Twin Fin charges a nightly resort fee – $63.70 per room, per night. While it’s not pocket change, it does bundle a decent list of perks, including:

• Access to the fitness center and outdoor pool
• Beach towels and in-room bottled water (small reusable bottles included)
• Coffee, safe, and local phone calls from the room
• Housekeeping service
• Dry cleaning and laundry services
• On-site ATM, gift shop/newsstand, water dispenser, and luggage storage

So while you might grumble at the fee, it’s not just paying for ocean air. You’re getting some handy amenities that make your stay smoother—especially if you’re planning to use the beach and pool daily.

Tips for a Smoother Stay

• Elevators & Keycards: A few guests have reported slow elevators and finicky keycards. If you find your card acting up, head to the front desk (again, staff is helpful).

• Early Birds Win: If you’re after the complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas, show up before they open. They disappear fast.

• Partial Ocean View vs. Oceanfront: If a picture-perfect sunset from your balcony is on your wish list, consider upgrading. The views are a highlight and often worth the extra cost!

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Things to Do Near the Twin Fin Hotel

• Waikiki Beach – Just steps away for swimming, surfing, or sunbathing

• Kuhio Beach Hula Show – Free live hula and Hawaiian music (several evenings a week)

• Honolulu Zoo – Great for families, located a short walk away

• Waikiki Aquarium – Small but fascinating, perfect for kids or rainy days

• Friday Night Fireworks – At the HHV on the north end of Waikiki. Visible from beach-facing rooms or on the beach

• Sunset Catamaran Cruises – Depart right from Waikiki Beach

• Surf Lessons & Board Rentals – Lessons across the street on the beach, and rentals from Beach Candy at the hotel

• Shopping at International Market Place – Upscale and local shops, hula, and ono dining just a few blocks away

• Dining & Nightlife – Dozens of restaurants, bars, and rooftop lounges nearby. My favourites are Duke’s Barefoot Beach Bar and Monkey pod

• Diamond Head Hike – A short drive or bus ride to one of Oahu’s most iconic hikes

• Cultural Activities – Lei-making, ukulele lessons, and Hawaiian crafts often available here and at nearby resorts:

• At the Twin Fin itself, you can join free lei-making classes and learn how to string those beautiful flower garlands the right way.
  
  There are also ukulele lessons on-site, and hula classes available. Check for times and availablility when you check in.

• Just a short walk away, the Royal Hawaiian Center also offers a great lineup of cultural workshops—like lei-making, ukulele lessons, and other Hawaiian crafts.
  
  Many of these are open to the public, but they’re first-come, first-served and spots fill fast, so show up early.

Summing it Up

The Twin Fin is known for friendly service, an incredible location, and breathtaking vistas of Waikiki. You’ll also get easy beach access, convenient on-site dining, and a staff that gets high marks for hospitality.

If you want a comfortable stay with draining your life savings, this is a great choice for you. Click here to check for availability on your dates and to book your escape to Oahu!

Happy travels!

Keep reading:

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📸 Oahu’s Most Instagrammable Places: A Guide to Capturing the Island
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