I’m just going to say it straight: I booked the Sheraton Waikiki for one very specific reason…the oceanfront infinity pool.

Not the rooms. Not the brand. Not even the location (although that helps). Just… that pool.

And honestly? I’d do it again.

If you’re planning an adults-only trip to Waikiki and want that iconic, oceanfront, “this is why I came to Hawaii” moment…this is it. But there are a few things you really need to know before you book, because the experience can go from amazing to kind of frustrating depending on how you do it.

Staying at the Sheraton Waikiki

The Sheraton Waikiki is right in the heart of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu on the island of Oahu. And when I say “heart,” I mean it…you’re directly on the beach, surrounded by shopping, restaurants, and basically everything Waikiki is known for.

This is a massive high-rise hotel. Like… really big. It’s one of those classic Waikiki towers with hundreds of rooms stacked high above the ocean.

But its stand out feature is the adults-only oceanfront infinity pool…also known as the Edge. It’s perched right along the shoreline, overlooking Waikiki Beach with unobstructed views of Diamond Head.

The property also has a family-friendly pool area with a waterslide, multiple dining options, and direct beach access.

So yeah…it’s a full-on, bustling resort in one of the busiest parts of Hawaii.

Things I Love About Sheraton Waikiki

1. The Infinity Pool Is the Main Event (And It Delivers)

I won’t pretend…this is why I came.

The adults-only infinity pool is incredible. It sits right at the edge of the ocean.

You’ve got Diamond Head in the distance, waves rolling in below, and that classic Waikiki energy all around…but somehow, from the pool, it feels a bit removed from the chaos.

I spent hours here. And I don’t even feel bad about it.

2. It’s Actually Worth Booking Around (If You Do It Right)

Here’s my honest take: if you’re doing an adults-only trip, it’s worth staying here for at least a couple of nights just to use the pool.

But…and this is important…you need to plan it right.

I’d strongly recommend reserving front-row chairs or umbrellas. Yes, it’s about $150/day for two, which sounds a bit wild… but it completely changes the experience.

Without a reservation, you’re competing for free chairs early in the morning, and even if you get the “front row,” you’ll be stuck behind rows of reserved seating, staring at the backs of other people’s setups.

With a reserved spot? It’s a totally different vibe. Relaxed, comfortable, and actually enjoyable.

3. Location, Location, Location

You really can’t beat where this hotel is.

You step outside, and you’re right on Waikiki Beach. Turn the other direction, and you’re in the middle of shopping, restaurants, cafes…everything.

Also, super convenient detail: a lot of tour companies pick up right outside the Sheraton. So if you’re doing excursions, it makes logistics ridiculously easy.

4. Easy, No-Fuss Rooms

The rooms are exactly what you’d expect from a Sheraton.

Clean, comfortable, modern enough…nothing overly fancy, but nothing to complain about either.

And honestly, for this stay, I didn’t really care about the room. I was there for the pool.

5. You Can Optimize Your Budget (If You’re Smart About It)

This is something I’d definitely do differently next time.

The hotel is a tall tower, and they charge a premium for higher oceanfront rooms. But unless you’re planning to spend a ton of time in your room, I don’t think it’s necessary.

I’d save the money, book a more basic room, and put that budget toward reserving chairs or even a cabana at the pool.

That’s where the real value is.

6. Adults-Only Space in a Busy Area

Waikiki can feel… a lot.

It’s crowded, energetic, and sometimes a little chaotic.

So having a designated adults-only pool area is a huge plus. It gives you a space to relax without kids running around, which makes a big difference if you’re looking for a more chill vibe within a busy destination.

Things That Could Be Better

1. It’s a Mega Hotel (And It Feels Like It)

There’s no way around this…the Sheraton Waikiki feels big.

Busy lobbies, lots of people, constant movement. It doesn’t have that boutique, intimate feel that some other Waikiki hotels offer.

If you’re someone who prefers quiet, low-key environments, this might not be your place.

2. The Pool Gets Crowded (Fast)

Even though the infinity pool is amazing, it’s not exactly a hidden gem.

It fills up quickly.

If you don’t reserve seating or get there early, you’re going to feel the crowd. And as I mentioned earlier, the reserved seating situation can make the experience less enjoyable if you’re stuck behind it.

This is one of those “pay to play” setups if you want the best experience.

3. The Price Adds Up

Between the room, the chair reservations, food, and everything else—it can get expensive quickly.

And while the pool is incredible, you do have to decide if it’s worth building part of your trip budget around.

For me, it was…but I get why it wouldn’t be for everyone.

4. It’s Not a “Special” or Romantic Hotel Overall

Here’s the thing.

The pool feels special. The hotel as a whole? Not as much.

If you’re looking for that classic, romantic, old-Hawaii charm, there are better options nearby…like the Moana Surfrider or the Royal Hawaiian.

The Sheraton is more about convenience and that one standout feature.

5. Limited Escape from the Bustle

Even though the infinity pool gives you a bit of a break, you’re still in Waikiki.

There’s always energy, noise, and people around. You don’t really get that secluded, tucked-away feeling that you might find at resorts on other islands.

Overall

You should stay here if:

You want to experience the adults-only infinity pool (and actually plan to use it)
You like being in the center of everything in Waikiki
You’re okay with a larger, more energetic hotel environment
You’re willing to reserve seating to get the best pool experience

You might consider staying elsewhere if:

You want a quieter, more intimate, or romantic hotel
You’re not interested in spending extra for pool seating
You prefer boutique or design-forward properties
You want a more secluded or “escape” type of Hawaii experience

For me, I wouldn’t necessarily spend my entire trip here. But for a couple of nights? Just to soak in that infinity pool, watch the sun dip behind the ocean, and take in that view of Diamond Head?

Yeah… I’d book it again.

I’ve made it my job for the last 10 years to explore Maui.

And after hundreds of beach days, rainforest hikes, snorkeling trips, and reconnaissance missions to find the best hotels… and mai tais… I put everything I know into one place.

This is my Maui Digital Map — hundreds of my favorite spots. Beaches, snorkeling spots, hikes, farm tours, scenic drives, places to eat.

Yes, I share hidden spots I don’t talk about so much on social media…but also—tourist doesn’t have to be a dirty word. Popular places are popular for a reason.

So I break down what’s worth it, what’s not, where to spend your money, where to save it, and how to avoid crowds at some of Maui’s most popular (and best) places so you actually enjoy your time.

I’m also sharing all of my travel guides on when to go, where to stay, detailed hotel reviews…
plus dozens of itinerary options based on where you’re staying and what you love to do.

It’s everything you need to see the best of Maui and actually relax. A Vacation in a box…all YOU need to do is pack your suitcase.

Get access to my Maui digital map and itineraries here.