Exterior view of the Waikiki Landmark building, luxury condominiums in Honolulu

The Waikiki Landmark – Honolulu’s Iconic Luxury Condominium

Waikiki Landmark Residential Condominium

Address: 1888 Kalākaua Avenue, Honolulu, HI 96815
Rising at the celebrated gateway to Waikīkī, the Waikiki Landmark is a distinctive twin-tower residential condominium known for its dramatic architectural profile and resort-style amenities. Completed in the early 1990s and designed with a luxury-hotel sensibility, the building delivers a refined urban island lifestyle where convenience, privacy, and comfort come standard. With 196 residences across 38 floors—and an elevated owner-occupancy rate currently above 70%—the community blends the vitality of Honolulu with the quiet confidence of a well-managed property.

Architecture & Layout

Two elegant towers are joined by a signature skybridge, creating a landmark silhouette along Kalākaua Avenue. Residences span a wide range of sizes and view orientations, many capturing city lights, Ala Wai Canal, or mountain vistas. The top of the building is reserved for penthouses on floors 34 through 38, offering heightened privacy and expansive floor plans. Thoughtful design choices—like broad window walls and generous lanais in select stacks—enhance natural light and indoor-outdoor living.

Comfort by Design

Originally envisioned with five-star infrastructure, Waikiki Landmark features a central chilled-water air-conditioning system and central hot-water heating, delivering efficient, even comfort throughout the year. Many homeowners value these building-wide systems for their reliability and simplicity. Inside the residences, you’ll find quality finishes, spacious baths, and practical layouts designed for everyday livability as well as elegant entertaining.

Elegant lobby of the Waikiki Landmark residential condominiums in Honolulu

Resort-Style Amenities

A multi-level recreation deck crowns the parking structure, creating a serene urban oasis. Multiple pools and spas, sun terraces, and landscaped walkways provide spaces to unwind or gather with friends and neighbors. The property is fully staffed with on-site security, responsive maintenance, and attentive residential services—hallmarks of a building that prioritizes resident experience and long-term value.

Waikiki Landmark luxury condominium swimming pool with resort-style design in HonoluluOutdoor BBQ and grilling area at the Waikiki Landmark condos in Honolulu

Location & Lifestyle

Positioned at the threshold of Waikīkī, the building offers quick access to world-class shopping, dining, and beaches, while remaining convenient to Ala Moana, Kakaʻako, and Downtown. Stroll along the Ala Wai Promenade, bike to Ala Moana Beach Park, or enjoy Waikīkī’s cultural events and hotels—all within an easy radius. Despite its centrality, the community’s high owner-occupancy fosters a distinctly residential, neighborly atmosphere.

Why Owners Choose Waikiki Landmark

  • Iconic architecture with a signature skybridge and refined presence on Kalākaua Avenue.
  • Only 196 units, promoting privacy and a strong sense of community.
  • Owner-occupancy over 70%, supporting stability and long-term stewardship.
  • Hotel-grade infrastructure: central chilled-water A/C and central hot water.
  • Resort-style pool deck and professional on-site staffing for daily peace of mind.
  • Prime gateway location with fast connections across Honolulu.
  • Non-Smoking Building. There are three designated outdoor areas away from public view.
  • Pet Friendly. (1) animal under 35 pounds. There are only a handful of pet owners at the current time. The Landmark has several grass areas to walk your dogs!

For buyers seeking a premium Honolulu residence that balances destination appeal with everyday livability, Waikiki Landmark stands out—by design, by service, and by community.

Why the Waikiki Landmark is Unique

In a market full of condominiums, the Waikiki Landmark is truly distinctive. Unlike many high-density towers, it offers just 196 spacious residences. This limited number ensures privacy, exclusivity, and a strong sense of community. The majority of owners are full-time residents, creating a stable, welcoming environment without the constant turnover of short-term vacation rentals.

Located at the entrance of Waikiki on Kalakaua Avenue, the building serves as a gateway between the vibrancy of Waikiki, the luxury of Ala Moana, and the sophistication of Kaka‘ako. For buyers looking to enjoy the best of urban Honolulu without sacrificing comfort or tranquility, the Waikiki Landmark is unmatched.

Prime Location at the Gateway to Waikiki

The Waikiki Landmark is positioned perfectly at the western edge of Waikiki, giving residents walkable access to two of Oahu’s most desirable districts:

  • Waikiki: World-class beaches, dining, shopping, and nightlife are just minutes away. See our Waikiki Condos guide for more area highlights.
  • Ala Moana: Home to the largest open-air shopping center in the world, Ala Moana Center, as well as Ala Moana Beach Park, a local favorite for swimming, paddling, and running.
  • Kaka‘ako: Honolulu’s newest urban district, featuring art, culture, and luxury towers. Learn more in our Luxury Oahu Condos overview.

Few buildings can claim such central positioning, making the Waikiki Landmark ideal for residents who value both convenience and prestige.

Amenities Designed for Resort-Style Living

The Waikiki Landmark was originally designed as a five-star hotel, and it shows. Its amenities rival those of top resorts in Hawaii:

  • Best pools in Waikiki: A multi-level pool deck with a large swimming pool, lap pool, and two hot tubs, surrounded by lush landscaping.
  • Fully equipped fitness center: Modern gym with cardio and strength equipment for residents who want to stay active.
  • Outdoor BBQ stations: Perfect for entertaining family and friends with island-style cookouts.
  • Resident lounges: Elegant common areas designed for relaxation and community gatherings.
  • 24/7 security and concierge: A full staff of security personnel, residential assistants, and maintenance ensure peace of mind and seamless living.
  • Two parking stalls: Many units include two assigned parking stalls, a rare luxury in Waikiki.

This is not just a place to live—it’s a building designed for owners who expect excellence at every level.

Efficient Utilities and Cost Savings

One of the most surprising advantages of living at the Waikiki Landmark is the efficiency of its utility systems. Because the building was designed as a luxury hotel:

  • Hot water: Heated in a central boiler and included in monthly HOA fees.
  • Air conditioning: Chilled water system cools the building; residents only pay for the fan motor to circulate air in their residence.
  • Electricity savings: Average electrical bills are around $125 per month (2025). In Hawaii, where electricity costs $0.49/kWh, this is virtually unheard of.
  • Hurricane Insurance: The State of Hawaii mandates 100% Hurricane insurance for all residential conominiums. Landmark has had this in place, while others do not. This also increases the Maintenance fee.

Although the HOA fees may be higher than other buildings, they cover utilities and services that would cost significantly more in a typical condo. This makes the Waikiki Landmark not just a luxury choice, but a practical one as well.

Owner-Occupancy and Community Feel

Another feature that sets the Waikiki Landmark apart is its owner-occupancy rate. With most units owned and lived in by residents (not investors), the building has a strong sense of community, stability, and pride of ownership. Daily short-term rentals are prohibited, which means fewer disruptions and a more residential atmosphere.

This makes the Waikiki Landmark ideal for professionals, retirees, and families looking for a primary residence or second home with the feel of a private retreat.

Market Value and Investment Outlook

The Waikiki Landmark has long been regarded as one of Waikiki’s premier addresses. While HOA fees are higher, the long-term value is protected by its exclusivity, amenities, and iconic design. With only 196 units, turnover is low, and units in this building often command strong resale value compared to other Waikiki condos.

For investors or homebuyers who prioritize quality over quantity, the Waikiki Landmark is a strong long-term hold. According to the Honolulu Board of Realtors, Waikiki continues to show steady appreciation, with luxury condos maintaining demand even as the broader market fluctuates.

How Waikiki Landmark Compares to Other Buildings

When compared to other Waikiki towers, the Waikiki Landmark stands out in several ways:

  • Exclusivity: Only 196 units vs. 400–600 in other buildings.
  • Utilities included: Few buildings offer centralized hot water and chilled air conditioning in the HOA.
  • Owner-occupied: A residential, community feel vs. hotel-like short-term rental towers.
  • Amenities: Multi-level pool deck, spacious fitness center, and BBQ areas exceed most nearby competitors.

For those comparing options, check out our Luxury Oahu Condos page to see how the Waikiki Landmark stacks up against other high-end properties.

Waikiki Landmark – Frequently Asked Questions

How many units are in the Waikiki Landmark?

The building includes 196 units, making it one of the more exclusive residential towers in Waikiki.

Does the Waikiki Landmark allow daily short-term rentals?

No. Daily vacation rentals are prohibited, preserving a residential atmosphere.

How much are maintenance fees at the Waikiki Landmark?

Maintenance fees are higher than average, but they include hot water, chilled air conditioning, and building services that offset monthly living costs.

What amenities does the Waikiki Landmark offer?

A resort-style pool deck, modern fitness center, BBQs, resident lounges, and 24/7 staffing—including security and concierge services.

Experience the Waikiki Landmark

The Waikiki Landmark is more than just a condominium—it’s a lifestyle. With its iconic design, five-star amenities, and unique efficiency advantages, it offers one of the best living experiences in Hawaii. Whether you’re looking for a permanent residence or a second home, this building delivers privacy, community, and unmatched value.

Request a Waikiki Landmark Condo List Explore Waikiki Condos

Ala Wai Canal: Serenity, Views, and Everyday Convenience Next to the Waikiki Landmark

Just beyond the porte-cochère, the Ala Wai Canal adds an unexpected layer of tranquility to daily life at the Waikiki Landmark. This historic waterway frames the mauka (mountain) edge of Waikiki with shimmering light, open sky, and long, uninterrupted vistas toward the Ko‘olau range—an elegant counterpoint to the beachside bustle only a few blocks away. From many residences and the landscaped pool deck, you’ll catch sightlines over the canal that feel expansive and calming, especially at sunrise and golden-hour dusk. The broad promenade along the canal doubles as one of Waikiki’s most accessible wellness amenities: residents jog, power walk, or take leisurely evening strolls without ever crossing a busy avenue. Dog owners love the gentle loop options, and cyclists appreciate the low-stress access that connects easily toward Ala Moana and beyond. For buyers deciding between towers, the Ala Wai’s open corridor often means better airflow and soft trade winds, helping interiors feel cooler, fresher, and brighter throughout the day—an underrated comfort that pairs beautifully with the Landmark’s efficient chilled-water air conditioning system.

Practical benefits stack up, too. Ride-share drop-offs along Ala Wai Boulevard are simple, guest parking is more intuitive to explain, and heading to business meetings in town or dinner at Kapahulu’s restaurants can be quicker via the canal-side routes. Weekend routines are equally seamless: start with a jog along the water, wander down to the farmers market, or pivot toward Ala Moana Beach Park—all within a comfortable radius that makes a car optional more days than not. For owners who prize a peaceful home base, the canal-facing side tends to feel more residential, with long, green-and-blue outlooks instead of a tight city canyon. It’s a subtle but meaningful distinction that elevates the Landmark’s already refined living experience. If you’re comparing neighborhoods, our Waikiki Condos guide breaks down lifestyle differences building-by-building, and the broader Honolulu Condos for Sale page shows how canal-adjacent addresses stack up on price and amenities across the city core.

The Ala Wai also complements the Landmark’s social and wellness amenities. Many residents treat the canal path as an extension of the fitness center—morning cardio outdoors, strength work in the gym, then a cool down by the pools. The visual openness over the water makes the pool deck feel resortlike and airy, and canal breezes lend a sense of retreat even on warm afternoons. If oceanfront energy is your priority on some days and quiet reflection is your goal on others, living beside the canal gives you both: iconic Waikiki beachfront a short stroll makai, and the mellow, neighborhood rhythm of the Ala Wai at your doorstep. For market-minded buyers tracking value, canal-proximate residences with strong owner-occupancy, efficient utilities, and premium amenities often show resilient demand—keep an eye on our Market Updates for trends. And if you’re weighing shoreline views versus budget, our Oceanfront Condos in Oahu hub and the Landmark’s canal-side advantages offer a smart framework: enjoy the beach whenever you wish, then come home to wide-open mountain panoramas, gentle winds, and the everyday ease that makes Waikiki living truly sustainable.

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