Both are on the quiet side of Waikiki in the shadow of Diamond Head and far from the crowds of Kalakaua Ave. I love the area, particularly for families into water sports and playing in neighboring Kapiolani Park. Both properties are mid-sized hotels. Neither have a swimming pool and neither are a classic resort as much as a nice hotel on the beach. The similarities stop there.

* Food: The Diamond Head Grill at the W has a phenomenal new chef, who is winning rave reviews. At the Kaimana Beach, food has sadly remained an after-thought -- a total pity because its Hau Tree Lanai Restaurant is one of the most romantic in the islands.
* View: There are some stellar ocean views at the New Otani, some of the best in Waikiki for the money. Alas, rooms at the W do not have ocean views.
* Ambiance: The W Diamond Head is a W and you know what that means. Hip young staff, nice contemporary room decor. The motif is Balinesian and its done well in a minimalist way. Bar downstairs is one of the hottest in town, for both locals and tourists. The Kaimana Beach Hotel doesn't really have an ambiance. There's an echoing lobby leading out to the restaurant and the beach. Service is nice but unpolished. Rooms are often small and there are tons of nickel and dime charges. Loud.
* Price: And there's the rub. You'll pay two to three times as much for a room at the W and you'll still be further from the beach.

Results: For my money, splurge on the W. It's a heck of a lot more restful and luxurious. If you're on a serious budget, go to the Kaimana and check your luxury expectations at the door or throw down cash and get the ocean view. In either case, do eat breakfast at the Hau Tree Lanai. Hard to mess up that meal and you are literally right on the beach.
W Honolulu-Diamond Head
New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel

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—Alex, 08/20/06