THE HOTEL: The Waikiki Grand Hotel, 134 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu; 923-1814; www.waikikigrand.com

WHAT'S INTERESTING: Perched at the diamondhead end of Waikiki across the street from the Honolulu Zoo and just steps from the beach, the Waikiki Grand is home to Teddy's Bigger Burgers (first floor) and Hula's Bar and Lei Stand (second floor), and offers some amazing views (both ocean and city) and even more amazingly reasonable room rates. It is, said marketer Walter Bono of Aloha Hotels, "gay-friendly, but friendly to everyone." The hotel gets a lot of repeat business because of its reputation for relaxed hospitality.

THE STORY: Locally owned and managed, the Waikiki Grand is another of the many condo-hotels that are sprouting up in Honolulu. About 55 of the individually owned units are managed by the hotel. Each is furnished and decorated by the owner, but, according to general manager Miho Kamana'o-Espiritu, no unit is accepted into the rental pool unless it's been recently renovated and meets a certain standard of taste and amenities. Although smallish (in keeping with budget Waikiki hotels), many rooms boast flat-screen TVs, contemporary furnishings and lanai. There are five room types, from studios to suites. The Web site offers broad details on available units (i.e., how many beds, what size, full bath, lanai, kitchen, ocean or city view). Most are decorated in tropical/Tommy Bahama/safari-type themes.

AMENITIES: Lei greeting, daily newspaper, free local and toll-free calls, air-conditioning in all units, cable TV, microwaves, coffeemakers, some units have kitchenettes, some have CD players or other music systems; 10th-floor sundeck; small pool in shady garden; free Wi-Fi in lobby area.

RATES: Although standard rates run $190-$375 per night, we found rates of $120-$299 online. Check, or have your travel agent do so, for online and kama'aina specials.