Hawaiian Monarch

The Hawaiian Monarch is a 44-story, 440-unit condotel at 444 Niu Street on the northwest corner of Waikiki, situated along the Ala Wai Canal with easy access to the golf course, the beach, and the retail corridor of Kalakaua Avenue. Built in 1979 by developer Kyo-ya Company Ltd and designed by architect Jo Paul Rognstad, the building operates today with the energy of a hotel — short-term rentals are permitted with a minimum stay of just one night, and the vast majority of units are actively used as investment properties. There are some permanent residents, but buyers should understand the building’s character going in.

The amenities deck holds a pool, hot tub, cabanas, and BBQ grills with plenty of lounge space, and the fitness center is available for an additional fee. The lower levels house a small collection of on-site businesses including the Cream Pot breakfast and lunch café and Maleko Coffee and Pastries, along with an in-building mini-mart — a genuine convenience that sets this building apart from most comparable condotels. Units can be self-managed or handed off to third-party rental managers, some of whom operate directly within the building.

Tenure is a mix of fee simple and leasehold, and the distinction matters here — maintenance fees include water, sewer, hot water, cable TV, electricity, and internet, which significantly affects how to evaluate the all-in cost of ownership. The Ala Wai Golf Course is directly adjacent, Waikiki Beach is a short walk, and Ala Moana Center is close enough to be a practical option for everyday errands.