The hype
Service is legendary and the location is unbeatable for getting around, but the room disparity is the main talking point.
Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong
$380-600/ night
Book this if You want the power-broker Hong Kong experience—seamless subway access, a massive heated pool, and a room that feels like a private residence.
Why People Love It
- Direct elevator access to Pacific Place mall and Admiralty MTR (super convenient)
- The 'Grand Premier' renovated rooms are stunningly modern with daybeds and filtered water taps
- Yun Wellness is arguably the best hotel spa and gym complex on Hong Kong Island right now
Quick Take: It's a tale of two hotels: the renovated rooms are world-class luxury, but the unrenovated 'Deluxe' rooms feel like a 1990s time capsule.
Reviewed by @travelwithcg: I stayed here recently and the atrium is just stunning—photos don't do it justice. My room was super cozy with a peaceful mountain view, and I really appreciated the premium John Masters toiletries.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
If you book a standard 'Deluxe' room, do not expect the modern, bright interiors you see on Instagram—you will get carpets and chandeliers.
- You are traveling for business and need effortless transport links
- You love a high-end gym and spa experience (Yun Wellness is top-tier)
- You appreciate classic, old-school service where staff know your name
Cleanliness & Maintenance
9.4
- Housekeeping: Meticulous twice-daily service. They fold clothes and organize cables.
- Bathroom hygiene: Spotless marble. Even older bathrooms are kept to a high standard, though grout may show age.
- Maintenance: Renovated rooms are flawless. Older rooms have some scuffs on furniture and worn carpet edges.
- Linens & towels: High thread count, crisp and fresh. Robes are plush.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells of the signature 'Shangri-La Essence' (vanilla/sandalwood). Old rooms can smell faintly musty.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway chatter in unrenovated wings
- Daytime construction noise (managed schedule)
Before you book
Good to know
- The 'Library' on Level 39 is a hidden quiet spot for reading or working
- Join 'Shangri-La Circle' before booking; members often get kids' buffet meals for free or 50% off
- The hotel is connected to Pacific Place, which has great A/C walkways to other parts of Central
What to pack
- Swimsuit for the year-round outdoor pool (heated, but bring a cover-up for the walk)
- Formal wear if you plan to dine at Restaurant Petrus (jacket required for men)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Grand Premier Harbour View (Renovated, stunning daybed by the window)
- Horizon Club Peak View (Renovated, access to the excellent club lounge)
Rooms to avoid
- Deluxe Peak View (Often unrenovated, dated decor)
- Deluxe Harbour View (Unless confirmed renovated, these can feel musty and old)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am requesting a 'Grand Premier' or 'Horizon' category room to ensure I am in a newly renovated unit. Please avoid the unrenovated 'Deluxe' wing if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
Yes, the outdoor pool is heated, but reviews suggest it can still feel brisk in January/February.
Which rooms are renovated?
Look for 'Grand Premier' or 'Horizon' in the room title. 'Deluxe' usually indicates the older, classic style.
Is breakfast included?
Usually not in the base rate. The buffet at cafe TOO costs ~HKD 398 ($50 USD) per person.
How much is the deposit?
Expect a hold of HKD 1,500 ($190 USD) per night upon check-in.
Is it good for families?
Yes, the 45th floor has dedicated family-themed rooms and 'The Hangout' pantry, plus the pool is a hit.
Does the hotel allow pets?
No, pets are not allowed.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'Great Motherland of China' silk painting in the atrium is the world's largest—view it from the bubble elevator.
- ✨
Level 39 Library is often empty and has great views; perfect for a quiet call.
- ✨
You can walk to Hong Kong Park directly from the hotel level; visit the aviary for free.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Deluxe' rooms still have old-school carpet that some find triggers allergies.
💡The elevators can be slow during peak breakfast hours (8:30-9:30 AM).
💡You can hear the MTR trains rumbling faintly from the very lowest floors.
💡The 'High Tea' is iconic but pricey (~HKD 888 for two); the view is better than the food.
💡Housekeeping is aggressive—if you don't use the 'Do Not Disturb' light, they *will* knock early.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong is located and what's nearby.