The Royal Hawaiian

Built on the site of King Kamehameha’s oceanfront home, the Royal Hawaiian opened its doors on February 1st, 1927, initiating a new era of luxury travel to the islands. Owing to its lavishly appointed interior, extensive manicured grounds and in most part to its pink Spanish-Moorish style architecture, the hotel quickly became known as ‘The Pink Palace of the Pacific’, a nickname that then - just as now - conjured images of luxury, romance and grandeur.

Constantly evolving to meet the changing demands of travelers, the hotel has undergone various upgrades and renovations over its almost century-long stay on O’ahu’s Waikiki Beach. Modern day essentials such as air-conditioning and high speed wireless internet (chargeable) have been added, and the hotel has expanded its capacity with the acquisition of an adjacent building. Nevertheless, it retains the air of opulence and distinctive old world charm that makes a stay here a unique, (for many) once in a lifetime experience.

Today the Royal Hawaiian has more than 500 stylishly appointed rooms and suites, across two wings, blending traditional Polynesian elegance with contemporary comforts. Guests can choose to stay in the landmark historic wing where refined Hawaiian luxury awaits, or opt for the modern sanctuary of the 17 story Mailani Tower - its name derived from the Hawaiian ‘to pamper, indulge, treat as royalty’. Rooms differ in size and style but standards remain exceptional throughout. Expect ornate hand-carved doors, bespoke dark wood furnishings and the hotel’s signature pink color palette in the historic wing; contemporary decor, spacious private lanais and breathtaking ocean views in the Mailani Tower. And if you’re looking to elevate your experience further, the Royal Hawaiian offers four exquisitely appointed prestige suites for a truly superior stay.

There’s no shortage of places to eat in Honolulu but guests at the Royal Hawaiian need not wander too far from their room to indulge in world-class fine dining at the hotel’s flagship restaurant Azure, or casual eats and umbrella drinks at the inimitable beachside Mai Tai Bar. The former, renowned for its upscale Hawaiian cuisine, impeccable service and intimate oceanfront setting, currently serves a five-course menu Wednesday through Sunday from 17:30, whilst the latter - named for the original cocktail first served at the Royal Hawaiian in 1953 - offers island inspired American classics, a full bar menu and live music from 11:00 until late.

Making up the trio of eateries (there’s also a bakery!) and exuding relaxed island charm, breakfast restaurant Surf Lanai is the epitome of casual elegance and the perfect place to watch the sun rise over Waikiki. Whether you’re looking to fuel up for the day with the popular short rib benedict or try out the hotel’s trademark Pink Palace Pancakes (also available as a mix from the bakery if you get hooked!), Surf Lanai has all of your breakfast needs covered.

But beyond the rooms and the restaurants, the unique ambiance and attention to detail, the Royal Hawaiian offers everything you’d expect from a luxury resort hotel, and then some! In a city flush with first-class hotels, this one is distinguished not only by its iconic architecture and its history, but also by an intangible magic that continues to captivate travelers almost a century after the first guests arrived. Everyone should stay here at least once in their lifetime…