a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
The Royal Hawaiian
The Royal Hawaiian holds a special place in my heart, keeping me returning year after year. It truly is a perfect example of old-school glamour at its finest. This palatial Spanish-Moorish building, with such a rich history, has been welcoming guests since its doors first opened in 1927. The grand hallways and lofty turrets have remained unchanged – it's as if you're instantly transported to a classic era as soon as you arrive. There's nothing quite like this legendary "Pink Palace of the Pacific", an iconic hotel sprawled across 14 acres of prime Waikiki Beach. Originally built for luxury-cruise passengers, the Royal Hawaiian - the second-oldest hotel in Waikiki, next to the Moana Surfrider—melds modern comfort with historic
elegance, creating a unique blend of luxury and tradition.
Long before Waikiki was developed as a tourist destination, it served as a favoured residence for Hawaiian kings and chiefs. The Royal Hawaiian now stands where King Kamehameha I had his home, with Queen Ka’ahumanu’s Summer Palace positioned next door. Ninety-six years later, the setting remains perfect. While you're right in the middle of Waikiki’s shopping and dining hotspots, an avenue of palm trees leading to the hotel and its spacious gardens lend it the feeling of a tropical sanctuary.
The hotel's accommodations are divided into three sections: the low-rise Historic Wing, Prestige Suites, and the more modern Mailani Tower. The Historic Wing, my personal favourite, boasts luxurious decor and furnishings inspired by the 1930s - it's hard to outdo its romantic charm and architectural detailing. The view of Waikiki Beach, stretching all the way to Diamond Head from my Historic Ocean room, was simply breathtaking. Loved waking up to the close-up views of Waikiki beach, outrigger canoes returning to shore, and pink umbrellas dotting the pristine sand. Traditional Hawaiian music wafted up from the bar below, adding to the charm. The low-rise Historic Wing, a rarity on a beachfront dominated by high-rise properties, offers coveted garden views that were highly sought after years ago, as original guests weren't interested in an ocean view after spending weeks on the high seas.
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In terms of style, if you're seeking something more modern and a lanai for sunset viewing, the Mailani Tower, which opened in 2015, is a great option. Guests of the Mailani Tower also enjoy ocean views, private lanais, contemporary decor, spacious rooms, and club-level amenities.
The hotel's prime stretch of private Waikiki Beach is another impressive feature of The Royal Hawaiian. On every visit, I make it a point to book a private beach lounger and umbrella set and truly immerse myself in the beach experience. If you prefer the pool, you have two choices: the Malulani Pool, a more quiet oasis (where you can treat yourself to a private cabana), and the Helumoa Playground with its waterslide, which is better suited for children looking to expend some energy. If you don't fancy lounging on a chair, there's a plethora of activities to keep you engaged. A program of cultural activities includes crafting floral leis, lauhala bracelets, and Hawaiian quilts. The Royal Hawaiian Beach Boys also offer surf and stand-up paddleboard lessons as well as outrigger canoe rides.
La Sponda, the hotel's restaurant, as aged as the hotel itself, sets the scene for a romantic dining experience. Bathed in candlelight, adorned with flowering bougainvillea, and serenaded with live music, it's a sensory delight. The alfresco dining option offers a sweeping view of sun-kissed Positano, while seasoned musicians stir the air with melodies of traditional Neapolitan tunes.
Le Sirenuse boasts three exceptional bars: Franco’s, Aldo’s, and the Don't Worry Bar. Overlooking the sea, Franco's Bar is the ideal spot for an evening drink in Positano. With its street-side location, you can expect classic beverages and bespoke cocktails on the menu. The idea for Aldo's Bar came to Sersale and his wife during a Parisian vacation. Beginning as a romantic bar concept, it has since evolved into Aldo's Cocktail Bar and Seafood Grill. Its decor sports a vine-draped patio and outdoor wicker chairs crafted by renowned architect Lorenzo Mongiardino. The Don't Worry Bar, named after an installation by British artist Martin Creed at the entrance, underwent a makeover by interior designer Annalisa Bellettati in 2020. Positioned next to the restaurant, it serves as a perfect spot for pre or post-dinner drinks.
If you prefer a less active itinerary, consider booking a session at Abhasa Spa, where treatments are set in a serene, tropical garden – an ideal retreat after a day of enthusiastic shopping at the Ala Moana shopping centre.
Cuisine-wise, Surf Lanai serves up breakfast and lunch (including a breakfast buffet) full of local ingredients in a casual, yet classy beachside setting. Desserts, breads, confections, and other Instagram-worthy baked goods are open everyday from 6 am to noon.
When in Hawaii, sampling a Mai Tai is a must, and The Mai Tai Bar undoubtedly serves up one of the best examples in all of the islands. Given that this is the birthplace of the Mai Tai cocktail, it would be impolite not to try what everyone's raving about. The best way to sample one is to secure a beachfront table to enjoy the sunset and live music.
The Mai Tai Bar is the ideal spot for a casual lunch (and people-watching) while dining alfresco style under the distinctive pink umbrellas, taking in all the action and beauty of Waikiki Beach. As the sun dips, it's time to head to Azure, the hotel's fine dining restaurant. For the ultimate indulgence, treat yourself to their excellent four-course tasting menu - highly recommended. The hotel also hosts the oceanfront Aha`aina Luau on Monday and Thursday nights. It's a real treat and extremely popular, so booking well in advance is advisable!
With its style, glamour, prime location, and charming Hawaiian service, The Royal Hawaiian - my home away from home -truly checks all the boxes for a perfect luxury stay.
