The Royal Hawaiian, often referred to as the "Pink Palace of the Pacific," is one of Hawaii’s most iconic and historic luxury resorts. Situated on Waikiki Beach, this renowned hotel has welcomed guests for nearly a century, offering a unique blend of Hawaiian heritage, luxurious accommodations, and unmatched oceanfront views. With its striking pink exterior, lush gardens, and top-notch amenities, the Royal Hawaiian captures the spirit of old Hawaii while providing the elegance and comfort expected in a modern luxury resort.
This article explores the history and architecture of The Royal Hawaiian, its luxurious accommodations, dining experiences, leisure facilities, and nearby attractions, offering insight into why this hotel remains a beloved destination for travelers from around the globe.
History and Architectural Highlights
The Royal Hawaiian opened in 1927 as one of the first luxury resorts in Waikiki, built to accommodate the influx of tourists arriving by steamship from the mainland. Designed by architect Warren & Wetmore, who also designed New York City’s Grand Central Terminal, The Royal Hawaiian was constructed with a Mediterranean Revival style featuring Moorish-inspired architecture. The result was a vibrant, pink-colored oasis that quickly became an icon of Waikiki Beach.
Key Historical and Architectural Features
- Mediterranean and Moorish Influence: The hotel’s Mediterranean Revival architecture, accented with Moorish-style arches, ornamental details, and lush gardens, creates a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from other resorts in the area.
- Pink Façade: The iconic pink color of The Royal Hawaiian was chosen as a tribute to Hawaii's stunning sunsets and tropical flowers, and it continues to be the hotel’s signature look, visible from all corners of Waikiki Beach.
- Monarch and Celebrity Guests: Since its opening, The Royal Hawaiian has hosted countless notable figures, including royalty, movie stars, and politicians. Over the years, it has welcomed everyone from King Kamehameha and Queen Liliʻuokalani to the likes of Elvis Presley and Frank Sinatra, adding to its cultural significance.
Today, The Royal Hawaiian is part of Marriott's Luxury Collection and continues to enchant visitors with its blend of historic charm, luxurious amenities, and modern conveniences. The hotel’s prime location on Waikiki Beach and proximity to Honolulu’s attractions make it a favorite among tourists seeking both relaxation and adventure.
Luxurious Accommodations
The Royal Hawaiian offers a wide range of accommodations designed to meet the needs of every guest. With a total of 528 rooms and suites split between the Historic Wing and the newer Mailani Tower, the hotel offers elegant, Hawaiian-inspired decor and modern amenities while providing stunning views of the ocean, Diamond Head, and the vibrant gardens surrounding the resort.
Room and Suite Options
- Historic Wing Rooms: Located in the original building, these rooms are full of charm and history, featuring elegant furnishings and decor inspired by traditional Hawaiian aesthetics. Many of these rooms also include ocean or garden views, enhancing the ambiance with a sense of the hotel's storied past.
- Mailani Tower Rooms: The Mailani Tower offers more modern accommodations, with private lanais (balconies) and spectacular views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean. These rooms provide added privacy and space, ideal for those looking for a contemporary Hawaiian experience.
- Suites: For a more luxurious stay, the Royal Hawaiian offers a selection of suites, including the King Kamehameha Suite and the Royal Hawaiian Suite. These spacious suites feature separate living and sleeping areas, private balconies, and exceptional views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head.
- Garden and Ocean View Options: Most rooms are available with either garden or ocean views, catering to both those who prefer the tranquility of lush greenery or the breathtaking sight of the Pacific Ocean.
Each room at The Royal Hawaiian combines classic Hawaiian decor with modern amenities, including plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, high-speed Wi-Fi, and luxurious bath products. The overall ambiance captures the spirit of Hawaii while ensuring guests enjoy the height of comfort.
Dining Experiences
The Royal Hawaiian offers a range of dining options that showcase Hawaii's unique culinary traditions, flavors, and ingredients. From oceanfront fine dining to casual, poolside snacks, the hotel provides a diverse array of options to satisfy any palate.
Azure Restaurant
Azure is The Royal Hawaiian’s signature restaurant, specializing in fresh seafood dishes inspired by local Hawaiian ingredients and global culinary techniques. The oceanfront location provides guests with stunning views of Waikiki Beach and a refined atmosphere perfect for romantic dinners or special occasions.
Signature dishes at Azure include:
- Hawaiian Snapper with Tropical Salsa: A fusion of locally sourced fish with a tangy fruit salsa, highlighting the flavors of the islands.
- Miso Black Cod: A rich, savory dish prepared with Japanese-inspired flavors and local ingredients.
- Coconut Lobster Bisque: A unique twist on traditional bisque, featuring a tropical coconut base that reflects the flavors of Hawaii.
Azure also offers a curated selection of wines and signature cocktails, allowing guests to pair their meals with the perfect drink as they enjoy the gentle ocean breeze.
Surf Lanai
Surf Lanai is a relaxed, open-air restaurant that serves breakfast and lunch with a view of Waikiki Beach. Known for its signature pink pancakes topped with guava syrup, Surf Lanai offers a variety of Hawaiian and American breakfast items, including fresh tropical fruits, macadamia nut waffles, and Kona coffee. The lunch menu features salads, sandwiches, and island-inspired entrees.
Mai Tai Bar
The Mai Tai Bar is one of the most popular bars in Honolulu, famous for its tropical cocktails and stunning views of the beach and Diamond Head. Guests can enjoy classic cocktails like the mai tai, as well as creative signature drinks, while enjoying live Hawaiian music and hula performances.
Leisure and Wellness Amenities
The Royal Hawaiian provides numerous amenities designed for relaxation, entertainment, and wellness, ensuring guests have everything they need for a rejuvenating stay.
Pools and Beach Access
The resort features two pools, including the exclusive Mailani Pool, reserved for guests of the Mailani Tower. Guests can also enjoy the shared Helumoa Playground, a large, family-friendly pool with water slides and a whirlpool. The Royal Hawaiian offers direct access to Waikiki Beach, where guests can rent lounge chairs, umbrellas, and participate in water sports, including surfing lessons, paddleboarding, and snorkeling.
Abhasa Spa
The Abhasa Spa at The Royal Hawaiian is an oasis of relaxation, set amidst lush tropical gardens. This full-service spa offers an array of treatments, including traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi massages, facials, and body wraps that incorporate locally sourced ingredients such as coconut, kukui nut oil, and sea salt. Abhasa’s tranquil garden setting provides a peaceful environment where guests can unwind and reconnect with nature.
Cultural Activities and Entertainment
The Royal Hawaiian offers cultural activities and events that celebrate Hawaiian heritage. From lei-making classes to hula lessons, the resort provides guests with opportunities to experience the rich culture of Hawaii. Additionally, the hotel hosts luaus, traditional Hawaiian feasts accompanied by live music, dance performances, and storytelling, giving guests a deeper understanding of Hawaiian traditions.
Event and Meeting Spaces
The Royal Hawaiian is a popular venue for weddings, corporate events, and special occasions. With its stunning beachfront location and historical significance, it offers a memorable setting for any event. The hotel’s event spaces include both indoor and outdoor options, ranging from grand ballrooms to intimate garden areas.
Key Event Spaces
- Monarch Ballroom: This grand ballroom, adorned with historic decor and chandeliers, is ideal for large events and formal gatherings.
- Ocean Lawn: With breathtaking views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head, the Ocean Lawn is a popular venue for outdoor weddings and receptions.
- Royal Grove: This lush, garden area provides a secluded setting for intimate events, surrounded by tropical plants and shaded by large palm trees.
The resort’s event planning team assists with every detail, from catering to decor, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
Exploring Honolulu and Nearby Attractions
The Royal Hawaiian’s central location in Waikiki makes it an excellent base for exploring Honolulu and the surrounding attractions. From historical sites to natural wonders, there is no shortage of activities and sights to enjoy.
Popular Attractions Near The Royal Hawaiian
- Diamond Head Crater: One of Hawaii's most famous landmarks, this volcanic crater offers hiking trails that lead to panoramic views of Waikiki and the Pacific Ocean.
- Pearl Harbor: Just a short drive away, the Pearl Harbor Historic Sites offer visitors a chance to learn about one of the most significant events in American history.
- Ala Moana Center: For shopping enthusiasts, Ala Moana Center is one of the largest open-air shopping malls in the world, featuring high-end boutiques, restaurants, and local shops.
- Kapiolani Park and Honolulu Zoo: Located nearby, Kapiolani Park is an expansive green space perfect for picnics, while the Honolulu Zoo offers a family-friendly experience with a variety of animals and exhibits.
- Waikiki Aquarium: A short walk from the hotel, this aquarium showcases Hawaii’s marine life and offers interactive exhibits.
The Royal Hawaiian in Honolulu combines the allure of Hawaiian history with the comfort and sophistication of a luxury resort. From its iconic pink facade to its beachfront location on Waikiki Beach, the hotel offers guests a unique experience filled with Hawaiian culture, relaxation, and elegance. Whether exploring nearby attractions, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a world-class meal with an ocean view, guests at The Royal Hawaiian are guaranteed an unforgettable stay at this legendary Pink Palace of the Pacific.
