- Hotel Website: The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
- Location: Google Maps
- Book: Check availability
- Room Type: Premier Ocean View Suite – Ocean view, Balcony, King, 350sqft/32sqm
- Review Score: Results of our review
- Hotel Fact: Often called the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” is that it was leased by the U.S. Navy during World War II and served as a major rest and relaxation (R&R) center for Navy personnel before being restored to its luxury status in 1947.
Iconic “Pink Palace” Charm: Immerse yourself in the historic elegance and distinctive pink aesthetic.
Prime Beachfront Location: Direct access to Waikiki Beach, shared with the Moana Surfrider, for ultimate relaxation and water activities.
Exceptional Service: From seamless check-in to attentive beach service, the staff truly enhances the luxury experience.
World-Class Mai Tai Bar: Savor signature Mai Tais with stunning ocean and Diamond Head views.
Historic Charm vs. Modernity: The Royal Hawaiian consists of two main sections: the historic “Historic Wing” and the more modern “Mailani Tower.” Both offer distinct experiences; the Historic Wing provides an authentic, classic ambiance, while the Mailani Tower often features updated amenities and private lanais with breathtaking views. Some rooms in the Historic Wing might feel more “dated” to those accustomed to ultra-modern decor.
Parking Fees: Valet parking is approximately $65 per car per night (plus tax), and self-parking is around $55 per car per day (plus tax). Prices are subject to change.
Resort Fee: Be prepared for a daily resort fee, which typically covers amenities like Wi-Fi and access to certain facilities.
Pool Access: Guests have access to two pool options: the intimate and tranquil Malulani Pool on-site, and the larger, family-friendly Helumoa Playground (with a waterslide!) shared with the neighboring Sheraton Waikiki. Malulani pool chairs are complimentary on a first-come, first-served basis.
Beach Chairs/Cabanas: While the hotel offers excellent beach access, securing a prime beach set (chairs with a parasol) or a private pool cabana usually comes with an additional fee. It’s highly recommended to reserve these early.
Microwaves: Every room has a mini-fridge. Microwaves can be requested for a $50 per stay fee, or guests can use complimentary microwaves in the Mailani Tower lobby.
🍸 Bar
🏋️♂️ Gym
🚗 House Car
🐶 Pet Friendly
🍽️ Restaurant
The Luxe Atlas Rating
Design: 9/10
Vibe: 8/10
Romantic: 8.9/10
Air Conditioning: 7.9/10
Room: 8.9/10
Food: 8.2/10
Location: 10/10
Gym/Fitness: 9/10
Cleanliness: 9.1/10
Wow Factor: 9.2/10
Overall Experience: 8.8/10
A Return to the Pink Palace
The Royal Hawaiian has unequivocally secured its place as our second favorite property in all of Waikiki, standing just a hair behind our top choice. This stunning Marriott Bonvoy Luxury Collection resort stands majestically on the beachfront, an iconic pink landmark nestled right beside the historic Moana Surfrider. It consistently delivers an experience that is not just luxurious, but deeply evocative of Hawaii’s rich past, making each visit a memorable chapter in our travel diary.
Arrival and First Impressions
From the moment our car gently glided into the valet area of the The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki, we were instantly enveloped by a lush, verdant canopy of mature trees, their branches creating a natural archway that felt like entering a secluded, tropical Eden. The air immediately felt cooler, subtly scented with exotic blooms, a stark contrast to the bustling Waikiki streets we had just left behind. This grand, tree-lined entrance wasn’t just a drive-up; it was a transportive experience, a unique walk into the past that immediately set the tone for our stay at this historical gem. The The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki signature vibrant pink hues greeted us at every turn, from the intricate Spanish-Moorish architecture to the charmingly pink umbrellas dotting the landscape, cementing that distinctive “Pink Palace” look and feel that we knew would define our entire visit. It’s truly a visual feast that signals luxury and a playful nod to its iconic heritage.
Seamless Check-in and Elite Recognition
Checking into The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki is consistently a seamless and remarkably swift process, a welcome relief after a long journey from Atlanta. The staff are incredibly efficient, adept at managing arrivals even during busier periods – no lines like Vegas! While it’s a larger, more spread-out property than one might initially assume – a charming labyrinth of courtyards, wings, and pathways – their concise guidance at check-in is invaluable. My advice: definitely keep your ears open and pay close attention as they expertly direct you through the layout and to your specific room or suite. But honestly, its sprawling nature only adds to the adventure and discovery; exploring its hidden corners and open spaces is so much fun, and I wholeheartedly recommend taking the time to wander.
After the effortless check-in, we ascended to our beautiful suite. As a valued Ambassador Elite member with Marriott Bonvoy, I was once again delighted by the genuine hospitality extended. A lovely, chilled bottle of wine and an array of exquisite, locally sourced chocolates awaited us – a truly thoughtful and personalized welcome gift that consistently exemplifies the elevated charm and recognition Ambassador Elites often receive. It’s a special and deeply appreciated feeling to be so acknowledged, especially when I travel so extensively on my own dime, truly maximizing and relishing the benefits of that hard-earned Marriott Bonvoy Ambassador Elite status. These small, elegant gestures truly distinguish a luxury experience.
Beachfront Bliss and Mai Tai Delights
After settling into our haven, our cherished Waikiki ritual commenced without delay: a joyful descent through that beautiful, historic lobby, its grandeur still captivating, and directly out to the beach bar to soak in the vibrant, sun-kissed beach atmosphere. This property’s direct oceanfront location is simply unparalleled, almost seamlessly connected to its esteemed neighbor, the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach. Together, these two iconic resorts offer the absolute best beach vibes and coveted direct access to both their private beach areas and the lively public stretches of Waikiki. The synergy between them creates an expansive and idyllic beachfront playground.
Whenever we stay here, securing a comfortable beach chair from the property is a priority, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the scene while indulging in the fantastic drink service provided by the attentive wait staff – a moment of pure, unadulterated bliss under the Hawaiian sun.
Some of our absolute favorite culinary and cocktail spots are conveniently located right here within the resort’s embrace. A visit is incomplete without heading to the famous Mai Tai Bar for one of their specialty Mai Tais. What makes them amazing? It’s not just the expertly blended ingredients, but the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, served in a glass that just feels right, often adorned with a playful pink cocktail umbrella – a delightful touch. The bar remains a vibrant hub, open until late into the evening, making it the perfect choice whether you’re seeking a breathtaking sunset cocktail or a relaxing nightcap. The bar also boasts a beautiful indoor and outdoor seating area, and their broader restaurant menu is surprisingly robust and consistently fantastic. In my opinion, the value offered here often surpasses that of some nearby dining options, including the one next door at the Moana Surfrider, which, to me, can feel a little over-the-top expensive for the culinary experience you receive.
Photography, Shopping, and Hidden Gems
Beyond the culinary and beach delights, the interior of The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki is, quite simply, a photographer’s dream – an exquisite blend of historic charm, opulent decor, and a unique architectural style. Even during what would typically be peak seasons, the ambiance remains remarkably quiet and serene, offering a genuine escape from the bustling exterior. I highly recommend dedicating some time to leisurely strolling through the lobby and the expansive, beautifully manicured grounds with your camera in hand. Every corner reveals a new opportunity to capture the stunning Spanish-Moorish architecture, the intricate design details, and the playful pink accents that define this unique resort. The opulent decor, combined with the incredibly high, vaulted ceilings, truly elevates the establishment, making every space feel grand and incredibly luxurious – an immersive experience we always cherish and look forward to.
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki also thoughtfully houses some delightful luxury boutiques. We always take advantage of the opportunity to browse these small, curated shops, often discovering unique island-inspired treasures. Picking up a chic hat, especially a wide-brimmed beach hat, is a must-do here, as you’ll certainly need it for hours of blissful sun-soaking on the beach. Tucked away, there’s also a really cute café near the tranquil path leading to where the yoga sessions are held – another testament to the property’s thoughtful amenities and serene hidden gems. I genuinely encourage every guest to explore the entire property; while the well-appointed rooms are lovely, the resort grounds themselves, particularly the meticulously maintained open areas and lush gardens, are truly breathtaking and invite quiet contemplation. Just a friendly tip from experience: much like its neighbor, the Moana Surfrider, The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki is a hugely popular venue for weddings. While these events add a touch of romance to the air, you might want to subtly navigate around the conference and outdoor grass areas, as they are frequently utilized for beautiful, private ceremonies.
Dining Experience & Offerings
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki offers a variety of exceptional dining experiences, from casual beachfront bites to fine dining.
Azure Restaurant:
Cuisine: Fresh, local Hawaiian seafood and fine dining.
Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday, 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM (last seating often 8:30 PM).
Atmosphere: An exquisite oceanfront setting under the resort’s Spanish-Moorish architecture, perfect for a romantic dinner.
Mai Tai Bar:
Cuisine: Casual lunch and dinner, light bites, and renowned tropical cocktails.
Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Kitchen last call: 9:45 PM; Drinks last call: 10:45 PM).
Atmosphere: The quintessential Waikiki beach bar experience with live music, direct sand access, and unparalleled views of Diamond Head and the Pacific.
Surf Lanai:
Cuisine: Breakfast classics, including their famous “Pink Palace Pancakes.”
Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM – 10:30 AM.
Atmosphere: Relaxed, open-air, oceanfront patio, ideal for starting your day with a beautiful view.
The Royal Hawaiian Bakery:
Offerings: Famous banana bread, freshly baked pastries, custom cakes, and Royal Hawaiian branded items.
Hours: Generally open mornings until early afternoon (check specific daily hours upon arrival).
Atmosphere: A charming spot near the path to the yoga area, perfect for a quick bite or souvenir.
Ahaaina Luau – A Royal Celebration:
Experience: A modern interpretation of a traditional Hawaiian feast with cultural performances.
Schedule: Typically held on Monday and Thursday evenings (reservations highly recommended).
Final Thoughts and Rating
Overall, I wholeheartedly rate The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki a solid nine out of ten. Its blend of historic grandeur, impeccable service, and prime location makes it an undeniable Waikiki gem. The only element that would elevate it to a perfect ten in my personal estimation would be if its immediate private beach area offered the same expansive, tranquil expanse and sheer sandy footprint as its next-door neighbor, the Moana Surfrider, which seems to have a slightly broader stretch of sand directly in front. Nevertheless, for a truly luxurious, historic, and utterly unforgettable Waikiki experience, The Royal Hawaiian remains an absolutely top-tier choice that promises a magical escape.
Mahalo for reading, and I hope this detailed review helps you plan your own magnificent escape to the Pink Palace of the Pacific!
Pictures of The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki
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