At a Glance
The most elegant hotel on Waikiki Beach offers supreme service and sweeping vistas.
Indagare Loves
- The Halekulani Suite, with its expansive oceanfront lanai
- The Orchids restaurant, where Honolulu ladies lunch
- Superlative service and attention to detail
Review
Right in the middle of the action in Waikiki, the Halekulani, originally built in 1907, underwent a major renovation in 2012. Its 453 bright and airy rooms spread out over five buildings feature lots of wood and light hues (and most have ocean views). For the ultimate in luxury, request the 2,135-square-foot Halekulani Suite, designed by the fashion designer Vera Wang. It has Wenge wood floors, a 642-foot lanai and a step-up two-person sunken tub, and it is stocked with china designed by Wang. The Halekulani is known for its excellent service, which I experienced firsthand during my last visit: the concierge politely took care of my every request, even arranging a surfing lesson with less than an hour’s notice. By far the majority of guests are Asian, including couples that come here to be married (over Mother’s Day weekend, I saw no fewer than fourteen wedding parties). Gray’s Beach, which the hotel fronts, is quite small, but every water sport from surfing to kayaking is available. Orchids restaurant is famous for its Sunday brunches and weekly lunch scene. TIP: Because the hotel is so busy, ask for an upper-floor room with an ocean view to escape the noise from the beach below.
Who Should Stay
The Halekulani appeals to anyone who appreciates excellent service and a touch of elegance on their beach vacation. An excellent choice for couples.
Written by Diane Tegmeyer