Royal Hawaiian Hotel

This iconic Waikiki Beach hotel is known for its unique history and colorful pink touches.

• The sense of history in this 1920s-style hotel nestled among the Waikiki high-rises
• The festive scene at the bar and the famed pink mai tais from the Mai Tai Bar
• The four Prestige Suites, with four-poster beds and bright, Asian-inspired décor

The "Pink Palace of the Pacific" opened on Waikiki Beach in 1927 and has managed to preserve its historic charms while adding modern conveniences. History buffs will love the old-world elegance found in the Historic Wing, where rooms have indigenous accents, canopy beds and Queen Anne-style writing desks. Those who prefer something more contemporary should opt for the modern Mailani Tower, which was added in 1969. Managed by Marriott Hotels & Resorts, the 528-room hotel was refurbished in 2010. Mercifully, the recent upgrades have done away with the all-pink theme in the guest rooms, some of which are now decorated in more muted tones. A few rooms, particularly the least expensive room categories, retain some enthusiastic splashes of color – with the wall behind the beds papered in gold and pink. Once the playground of former Hawaiian royalty and host to noted celebrities in the 1920s and 30s, before it was reserved for the US Navy during World War II, the Royal Hawaiian sits on one of the most sought-after beaches in all of Waikiki. There is a private and intimate Malulani Pool, as well as the Haleumoa Playground, a large, family-friendly resort pool with a slide. Even if you don’t stay here, be sure to visit the Mai Tai Bar, overlooking Diamond Head and the ocean at sunset, and order the resort’s signature pink mai tai.

Anyone with an appreciation for history will enjoy Royal Hawaiian’s 1920s aura. Guests should note that some areas of the resort, such as the family-friendly pool, can get quite crowded.