Royal Hawaiian Hotel Honolulu
The 'Pink Palace of the Pacific,' a historic 1927 resort on Waikiki Beach, offering iconic architecture and beachfront luxury.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Royal Hawaiian Hotel Honolulu
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The 'Pink Palace of the Pacific,' a historic 1927 resort on Waikiki Beach, offering iconic architecture and beachfront luxury.
"The Royal Hawaiian offers a timeless elegance and a truly unique, serene escape right on Waikiki Beach."
👑 Embrace the History
The Royal Hawaiian is a historic landmark; appreciate its classic charm, even if rooms aren't ultra-modern.
💖 Mailani Tower Upgrade
For more contemporary rooms, opt for the Mailani Tower. It's often praised for its modern amenities.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Pink Architecture
Exterior
Instantly recognizable, the 'Pink Palace of the Pacific' offers a stunning visual feast and a step back in time.
Beachfront Bliss
Waikiki Beach
Direct access to the sands of Waikiki, offering breathtaking ocean views and a prime spot for relaxation.
Mai Tai Bar Ambiance
Beachfront Bar
Sip a signature Mai Tai with your toes in the sand, soaking in the quintessential Hawaiian resort experience.
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Pink Palace Charm
Beyond Waikiki's Buzz
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👑 Embrace the History
The Royal Hawaiian is a historic landmark; appreciate its classic charm, even if rooms aren't ultra-modern. +1
💖 Mailani Tower Upgrade
For more contemporary rooms, opt for the Mailani Tower. It's often praised for its modern amenities.
🍹 Beach Bar Delights
Enjoy a Mai Tai at the beachfront bar for a classic Hawaiian resort experience.
🚗 Valet Parking Wait
Be prepared for potential waits when retrieving your car from valet parking.
Tips
from all over the internet
👑 Embrace the History
The Royal Hawaiian is a historic landmark; appreciate its classic charm, even if rooms aren't ultra-modern. +1
💖 Mailani Tower Upgrade
For more contemporary rooms, opt for the Mailani Tower. It's often praised for its modern amenities.
🍹 Beach Bar Delights
Enjoy a Mai Tai at the beachfront bar for a classic Hawaiian resort experience.
🚗 Valet Parking Wait
Be prepared for potential waits when retrieving your car from valet parking.
🚗 Explore Beyond Waikiki
Don't limit yourself to Waikiki; rent a car to see Oahu's diverse landscapes. +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise The Royal Hawaiian for its iconic pink architecture, prime beachfront location in Waikiki, and the serene, historic ambiance. The staff's warm hospitality and the unique charm of the 'Pink Palace' are frequently highlighted as major draws. However, some visitors note that certain rooms can feel dated and that dining and amenities can be pricey.
"We stayed at The Royal Hawaiian Hotel and had a lovely time.
It’s a beautiful hotel with a long history, and the pink colour makes it truly unique. The location is perfect — right by the beach, with stunning views of the ocean.
The room was a bit old but had a classic charm. The bed was comfortable, and we really liked the shampoo and shower products — they had a fresh mango scent that was so nice.
The staff were excellent and very welcoming. When we arrived, they greeted us with a flower lei, which was a lovely touch.
Breakfast was excellent. We paid a little extra to try the steak, and it was delicious. We also had their signature pink pancake — so pretty and tasty!
The hotel isn’t perfect and shows its age in some areas, but it has a lot of charm. We truly enjoyed our stay and would love to come back again."
Jakarin Hongyok
"We had the best time here- I highly recommend it for your stay in Honolulu.
The rooms were lovely and clean. The staff were all AMAZINGLY friendly and helpful. The banter had water for us every time we got the car and provided wonderful tips for our day trips. The housekeeping staff had small toys for our kids and put their stuffies in fun positions when they did turn down service.
The pools were lovely and the beach was beautiful.
Highly recommend a stay here!!"
Dan Bradfield
"Love this hotel! Although it's known to he super touristy and some say it's outdated, I like to think of the rooms as timeless and historic. I've stayed here three times and this has been my best visit to date.
I'd also like to recognize our Housekeeper, Elena (Leni) Reyes for always being so helpful, friendly, kind, and personable. She has an attitude that determines her altitude. Her kindness went a long way to make this trip extra memorable for my mother. We will be back!"
Edwin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Honolulu Airport (HNL), you can take a taxi or rideshare service directly to The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, which is about a 20-30 minute drive depending on traffic. Public transportation options are also available, though they may take longer.
Yes, The Royal Hawaiian is centrally located in Waikiki, making it very walkable to shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Many visitors find it convenient to explore the area on foot.
While Waikiki is walkable, renting a car is highly recommended if you plan to explore the rest of Oahu, including the North Shore and other scenic spots. +1
The Royal Hawaiian offers valet parking for guests. Be aware that this can incur additional daily fees and may involve wait times for car retrieval.
TheBus is Oahu's public transportation system and can be a budget-friendly way to explore the island. However, for maximum flexibility and to reach more remote locations, renting a car is often preferred.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Royal Hawaiian is a hotel, so you book a room reservation rather than tickets. It's advisable to book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred room type and dates.
Standard check-in time is typically 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. It's always a good idea to confirm these times directly with the hotel when making your reservation.
Yes, like most hotels in Waikiki, The Royal Hawaiian typically charges a daily resort fee. This fee usually covers amenities such as Wi-Fi, pool access, and cultural activities. Check the hotel's website for the most current fee structure.
Yes, visitors are generally welcome to explore the beautiful grounds of The Royal Hawaiian and enjoy a drink at its bars, such as the Mai Tai Bar, even if you are not a registered guest.
The Royal Hawaiian is a historic hotel, and they may offer historical tours of the property. Inquire with the hotel concierge upon arrival for availability and details.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Many guests recommend the Mailani Tower for more modern accommodations. The Historic Wing offers classic charm, but some find it dated. Oceanfront rooms provide stunning views. +1
The hotel features multiple outdoor pools, direct beach access, a spa, several dining options, and bars. Guests can also often use the facilities at the adjacent Sheraton Waikiki.
Waikiki Beach can be quite popular and crowded, especially during peak times. For a potentially less crowded experience, consider visiting early in the morning or exploring other beaches on Oahu.
Yes, The Royal Hawaiian offers spa services for guests looking to relax and rejuvenate. Inquire at the hotel for specific treatments and booking information.
Yes, guests of The Royal Hawaiian are often permitted to use the pool facilities at the adjacent Sheraton Waikiki, which can be a great perk. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The hotel offers several dining venues, including beachfront restaurants and bars. Popular choices include the Mai Tai Bar and the Azure restaurant.
Dining at The Royal Hawaiian can be pricey, as is typical for beachfront resorts in Waikiki. However, many guests find the quality and ambiance worth the cost.
The signature Mai Tai at the Mai Tai Bar is a classic choice. The hotel is also known for its pink pancakes and sometimes offers special breakfast items.
Breakfast is often included as part of certain packages or through loyalty programs like Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR). Check your booking details or inquire with the hotel for specific inclusions.
Yes, Waikiki has numerous restaurants and food courts offering a range of price points. Exploring just a few blocks away from the immediate beachfront can reveal more budget-friendly options.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire pink exterior is a photographer's dream! Also, capture shots from the beachfront, the Mai Tai Bar, and the lush courtyards. 
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful lighting for capturing the hotel's pink hues. Mid-day can be harsh but still offers vibrant colors.
Drone usage is typically restricted in most populated areas of Honolulu and Waikiki due to safety and privacy regulations. It's best to check local ordinances and hotel policies before attempting to fly a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the hotel's grandeur and surrounding beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for details or distant ocean shots.
Yes, you can take photos inside your room for personal use. However, professional photography or commercial use may require special permission from the hotel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's worth noting that some of the historic rooms might not be ideal for very young children due to older furnishings or heavy doors. If traveling with kids, consider booking a room in the Mailani Tower for more modern amenities. For families seeking a more active pool scene or a wider range of kid-focused activities, the Sheraton might be a slightly better fit, though The Royal Hawaiian offers a unique, classic Hawaiian experience.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1For an enhanced romantic experience, consider booking an oceanfront room or a suite in the Mailani Tower. The hotel's historic charm combined with its luxurious amenities provides a sophisticated backdrop for relaxation and connection. While some find the historic rooms charming, couples seeking modern luxury might prefer the Mailani Tower.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal Hawaiian's Historic Charm
+1For those seeking a more contemporary experience within the historic hotel, the Mailani Tower is often recommended. This newer addition offers updated amenities and a fresh aesthetic while still complementing the hotel's overall ambiance. Regardless of the room choice, the hotel's grounds are meticulously maintained, offering lush courtyards and direct access to the beach, providing a serene escape amidst the bustling energy of Waikiki.
Many visitors are drawn to The Royal Hawaiian not just for its architecture but for the feeling it evokes – a sense of timeless elegance and relaxed luxury. The staff's warm aloha spirit, often starting with a lei greeting, contributes significantly to this welcoming atmosphere.
Waikiki Beachfront Experience
While the beach is a major draw, it's important to note that Waikiki Beach can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours. Visitors seeking a more tranquil beach experience might consider visiting early in the morning or exploring other, less populated beaches on Oahu. However, for those who want to be in the heart of the action with convenient beach access, The Royal Hawaiian is an excellent choice.
The hotel also offers beach chair and umbrella rentals, allowing guests to comfortably enjoy their time by the ocean. The proximity to water sports rentals and activities further enhances the beachfront experience, making it easy to try surfing or paddleboarding.
Navigating Dining and Drinks
For more formal dining, the hotel features restaurants that serve a variety of cuisines. While some guests find the prices to be on the higher side, typical for a luxury beachfront resort, the quality of food and the dining atmosphere are often praised. Signature items, like the hotel's famous pink pancakes or a well-prepared steak, are frequently highlighted.
Beyond the hotel's offerings, the surrounding Waikiki area provides a vast array of dining choices, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Exploring these options can offer a wider culinary experience and potentially more budget-friendly alternatives.
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