I’ve always dreamed of staying at the iconic Royal Hawaiian Hotel in Waikiki Honolulu, and for a big birthday celebration, I finally made it happen—an entire week of pure paradise! The Royal Hawaiian, affectionately known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” exceeded every expectation and created memories I’ll treasure forever. Here’s my Royal Hawaiian Hotel Honolulu review!
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A Rich History and Iconic Pink Charm
The Royal Hawaiian Hotel is steeped in history. During our stay, I learned at their luau that Waikiki used to be reserved for Hawaiian royalty, and this hotel was where they stayed when visiting. As a history buff, that fact alone made our experience extra special. And, of course, you can’t talk about the Royal Hawaiian without mentioning the iconic pink hue. It’s whimsical and photogenic and feels perfectly fitting for a hotel of this legacy.
Choosing Between Two Buildings
The hotel has two main sections: the Historic Building and the Mailani Tower (and yes, I checked—that’s the correct name!). While I typically adore staying in historic buildings, I have a personal rule when visiting Hawaii: if I’m going to be on an island, I need a balcony with an ocean view. The Historic Building only has Juliet balconies, so we opted for the newer Mailani Tower, and I’m so glad we did. Our oceanview room offered breathtaking views and a balcony where I could sip coffee and watch the waves.
Dining Experiences: A Culinary Journey
One of the highlights of our Royal Hawaiian Hotel Honolulu review has to be the incredible dining options. We enjoyed drinks at the Mai Tai Bar, a lovely dinner at Azure, breakfast at their main restaurant, and multiple stops at the Royal Hawaiian Bakery. While all the restaurants were delightful, my favorite was the Royal Hawaiian Bakery. Their options change daily, and even with a line, they’re impressively efficient. The Royal Hawaiian Latte paired with their Sweet Bread is an unforgettable combo!
Don’t miss breakfast and those famous pink pancakes! They’re as delicious as photogenic—soft, fluffy, and so pillowy you’ll want to order a second stack.
The Oasis in the Heart of Waikiki
The property is stunning, a tranquil oasis hidden in the heart of bustling Waikiki. Stepping past the gates feels like a serene paradise, a stark contrast to the tourist chaos outside. The location is perfect, especially if you choose not to rent a car like us. Restaurants and shopping are all within easy walking distance.
Beachfront Bliss
Being right on the beach is another standout feature of the Royal Hawaiian Hotel. While the beach is public, hotel staff can set up chairs and umbrellas for a fee. I highly recommend getting there early to reserve a spot! The shallow waters and gentle waves make for perfect, carefree floating—a little slice of heaven.
Ultimately, our Royal Hawaiian Hotel Honolulu review boils down to this: If you want a luxurious yet historic stay with stunning beachfront access and exceptional dining, this is the place. It’s the ideal blend of nostalgia, elegance, and modern comfort. I can’t wait to go back!
