With an enviable history and even more coveted location, the Halekulani Hotel is a study in understated elegance, bringing a distinct sense of serenity to one of Oahu’s (and Hawaii’s) busiest neighborhoods. As the second-oldest property on the busiest of Hawaii’s islands, the Halekulani originally opened in 1907, comprising a beachfront home and five bungalows. A decade later, the hotel was expanded to become the hot spot for well-to-do travelers, and named Halekulani, or “House Befitting Heaven.” Now, over a century later, the original Halekulani ethos remains, but with a host of modern upgrades.
While the Halekulani is located in the heart of Waikiki, there’s blessed little of the noise and commotion frequently associated with one of Hawaii’s most popular beaches. Instead, guests enter into an expansive, open-air lobby, bathed in natural light and outfitted in serene, neutral colors. Take just a few steps away from the check-in desk, and you’ll find yourself on the property’s central lawn, an ideal place to do some reading or practice your yoga.
Also on the main floor is the hotel’s iconic heated pool, featuring a mosaic comprising no fewer than 1.2 million individual pieces of glass, which together form a stunning orchid. Of course, there’s really no need for a pool, given that the Halekulani has a small stretch of private beach that offers stunning views of both the sunrise and sunset and also doubles as a port for a catamaran sail.
Guest rooms are similarly light and airy, with the majority offering sweeping views of the Pacific below. The Halekulani is known for leveraging seven different shades of white, but gentle pops of ocean blue in bedspreads and throw pillows mimic the watery surroundings. If you can, opt for a room with a balcony, which gives you access to the ocean breeze and is a fabulous place to enjoy your morning cup of coffee. Large bathrooms offer soaking tubs and showers and, of course, Toto toilets.
If beach and poolside relaxation aren’t quite enough R&R for you, be sure to check out SpaHalekulani, which offers a wide range of treatments focused on holistic wellness. As part of that wellness, you may want to check out the hotel’s newly renovated gym, whose views of the pool and ocean may just be the motivation you need for your workout.
The hotel also boasts some of the best dining options along Waikiki, in particular French concept La Mer, which holds the honor of being Hawaii’s longest-running AAA Five Diamond restaurant (since 1990). For a more casual experience, head to House Without A Key, which not only offers delectable Hawaiian dishes but is also home to nightly Hawaiian music and hula dancing. Don’t miss the restaurant’s signature Mai Tai, which is refreshing without being cloyingly sweet.
Perhaps one of the most underrated amenities the hotel has to offer is the For You, Everything program, which offers guests complimentary admission to a whole host of cultural institutions across the island, including the Honolulu Museum of Art, Bishop Museum, Iolani Palace, Hawaii Symphony Orchestra, Liljestrand House, and Shangri La Museum. ‘
So if you’re looking for some peace in the midst of Waikiki, look no further than Halekulani.
Top Takeaways
Location: Oahu, Hawaii
Rating: Five-Star
The Vibe: A serene stay evoking an understated elegance in the heart of bustling Waikiki.
Food + Drink: The Halekulani boasts exceptional dining options, highlighted by La Mer, Hawaii’s longest-running AAA Five Diamond restaurant, and House Without A Key, where guests can savor delectable Hawaiian dishes alongside nightly Hawaiian music and hula performances. Don’t miss the signature Mai Tai, a refreshing delight that perfectly complements the island atmosphere.
Amenities: Fitness center; Spa; Restaurants; Bars; Pool; Private beach; Meeting spaces, Cultural institution access
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The nightly Hawaiian music and captivating hula performances at Halekulani
What’s Nearby? Waikiki Beach; Ala Moana Center; Diamond Head State Monument; Honolulu Museum of Art; Iolani Palace
Any personal neighborhood recs? If you’re visiting Honolulu to immerse yourself in the island life yet also want to learn more about Oahu’s rich history, visit the nearby Bishop Museum, showcasing the world’s largest collection of Asia/Pacific natural history and ancient Hawaiian crafts, plus exquisite royal artifacts.
Rooms: 453 rooms and suites
Pricing: Rooms start at $500 per night.
Closest Airport: Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL)
