The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort (Oahu)

The Pink Palace of the Pacific

★★★★★📍 Waikiki, Oahu$$$$

When the Royal Hawaiian opened in 1927, guests arrived by Matson liner for the season; the pink palace among the coconut palms became the symbol of Hawaii's romantic age — hosting royalty, presidents, and Hollywood from Shirley Temple to Elvis. The site itself is storied: Helumoa, the royal coconut grove of Hawaiian alii, whose heritage the resort honors in its gardens and cultural programs.

Today the resort balances landmark and luxury. The Historic Building keeps the 1927 soul — arched pink corridors, high ceilings, garden lanais — while the Mailani Tower adds contemporary oceanfront suites and club privileges. The beachfront position is among Waikiki's best, with the resort's pink umbrellas lining the sand; the open-air Mai Tai Bar pours its namesake steps from the water (the Royal's 1950s-era recipe is a rite of passage), and Azure serves fine island seafood. The weekly Aha Aina luau on the oceanfront lawn tells the site's royal history.

It's the choice for romantics, returning generations, and anyone for whom Waikiki should feel like its postcards. Booked directly through Marriott's Luxury Collection.