Staying at The Royal Hawaiian: A Luxury Escape in Waikiki

If you’ve ever dreamt of waking up in paradise, sipping a mai tai under swaying palm trees, and soaking up the timeless glamour of Old Hawaii, then The Royal Hawaiian in Waikiki is the place for you. Nicknamed the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this legendary beachfront hotel is the perfect place to stay. From its historic charm to modern luxury, here’s why this iconic resort needs to be on your Hawaiian bucket list.

Prime Location in the Heart of Waikiki

One of the biggest perks of staying at The Royal Hawaiian? Its prime location right on Waikiki Beach! Whether you’re lounging in a pink beach chair, learning how to surf in the crystal-clear waters, or just taking in the postcard-worthy views of Diamond Head, it’s pure paradise.

Step outside, and you’re just minutes from world-class shopping at Luxury Row, The Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, iconic surfing, and lively restaurants and nightlife. It’s also a short drive to must-visit spots like Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and Hanauma Bay. Whether you’re an early riser looking to catch the sunrise or a sunset chaser, you’ll be spoiled with so many dining options and iconic Hawaiian activities. Some of my favorite post-beach treats are Hawaiian shave ice right outside at the Royal Hawaiian Center or a matcha fix at Nana’s Green Tea, where we indulge in the best Japanese matcha lattes and hojicha (roasted green tea) soft serve. Check out my post on How to recreate the iconic Hawaiian Shave Ice at home!

The Best Time to Visit

One of the best parts about Waikiki? It’s a tropical paradise all year long!

• Winter (Dec – Feb): Highs in the mid-70s°F (24°C), peak busy season, and big wave season for surf lovers.
• Spring (March – May): Low crowds, perfect beach weather with temps around 80°F (27°C).
• Summer (June – Aug): Hotter days (upper 80s°F / 30°C), great for beach lounging and snorkeling.
• Fall (Sept – Nov): Warm, sunny, and less crowded—perfect for a relaxing getaway.

No matter when you visit, Waikiki stays warm and inviting, but if you want fewer crowds and perfect conditions, spring and fall are ideal times to book your stay.

Amenities at The Royal Hawaiian

Staying at The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, is pure paradise. This iconic “Pink Palace of the Pacific” blends historic charm with modern luxury, offering guests an unforgettable stay in the heart of Waikiki.

• Beachfront Bliss – Relax under the signature pink umbrellas on Waikiki Beach with exclusive beach chair rentals for guests.
• Pools & Cabanas – Enjoy the serene Malulani Pool or make a splash at the Helumoa Playground Pool shared with the Sheraton Waikiki.
• Abhasa Spa – A hidden garden oasis offering luxurious massages, facials, and Hawaiian-inspired treatments.
• Coffee Bar – Start your morning at the charming Royal Hawaiian Bakery with fresh pastries and Kona coffee.
• Fitness Center – Stay on track with a small but well-equipped gym, featuring cardio machines and weights.
• Mai Tai Bar – The perfect spot for breakfast and lunch while steps away from your beach setup.
• Shopping at Your Doorstep – The resort is steps from the Royal Hawaiian Shopping Center, where you’ll find designer boutiques, Hawaiian souvenirs, and local artisan shops.

Best Restaurants Within Walking Distance

We always try to stick to fresh, locally sourced Hawaiian dishes rather than foods we can easily get at home. There’s something so special about eating what the island provides, from just-caught fish to tropical fruits bursting with flavor. Waikiki is a foodie’s paradise, and some of the best restaurants are just a short stroll from The Royal Hawaiian:

• Duke’s Waikiki – A beachfront classic serving up fresh fish, poke tacos, and the famous Hula Pie, perfect for a casual meal with ocean views.
• Hula Grill – Located above Duke’s, this spot offers island-inspired dishes, tropical cocktails, and a laid-back lanai atmosphere.
• Monkeypod Kitchen – A local favorite known for farm-to-table dishes, craft cocktails, and their legendary lilikoi foam mai tai.
• Sushi Sho – A high-end omakase experience inside The Ritz-Carlton, featuring expertly crafted Edomae-style sushi.
• StripSteak Waikiki – A modern steakhouse by Michael Mina, specializing in wagyu, fresh seafood, and creative cocktails.
• Marugame Udon – A must-try for handmade udon noodles and crispy tempura, all served cafeteria-style for a quick and delicious meal (depending on the season, there could be a big line).
• House Without a Key – A dreamy oceanfront spot at Halekulani Hotel, famous for their infamous coconut cake, tropical cocktails, and live Hawaiian music. Get the Halekulani Coconut Cake Recipe here!
• Island Vintage Coffee – Our morning go-to for Kona coffee, refreshing acai bowls, and tropical breakfast bites. I’ve mastered the recipe for my favorite drink, Island Latte, grab the recipe here!

With luxury amenities, beachfront access, and endless dining options just steps away, The Royal Hawaiian is truly one of the best places to stay in Waikiki. Whether you’re here to relax, explore, or indulge, this resort has everything you need for an unforgettable Hawaiian getaway.

Room Options: Historic Charm Meets Modern Luxury

The Royal Hawaiian offers two distinct types of accommodations, each with its own unique vibe:

The Historic Wing

• Step back in time to the hotel’s 1927 origins with charming, elegant rooms.
• Features classic Hawaiian décor, rich wood furnishings, and vintage glamour.
• Some rooms include garden or ocean views, while others have lanais (balconies) for enjoying Waikiki’s breezes.

The Mailani Tower (For those craving modern Hawaiian luxury)

• Oceanfront contemporary rooms with private lanais and stunning views.
• Includes exclusive Mailani Lounge access with complimentary breakfast and evening refreshments.
• Best choice for those who want a more modern, elevated experience while still soaking in The Royal Hawaiian’s charm.

Luxury Meets Island Charm

The rooms at The Royal Hawaiian strike the perfect balance between historic charm and modern elegance. Whether you’re staying in the Historic Wing, with its old-world glam, or the Mailani Tower, with its contemporary oceanfront suites, every detail feels chic yet laid-back. Expect plush beds, dreamy ocean views, and a whole lot of pink decor.

Why You’ll Love It Here

✔ Prime location in the heart of Waikiki but still tucked away and feels secluded
✔ Exclusive beach access + pink-striped cabanas
✔ Amazing dining (hello infamous pink palace pancakes!)
✔ Historic charm with modern luxuries
✔ Breakfast with a view (Diamond Head)

Ready to Plan Your Stay?

If you’re looking for a hotel that’s more than just a place to sleep, The Royal Hawaiian delivers. It’s iconic, luxurious, and bursting with aloha spirit. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just treating yourself to an unforgettable Hawaiian escape, this pink paradise is 100% worth the hype.

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Aloha!

Gina