The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki

After more than 20 years of staying at the Royal Hawaiian twice a year, this may finally be the visit that makes us reconsider returning. Our current stay began on July 16, and unfortunately the experience has been disappointing from the moment we arrived. We requested an early check-in, but after waiting more than three hours, our room still wasn’t ready. There was little communication or empathy from the front desk throughout the process. The front desk has consistently lacked the warmth and genuine hospitality you would expect from one of Hawaii’s most iconic hotels. The interactions often feel mechanical rather than welcoming, which is disappointing considering the hotel’s reputation for aloha. As Marriott Bonvoy members, we request two beds for every stay, yet our preference is rarely honored despite years of repeat visits. Our most concerning experience occurred during our April 2026 visit, when my daughter woke up around 9:30 p.m. to find a large cockroach crawling on the bed. Staff came to remove it after we called, but there was no apology, no follow-up, and no attempt to recover the experience. After that trip, I wrote directly to hotel management. I never received a reply. We’ve continued to choose this hotel because of its history, location, and sentimental value, but loyal guests should feel appreciated. Instead, we’ve repeatedly felt overlooked. The Royal Hawaiian remains a beautiful property, but beautiful scenery cannot replace genuine customer service, attention to guest concerns, and respect for loyal customers. I hope management takes reviews like this seriously because this hotel has the potential to provide an experience worthy of its reputation.

The Royal Hawaiian was so much nicer than expected. It is a beautiful pink oasis in the midst of chaotic Waikiki. The staff was so very helpful, our room was larger than anticipated and had a gorgeous view. Our room even had a Toto bidet toilet, which we miss when we are traveling. I'd stay here again just because of that! Great location on the beach. We rented a chaise set up one day and had such a nice time people watching and wading into the ocean. You can walk to all the other nice hotels, but in my opinion, the Royal Hawaiian can't be beat.

Strongly advise against staying at this hotel. My beach bag was stolen from the pool area, the check in was a disaster, and the room was dated. Upon checking in, we discovered there was a leak coming from the toilet. Second, the manager Benjamin refused to honor our guaranteed upgrade. Lastly, on day two, my beach bag was stolen and they refused to check the security camera even after reporting within hour of last seeing it. I should have went with my first instinct and stayed at the Four Seasons. However, i would like to recognize the servers, bartenders, and housekeeping, they were exceptional and work so hard to ensure a positive experience.

We went to the ocean-front pool for breakfast /brunch. The atmosphere was great. The bartender was friendly and the drinks and food were great.

Ready for some surf and sand? Then you have arrived at a premier destination! The Royal Hawaiian sits right on Waikiki Beach and features 2 astounding restaurants and a Mai Tai bar. Not only is the staff attentive and pleasant, they go out of their way to ensure you are enjoying the most that the area has to offer. You want for nothing during your stay as anything you may have neglected to pack is already in your room or a quick phone call away. The hotel is also convenient to area attractions and walking about town is a stroll through paradise. While the pace feels leisurely, there is a vibrant energy that runs through the hotel and adjacent shopping center. I highly recommend for travel with family and friends.