The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki

Just returned from a wonderful three-night stay at the historic "Pink Palace" on Waikiki. We've always loved strolling around the lovely grounds of this resort so we jumped at the chance to get a great deal on an ocean view room in the historic wing. Although the room has been renovated, it retains its historic character. For example, each of the rooms in the wing have very heavy, solid wood-carved doors, and our room had pineapple decor wallpaper. Our room was also a decent size and had a lovely ocean view, with a gaze toward magnificent Diamond head from an angle. (See photos) The room also had a large walk-in closet, with robes and slippers, two nightstands, a dresser, a table, two chairs, flat screen TV, coffee maker, mini-fridge, and safe. Service here is impeccable although relaxed, just the way we prefer. We enjoyed the famous macadamia nut pink pancakes for breakfast under pink umbrellas overlooking the beach. We were a bit disappointed that the main dinner restaurant only offered a tasting menu (no ala carte items) since many of the items on that menu could not be enjoyed by my wife. But the Mai Tai Bar offered delicious drinks and snacks in a gorgeous setting, with great entertainment. We know Waikiki is not everyone's cup of tea but we loved the location of this resort. An easy walk to dozens of restaurants and shops, and a very short stroll out the back to the Royal Hawaiian shopping mall, which offered a respite from the heat and many dining options, from food court level to fancy dining. The resort only has a tiny round pool but guests have access to the larger pool with water slides, etc. at the Sheraton nextdoor. You can certainly get a larger, busier, and more modern resort in Waikiki, but you will be hard-pressed to find a more gracious, Hawaiian setting than this one.

We loved this hotel . It’s so well situated and has so much charm and history . Our room had a lovely balcony and view , but was a bit shabby - needs updating . But it was comfortable and we slept well . You have to get up early to snag a chaise lounge and umbrella at $70 a day on the beach - but at least they have them available! Most hotels in Waikiki don’t . The pool is tiny - not even worth a mention, but you can use the larger one at the adjoining Sheraton- though not the infinity pool which is why this is a 4 star rather than 5 - really would have liked to use that pool . But it’s still overall an enchanting experience- and we can’t wait to go back . I’ll take history, authenticity and charm over the newer sterile properties anytime - the pink palace still shines !

What an excellent hotel and with plenty of history! Beautiful building and grounds. We had a superb stay. Everybody was so kind. Food was great and what a location! Close to shopping, good restaurants (if you want to venture out), day tours, boat tours, etc. Excellent staff all around but it was the housekeeping staff, the gentleman who oversees the pool area, and the wait staff who really stood out for us. We would and likely will visit again.

This stay was very disappointing to say the least. Marriott should not have this hotel listed “luxury collection “. You pay 790 dollars night (not including Resort fees at 65 dollars or parking at the same more or less) for a room so small there is not even a coffee table innfront of the meridienne chair. Last renovation was 2009 and an update is much needed. I honestly don’t understand other reviews giving 5 stars for that price. Unless they really got a cheap deal on hotel tonight 500 plus rooms and no room service since the covid years. Restaurant options are limited and if you want to sit down on the beach be ready for a 200 dollars 5 courses mandatory menu. Anything else you must sit at the bar. A complete ripoff, an hotel living on it’s legacy…

Accommodations at the Royal Hawaiian Resort Upon returning to Island of Hawaii, I've decided to stay at the Royal Hawaiian Resort with my children for the first time since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, I am reminded of my previous visits to Maui, the Big Island, and the island of Hawaii. This time, however, we find ourselves back on the island of Hawaii. Our previous stay was in Oahu, but this time we have chosen to reside in the Waikiki beach area, surrounded by a plethora of dining options. Positives: Strategically situated near Waikiki beach, the Royal Hawaiian Resort serves as a central hub for the numerous shopping centers in the vicinity. The resort's location is reminiscent of bustling areas like Las Vegas, Fifth Avenue, or New York City. The hotel staff are notably efficient and welcoming, offering warm greetings upon arrival. The rooms and public spaces are meticulously maintained, and the beds are exceptionally comfortable. Negatives: Of all the hotels I have visited worldwide, the Royal Hawaiian Resort stands out as the most bustling. While the front desk staff make an effort to be friendly, they tend to adhere strictly to standard procedures and are less accommodating of special requests, such as room changes. The sheer volume of guests results in a lack of recognition for my Bonvoy status, rendering it essentially meaningless. The resort experiences frequent congestion, with long lines forming for coffee, elevators, running out of the beach towels and front desk services. The bathrooms are notably compact, even smaller than those found in certain European hotels. Although the resort fee is reasonable, the level of service provided does not necessarily justify the associated costs. I am just surprised they are not charging for a glass of water. Overall, great location, poor service designed for masses and crowd control. If you are looking for a quiet hotel, I would look for a hotel off the beach.