Royal Hawaiian Review: A Romantic Retreat at the Iconic Pink Palace of the Pacific

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Standing atop Diamond Head looking out over the Waikiki skyline, one building instantly catches my eye, even from this distance. The iconic Royal Hawaiian hotel’s signature pink façade is unmistakable.

Staying at The Royal Hawaiian feels like stepping into a piece of Hawaiian history, where everything is bathed in a dreamy blush hue. The theme extends throughout the property, creating a sense of romance and nostalgia. But even with your eyes closed, you’d know you’re at the Royal Hawaiian—the air is delicately scented with its signature Tahitian gardenia fragrance, instantly transporting guests to the tropics.

Nicknamed the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” this legendary hotel has been a dream destination for generations of travelers—a visit to the lower level reveals a treasure trove of memorabilia chronicling its storied past.

Unlike some of Waikiki’s more buttoned-up luxury resorts, The Royal Hawaiian embraces a playful touch of island nostalgia. Its pink-hued charm and warm hospitality make it one of the most beloved stays in Honolulu. Whether you’re here for a romantic retreat or a fun getaway, this grande dame of Waikiki continues to deliver a timeless Hawaiian experience.

Curious about what it’s like to stay at this iconic property? Read our full review to find out.

The Location

The Royal Hawaiian has occupied a prime location along Waikiki Beach since it opened in 1927. The hotel’s legacy gives it an advantage that only one other hotel in Waikiki can claim—the ability to reserve a private section of the beach for its guests. Although all O’ahu beaches are public, the Royal Hawaiian was grandfathered in with the right to maintain a small stretch where guests can rent chairs and umbrellas, offering a welcome respite from the hot Hawaiian sun.

In addition to its enviable beachfront location, the Royal Hawaiian’s lush, tropical grounds provide a serene escape despite the setting just steps away from the heart of Waikiki. Guests are within easy walking distance of the area’s best shops and restaurants, and the hotel sits adjacent to the Royal Hawaiian Center, a popular open-air mall.

Dining

The Royal Hawaiian boasts diverse dining options, ranging from a relaxed café to one of Waikiki’s premier fine dining establishments.

Royal Hawaiian Bakery

The Royal Hawaiian Bakery is the hot spot in the morning for coffee and freshly baked pastries—don’t miss the famous banana bread.

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Surf Lanai

For a relaxing start to your day, treat yourself to a leisurely breakfast at Surf Lanai, an open-air restaurant overlooking the beach serving fresh papaya, acai bowls, and heartier options. 

Mai Tai Bar

The Mai Tai Bar is open for lunch and dinner, offering a casual beachfront dining option. In 1953, the Royal Hawaiian became the first bar in Hawaii to serve the classic Mai Tai cocktail. The hotel bartenders perfected this signature drink over the years, and it would be sacrilege not to order the Royal Hawaiian’s version, which is expertly crafted with fresh pineapple and orange juice. You’ll be in good company—the hotel serves up over 120,000 of these tropical drinks each year. 

Azure

Open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday, Azure offers fine dining in an elegant oceanfront space. 

Ahaaina Luau

Every Monday and Thursday night, the Royal Hawaiian hosts a modern interpretation of the traditional Hawaiian luau, with a feast, songs, and hula. The Ahaaina tells the story of Hawaii through food, music, stories, and hula.

The Rooms

The Royal Hawaiian has two distinctive buildings: The Historic Wing, which is decorated in the classic old-world style, featuring pink printed wallpaper and plush rugs, and the Mailani Tower, which has more modern rooms with private oceanfront lanais. 

I stayed in a Historic Ocean King Room, a luxurious room that harkens back to the sophisticated elegance of the 1920s. The spacious room featured stunning views of Waikiki Beach, intricate wooden doors carved with the Hawaiian coat of arms, a wooden ceiling fan, a plush bed, and a marble bathroom.

Amenities

Amenities at the Royal Hawaiian include:

• Pink Frette bathrobes
• Frette slippers
• Locally made Malie Organics bath amenities
• High-speed Wi-Fi
• Fresh flower or kukui nut lei greeting
• Daily morning yoga
• One complimentary bag of banana bread muffins from The Royal Bake Shop
• Daily activities, including ukulele lessons, hula lessons, stand-up paddle board demonstrations, and more
• Fitness center
• Two pools

Price and How to Book

Room rates at the Royal Hawaiian start at approximately $520 per night and can be booked via Expedia.

Editor’s Note: The Royal Hawaiian hosted the author of this story.

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