A Stay at The Royal Hawaiian: Hawaii’s Timeless Pink Palace

From the moment I pulled into the roundabout driveway, I knew I was stepping into something iconic. The Royal Hawaiian Hotel, affectionately known as the Pink Palace of the Pacific, is more than a place to stay — it’s a piece of Hawaiian history wrapped in pink stucco and ocean breeze.

The classic bellmen in their crisp uniforms greeted me with a warmth that set the tone for the entire visit. And then came the grand entrance — an arched, open-air lobby that immediately transports you to a more glamorous era. There’s something incredibly elegant about how the space is preserved. It doesn’t try to modernize too much — and that’s what makes it magic.

I was lucky enough to stay on the 15th floor, where the views of Waikiki Beach stretched endlessly, framed by the palms and rolling waves. Each morning I’d wake early (jetlag again doing me a favor), step onto the balcony, and catch surfers gliding into the sunrise. It was the kind of moment that makes you pause — simple, quiet, unforgettable.

The room itself was a thoughtful blend of historic charm and tropical refinement — soft pink accents, traditional wood furniture, and subtle touches that nodded to the hotel’s rich legacy while still feeling fresh and elevated.

Mornings started with coffee and pastries from the on-site bakery, a hidden gem tucked near the lobby. I loved grabbing something flaky and sweet before my morning beach walk — simple pleasures done exceptionally well.

Evenings, of course, called for a visit to the Mai Tai Bar — home of the original mai tai. Watching the sun dip behind Diamond Head, mai tai in hand, is one of those pinch-me moments. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try a few of their mai tai variations — the lilikoi one was a standout.

Breakfast at Azure was another highlight — particularly the pink pancakes, as pretty as they were delicious. It’s hard not to lean into the Pink Palace energy when everything from the walls to your plate matches the aesthetic.

One of the best parts about staying here is the effortless access to Waikiki’s main strip. Shops, restaurants, and nightlife are just steps away — yet somehow, once you pass back through those arched pink hallways, it all feels a world away.

The Royal Hawaiian isn’t just a hotel. It’s a memory-maker. A glamorous, palm-framed portal into another time — with just the right amount of modern sparkle. I already find myself dreaming of returning.

Book your stay at the dreamy Royal Hawaiian Hotel here!

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