HAWAII: HALEKULANI

Hawaiian delights: Halekulani

Luxurious Hawaiian resort Halekulani recently made a stunning debut after a masterful restoration that’s seen Waikiki’s most elegant property elevated to new heights.

The Halekulani, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, re-opened in late 2021 after a wide-ranging restoration of the property’s public spaces, guest rooms and suites, and the result has been nothing short of exceptional.

Halekulani’s unique architecture and exterior aesthetic has been painstakingly preserved, and the historic main building, including its trademark ‘Dickey Roof’.

The hotel’s iconic gatehouse and porte-cochere have been revitalised to further enhance its welcoming aesthetic and spirit of aloha.

Halekulani’s public spaces have also undergone an understated transformation inspired from Hawaii’s rich cultural heritage and encompassing a holistic sense of renewal.

The property’s stunning accommodations have been thoughtfully revitalised and designed, enhancing the property’s signature ‘seven shades of white’ aesthetic philosophy.

Framing dramatic and expansive views of the majestic Pacific Ocean and the verdant, oasis-like grounds of the resort, the overarching theme of nature and blending the sea with the sky will offer a haven of elegance and serenity.

New elements of warmth and texture serve to enrich the design, infusing a sense of harmony and balance throughout. Wooden panels and cabinetry have been incorporated, as well as textured wall coverings and meticulously crafted furnishings to fuse the subtle influences of European, Hawaiian, and Asian cultures.

Headlining the food and beverage offerings, Halekulani’s House Without A Key has long been celebrated as a premier oceanfront destination for live Hawaiian entertainment, traditional hula performances and sunset cocktails.

The indoor-outdoor restaurant has been completely transformed by owners the Halekulani Corporation to complement the sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, Diamond Head and the hotel’s 135-year-old Kiawe Tree, while paying homage to Hawaii’s golden age of travel.

With a dramatic new entry experience adjacent to the sea, House Without A Key now features a new shaded outdoor bar, Earl’s, named in honor of the acclaimed 20th century novelist, Earl Derr Biggers, author of ‘House Without a Key’.

A rare first edition of the 1925 novel will be on display to welcome guests to one of the most famous and desirable settings in the world, while additional enhancements include a state-of-the-art exhibition-style glass kitchen and custom Marra Forni brick oven created in Italy exclusively for Halekulani.

Newly conceived cocktails joining the hotel’s signature Mai Tai include the Yellow Umbrella, with fresh Lilikoi Juice, Coconut Matcha Syrup, Tequila and Mezcal; Coconut Cake Martini, an ode to Halekulani’s world-famous coconut cake; and Sweet Persea, a spirit-free avocado-based cocktail.

The newly reopened venue also offers a nod to the legendary Ernest Hemingway, who honeymooned at Halekulani in 1940 with his bride, acclaimed journalist Marsha Gellhorn. Hemingway – one of the many luminaries who frequented the restaurant – preferred a specific table near the ocean boasting a direct view of Diamond Head.

This table is now be distinguished as ‘Table 97,’ available only by advance reservation and House Without A Key has also reintroduced the classic Daiquiri to the menu, Hemingway’s favorite tropical libation.

Inspired by Hawaii’s indigenous flora and tropical natural beauty, Halekulani’s landscaping has also been renewed and enhanced to evoke a sense of serenity throughout the property, incorporating vivid, colourful hues from flowering plants and foliage to create an even more spectacular surrounding.

The re-design also features Native Hawaiian indigenous and local species, including the King Kalakaua spider lily and extremely rare Dwarf Rainbow Plumeria.

Guests can now find the Halekulani Fine Arts Collection exhibited throughout the property and additionally, Halekulani has also introduced Inspired Living, an innovative and unique selection of specially curated interactive ensuite guest activities and services providing priceless individualised experiences from the world of the hotel’s Halekulani Living arts and culture programs.

halekulani.com