The Royal Hawaiian, widely recognized as the Pink Palace of the Pacific, is initiating a comprehensive renovation project to prepare for its centennial celebration. The historic resort, located on a prime stretch of Waikiki Beach in Honolulu, will turn 100 years old in February 2027. The extensive upgrades are scheduled for completion in time for the milestone birthday, ensuring the property remains a premier destination for travelers.
Preserving the Pink Palace Aesthetic
Construction is currently underway in phases, with specific sections of the hotel closed to guests while others remain operational. The design team has confirmed that the famous pink stucco exterior, a defining feature of the Spanish-Moorish style built in 1927, will remain unchanged. This architectural style was one of the earliest of its kind in Waikiki, following the opening of the Moana Surfrider in 1901.
The renovation focuses heavily on the interior experience. The historic wing, which contains 349 rooms and suites across six stories, features original wooden doors carved with the Hawaii state seal. These historic elements will be preserved. The new design language for the guest rooms draws inspiration from the golden age of travel. According to the hotel, the styling includes elements reminiscent of vintage steamer trunks and furnishings that echo the curving lines of the building.
Updated rooms will feature custom-carved furniture, dining tables for two, and modernized bathrooms equipped with glass shower doors and new vanities. The Mailani Tower, which opened in 1969, is also receiving a full overhaul. All 179 rooms in this tower, including 11 suites, will be completely redone. These rooms offer ocean views and private lanais.
Centennial Celebrations and Historic Tours
Public areas and the lobby are also undergoing a refresh, with lighter fabrics and updated furnishings intended to brighten the space. In late last year, the hotel opened a Historic Gallery in partnership with the Matson Archives. This new space displays artifacts from the 1920s, including items from the grand opening gala. The hotel now offers historic tours twice a week to showcase this collection.
Nicole Okuna, the general manager and the fourth woman to lead the resort, emphasized the significance of the upcoming anniversary. She stated that the centennial offers a chance to honor the cherished stories that have shaped the property’s history while creating new memories for future guests.
To mark the occasion, the hotel has announced a series of commemorative events. These include a special Royal Hawaiian Ahaaina Luau, the opening of a time capsule, and a series of parties. Tickets for these centennial events go on sale on October 21. The property, which is part of Marriott’s portfolio and bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points, aims to blend its rich heritage with modern comforts as it enters its second century.
Source: The Points Guy
