Along the busy hotel strip facing the pristine water of Waikiki Beach, is where you will find the legendary Halekulani hotel. Originally built as a private beachfront estate by Mr Lewers in 1883, Halekulani has welcomed travelers from around the world since 1917. Halekulani which means "House befitting heaven", is working hard to deliver its promise. From the beautiful floral arrangements to the attentive service and details, you will be wrapped with style in luxury.
The story of Halekulani is in many ways the story of Waikiki itself. It begins just after the turn of the 20th century, with the construction of a small residential hotel called Hau Tree, consisting of a simple beachfront home and five tiny bungalows. In 1917, Juliet and Clifford Kimball purchased the hotel and gradually expanded the operation, establishing it as a stylish resort for wealthy vacationers. They named it Halekulani and the story began... Surviving the devastating effects of the Great Depression, as well as the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Halekulani has evolved over the decades into a chic destination with the great help of a booming jet industry.
The golden era of Halekulani started in the 1950s with the visit of personalities such as Clark Gable, Rosalind Russell, and Richard Egan. France's top models and Fashions appeared also at Halekulani in spring 1956 in the first show of its kind on American soil. The black-tie event featured designs by renowned fashion houses such as Christian Dior, Lanvin, Pierre Balmain, Jean Patou and Ricci.
The current face of the hotel came in 1984, when it officially reopened after many months of major renovations and construction. Today, Halekulani is considered to be a world class hotel while still retaining its island charm and rich tradition of warm Hawaiian hospitality.
The golden era of Halekulani started in the 1950s with the visit of personalities such as Clark Gable, Rosalind Russell, and Richard Egan. France's top models and Fashions appeared also at Halekulani in spring 1956 in the first show of its kind on American soil. The black-tie event featured designs by renowned fashion houses such as Christian Dior, Lanvin, Pierre Balmain, Jean Patou and Ricci.
The current face of the hotel came in 1984, when it officially reopened after many months of major renovations and construction. Today, Halekulani is considered to be a world class hotel while still retaining its island charm and rich tradition of warm Hawaiian hospitality.
All the gorgeous flower arrangements displayed in the resort are created by Mrs Tanga Kamemoto, who studied under Hiroshi Teshigahara, Grand Master of the Sogetsu School of Flower arrangement in Japan.
Floral arrangements at the entrance of Orchids restaurant.
Every evening, a new little gift will be waiting for you on your bed.
Photo courtesy of Halekulani Hotel - Photo credit: Barbara Kraft
Halekulani hotel has been for decades, the most popular place to enjoy spectacular sunsets. Its casual bar - "House Without a Key" - entertains its guests every day from, 5:30pm to 8:30pm, with authentic Hawaiian songs performed by local bands under the century-old Kiawe tree*. The mood is definitely mellow as the sun's last rays dance through the branches of the Kiawe tree, casting a red-orange glow upon Diamond Head, and highlighting a sparkling ocean.
* The Hawaiian meaning of Kiawe is: To Sway
Once owned by retired Sea Captain Brown, this tranquil spot is world-famous thanks to Charlie Chan, the inscrutable Honolulu detective who always got his man and frequently coined "old Chinese proverbs". Chan's creator, novelist Earl Derr Biggers, is said to have conceived the series while staying in a nearby cottage in 1925.
His first Charlie Chan mystery - called "The House Without A Key" - focused on the keen-eyed detective's solution of a cunning murder of a former sea captain. Site of the murder was a home on this precise spot in the late 1800s. Today's House Without a Key was rebuilt in 1983 as part of the new Halekulani, in tribute to the famous Chinese detective, who is as much part of the hotel's folklore as is the great kiawe tree which has sheltered visitors on Waikiki Beach for more than a century.
* The Hawaiian meaning of Kiawe is: To Sway
Once owned by retired Sea Captain Brown, this tranquil spot is world-famous thanks to Charlie Chan, the inscrutable Honolulu detective who always got his man and frequently coined "old Chinese proverbs". Chan's creator, novelist Earl Derr Biggers, is said to have conceived the series while staying in a nearby cottage in 1925.
His first Charlie Chan mystery - called "The House Without A Key" - focused on the keen-eyed detective's solution of a cunning murder of a former sea captain. Site of the murder was a home on this precise spot in the late 1800s. Today's House Without a Key was rebuilt in 1983 as part of the new Halekulani, in tribute to the famous Chinese detective, who is as much part of the hotel's folklore as is the great kiawe tree which has sheltered visitors on Waikiki Beach for more than a century.
The Hawaiian band: "Sunset Serenaders" (Wayne Shishido, Mahealani Stillman and Baron Bento) are playing every Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at sunset.
Hula dancer Kanoe Kaumeheiwa Miller, a former Miss Hawaii, complements the music with her graceful and traditional hula.
House Without a Key is reminiscent of a time when Hawaiian homes needed no locks.
Late afternoon light over Diamond Head, a former volcano that participated in the creation of the Island of O'ahu.
For a more refined experience, Orchids is Halekulani's casually elegant oceanfront restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The restaurant is located in the Main Building originally designed by Island architect Charles Dickey, and completed in 1932. The building, previously known as Lewers House, is still regarded even after some major renovations, as one of O'ahu's landmark due to its rich history. The building is crowned by the refurbished and distinctive South Pacific high-pitched roof (known today as the "Dickey" roof) which keeps the interiors cool.
Orchids is considered one of the most beautiful restaurants in all Hawaii. Boasting lovely views of Diamond Head and an abundance of signature flowers, this celebrated restaurant seems to do everything right. The focus is on seafood from the Big Island. Chef Darryl Fujita is well known for his large selection of sushi and sashimi, as well as his seafood feast for two featuring island sourced Kona lobster, Onaga and Kahuku shrimp steamed with kaffir lime leaves and served with a trio of aïolis (saffron-garlic, harissa and miso). We also enjoyed a very nice seared foie gras at dinner time, so the menu is catering to all types of palates.
During the week, the restaurant serves a traditional American breakfast that comes with an exceptional selection of teas and freshly squeezed juice. On Sundays, Orchids' famous brunch served from 9:30am to 2:30pm, is called legendary and was voted "Oahu's Best Brunch" in 2009 by Honolulu Magazine. The elegant buffet style event is complemented by classic music performed by a duo of harpist and flutist. Because of the incredible scenery, we would recommend to ask for a table on the beachside patio when you make a reservation.
Orchids is considered one of the most beautiful restaurants in all Hawaii. Boasting lovely views of Diamond Head and an abundance of signature flowers, this celebrated restaurant seems to do everything right. The focus is on seafood from the Big Island. Chef Darryl Fujita is well known for his large selection of sushi and sashimi, as well as his seafood feast for two featuring island sourced Kona lobster, Onaga and Kahuku shrimp steamed with kaffir lime leaves and served with a trio of aïolis (saffron-garlic, harissa and miso). We also enjoyed a very nice seared foie gras at dinner time, so the menu is catering to all types of palates.
During the week, the restaurant serves a traditional American breakfast that comes with an exceptional selection of teas and freshly squeezed juice. On Sundays, Orchids' famous brunch served from 9:30am to 2:30pm, is called legendary and was voted "Oahu's Best Brunch" in 2009 by Honolulu Magazine. The elegant buffet style event is complemented by classic music performed by a duo of harpist and flutist. Because of the incredible scenery, we would recommend to ask for a table on the beachside patio when you make a reservation.
Both restaurants Orchids, on the main level, and La Mer, on the first floor, are located inside the historical Main Building.
Elegant breakfast at Orchids - the perfect way to start the day.
Yellow orchids, the restaurant signature flowers, can be found on each table.
Halekulani popovers - an island favorite since 1917, served with Guava jam and whipped butter.
If you are looking for a gastronomical experience, La Mer (which means the sea in French), is exactly what you are looking for. Celebrated as Halekulani's finest and Hawaii's longest, consecutively ranked AAA Five Diamond Restaurant, La Mer offers a neoclassic cuisine developed by French Chef Yves Garnier, who cooked at La Coupole in Monaco for 20 years as well as at The San Francisco and Palm Beach Ritz Carltons. Chef Garnier has been running the kitchen since 1995 and has recently stepping down but is still involve in the operations.
Fresh local ingredients form the foundation of Garnier's dishes, but they are prepared with traditional French techniques. We enjoyed a nice fish soup that chef Garnier used to cook in Monaco, as well as some local fish that definitely sound exotic if you do not live on the Island. The food was well prepared and elegantly presented. The service was very attentive, and the breezy view overlooking the Pacific was quite enjoyable. La Mer also features an impressive wine list as well as a nice selection of wine by the glass, and to start your evening in style, you will receive a complementary glass of champagne on your arrival.
Fresh local ingredients form the foundation of Garnier's dishes, but they are prepared with traditional French techniques. We enjoyed a nice fish soup that chef Garnier used to cook in Monaco, as well as some local fish that definitely sound exotic if you do not live on the Island. The food was well prepared and elegantly presented. The service was very attentive, and the breezy view overlooking the Pacific was quite enjoyable. La Mer also features an impressive wine list as well as a nice selection of wine by the glass, and to start your evening in style, you will receive a complementary glass of champagne on your arrival.
La Mer restaurant - The lounge inside the Main Building.
La Mer and executive chef Yves Garnier, who formerly owned a one Michelin star restaurant in Monaco.
Elegant flower decor at La Mer's lounge.
La Mer restaurant - Photo courtesy of Halekulani Hotel - Photo Credit: Barbara Kraft
Thought I'd already been to 'Heaven' until I came to Halekulani ...
Eugene Cernan
Last Apollo astronaut to walk on the moon
Eugene Cernan
Last Apollo astronaut to walk on the moon
For more information
Halekulani hotel
2199 Kalia Road
Honolulu, HI, 96815
USA
Tel: (808) 923 2311
Website
Rates
Standard room with garden courtyard view starts at $470 per night that includes free WIFI, and a plate of fresh fruits and chocolates on your arrival. Overnight parking is $22 a day.
If you are a AAA member, you are eligible for a discount, so inquire when you book.
Our review: Being a AAA member, we were offered a discounted room at $423. At our arrival, we were upgraded for a "partial ocean view", which we greatly appreciated. On the downside, we found the room a little bit outdated for our taste, and we were directly facing the second tower of the hotel which meant that privacy was a bit limited. On the plus side, service was impeccable. We enjoyed the private registration in our room, and found the staff to be genuinely professional and friendly. If your budget allows, we would recommend to upgrade for an ocean front room.
House Without A Key (Casual bar and restaurant)
Open everyday from 7am to 9pm (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Live music every day from 5h30pm to 8H30pm.
First come first served, so plan to arrive early to enjoy sunset cocktail as this is one of the hot spots of Honolulu to enjoy the sunset.
Our review: We enjoyed every bit of our happy hours spent at House Without A Key. The music, the hula dance, and the very affordable drinks and side food, makes it our favorite place in the hotel for a true Hawaiian experience.
Orchids (Casual elegant restaurant)
Open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Reservation recommended: (808) 923-2311
Day Service: Resort Attire
Dinner Service: Collared shirts and slacks for gentlemen, evening attire for ladies.
Price for two guests (Excluding alcohol, taxes & gratuities): Breakfast $50 - $70, Lunch $70 - $100 (Executive lunch offers three courses for $34), Dinner $130 - $150 (Degustation menu offered at $65).
Our review: We paid $135 at dinner time for 2 starters, 2 entree, 1 dessert, bottled water, taxes and gratuity. On average, we paid $60 for breakfast. We did enjoyed our breakfasts more than our dinner because of the amazing view and fresh vibe that were present in the first hours of the day. The food was decent, the service attentive, but the scenery is definitely stealing the show.
La Mer (Gastronomical restaurant)
Open everyday for dinner (6pm to 10pm)
Reservation required: (808) 923-2311
Long-sleeved collared shirt or jacket required for gentlemen. La Mer restricts patrons to adults and children 8 years and older.
Price: Three courses menu $95, Four courses menu $125, Six courses menu $140, Degustation menu $165, A la carte.
Our review: We paid $280 for 2 three course menu, 2 glasses of Whispering Angel rosé, Evian, taxes and gratuity. We enjoyed our food at La Mer, as well as the beautiful scenery and the excellent service. However, we found the meal to be really overpriced. If you do frequent regularly Michelin star rated restaurants, you may have to lower you expectations while still having to pay the same price. Overall, La Mer is worth giving a try, especially if you want to impress your date and don't mind the price tag. You will have a very romantic soirée.
If you are a AAA member, you are eligible for a discount, so inquire when you book.
Our review: Being a AAA member, we were offered a discounted room at $423. At our arrival, we were upgraded for a "partial ocean view", which we greatly appreciated. On the downside, we found the room a little bit outdated for our taste, and we were directly facing the second tower of the hotel which meant that privacy was a bit limited. On the plus side, service was impeccable. We enjoyed the private registration in our room, and found the staff to be genuinely professional and friendly. If your budget allows, we would recommend to upgrade for an ocean front room.
House Without A Key (Casual bar and restaurant)
Open everyday from 7am to 9pm (Breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Live music every day from 5h30pm to 8H30pm.
First come first served, so plan to arrive early to enjoy sunset cocktail as this is one of the hot spots of Honolulu to enjoy the sunset.
Our review: We enjoyed every bit of our happy hours spent at House Without A Key. The music, the hula dance, and the very affordable drinks and side food, makes it our favorite place in the hotel for a true Hawaiian experience.
Orchids (Casual elegant restaurant)
Open everyday for breakfast, lunch and dinner
Reservation recommended: (808) 923-2311
Day Service: Resort Attire
Dinner Service: Collared shirts and slacks for gentlemen, evening attire for ladies.
Price for two guests (Excluding alcohol, taxes & gratuities): Breakfast $50 - $70, Lunch $70 - $100 (Executive lunch offers three courses for $34), Dinner $130 - $150 (Degustation menu offered at $65).
Our review: We paid $135 at dinner time for 2 starters, 2 entree, 1 dessert, bottled water, taxes and gratuity. On average, we paid $60 for breakfast. We did enjoyed our breakfasts more than our dinner because of the amazing view and fresh vibe that were present in the first hours of the day. The food was decent, the service attentive, but the scenery is definitely stealing the show.
La Mer (Gastronomical restaurant)
Open everyday for dinner (6pm to 10pm)
Reservation required: (808) 923-2311
Long-sleeved collared shirt or jacket required for gentlemen. La Mer restricts patrons to adults and children 8 years and older.
Price: Three courses menu $95, Four courses menu $125, Six courses menu $140, Degustation menu $165, A la carte.
Our review: We paid $280 for 2 three course menu, 2 glasses of Whispering Angel rosé, Evian, taxes and gratuity. We enjoyed our food at La Mer, as well as the beautiful scenery and the excellent service. However, we found the meal to be really overpriced. If you do frequent regularly Michelin star rated restaurants, you may have to lower you expectations while still having to pay the same price. Overall, La Mer is worth giving a try, especially if you want to impress your date and don't mind the price tag. You will have a very romantic soirée.
Interactive map
Check out our interactive map of Hawaii to see where I took all the pictures featured in this article.
