Talk Story #17 – Royal Hawaiian Hotel Now a Proud Historic Hotel of America

The Royal Hawaiian Hotel opened 84 years ago and became known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific” still pink, but with another name to add to its long list of accolades. The hotel is now a member of the esteemed “Historic Hotels of America,” a program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

This beautiful icon from territorial bygone days was built on approximately 15 acres of coconut palm-fringed beach that was once the playground of the Hawaiian Royal Family hence her exalted name. It is still enjoyed by those choosing accommodations both elegant and gracious, desiring a different experience to the more modern high rise hotels.

I remember as a child growing up on Oahu, on any particular weekend, it was a wonderful treat to skip along on the curvy walkways and acres of tropical grounds with large shady trees and the smell of flowers. We would go through the entrance of the big hotel (I liked the pink color) from Kalakaua Ave. My mother would admonish me, “now, no running and be very polite and quiet.”

Periodically, we used the spacious main floor restroom for changing from Sunday school clothes to my swimming suit, then continue on out through the arched doorways to the large circle drive, to more gardens to Waikiki beach, ready to enjoy an afternoon of sun and playing.

In those mid-20th century days, there were no huge shopping center buildings or the other high rise hotels nearby, dwarfing the ambiance of graciousness and space.

With recent renovations and splendid appointments to retain the past elegance, and as a member of the prestigious national program, the Royal Hawaiian Hotel will become a major stop for those worldly travelers seeking out famous Historic Hotels.

I linked the name to the Hotel website, should you desire to learn more historical and current information. Of course, if one owned a property here on Oahu, why the Royal Hawaiian Hotel can still be enjoyed for its fine dining and other opportunities.

Are you looking for similar luxury oceanfront living nearby? Contact me and I will be most happy to send you a gallery of available properties. Just tell me whether it is residential or condominium you prefer, and any other criteria to narrow down your search. I look forward to assisting you. There is indeed history here, but also a future.

Aloha for now! Jeanne@Hawaiilife.com

Note: In Hawaii, there is often a gathering of family and friends, and in a casual way stories are told of that days happenings, or past events. We call it “Talk Story.” My continued series will be about different places around Oahu with a bit of their history, and the many opportunities for you today. I would love to hear about your personal Hawaii memories to share, perhaps during the territorial days, like I was, growing up out Koko Head way. Hawaii is a special place and so are the people. Follow me as we discover a lifestyle best suited for YOU. Whether it is a new military move, a casual beach house, a downsized retirement home, a golf course fronted resort home-away-from-home, a grand residence with superb view, or a high rise condominium, the choices and the Hawaii Life Real Estate Brokers resources are many. Contact me today with your interest, needs, and desires or let’s just “Talk Story!”