Waikiki's 'Pink Palace' is getting a major remodel ahead of its 100th birthday
The Royal Hawaiian — the pink-stucco landmark that has anchored Waikiki Beach for nearly a century — is getting an extreme makeover, and it will be fully finished just in time for the hotel's 100th birthday in February 2027.
Known as the "Pink Palace of the Pacific," the hotel is staying open throughout the remodel, with sections shut down in a staged rotation. The good news for anyone who loves that famous blush facade: there are no plans to ditch the pink exterior.
What changes inside
All told, 528 rooms and suites are being redone. In the 349-room historic wing, refreshed rooms will get custom-carved furniture, dining tables for two and new bathrooms with glass shower doors and vanities. The hotel says each room "subtly nods to the golden age of travel," with styling that echoes vintage steamer trunks.
The six-story Mailani Tower, which opened in 1969, is getting a complete overhaul of its 179 rooms, including 11 suites — and every room faces the ocean with a private lanai. The lobby and public areas are also being lightened up with new fabrics and furnishings.
Fans of the property's history can relax on one detail: the hotel is keeping the historic wing's original wooden doors, carved with the Hawaii state seal.
How the hotel will mark 100 years
Around the anniversary, the hotel has announced a run of commemoration events — a special Royal Hawaiian Ahaaina Luau, the opening of a time capsule and a series of parties. Tickets go on sale Oct. 21.
"This once-in-a-generation milestone offers an opportunity to celebrate the Pink Palace of the Pacific's extraordinary heritage," said Nicole Okuna, general manager and just the fourth woman to lead the resort.
The Royal Hawaiian is part of Marriott's Honolulu portfolio, so it's bookable with Marriott Bonvoy points, which is handy if a centennial-era stay on Waikiki sounds like your kind of trip.
