Choosing the Perfect Room at Halekulani Hawaii: Ocean Views and Selection Tips

Halekulani Hawaii Room Highlights: A Comprehensive Guide

What is Halekulani?

Halekulani is a luxury hotel located on Waikiki Beach, Oahu, Hawaii. Its name, which means “House Befitting Heaven” in Hawaiian, reflects the unparalleled service and luxurious accommodations it offers.

Established in 1917, Halekulani has been a beloved destination for celebrities and notable figures over the years.

It is one of Hawaii’s most iconic hotels, renowned for its prime oceanfront location, where guests can enjoy panoramic views of the blue ocean and white sandy beaches.

From its rooms, guests can fully immerse themselves in the open and relaxing Hawaiian atmosphere.

Beyond the stunning scenery, Halekulani stands out for its impeccable service, sophisticated spaces, and top-quality amenities. A stay at Halekulani is truly a “heavenly” experience.

The History of Halekulani

The origins of Halekulani date back to 1883, when Robert Lewers built a beach house on Waikiki Beach.

Initially a modest structure, it became known as “Halekulani” due to its welcoming reputation among local fishermen, meaning “House Befitting Heaven.”

In 1907, it operated as a residential hotel called “Hau Tree.” In 1917, the property was purchased by Juliet and Clifford Kimball, who renamed it “Halekulani.”

In the 1980s, a major renovation transformed Halekulani into the luxurious hotel it is today.

This upgrade introduced a more refined and elegant space, attracting visitors from around the world.

Throughout its long history, Halekulani has maintained its commitment to offering the highest levels of service and hospitality.

Who Owns Halekulani Hawaii?

Halekulani Hawaii is owned by Mitsui Fudosan, a Japanese real estate company.

In 1981, Mitsui Fudosan acquired Halekulani, followed by a large-scale renovation in 1983 that shaped its current form.

Mitsui Fudosan has preserved Halekulani’s traditions and prestige while continually striving to deliver top-tier service to its guests.

How Many Halekulani Hotels Are There Worldwide?

1. Halekulani (Hawaii)

Located on Waikiki Beach in Oahu, this flagship hotel boasts 453 luxurious rooms and offers world-class service befitting its name, “House Befitting Heaven.”

2. Halekulani Okinawa (Japan)

Opened in 2019, this is the first Halekulani property in Japan. Located in Onna Village, Okinawa, it offers a tranquil retreat in harmony with the surrounding nature.

3. Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani (Hawaii)

Opened in October 2019, this sister property features 288 rooms. While maintaining Halekulani’s signature elegance, it offers a more casual and modern atmosphere.

Is Halekulani a 5-Star Hotel?

Halekulani in Hawaii and Halekulani Okinawa have both received the prestigious 5-star rating from the Forbes Travel Guide.

Halekulani Hawaii earned this accolade in 2022 and 2023, highlighting its excellence in hospitality.

Forbes Travel Guide rigorously evaluates over 900 criteria, making the 5-star rating a significant achievement.

Both Halekulani properties excel in room comfort, restaurant quality, and staff hospitality, solidifying their reputation as some of the world’s finest hotels.

How Many Rooms Does Halekulani Have?

Halekulani has 453 rooms, divided into three main categories:

1. Oceanfront

• Diamond Head Oceanfront: Rooms offering stunning views of Diamond Head and the Pacific Ocean.
• Oceanfront: Rooms with uninterrupted views of the ocean.

2. Ocean View

• Ocean View: Rooms facing the ocean directly.
• Partial Ocean View: Rooms with a partial view of the ocean.

3. Other Views

• Garden Courtyard View: Rooms overlooking lush courtyards, providing a serene atmosphere.
• City View: Rooms with views of the vibrant Waikiki cityscape.

Halekulani also features 42 suites, each offering unique designs and spacious layouts. These suites provide separate living and dining areas and private balconies with breathtaking views, making them perfect for special occasions.

Features of Halekulani Rooms (From Highest Price)

Category: Suite Rooms

• Halekulani Suite (Approx. 260㎡)
  The most luxurious suite with breathtaking views of Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head. Features a spa-like bathroom with exotic wood and fine stone finishes for ultimate relaxation.
• Ocean Suite (Approx. 151㎡)
  Overlooks the ocean through lush gardens. A spacious balcony offers a tranquil space to unwind.
• Other Suites (75㎡ and above)
  Includes a variety of suites, each with unique features such as separate living and dining areas and private balconies, offering the comfort of a home.

Category: Oceanfront

• Diamond Head Oceanfront (46㎡)
  Offers unobstructed views of both Diamond Head and the ocean.
• Oceanfront (46㎡)
  Provides uninterrupted ocean views for a serene experience.

Category: Ocean View

• Ocean View (46㎡)
  Rooms directly facing the ocean.
• Partial Ocean View (46㎡)
  Rooms with partial views of the ocean.

Category: Others

• Garden Courtyard View (46㎡)
  Overlooks the serene and lush courtyard for a tranquil ambiance.
• City View (46㎡)
  Provides a view of the vibrant Waikiki cityscape.

Halekulani Room Rates (USD and JPY)

Halekulani Hawaii Rooms: Spaces for a Luxurious Stay

What Are the Bed Sizes at Halekulani Hawaii?

The bed sizes at Halekulani Hawaii vary depending on the room type.

• Standard Rooms:
  Rooms like the “Garden Courtyard View” and “Partial Ocean View” come with either one king-size bed (183cm x 203cm) or two double beds (137cm x 190cm).
• Suite Rooms:
  Suite rooms typically feature a king-size bed or double beds, with some also offering a sofa bed. The size of the sofa bed depends on the room type.

Additionally, some rooms offer connecting options or are designed to accommodate guests with accessibility needs.

For more details, please refer to the official website.

Halekulani Hawaii Airport Transfer Services and Fees

Halekulani provides a paid airport transfer service between Honolulu International Airport and the hotel. Below are the details and benefits of the service:

Transfer Service Fees (One-Way)

• Sedan (up to 3 passengers): $195 + tax
• SUV (up to 5 passengers): $245 + tax
• Limousine (up to 7 passengers): $345 + tax

Note: Tips are not included. A gratuity of 15–20% of the total fare is customary.

Benefits of Using the Transfer Service

• Smooth Transit: Ideal for travelers with heavy luggage, as drivers assist with loading and unloading.
• Private Space: Enjoy a relaxed journey in a dedicated vehicle to the hotel.

How to Book the Transfer Service

Reservations must be made in advance through Halekulani’s official website or reservation center.

Early booking is recommended to secure availability.

Alternative Transportation: Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

• Taxi
  • Fare: Approximately $40–$50 one way (subject to traffic conditions).
  • Travel Time: About 30 minutes.
  • Note: Passengers need to handle their own luggage.
• Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft)
  • Fare: Similar to taxis or slightly cheaper ($30–$40 one way).
  • Features: Easy to book through an app, though fares may vary during peak times.

Which Option Should You Choose?

Consider the following when deciding between the hotel transfer service and alternatives:

• Budget: The hotel transfer is more expensive but offers added comfort and convenience.
• Group Size: For larger groups, SUVs or limousines are ideal.
• Convenience: The transfer service is a better choice for travelers with heavy luggage or families with small children.

Using Halekulani’s transfer service ensures a comfortable and seamless start to your trip.

Alternatively, taxis and ride-sharing services offer more budget-friendly options.

Halekulani Hawaii Restaurants and Bars

Halekulani offers five unique dining establishments, each delivering exceptional cuisine and service.

Guests can enjoy breathtaking oceanfront views while savoring their meals.

1. La Mer

• Cuisine: French Fine Dining
• Highlights:
  • Recognized with a 5-star rating by Forbes Travel Guide.
  • Features exquisite French cuisine made with fresh Hawaiian ingredients, perfect for a special evening.
• Location: Oceanfront

2. Orchids

• Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired dishes
• Highlights:
  • A main dining option serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Famous for its lavish Sunday brunch.
  • Offers stunning views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.
• Location: Oceanfront

3. House Without A Key

• Cuisine: Casual Dining
• Highlights:
  • Set under a 100-year-old Kiawe tree, this restaurant offers casual dining with views of Waikiki Beach.
  • Enjoy Hawaiian music performances and hula shows.
• Location: Along Waikiki Beach

4. Lewers Lounge

• Cuisine: Bar Lounge
• Highlights:
  • A sophisticated venue featuring live jazz performances.
  • Serves afternoon tea and signature cocktails.
• Location: Lounge Area

5. Orchids Bar

• Cuisine: Bar
• Highlights:
  • Offers tropical cocktails and light snacks in a relaxed oceanfront setting.
• Location: Within Orchids Restaurant

Each dining option at Halekulani offers the hallmark refined service and top-quality cuisine that the hotel is renowned for. Check the official website for the latest details.

Breakfast Options at Halekulani Hawaii

1. Orchids

• Features:
  • Located with stunning views of Diamond Head and Waikiki Beach.
  • Serves a buffet breakfast with diverse options, including Japanese, Western, and Hawaiian dishes.
  • Offers gluten-free and low-carb menu options for health-conscious guests.
• Price: Approx. $60 per person for the buffet.
• Hours: Monday–Saturday, 7:00 AM–11:00 AM
• Atmosphere: Elegant and formal, ideal for a special start to the day.

2. House Without A Key

• Features:
  • A casual all-day dining venue with a relaxed atmosphere and ocean views.
  • Popular breakfast items include pancakes, eggs benedict, and French toast, along with made-to-order egg dishes.
• Price: A la carte menu priced between $30–$50.
• Hours:
  • Monday–Saturday: 7:00 AM–10:30 AM
  • Sundays & Holidays: 7:00 AM–11:30 AM
• Atmosphere: Enjoy breakfast with Hawaiian music playing in the background.

3. Room Service

• Features:
  • Enjoy a private breakfast in your room or on the lanai (balcony).
  • Choose from buffet or a la carte options.
• Price: Service fees apply based on the selected menu.
• Benefits: Ideal for guests seeking a relaxed and private morning experience.

Tips for Enjoying Breakfast at Halekulani

• Scenic Views: Every breakfast option offers stunning ocean views.
• Health-Conscious Menus: Both buffet and a la carte options cater to dietary needs like gluten-free or low-carb meals.
• Personalized Experience: Choose “Orchids” or “House Without A Key” for outdoor views or room service for a private and tranquil start to your day.

Breakfast at Halekulani is more than a meal—it’s an experience that elevates your stay.

Choose the style that suits you best and start your day with luxury.

Tips for Booking a Room at Halekulani Hawaii

1. Booking Directly on the Official Website

Booking directly through the official Halekulani website is a convenient option.

On the official site, you can check real-time room availability and enjoy the following perks:

• Early Booking Discounts: Special rates available for reservations made in advance.
• Long-Stay Discounts: Reduced rates for extended stays beyond a certain number of nights.
• Exclusive Promotions: Special rates and offers available during specific periods.

Booking through the official website also allows for greater flexibility in managing reservations and making special requests, ensuring a smooth planning process.

2. Using Online Travel Agencies (OTAs)

Platforms like Rakuten Travel, Booking.com, and other OTAs provide another way to book Halekulani. Advantages of using OTAs include:

• Price Comparison: Easily compare various plans in one place.
• Discounted Rates: Occasionally, OTAs offer lower rates than the official site.
• User Reviews: Access to past guests’ experiences and feedback.

However, reservation conditions and cancellation policies may be stricter than those on the official website, so it’s important to review them carefully beforehand.

3. Booking Through a Travel Agency

Travel agencies offer the convenience of handling bookings and specific requests on your behalf, making them a great choice for first-time visitors to Hawaii.

• Package Deals: Take advantage of cost-effective packages that combine accommodation and flights.
• Support: Agencies handle booking procedures and modifications for you.
• Exclusive Campaigns: Some agencies offer their own discounts or special perks.

Using major travel agencies or specialized tour companies can simplify the planning process while potentially saving you time and effort.

Tips for Booking at the Best Rate

1. Target Off-Season Periods

Avoid peak seasons like Christmas, New Year, and Golden Week. Consider traveling during the quieter fall or spring months to benefit from significantly reduced rates.

2. Take Advantage of Promotions and Special Offers

Check for promotions on the official website or campaigns offered by travel agencies to secure discounted rates.

3. Consider Early Booking

Making reservations well in advance can not only help you save money but also increase the likelihood of securing your preferred room type.

4. Use Points and Credit Card Benefits

Leverage travel points or credit card rewards to further reduce the cost of your stay.

5. Opt for Package Deals

Booking flights and accommodation as part of a package can often be more cost-effective than arranging each separately.

Summary of Halekulani Hawaii Rooms

• Halekulani means “House Befitting Heaven” in Hawaiian.
• Airport transfer service is available (Sedan: $195, Limousine: $345).
• Offers 453 rooms with two bed types: king-size and twin beds.
• Amenities like shampoo and slippers can be taken home (bathrobes are excluded).
• Breakfast is served at “Orchids” (buffet) and “House Without A Key” (à la carte).
• “La Mer” is a 5-star French restaurant.
• Room rates start at $600–$1,500+ per night (excluding taxes).
• Early booking and long-stay discounts are available on the official website.
• Costs can be reduced by traveling during the off-season (fall/spring) or using package deals.
• No resort fee is charged, but a Hawaii state tax of 17.962% applies.
• A maid service fee of approximately $9–$10 per room per night is added.