Hawaii hotels: Old charm and new pizzazz

Behind these curtained cabanas lies The Royal Hawaiian in all her flamingo pink glory.

By Nancy LaFever

Whether you’re looking for luxury and contemporary, up-to-the-minute-amenities in a resort or the quaint charm of an older hotel, you can find both in Oahu, with the amazing choices of wonderful Honolulu hotels.

The Royal Hawaiian
With its seamless blend of history and panache from the early 1930s and a recent million-dollar resort renovation, The Royal Hawaiian “Pink Palace of the Pacific” will leave you breathless. Enjoy an ocean-front suite and gaze out at Waikiki beach.

Although the renovated areas are wonderful, you may opt to stay in one of the Historic Wings. This is old Hawaii, playing up the hotel’s location, which was the site of Queen Kaahumanu’s summer palace. The room’s four-poster canopy beds and heavy carved wooden doors will transport you back in time.

No matter which luxury-styled suite you choose, be sure and stop by the Mai Tai Bar for its namesake drink, which the bartender will tell you was created there.

The Lotus at Diamond Head (formerly W Honolulu)
A comfortable boutique hotel, a bit removed from the hustle of Waikiki, the Lotus at Diamond Head in Honolulu is perfect if you want a fantasy getaway spot that is still within walking distance to restaurants and shops. What is doesn’t have in amenities (no pool or restaurants), it makes up for with its unique character and unparalleled pampering from a gracious hotel staff. This hotel is also a great value for the more budget-conscious.

So if you aren’t resort types and won’t miss the pool, Diamond Head beach is a great substitute. Sit on your own lanai with your morning coffee and enjoy the quiet. You can head out to a club later. Or maybe you’ll just opt to walk along the beach.

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Nancy LaFever writes from the middle of landlocked Ohio, where she has convinced herself that the decking around her neighbor’s pool qualifies as “the beach.”

Tagged: Family time, Hawaii, Hotels