The history of Hawaii’s resorts began in 1901 with the opening of the Moana Hotel. This elegant, white-walled hotel still preserves the essence of its era. This spring, a brand-new hotel opened,  nviting exploration of the charms of both old and new hotels.

The History of Waikiki’s Resorts Began with This Hotel

In the heart of Waikiki Beach stands a building filled with the charm of the Victorian era. The Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, was the first hotel to grace Waikiki. Walking through its  orridors today allows you to step back into an elegant era.

In 1901, Walter Peacock, a prominent landowner, transformed a villa into the Moana Hotel. The Historic Banyan Wing facing today’s front is a restoration of the original structure, recognized on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Additionally, in 1904, the banyan tree planted in the courtyard was designated a special tree by the City and County of Honolulu.

In the early 20th century, as luxury liners began voyaging to Hawaii, the hotel thrived as a social hub, earning the nickname “First Lady of Waikiki.” In 1935, the radio program “Hawaii Calls” began broadcasting live under the banyan tree, sharing Hawaiian music worldwide and gaining popularity in Japan.

Step into the chandelier-lit lobby, adorned with historical photographs, offering a fascinating glimpse into the hotel’s past.

For accommodations, the Tower Wing offers excellent views, while opting for the Historic Banyan Wing prioritizes its distinctive charm.

Experience a taste of history with an acclaimed afternoon tea at The Veranda restaurant. Recently, their breakfast buffet, paused due to pandemic precautions, has resumed after three years. In the evening, enjoy live piano music and cocktails at Vintage 1901 Bar—a quintessential way to unwind at this hotel, truly capturing the essence of time preserved.

This Spring, a Newly Opened Hotel Featuring Luxurious Spa Facilities

A newly constructed large-scale hotel has emerged in Honolulu after a 20-year hiatus. Located in a towering building opposite Ala Moana Center, the hotel boasts exceptional views and state-of the-art wellness facilities.

This May, the newly opened Renaissance Honolulu Hotel & Spa has been making waves. ‘Renaissance’ is Marriott International’s upper-tier brand. Located across from Ala Moana Center at Sky Ala Moana, the hotel is housed in the East Tower of a newly completed, two 39-story skyscraper complex. The hotel spans floors 15 to 29 with rooms and suites, and floors 30 to 39 feature large kitchens, catering to long-term travelers in residence-style rooms.

As the name suggests, a major highlight of the hotel is its extensive spa and wellness facilities. On the 8th floor, a spacious sky deck connects the two towers and consolidates related services. In the center, there’s a large pool and a separate lap pool suitable for swimming.

Unique to the hotel is ‘OFURO SPA’, Oahu’s first Japanese-style bathhouse (swimsuit required), featuring a Himalayan rock salt sauna, steam room, cold plunge, treatment rooms, fitness center, and a yoga studio.

The guest rooms, being newly constructed, are notably comfortable and beautifully appointed.

Positioned on higher floors, they offer dynamic views through floor-to-ceiling windows. Each room includes a deep bathtub and a toilet with bidet function, complemented by Aveda bath amenities.

Public spaces adorned with artworks by Hiroshi Sugimoto exude a sophisticated, tranquil atmosphere.

Dining options include four venues, with MARA as the main dining choice, offering Mediterranean cuisine.

The Ala Moana area where the hotel is located is undergoing redevelopment, enhancing convenience. Experience the newest hotel stay in Hawaii right now.

Each Floor, One Guest: Modern Waikiki’s Premier Seating

Beyond the pool, there is nothing to obstruct the view, just the expanse of Waikiki Beach. Each of the 9 floors is designed exclusively for one guest, offering luxurious accommodations. This resort in the heart of Waikiki epitomizes the essence of luxury hotels.

The Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki opened in 2019. Previously, the building housed a 72- room hotel. The current owners redesigned it into a hotel with a unique concept: one floor, one unit, resulting in 9 units on the 9th floor. Each unit features either three bedrooms or two bedrooms plus a study. Every bedroom is equipped with a bathroom and a bidet toilet.

All units include a large kitchen, a wine cellar, and even a private jetted tub on the lanai (balcony). Additionally, all units except one feature a dry sauna. Each unit can accommodate up to 6 guests.

On the rooftop, there’s an infinity pool and the Espacio Spa, both available for private reservation only. At the poolside, guests can enjoy barbecue services provided by MUGEN dining. Recently, during sunset hours, the poolside has been opened to the public, offering champagne and caviar services upon request.

MUGEN dining, Hawaii’s only restaurant to receive Forbes’ five-star rating for three consecutive years, recently appointed Alan Wong, a prominent figure in Hawaii’s culinary scene, as its new consultant. The restaurant offers a sophisticated prix-fixe menu and has also introduced a glass service featuring the finest Champagne “Cristal,” available to the general public.

Each unit is served by a dedicated butler, offers complimentary chauffeur service to the airport, and arranges free luxury car rentals. The sense of exclusivity at Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki is unparalleled. The ultimate Hawaii stay is right here.

text / YOSHIAKI NIMURA, Photographs / AKIRA KUMAGAI, Coordinator / HISAKO SANJO