Hotel Review: Queen Kapi’olani Hotel, Hawaii

Suite: Diamond Head View Room | Size: 28-32 square metres | Price: From A$486 per night | Details: queenkapiolani.com

Hotel

Named after the wife of the last reigning King of Hawaii, the Queen Kapi‘olani in Waikiki is the perfect hotel to sit back and relax in – a double dose of luck, given it’s located in the perfect destination to sit back and relax in. The hotel’s $35 million renovation was completed in 2018, and included a complete refurbishment of all rooms as well as the restaurant and bar. The result is laid-back luxury with a strong summer vibe, which hits as soon as you step into the lobby. Open and inviting, the lobby’s walls are adorned with commissioned art, photographs and posters of yesteryear celebrating the golden era of Waikiki.

Suite

Queen Kapi‘olani offers nine different accommodation styles, including the top- shelf Grand Leahi and Penthouse suites. Our Diamond Head View room provided ample space with a king bed plus sofa bed, a small lanai (balcony) and all the comforts you would expect from a hotel of this standing. The refurbishment introduced new furniture throughout and the cool-blue palette espouses relaxation. Add the uninterrupted view to the famous Diamond Head volcano and you are certainly travelling in style.

Locale

Queen Kapi‘olani is located on Kapahulu Avenue opposite Honolulu Zoo and only a few hundred metres from the alluring blue waters and iconic surf breaks of famous Waikiki Beach. Despite its proximity to the main shopping and dining precinct, the hotel provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki’s crowds.

Eat in

Located on Level 3, DECK bar and grill is open all day and into the evening. Serving fresh Hawaiian-style cuisine with an expansive indoor and outdoor setting, it is an ideal place to sit back and relax with a cocktail or beer thanks to the sweeping view over the zoo through to Diamond Head. Located in the lobby, Knots Coffee Roasters is cool café by day and chic small bar by night.

Special Touches

The hotel’s second floor is home to the Royal Art Gallery, showcasing original portraits of Hawaiian ali‘i (royalty), including Queen Kapi‘olani herself. The collection is striking and unique, and well worth a visit, particularly if you are interested in Hawaiian history. The work of local artists Mike Field, Nick Kuchar and Katie Borden is also featured throughout the hotel, adding colour and vibrancy. Another highlight is the hotel staff. Queen Kapi‘olani is a well-positioned launchpad for all manner of activities in Waikiki or wider Oahu island and the knowledgeable concierge team is only too happy to help.