Charming hotel, great location, mostly friendly staff We came to the Royal Hawaiian for our honeymoon and had a great experience. There are some kinks due to COVID / limited capacity, but all in all we had a great time! By day 2, we figured out how to get seats at the pool and beach and were all set. Mamo and Kaci at the pool were fantastic and so friendly! Some of the guests were pretty rude, but they always maintained a smile and friendly service. The breakfast at Surf Lanai was just okay and a bit overpriced. The food and drinks at the Mai Tai Bar were delicious and had hearty portions. It was perfect for poolside lunch. Some of the staff at the bar seemed a bit inconvenienced and overwhelmed, but I supposed dealing with demanding guests and COVID regulations can do that to you. The location of the hotel can’t be beat. It’s within walking distance to many of Waikiki’s best shops and restaurants. We hope to be back soon!

A tropical oasis.... What an amazing property. The history and dignified setting imbue so much charm and calm. Attentiveness of the staff is off the charts. From our initial check in with Avis (who has some of the best "soft skills" I've experienced in hospitality) the quality of our staff interactions was tremendous. Every staff member embodied the spirit of Aloha, so genuine and welcoming. Always felt like we were the most important guests at the resort. So many standout staff members. We loved our visits with Kaci one of the exemplary poolside servers. Beyond attentive, very kind to our children and anticipated needs before we voiced them, again giving the sense that we were her number one priority. Also at the pool great service from "Famous" Donna of Waikiki Beach Services. Giving great service coupled with helpful tips. Can't wait to go back!

Beautiful Hotel, but... Beautiful hotel, fairly quiet. Hotel front staff is limited, not much help there. No concierge available as they only use an outside contracted agency. You have to make a paid advance reservation for beach chairs and pool cabanas. Business kiosks there cost $1 a minute! Loved our ocean view room and our housekeeper Elsa. Ate at their Mai Tai restaurant/bar twice...good food and service, limited menu, expensive.

Pink Palace Currently staying here. Read a lot of reviews of the Royal Hawaiian hotel so was hesitant to stay here because of the negative reviews. I am so glad we came here!! Everyone is so friendly, courteous, and efficient. Sandra at the front desk helped me get a beautiful room. The waiters and bartenders at the Man Tai bar are great. Best Mai Tai's and Pina Coladas!! Rooms were clean. Didn't stay in lines for a long time except for the umbrella lines which is a different company, but they are very efficient and courteous too. Loving it here for sure!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Platinum members and above get free buffet style continental breakfast with coffee or fresh juice at the Surf Lani . Dinner time you receive free appetizer and 2 drinks.

Five days and four nights at Hawaii's Grand Dame. Check-in: I was met at the entrance by several uniformed personnel, one of whom opened the taxi door. My luggage was immediately put on a cart and I was given a ticket while being ushered to a check-in counter. The process of actual registration was efficient and friendly; I waited in my room less than five minutes before my luggage was delivered. (4/5) Room: Upgraded to a king in the historic building with a garden view (thanks!). Nice blend of modern convenience with indigenous accents. The room had everything you would expect in a hotel of this caliber (Luxury Collection bedding, organic bath amenities, flat screen TV, etc.) in addition to some that were a surprise (beautiful ceiling fan, carved wooden doors, etc.). Everything was functional for the duration of my stay and housekeeping was flawless. (5/5) Facilities/shops: Welcome to the machine. With over 500 rooms in the historic wing and main tower (i.e. a surplus of wealthy clientele) there are innumerable shops adjoining the hotel but also a spa, fitness center, and beach services for the guests. I can vouch for the spa and beach services being top notch as I used them regularly during my stay. (5/5) Service: Unfailingly polite from check-in to check-out, including all restaurants and the bakery. All of the staff were attentive and made appropriate small talk; there was no language barrier. All questions asked about shopping and dining were answered on the spot. As a large hotel there wasn’t quite the personalized attention of an 80-100 room establishment where they get to know your name over time but one has to be realistic. (4/5) Location: You are at the epicenter of enjoyment on Waikiki. Busy during the day, quiet in the morning, and romantic at night. (5/5) Cost: All of the above, obviously, is not cheap and probably never has been. Costly but not excessively so. (3/5) Summary: If you want a buzzing, historic hotel with excellent service on one of the world’s iconic beaches this is your place. I will definitely be back when I’m in Honolulu. Highly recommended if you can afford it.