About This Hotel
About Us – The Kahala Hotel & Resort
A Timeless Legacy of Refined Hospitality
Since its grand opening on January 22, 1964, as the Kahala Hilton, this elegant resort has stood out as a premier luxury retreat—intentionally set apart from the bustle of Waikiki—designed by architects Edward Killingsworth, Jules Brady, and Waugh Smith.
It quickly elevated its prestige by drawing celebrities, heads of state, royalty, and every U.S. President from Lyndon B. Johnson onwards. Over the years, its name evolved—from the Kahala Hilton to the Kahala Mandarin Oriental in the 1990s, before settling into its current identity: The Kahala Hotel & Resort.
Today, under the ownership of Japan-based Resorttrust Group, the resort maintains its allure and legacy, even expanding internationally with a sister property in Yokohama, Japan.
Distinctive Features & Legendary Guests
Location & Architecture
This 6.5-acre oceanfront property features 800 feet of imported white-sand beach, meticulously protected by two man-made peninsulas. The striking lobby is adorned with 30-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, a vibrant orchid wall showcasing over 100 orchid varieties, and multi-colored Italian glass chandeliers.
Accommodation & Amenities
The resort includes 338 rooms and 32 suites, offering ocean and mountain views, spacious living areas, and luxuries such as plush robes, Wi-Fi, coffee/tea makers, and more. Guests enjoy a private lagoon harboring bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays. Dolphin Quest Oahu facilitates immersive experiences with the dolphins.
World-Class Dining
Culinary offerings span five celebrated venues:
Hoku’s – Global Hawaiian-inspired fine dining
Arancino – Classic and modern Italian specialties
Plumeria Beach House – Casual oceanfront dining across indoor/outdoor terraces
Seaside Grill – Beachside seafood, salads, and cocktails
The Veranda – Classic lounge with afternoon tea, cocktails, and live entertainment.
Spa & Wellness
The award-winning Kahala Spa weaves native Hawaiian healing practices into transformative treatments, offering rejuvenation for the mind, body, and soul.
Cultural Responsibility & Sustainability
The Kahala is deeply committed to environmental stewardship through its KISCA initiative—Kahala Initiative for Sustainability, Culture, and the Arts. This program supports sustainable tourism with locally sourced menu items, and partners with conservation nonprofits, encouraging guests to engage in educational and respectful travel practices.
In Popular Culture
Most recently, The Kahala starred in Disney’s 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch remake, doubling as the fictional "Hoomaluhia Resort and Spa." The Imperial Suite, featured in the film, is a top-tier two-bedroom suite priced at an astounding US $8,000 per night. The resort has also appeared in series like Magnum, P.I., NCIS: Hawaii, and various Hallmark films.
Guest Insights
On Reddit, a recent guest shared:
“It’s a 5-star hotel… the grounds are nice… the staff are attentive… the price is very very reasonable considering how nice the rooms and hotel are… They seem to stay busy without it ever feeling crowded.”
The review also mentions the thoughtfulness of valet service, room service efficiency, and the calm, less touristy setting outside of Waikiki—even as pointed out around their dolphin program, which some may find controversial
A Timeless Legacy of Refined Hospitality
Since its grand opening on January 22, 1964, as the Kahala Hilton, this elegant resort has stood out as a premier luxury retreat—intentionally set apart from the bustle of Waikiki—designed by architects Edward Killingsworth, Jules Brady, and Waugh Smith.
It quickly elevated its prestige by drawing celebrities, heads of state, royalty, and every U.S. President from Lyndon B. Johnson onwards. Over the years, its name evolved—from the Kahala Hilton to the Kahala Mandarin Oriental in the 1990s, before settling into its current identity: The Kahala Hotel & Resort.
Today, under the ownership of Japan-based Resorttrust Group, the resort maintains its allure and legacy, even expanding internationally with a sister property in Yokohama, Japan.
Distinctive Features & Legendary Guests
Location & Architecture
This 6.5-acre oceanfront property features 800 feet of imported white-sand beach, meticulously protected by two man-made peninsulas. The striking lobby is adorned with 30-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, a vibrant orchid wall showcasing over 100 orchid varieties, and multi-colored Italian glass chandeliers.
Accommodation & Amenities
The resort includes 338 rooms and 32 suites, offering ocean and mountain views, spacious living areas, and luxuries such as plush robes, Wi-Fi, coffee/tea makers, and more. Guests enjoy a private lagoon harboring bottlenose dolphins, sea turtles, and stingrays. Dolphin Quest Oahu facilitates immersive experiences with the dolphins.
World-Class Dining
Culinary offerings span five celebrated venues:
Hoku’s – Global Hawaiian-inspired fine dining
Arancino – Classic and modern Italian specialties
Plumeria Beach House – Casual oceanfront dining across indoor/outdoor terraces
Seaside Grill – Beachside seafood, salads, and cocktails
The Veranda – Classic lounge with afternoon tea, cocktails, and live entertainment.
Spa & Wellness
The award-winning Kahala Spa weaves native Hawaiian healing practices into transformative treatments, offering rejuvenation for the mind, body, and soul.
Cultural Responsibility & Sustainability
The Kahala is deeply committed to environmental stewardship through its KISCA initiative—Kahala Initiative for Sustainability, Culture, and the Arts. This program supports sustainable tourism with locally sourced menu items, and partners with conservation nonprofits, encouraging guests to engage in educational and respectful travel practices.
In Popular Culture
Most recently, The Kahala starred in Disney’s 2025 live-action Lilo & Stitch remake, doubling as the fictional "Hoomaluhia Resort and Spa." The Imperial Suite, featured in the film, is a top-tier two-bedroom suite priced at an astounding US $8,000 per night. The resort has also appeared in series like Magnum, P.I., NCIS: Hawaii, and various Hallmark films.
Guest Insights
On Reddit, a recent guest shared:
“It’s a 5-star hotel… the grounds are nice… the staff are attentive… the price is very very reasonable considering how nice the rooms and hotel are… They seem to stay busy without it ever feeling crowded.”
The review also mentions the thoughtfulness of valet service, room service efficiency, and the calm, less touristy setting outside of Waikiki—even as pointed out around their dolphin program, which some may find controversial
Hotel Amenities
Free WiFi
Air Conditioning
Room Service
Concierge
Surroundings
The Kahala Hotel & Resort Location
What's Nearby
Central Park
0.1 mi
Times Square
0.5 mi
Available Rooms
Standard Room
🛏️ Comfortable Bedding
👥 2-4 Guests
📐 Well-appointed
🚭 Non-smoking
Free WiFi
Air Conditioning
Room Service
Private Bath
$695
per night + taxes
Events
Guest Reviews
Sarah M.
Family with young children • August 2025
"Absolutely magical stay! The location is unbeatable and the staff went above and beyond to make our family vacation special. The kids loved the amenities, and we enjoyed the beautiful views. Worth every penny!"
👍 Loved: Location, Service, Family-friendly amenities
James R.
Business traveler • July 2025
"Classic luxury at its finest. Maintains old-world charm while providing modern amenities. The concierge service was exceptional, helping arrange all my business meetings."
👍 Loved: Service, Dining, Historic charm