A New Family Option Comes to Oahu
Fans of luxury travel know Halekulani on Oahu is one of the Hawai’ian Islands’ most posh and iconic properties. Come fall 2019, a new sister hotel, Halepuna Waikiki by Halekulani, will offer another option for families looking for something special.
Frequent visitors to Waikiki will recognize the site of the new boutique property, formerly the Waikiki Parc Hotel, but that’s about all they’ll recognize. Work has already begun on the multimillion dollar renovation, spearheaded by New York City-based firm Champalimaud.
Once completed, the hotel will feature 288 guestrooms and suites, a three-meal restaurant, a fitness center and a hospitality lounge. As soon as guests arrive, they’ll know they’re in Hawai’i, thanks to the lobby decor, which will showcase artwork in partnership with the Honolulu Museum of Art. Design elements like teak finishes, vaulted ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows will add to the hotel’s island vibe.
The real star attraction will be the private eighth-floor lounge area, accessible exclusively to hotel guests, featuring a raised wood pool deck, an infinity lap-style swimming pool, Jacuzzi, poolside bar and private cabanas with ocean views. The eighth floor will also house an expansive fitness center and hospitality lounge connecting to an open-air lana’i garden.
Halepuna Waikiki © Halekulani + Champalimaud
Guests will have a chance to mingle with locals at the new restaurant off the lobby, complete with an open-air kitchen, outdoor terrace encircled with tropical landscaping and a separate chocolate kitchen. The eatery will serve a refined breakfast buffet and offer a la carte lunch and dinner daily.
Families not familiar with Waikiki and who might imagine an overtouristed, kitschy destination, will likely be surprised by the serene location of the property, which will be located on a quiet side street along one of the world’s most popular beaches and directly across from Halekulani. And, while undeniably upscale, the hotel, like the spirit of Hawai’i itself, it is relaxed and welcoming to visitors of all ages.
That said, all the fun of the island is at your doorstep and includes everything from surfing and beachcombing to shopping or simply relaxing in the sun.
“Halepuna, which translates to ‘house of welcoming waters’ is inspired by the legacy of our famed Halekulani,” said Halepuna Waikiki general manager Julie Arigo. “Our goal is to offer a refined retreat in the heart of Waikiki where Hawaiian traditions, warm, engaging service and fine design enrich every guest room, dining experience and amenity.”
