The Pink Palace and Kona's Gem: Hawaii's Must-Visit Resorts
Hawaii, a tropical paradise that captivates travelers with its pristine beaches, lush landscapes, and warm aloha spirit. Among its many attractions, two resorts stand out: The Royal Hawaiian and Royal Kona Resort. These iconic destinations offer a unique blend of luxury, heritage, and natural beauty. Let's dive into what makes these resorts special and answer some burning questions about them.
The Royal Hawaiian: Waikiki's Pink Icon
Why is The Royal Hawaiian Famous?
The Royal Hawaiian, affectionately known as "The Pink Palace of the Pacific," is more than a luxury resort. Opened in 1927, it was one of the first high-end accommodations on Waikiki Beach. Its fame stems from:
- Historic Significance: Built on land once used by Hawaiian royalty
- Iconic architecture: Blend of Spanish-Moorish and Polynesian styles
- Celebrity appeal: Hosted stars like Marilyn Monroe and Frank Sinatra
- Timeless elegance: Maintains its reputation for luxury and privacy
The Royal Hawaiian's Beach Experience
While Hawaii law ensures all beaches are public, The Royal Hawaiian offers:
- Prime beachfront location on Waikiki
- Exclusive beach services for guests
- Private cabanas and reserved beach areas
Hollywood's Love Affair with The Royal Hawaiian
The hotel's charm has attracted filmmakers for decades. Notable movies filmed here include:
- "From Here to Eternity" (1953)
- "50 First Dates" (2004)
The Story Behind the Pink
The Royal Hawaiian's distinctive pink color:
- Chosen in 1927 to stand out from other luxury properties
- Nods to Spanish-Moorish architecture
- Embodies tropical exoticism and playfulness
- Now an iconic symbol of the hotel
Royal Kona Resort: Big Island's Oceanfront Haven
Royal Kona's Unique Beach Situation
While Royal Kona Resort doesn't have a traditional sandy beach, it offers:
- Direct ocean access for swimming and snorkeling
- A private saltwater lagoon
- Man-made sandy area for sunbathing
- Proximity to famous beaches like Magic Sands and Kahalu'u Beach Park
Swimming at Royal Kona Resort
Guests can enjoy various swimming options:
- Private saltwater lagoon
- Direct ocean access (with caution due to rocky coastline)
- Stunning outdoor pool
Kona's Most Beautiful Beaches
While staying at Royal Kona, don't miss:
- Hapuna Beach: Crystal-clear waters and powdery white sand
- Magic Sands Beach: Popular for bodysurfing and its changing shoreline
Hawaiian Beach Facts
- All Hawaiian beaches are public by law
- No privately owned beaches in Hawaii
- Niihau is the only privately owned Hawaiian island
Conclusion
Whether you choose The Royal Hawaiian's historic elegance or Royal Kona Resort's laid-back charm, you're in for an unforgettable Hawaiian experience. These resorts offer unique ways to enjoy Hawaii's natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. From Waikiki's famous shores to Kona's rugged coastline, your perfect Hawaiian getaway awaits.
