They say you never forget your first love, and that's as true of hotels as it is of people. The place that first stole my heart was the Halekulani hotel.
My first visit to the Halekulani took place a few years after it opened in 1984 on Waikiki Beach. It drew me into a world of luxury, grace, and serenity that I had never before experienced and have not since forgotten.
It was the first time I didn't have to stand on line at a reception desk to check in; I was immediately greeted at the Halekulani by a front desk clerk, who led me up to my suite, filled out the paperwork for me after my long flight, and asked me what temperature I would prefer the water in my shower to be set.
I was immediately impressed by the spaciousness and cool elegance of my suite. As I went on to discover the many attributes of the Halekulani, including the dreamlike swimming pool overlooking Waikiki Beach and the outstanding La Mer restaurant, what struck me most was the lovely, gentle, and noiseless character of the staff. They knew without cue when they were needed and made themselves scarce when they were not.
After my stay at the Halekulani, it became the gold standard of excellence against which every hotel I've visited since is measured -- and it's a tough act to follow.
The refined and luxurious Halekulani has no special facilities to feed, accommodate, or entertain children (another plus for couples who want to vacation undisturbed).
What the Halekulani does have of interest to honeymoon couples and other romantics is a prime Waikiki location that feels removed from the hubbub of the beach; an AAA Five Diamond-award-winning restaurant open to the sea; a spa that offers side-by-side couples massages, facials, and manicures; and that incomparable level of service.
Search for a Flight to Honolulu
