3 Essential Summertime Experiences Found Only at ‘Alohilani Resort

Photo: View from Queen’s Arbor, Courtesy of ‘Alohilani Resort

Whether you’re kama‘āina or on a summertime getaway, it can be tough to decide where’s best soak up the sun and the best of what Waikīkī has to offer. Tasty bites and freshly crafted libations are a must, while the ease of switching up the scenery on a whim, with different options for any mood, is just as important. ‘Alohilani Resort stands out from the bunch for being not only adored by visitors, but loved by locals, too. With beautiful, recently renovated spaces, comfy-yet-modern room options, amazing restaurants and bars, and quite possibly Waikīkī’s most Instagrammable pool experience—‘Alohilani Resort offers a little bit of everything with a lot of fun and finesse.

Of all the options that ‘Alohilani gives you to live your best life, these three one-of-a-kind experiences will have you coming back summer after summer. Plan an event at Queen’s Arbor located oceanside in the Kūhiō Beach Arbors, cheers to oyster hour with some bubbly at O Bar, then chill by the fire at SWELL with live music and an elevated local art experience.

‘Alohilani Resort is located on Lili‘uokalani Avenue, the namesake of Queen Lili‘uokalani, the last reigning monarch of Kingdom of Hawai‘i. Queen’s Arbor is dedicated to the memory of Lili‘uokalani and is the setting for a serene al fresco experience.

Photo: ‘Alohilani Mai Tai, Courtesy of ‘Alohilani Resort

Just down the steps from the main lobby, centered around Waikīkī’s only private salt water oceanarium is O Bar. What’s a coffee bar by day turns into a fun, relaxed gathering place for guests and locals at sundown. How do you make happy hour even better? That’s easy, make it an oyster hour: O Bar’s newest pau hana features freshly shucked oysters for just $1.50 a piece! You can also enjoy refreshing cocktails like the ‘Alohilani Mai Tai, or just sip on a glass of bubbly while you fill up on everyone’s favorite ocean delicacy. Other pūpū like the ‘ahi tuna mango tartar, sake marinated steak bites and even clam chowder make this daily happening an event not to be missed. Hang out with friends or just have a moment to yourself while live music eases you into nightfall, which is when the real fun begins.

Photo: Monument of Light, Courtesy of ‘Alohilani Resort

On the weekends you can head over to SWELL and enjoy a live DJ soundtrack to your dip in the famous infinity pool. Look over Waikīkī from all over the expansive pool deck or find an intimate table to enjoy. Come evening, sip on cocktails by the fire pits as SWELL transforms into a swanky hang out complete with tasty plates. Live music during the week surrounds you with a truly unique ambience while some of Honolulu’s hottest DJ talent gets the party started on the weekend. How could it get any cooler? Only at SWELL, the Monument of Light art installation will have you almost forgetting you’re in the middle of bustling Waikīkī. Local visual artist Joseph Pa‘ahana is responsible for the enthralling images collected from around the island that bathe an adjoining wall, creating the ultimate backdrop for a night out. “It’s a magic thing that’s happening,” says Pa‘ahana. And, indeed, a visit to SWELL is nothing short of magical, the perfect place to soak up one-of-a-kind nightlife vibes to end long summer days.

Why do locals love ‘Alohilani Resort? Because of awesome kama‘āina perks like Love Hawai‘i—the ultimate staycation experience. With proof of a local ID you can enjoy your stay without having to worry about the nightly resort amenity fee (a $48 per day value), receive free self-parking daily for one vehicle per room (currently $48 per day) and early check-in at 11 a.m. and late checkout at 3 p.m. Plus, you could be eligible for 500 HawaiianMiles per night and ‘Alohilani will donate $10 per night in support of a local nonprofit organization. Name a better deal for locals in the heart of Waikīkī, I’ll wait. Book and stay now through Dec. 23, 2022 (blackout dates may apply, subject to availability).

For more information, visit alohilaniresort.