Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts, the brand’s first property in Hawaii, has made its debut following a US$100 million reimagining.
Led by Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, with architectural support from Guerin Glass Architects, the redesign introduces a layered material palette, bespoke furnishings and curated artwork inspired by the elemental landscape of Hawaii.
Set along the Honolulu coastline, the redesign spans public spaces, guestrooms, amenity floors and outdoor areas, creating a cohesive guest journey rooted in Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship while preserving the property’s original footprint.
Natural materials – including wood, lava stone, marble and woven textures – define the aesthetic, complemented by custom lighting and a curated art collection that celebrates the island’s cultural landscape. Featuring works by Marco Rountree, Christine Skaggs and Big Island ceramic artist Suzanne Wang, the collection is anchored by Wang’s sculptural installation Kūkulu Ola, which explores the elemental forces that connect all living things.
Enhancements also include a refreshed Spa Ka Laʻi, along with revitalised outdoor spaces that integrate sustainability through alternative materials and the preservation of original design elements.
The reimagined property features spacious guestrooms alongside a distinctive collection of 238 residential-style studios and suites, each designed to deliver an elevated sense of comfort, style and place.
Accommodations blend contemporary sophistication with subtle references to the natural beauty and craftsmanship of Hawaii, incorporating warm wood tones and richly textured teak and lava stone materials inspired by local artisanal traditions. Fully equipped kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms and private lanais that extend the living experience outdoors, offer sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean or Fort DeRussy Park.
Three distinct dining concepts introduce a fresh contemporary approach to the resort’s culinary programming, led by Executive Chef Yoshi Ohata, whose 20 years of experience and passion for Pacific Rim cuisine shape each venue’s unique identity.
The Kini Room, the resort’s 86-seat signature restaurant, offers a refined dining experience inspired by modern Hawaii and global culinary traditions.
Muse Lounge emerges as an intimate cocktail bar in the redesigned lobby, serving as the resort’s social hub, while Bloom Cafe & Restaurant, the resort’s breakfast destination, offers a garden-inspired setting overlooking Waikīkī.
“Hawaii has long held a special place in Hilton’s story, and with Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, this transformation marks an exciting evolution for both the LXR portfolio and Hilton Luxury globally,” says Dino Michael, Senior Vice President & Category Head, Luxury Brands, Hilton. “The experience guests have at Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach truly exemplifies the bespoke, personal service LXR is known for, paired with the spirit of Aloha. This new design further elevates that world-class experience, giving travellers new ways to discover the very best of the islands.”
Jason Grosfeld, Chairman and CEO, Irongate Group, the lifestyle-focused real estate firm behind a portfolio of design-driven destinations across Hawaii California, Colorado and Mexico, including Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, adds: “Elevated travel today is about how a place makes you feel. When it comes to hospitality, today’s discerning traveler is looking for more than just sophistication. They are seeking resorts where service feels authentic and experiences are rooted in the true character of the destination. With Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, we set out to create a modern expression of Hawaiian luxury that is authentic, immersive and distinctly of its place.”
