Hilton first made itself known in Hawaii in 1961, when a Waikiki resort called Kaiser’s Hawaiian Village Hotel was rebranded as Hilton Hawaiian Village. Since then, the company’s properties have grown and thrived across the islands. According to Jerry Gibson, area vice president for Hilton Worldwide in Hawaii, many of its accomplishments stem from its ability to meet the changing needs of visitors.
“Hawaii appeals to so many different types of travelers, from families and foodies to outdoor lovers,” Gibson said.
All of those markets have found a home at Hilton, he says, adding that the chain has also enjoyed success by showcasing Hawaii’s unique culture.
“We look at Hawaii as a series of experiences for our guests,” Gibson said. “If, at the end of the day, our visitors feel that they were in the right place at the right time and got great value for their experiences, then we will be the hotels of choice when they return.”
Here’s a look some recent ways that Hawaii’s Hiltons are showing the love.
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Alana Waikiki Beach, Oahu
The hotel’s newest tenant, Hiking Hawaii Cafe, wears two hats. It serves healthful food such as acai bowls, wraps and salads, and it arranges hiking tours and adventures around Oahu. It’s located on the hotel’s lower level.
Embassy Suites Waikiki Beach Walk, Oahu
Guests can now take part in free one-hour yoga classes on the resort’s Grand Lanai. For clients who prefer to practice their poses at other times of the day or night, the hotel has started offering a 24-hour in-suite yoga video channel.
Grand Naniloa Hotel Hilo, a DoubleTree by Hilton, Hawaii Island
Managed by Aqua-Aston Hospitality, this rebranded hotel is making Hilo headlines. A $20 million restoration has resulted in upgraded rooms, a waterfront restaurant, a poolside bar, a fitness center, lively shops and historical installations.
Grand Wailea, Maui
In September, the resort launched a custom craft beer called Grand Wailea Gose, on tap at four restaurants and lounges. Watch for the New Year’s Eve debut of its Hawaiian Room, an exciting new entertainment venue starring local singer Amy Hanaialii Gilliom.
Hampton Inn & Suites Oahu/Kapolei
Hawaii’s inaugural Hampton Inn and Suites opened last September. The midprice southwest Oahu hotel provides the brand’s popular trademarks, such as free hot breakfast, signature beds and in-room power cubes that charge multiple devices at once.
Hilton Garden Inn Kauai Wailua Bay
Another 2016 addition, this resort offers 216 guestrooms, suites and two-room cottages boasting the brand’s distinctive bedding. Benefits include a full-service restaurant, flexible meeting space and an on-site gazebo that is perfect for weddings.
Hilton Garden Inn Waikiki Beach, Oahu
Oahu welcomed its first Hilton Garden Inn in mid-2016. Among the strengths of the 623-room hotel are a grab-and-go cafe and market, two fitness centers and an outdoor pool with food and drink service, all without a resort fee.
Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki Beach Resort, Oahu
The hotel has scored a hit with its History Wall, an 80-foot-long exhibit in the Tapa Tower with snapshots and stories from the past century. Next January brings the opening of The Alii, a rebrand of the Alii Tower with special amenities and privileges. Also, the resort has renewed its “Hawaii Five-0” partnership, so future episodes of the television show will be filmed on-property.
Hilton Waikiki Beach, Oahu
M.A.C. 24/7 Bar + Restaurant, the hotel’s anchor restaurant, is whetting appetites with its round-the-clock menu. Honolulu Magazine editors recently dubbed it the “Best Late Night Breakfast” and featured it in their “Best of Honolulu” issue.
Hilton Waikoloa Village, Hawaii Island
The new Hale ‘ike concept at the resort’s Palace Tower is composed of 369 renovated guestrooms and 26 suites that engage the senses, with perks such as a digital concierge who prearranges stays. For beer lovers, Hilton Waikoloa just converted its Malolo Lounge to Kona Tap Room and has a partnership with Kona Brewing Co. in Hawaii.
The Details
Hilton Portfolio of Hotels in Hawaiiwww.hiltonhawaii.com
