Waikīkī, Hawaiʻi – Today, Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts, the brand’s first property in Hawaiʻi, debuts following a thoughtful $100 million reimagining, marking a new chapter for this landmark destination along the Honolulu coastline.

More than a redesign, the transformation elevates Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach into a fully realized resort destination defined by a profound sense of place. From the arrival experience and vibrant social spaces to reimagined accommodations and culinary offerings, every touchpoint has been thoughtfully crafted to weave together contemporary luxury, the spirit of Waikīkī, and the natural beauty and cultural legacy of Hawaiʻi.

Looking up at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with balconies, surrounded by palm trees against a clear blue sky.
Lobby area at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with a sculpted white reception desk, wooden panel walls, a potted palm, and sitting area
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – Property View (L) & Lobby (R)

“Hawaiʻi 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,” said 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 travelers new ways to discover the very best of the islands.”

Led by internationally acclaimed 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 Hawaiʻi.

View from the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts of a sunset over a beach with palm trees, a pier, and boats on the calm ocean.
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – Room View

“Elevated travel today is about how a place makes you feel,” said Jason Grosfeld, chairman and CEO, Irongate Group, the lifestyle-focused real estate firm behind a portfolio of design-driven destinations across Hawaiʻi, California, Colorado and Mexico, including Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach. “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.”

Design Reimagined and Rooted in Place

Spanning public spaces, guest rooms, amenity floors, and outdoor areas, the redesign creates a cohesive guest journey rooted in Hawaiian culture and craftsmanship while preserving the property’s original footprint.

Modern hotel lobby of the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with a seating area with yellow armchairs, wooden coffee tables, and a reception desk with decorative artwork.
Reception area at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with a textured white stone desk, wooden paneled walls, abstract wall art, and an open door leading to a room labeled "The Kini Room.
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – Lobby (L) & The Kini Room Entrance (R)

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.

Outdoor poolside lounge area at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with cushioned chairs, large columns, potted plants, and a view of palm trees and buildings.

Row of blue cushioned lounge chairs with white pillows under a wooden pergola with white curtains and potted plants at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – Top: Pool, Bottom: Cabanas

Enhancements also include a refreshed Spa Ka Laʻi, featuring treatments rooted in traditional Hawaiian wellness practices and locally inspired ingredients, along with revitalized outdoor spaces that thoughtfully integrate sustainability through alternative materials and the preservation of original design elements.

Refined Suites and Residential Accommodations

The reimagined property features spacious guest rooms alongside a distinctive collection of 238 residential-style studios and suites, each designed to deliver an elevated sense of comfort, style, and place.

Modern hotel room at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with a large bed, a cozy armchair, and a balcony overlooking a coastal cityscape.
Modern living area with a gray sofa, armchair, round dining table, and large windows offering an ocean view at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – Bedroom (L) & Living Area (R)

Accommodations blend contemporary sophistication with subtle references to the natural beauty and craftsmanship of Hawaiʻi, 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.

A New Era of Culinary Experiences

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.

Dark wooden wall panel with a sign reading "The Kini Room" and a decorative art piece with textured oval shapes at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Entrance to The Kini Room at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with open wooden lattice doors, showing a bar area with green cushioned stools and patterned tile flooring.
Outdoor dining area at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with tables set for a meal, overlooking palm trees and the ocean in the background.

Upscale restaurant interior at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with a mosaic tile floor, wooden furniture, bar seating, and an open view of palm trees and the ocean.
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – The Kini Room

The Kini Room, the resort’s 86-seat signature restaurant, offers a refined dining experience inspired by modern Hawaiʻi and global culinary traditions. The menu showcases coastal and Pacific Rim influences through inventive dishes such as Kagoshima A5 Wagyu Sushi with torched nigiri, kabayaki, and beet-infused Hawaiian salt; Slow braised Lemongrass Lamb Shank with broccolini, pickled chilis, and sweet soy glaze; and Kini Kini Pie featuring Kona coffee, ube, vanilla ice creams, candied macadamia nuts, salted caramel, chocolate sauce, and butter cracker crust.

Muse Lounge, an intimate cocktail bar in the redesigned lobby, serves as the resort’s social hub, featuring elevated cocktails inspired by classic Hawaiian recipes. Signature drinks include Ilikea’s Maitai with canton ginger liqueur, kaffir lime, and caramelized pineapple puree, and the Ka Laʻi Old Fashioned featuring single-barrel rum, chocolate bitters and orange peel. Beverages are paired with shareable bites that highlight local flavors and ingredients, as well as elevated options such as fresh oysters and caviar service.

Elegant lounge area at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with curved blue and beige seating, marble tables, a decorative bar with white cushioned stools, and a large tropical painting on the wall.
Modern lounge area at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts with sofa, patterned cushions, wooden armchair, and a bar in the background.
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – Muse Lounge

Bloom Cafe & Restaurant, the resort’s breakfast destination, offers a garden-inspired setting overlooking Waikīkī. The menu celebrates O’ahu’s abundance of fresh ingredients with original and creative breakfast dishes, tropical offerings, fresh juices, and local specialties including Guava Cream Cheese Waffles with brûléed banana and Hawaiian honey; Mochi Pancakes with yuzu custard and berries; Miso Catch of the Day with pickled vegetables and soy-marinated egg; and vibrant poke bowls.

Outdoor dining area with light blue chairs, beige cushioned sofas, and hanging pineapple-shaped lamps, overlooking palm trees and buildings at the Ka La'i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts
Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts – Bloom Cafe & Restaurant

“Returning guests will recognize the sense of calm that has always defined Ka Laʻi, along with the warmth and generosity our team brings to every interaction,” said Scott Ingwers, managing director, Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach. “For new visitors, this transformation introduces a more contemporary expression of Hawaiian hospitality, where thoughtfully designed spaces and vibrant gathering places complement the personalized services that have always been at the heart of who we are.”

To celebrate the debut, the resort invites guests to book the limited time “Discover Luxury” package, which includes a $1,000 resort credit to experience the property’s new offerings.

Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach is located at 223 Saratoga Road, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. For more information or to make a reservation, visit hilton.com.

FAQ: Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts Enters A New Era
What is being announced?

Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts has officially debuted following a $100 million transformation, becoming the first LXR Hotels & Resorts property in Hawaiʻi.

When did Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts open?

Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts opened on July 13, 2026.

What was included in the transformation of Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts?

The property underwent a comprehensive redesign spanning public spaces, guest rooms, residential accommodations, Spa Ka Laʻi, outdoor areas and dining venues, creating a fully reimagined luxury resort experience inspired by Hawaiʻi.

Who led the redesign of Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts?

The transformation was led by Bryan O’Sullivan Studio, with architectural support from Guerin Glass Architects.

How many accommodations does Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts offer?

The resort features guest rooms along with 238 residential-style studios and suites with fully equipped kitchens, spa-inspired bathrooms and private lanais.

What’s new from a food and beverage perspective at Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts?

Three new concepts have debuted under Executive Chef Yoshi Ohata:

  • Kini Room, the signature restaurant
  • Muse Lounge, the lobby cocktail bar
  • Bloom Cafe & Restaurant, the breakfast venue
What wellness offerings are available at Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts?

Spa Ka Laʻi has been refreshed with treatments inspired by traditional Hawaiian wellness practices and locally sourced ingredients.

Is there a special opening offer at Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts?

Yes. Guests can book the limited-time “Discover Luxury” package, which includes a $1,000 resort credit to experience the resort’s new offerings.

Where is Ka La’i Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts located?

223 Saratoga Road, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi, just steps from Waikīkī Beach.

Why is this announcement significant for Hilton?

The debut marks the first LXR Hotels & Resorts property in Hawaiʻi, expanding Hilton’s luxury portfolio in one of the world’s premier resort destinations.

Media Contact

Patsy Narimatsu

patsy.narimatsu@hilton.com
C&R Public Relations

kalai@candrpr.com

Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts

Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach marks the arrival of LXR Hotels & Resorts to Hawaiʻi, and the brand’s first landmark property in the Aloha State. The iconic resort, perched above Fort DeRussy Park at the heart of Honolulu with sweeping postcard views of Waikīkī Beach and Diamond Head, reopens its doors in July 2026 following a $100 million property-wide transformation led by internationally acclaimed Bryan O’Sullivan Studio. The 238-key property offers spacious residential-scale studios and suites, all thoughtfully upgraded with refined finishes, fully-equipped kitchens, spa-like bathrooms, and unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. Located within easy reach of Waikīkī while ensconcing guests away from its hustle and bustle, the resort includes three new dining venues – The Kini Room, Bloom Cafe and Restaurant, and Muse Lounge – as well as a recently-renovated spa and tranquil infinity pool overlooking the palm-fringed beaches of Waikīkī.

LXR Hotels & Resorts

<a href=”https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/lxr-hotels/”>LXR Hotels & Resorts</a> is a growing collection of  40 trading and pipeline luxury properties that celebrate the timeless pursuit of personal adventure. Found in the world’s most alluring destinations, each hand-selected property boasts its own storied past and is infused with the essence of its distinctive locale, providing a luxurious hub for the discerning adventurer. As part of its commitment to enriching the guest experience, LXR Hotels & Resorts celebrates experiential travel with the Pursuit of Adventure, a new brand signature that immerses guests in authentic, curated experiences that reflect the unique culture and character of each destination. LXR Hotels & Resorts is part of Hilton, a leading global hospitality company. Each property benefits from the strength of the Hilton enterprise and its award-winning <a href=”https://www.hilton.com/en/hilton-honors-rewards-program/”>Hilton Honors</a> program. Experience an inspiring stay at LXR Hotels & Resorts by booking at <a href=”https://www.hilton.com/en/brands/lxr-hotels/”>lxrhotels.com</a> or through the industry-leading <a href=”https://www.hilton.com/en/p/hilton-honors-mobile-app/”>Hilton Honors app</a>. <a href=”https://www.hilton.com/en/hilton-honors/”>Hilton Honors</a> members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits. Learn more about LXR Hotels & Resorts at <a href=”https://stories.hilton.com/brands/lxr-hotels”>stories.hilton.com/lxr</a>, and follow the brand on <a href=”https://www.instagram.com/lxrhotels/”>Instagram</a> and <a href=”https://www.facebook.com/lxrhotels/”>Facebook</a>. 

About Irongate Group

With operations in California, Colorado, Hawaiʻi, and Mexico, Irongate Group is a lifestyle-driven real estate firm that reinvents what’s possible for those who have experienced it all.  With a focus on one-of-a-kind destinations, the company uses development, curation, and creativity to craft moments of awe – a feeling that stays with homeowners, guests, visitors, team members, and investors alike. For more information, visit www.irongp.com. 

The post Inside Hawaiʻi’s Newest Luxury Icon: Ka Laʻi Waikīkī Beach, LXR Hotels & Resorts Enters a New Era appeared first on Stories From Hilton.