The story of Halekulani is in many ways the story of Waikiki itself. It begins just after the turn of the 20th century, with the construction of a small residential hotel called Hau Tree, consisting of a simple beachfront home and five tiny bungalows.

In 1917, Juliet and Clifford Kimball purchased the hotel and gradually expanded the operation, establishing it as a stylish resort for wealthy vacationers. They named it Halekulani, or "House Befitting Heaven."

Eventually, the Norton Clapp family of Seattle bought Halekulani, by now consisting of a large Main Building and 37 one and two-story bungalows. In 1981 the hotel was purchased by Mitsui Real Estate Development Co., Ltd. The new owners dedicated themselves to rebuilding the hotel into a modern, world-class hotel while still retaining its island charm and rich tradition of warm Hawaiian hospitality.

Halekulani remains faithful to the spirit and tradition of the past while constantly rising to astounding levels of service and comfort. The refurbished Main Building, tastefully preserved and upgraded, still serves as the hotel's primary dining and gathering spot. Today, nearly 100 years after its birth, the living room's skylight still provides a golden glow on the original eucalyptus floors, accentuating the warm feeling and sense of island splendor guests continue to enjoy when staying at the "House Befitting Heaven."

Download our History Book PDF, click here.