Halekulani

Halekulani is a stellar example of expansion and model - now with 450 beds but done in such a clever way that it remains intimate where it counts. Terrific architecture - we both thought, wonderful colours and really great attention to detail. The operation is flawless in our opinions. We covered all of the eating options - each serving a different purpose and each very good to outstanding in terms of charm and service. La Mer is so attractive - interesting very good food.

I was disappointed to read the negative reader comments on the Halekulani in the October Hideaway Report. Based on our recent (January 2013) trip, we respectfully disagree. Of course there are rooms with limited ocean views, but the hotel's website includes a schematic that shows the likely views from each room. This year we chose a Junior Suite. The anteroom was small, but the principal room and bath were spacious and well-furnished. There were two decks (one tiny), each with views of the ocean and Diamond Head. The sunsets we saw from the room were spectacular. A hotel brochure says that the construction project ended in July 2012. We were aware only of routine maintenance - and the rooms and grounds were beautifully maintained. All three restaurants (and Nobu, across the street) were excellent. In particular, La Mer under its new chef Alexandre Trancher is surely worthy of at least one Michelin star. The staff was uniformly friendly and professional. All in all, the Halekulani deserves at least the 96 rating Mr. Harper gave it.

Oh! And Nobu across the street.

My favorite hotel ever. It's the special place on the lawn by the Pacific that seems to ooze a sense of the eternal - the wonderful dining - and most of all the extraordinary people.

The Halekulani is an extraordinary hotel in every way. The service levels and attention to detail are exemplary. There is a warmth that pervades every single person in that hotel that is VERY RARELY duplicated.