Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach Grand Opening

For the grand opening of the eagerly anticipated ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, the resort threw an extravagant and culturally conscious bash.

THE PARTY For the grand opening celebration of the ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach, the resort pulled out all the stops, hosting a three-part event that paid homage to the rich cultural history of the property, and gave guests an evening of haute cuisine and nightlife. THE SCENE Starting with a ceremony in the resort’s sweeping lobby, the party then moved to the outdoor beer garden at Momosan Ramen Waikiki, then settled in at Swell Pool & Bar, where guests took in the sunset and mingled around the picturesque pool. Noted Brooklyn, New York DJ Kim Ann Foxman set the mood with tunes as tasteful bites from Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s eponymous on-site restaurant made the rounds. THE HIGHLIGHTS During the ceremony, the resort announced its pledge to plant 100,000 indigenous trees in partnership with Hawaiian Legacy Reforestation Initiative, and cultural advisor Earl Kamakaonaona Regidor unveiled the stunning ‘ahu ‘ula—a traditional feather cloak worn by Hawaiian chiefs—which will remain on permanent display in the lobby. Everyone was delighted by the SipMi libations, which featured guests’ images as edible drink toppers on refreshing vodka-hibiscus-cucumber cocktails. -Margo Steines

Photos by Travis Okimoto