Hilton just announced the newest location for its luxury brand LXR, and it’s in Hawaii!
The Wākea Waikiki Beach Hilton LXR will open in February 2024
Trump International Hotel Waikiki will be renamed Wākea Waikiki Beach and will become part of Hilton LXR Hotels & Resorts starting February 2024. The 38-story property first opened in 2009 and features 462 guest rooms and suites. It overlooks Fort DeRussy Park with views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head and is close to Waikiki Beach.
Not only will the hotel be renamed, but it will also undergo a “monumental transformation.” This renovation will begin in early 2025, will last “several months,” and will be completed in phases, allowing the property to remain open during that time. The remodel will include upgrades to common areas, including the lobby, pool, spa, fitness center, residence hallways and landscaping, and all restaurant concepts on the property will be reimagined.
I’m not sure how “monumental” the transformation will really be if it only takes place over several months and whether the property will remain open during this?
For those of you unfamiliar with LXR, this is Hilton’s rapidly growing collection of independent luxury hotels. LXR properties benefit from Hilton’s global distribution strength and the Hilton Honors program while maintaining their unique design.
Wākea Waikiki Beach from the outside
Here’s what Jason Grosfeld, chairman and CEO of Irongate (the company that owns the property) had to say about the change:
“We are excited to spearhead the revitalization of what I have always considered the ‘Grand Dame’ of Waikiki, with its timeless architecture and uninterrupted vistas. Irongate’s continued commitment to this property, dating back to its inception with a record-breaking one-day sales success followed by many years of award-winning hospitality, underscores our unwavering commitment to the Waikiki destination and its residents and visitors. Our collaboration with BOS Studio on design and with Hilton’s LXR Hotels & Resorts as operator marks an exciting new chapter for this iconic property.”
Here’s what Feisal Jaffer, global head of LXR, had to say about this hotel joining Hilton:
“LXR Hotels & Resorts offers guests access to the world’s most enticing destinations, and Oahu’s oceanfront location at Wākea Waikiki Beach is no exception. The resort offers an exceptional location for travelers who want to experience their own fascinating adventure. Wākea Waikiki Beach exemplifies LXR’s unique approach to hospitality and is the perfect addition to the brand’s growing portfolio. We look forward to welcoming distinguished travelers from around the world to this unparalleled destination.”
Wākea Waikiki Beach from the outside
Quite a few Trump properties have been renamed
This is just the latest Trump property to undergo a rebrand. For example, in recent years:
The Waldorf Astoria Washington DC, former Trump Hotel
Bottom line
From February 2024, the Trump Hotel Waikiki will be renamed Wākea Waikiki Beach and affiliated with the Hilton LXR. In addition, the hotel is expected to undergo renovations in 2025, but the hotel will remain open until these works are completed.
It’s nice to see another hotel join a large hotel group so you can earn and redeem points. This should be a pretty good new option for those who enjoy visiting Waikiki.
What do you think of Wakea Waikiki Beach?