The iconic Ala Moana Hotel, a landmark destination in the heart of Honolulu, is currently undergoing an exciting renovation project to enhance the guest experience. Situated adjacent to the world-renowned Ala Moana Center and one block from Ala Moana Beach Park, the hotel has long been recognized for its prime location and exceptional service. Accolades such as consistently high guest ratings and its reputation as a preferred choice for both leisure and business travelers speak to its enduring appeal. Now, the hotel is investing in a significant upgrade to its guest units to ensure it continues to meet the evolving needs and expectations of its discerning clientele.

Pictured Above: Ala Moana Hotel #3007, Listed For Sale by Sachi Hawaii

The ongoing renovation project encompasses a comprehensive refresh of the hotel’s guest rooms and suites. This extensive upgrade includes the installation of brand-new, stylish furniture, plush carpeting, elegant wallpaper, and fresh paint to create a more contemporary and inviting ambiance. Furthermore, the renovations extend to modernizing the lighting fixtures, ensuring brighter and more energy-efficient spaces. These enhancements are designed to elevate the comfort and aesthetic appeal of each unit, providing guests with an even more enjoyable and relaxing stay in this premier Honolulu destination.

This significant investment underscores the Ala Moana Hotel’s commitment to maintaining its status as a leading hotel in Honolulu. By revitalizing its guest units with high-quality upgrades, the hotel aims to further solidify its reputation for excellence and provide an even more exceptional experience for visitors. Guests can look forward to enjoying these beautifully renovated spaces, perfectly complementing the hotel’s exceptional location and renowned hospitality, making their stay in Honolulu truly unforgettable.

Ala Moana Beach Park came alive with the powerful and emotional annual Shinnyo Lantern Floating Festival. Thousands of residents and visitors participated in the deeply moving ceremony, honoring loved ones and sharing hopes for peace as thousands of personalized paper lanterns were released onto the tranquil waters at sunset.

The 27th annual event blended Hawaiian and Buddhist traditions, featuring resonant taiko drumming, a traditional oli, graceful hula, and blessings. Participants inscribed heartfelt messages on lanterns, creating a breathtaking display of floating lights as they drifted towards the horizon.

The Shinnyo Lantern Floating Hawaii has become a cherished Memorial Day tradition, offering a unique space for reflection, remembrance, and community connection.

In a move hailed as a national first, Hawaii’s Governor Josh Green signed legislation on Tuesday implementing a new tax on hotel rooms and vacation rentals. The additional levy aims to generate funds specifically dedicated to addressing the growing challenges posed by climate change, including shoreline erosion and the increased risk of wildfires.

The signing comes nearly two years after the devastating wildfire in Maui that claimed 102 lives and decimated the town of Lahaina, underscoring the urgent need for proactive measures to mitigate climate-related disasters.

Officials project that the 0.75% increase to the existing transient accommodations tax (TAT) will generate approximately $100 million annually. These funds will be strategically allocated to crucial projects across the state. This includes replenishing the iconic beaches of Waikiki, bolstering infrastructure through measures like hurricane clips for roof reinforcement, and actively managing flammable invasive grasses that contributed to the rapid spread of the Lahaina fire.

Speaking at the bill signing ceremony, Governor Green emphasized the necessity of these actions for the state’s future. He highlighted the creation of a new state fire marshal position, expected to be filled within the next two months, as a direct response to the lessons learned from the Maui tragedy. Furthermore, Governor Green suggested that other states and nations facing similar climate-related threats will need to adopt comparable strategies.

The new tax, effective January 1st, will add a modest 0.75% to the daily room rate. Governor Green illustrated this by noting that a $400 hotel room would see an additional cost of approximately $3 per night.

Hawaii already has a significant tax on short-term accommodations. The current state TAT of 10.25% will rise to 11% with this new legislation. Combined with other state and county taxes, visitors to the islands will face a total levy of nearly 19% on their accommodations, positioning Hawaii with one of the highest such tax rates in the United States.

This landmark legislation signifies Hawaii’s commitment to proactively addressing the impacts of climate change and investing in the long-term resilience of the islands and its communities. The funds generated will be vital in safeguarding Hawaii’s natural beauty and ensuring the safety and well-being of its residents.