Hilton Hawaiian Village‘s proposal to construct a new 36-story tower along Ala Moana Boulevard has entered a critical phase, undergoing review for necessary permits. The proposed tower, slated for a half-acre parcel currently occupied by the former Kobe Japanese Steakhouse and other retail businesses, aims to add approximately 515 rooms to the already sprawling resort.

Located adjacent to the Grand Waikikian Tower and near the Kalia Tower, the development would feature a main porte-cochere entry off Ala Moana Boulevard, a spacious lobby, 6,051 square feet of ground-floor retail and dining space, a pool, fitness center, and connecting walkways to existing structures.

A recent hearing addressed applications for a Special Management Area (SMA) use permit and a major modification of a Planned Development Resort (PDR) permit. The Honolulu Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP), having accepted the final supplemental environmental impact statement in July 2023, is now reviewing public comments. The DPP will subsequently issue a report and recommendation to the Honolulu City Council within 45 days. The Council holds the final authority on granting the requested permits to Hilton Hawaiian Village LLC.