Sunday, June 8, 2025
The Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa has ushered in a new era of luxury travel in Hawai‘i with the debut of its Royal Huakai Suite, a signature accommodation unveiled as part of the resort’s sweeping $60 million revitalization. Set along the stunning coastline of Keauhou Bay on Hawai‘i Island, the suite delivers more than opulence—it offers a culturally immersive experience grounded in the traditions, stories, and natural beauty of its surroundings.
This unveiling is not just a nod to refined comfort but a meaningful commitment to blending heritage and hospitality, connecting visitors with the spirit of voyaging, royal lineage, and exploration rooted in this historic region.
A Spacious Oceanfront Retreat Designed for the Modern Traveler
Encompassing nearly 2,500 square feet, the Royal Huakai Suite is a thoughtfully crafted haven perched on one of the resort’s upper floors. With panoramic views of Keauhou Bay—long recognized as the birthplace of King Kamehameha III—the suite invites guests to experience tranquility, privacy, and a strong sense of place.
The interior of the suite has been designed for both leisure and extended stays. It includes a private bedroom, two full bathrooms, a large living area, and a kitchenette that allows for casual, in-suite dining. Multiple lanais—traditional Hawaiian balconies—wrap the suite, giving guests ample space to unwind outdoors while listening to the sounds of the ocean or soaking in views of the lush coastline.
A dedicated workspace adds function for those mixing work and relaxation, while the suite’s spa-like bathroom, complete with a deep soaking tub and natural textures, channels the serenity of a traditional Hawaiian bathhouse. Light, open, and grounded in earth-tone palettes, the space balances modern elegance with local inspiration.
A Tribute to Cultural Roots and Oceanic Journeying
The name “Royal Huakai Suite” carries symbolic weight. In the Hawaiian language, huakaʻi refers to a voyage or expedition—a word steeped in the rich legacy of Polynesian seafaring and discovery. Here in Keauhou, a region intrinsically tied to royal Hawaiian heritage and known for its cultural landmarks, the name serves as both a welcome to visitors and a nod to centuries of ancestral exploration.
This suite pays homage to that voyaging spirit, celebrating Keauhou as not just a scenic destination but as a place of deep cultural resonance. The design and concept draw from the resort’s ongoing commitment to preserve and share the living traditions of Hawai‘i. Every element—from the suite’s orientation to its materials—reflects an awareness of the land and its stories.
Elevated Experiences at the Voyager 47 Club Lounge
Guests staying in the Royal Huakai Suite receive access to the Voyager 47 Club Lounge, an exclusive amenity that further enhances the luxury experience. Here, hospitality is warm, personalized, and in tune with the needs of modern travelers.
Mornings at the lounge begin with a curated selection of locally sourced coffee and breakfast offerings, while evenings bring a relaxing setting with appetizers and premium beverages. It’s a quiet place to unwind, connect with other guests, or reflect on the day’s journey—all with uninterrupted views of the Pacific and attentive service.
Luxury That Celebrates Culture
The unveiling of the Royal Huakai Suite represents a larger movement in Hawai‘i’s tourism landscape—one that embraces a more conscious approach to hospitality. Travelers are no longer just seeking beautiful views and plush bedding; they are also looking for meaningful connections, authentic experiences, and places that respect and reflect the land and its people.
By embedding cultural relevance into the most premium tier of its guest offerings, the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa is aligning itself with this new paradigm. The Royal Huakai Suite offers not only a luxurious retreat but a place where guests can feel connected to Hawaiian values, history, and environmental stewardship.
Visitors here aren’t just temporary guests—they’re invited to take part in a broader story. That story includes the legacy of Hawaiian royalty, the traditional navigation of the Pacific, and the modern resurgence of indigenous knowledge and pride.
A Flagship Feature in the Resort’s Renewal
The Royal Huakai Suite is just one highlight of the resort’s comprehensive transformation. The $60 million renovation has reimagined guest accommodations, dining spaces, wellness facilities, and public areas throughout the property. The result is a more refined, contemporary resort that still stays true to its Hawaiian roots.
The renovations are not only about aesthetics—they reflect a commitment to offering world-class service while preserving the natural and cultural essence of Keauhou. Improvements are made with sustainability in mind and with a long-term vision of creating a more thoughtful and immersive resort experience.
The Outrigger brand, long recognized for its leadership in oceanfront hospitality, is using this upgrade to model how heritage, environment, and high-end travel can coexist in harmony.
Supporting a Statewide Vision for Responsible Travel
The Royal Huakai Suite also aligns with broader goals outlined in Hawai‘i’s state-level tourism strategy. That vision promotes pono travel—experiences that are balanced, respectful, and informed by the values of the local community. This type of travel places emphasis on sustainability, education, and reciprocity, urging visitors to travel with intention and respect.
Through its design, programming, and cultural integration, the Royal Huakai Suite supports that mission. It creates space for travelers to rest, reflect, and reconnect—not only with themselves but with the land they are visiting. It’s the kind of travel that leaves guests feeling enriched while also supporting local identity, heritage, and the environment.
Conclusion: A New Standard for Meaningful Luxury in Hawai‘i
The introduction of the Royal Huakai Suite sets a new bar for luxury accommodations in the Hawaiian Islands. It’s not simply a place to stay—it’s a meaningful destination in its own right. Every element, from its layout to its name, is designed to immerse guests in the spirit of Hawai‘i while surrounding them with comfort and refinement.
As travelers continue to evolve in what they seek—moving toward deeper, more intentional travel experiences—spaces like the Royal Huakai Suite will lead the way. They remind us that luxury doesn’t have to mean disconnecting from place and people. In fact, the most meaningful experiences often begin where cultural story and modern hospitality meet.
At the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa, the Royal Huakai Suite is more than a room with a view—it’s a journey into the heart of Hawai‘i.
