Trump Hotel Waikiki Rebrands As Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, Hilton LXR

In November 2023, Hilton announced the newest location for its luxury LXR brand, in Hawaii. That property has joined the Hilton portfolio as of this week, so I wanted to go over all the details, now that it’s bookable through Hilton channels.

Ka La’i Waikiki Beach Hilton LXR now open

The Trump International Hotel Waikiki has been rebranded as the Ka La’i Waikiki Beach as of February 2024, and has joined Hilton LXR Hotels & Resorts. The 38-floor property first opened in 2009, and boasts 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 has the hotel been rebranded, but there’s a plan for it to undergo a “monumental transformation.” That renovation will start in early 2025 and will take “several months,” and will be performed in phases, so that the property can remain open during this time. The transformation will encompass upgrades to public areas, including the lobby, pool, spa, fitness center, residence corridors, and landscaping, and all the restaurant concepts on property will be reimagined.

I’m not sure how “monumental” the transformation will really be if it will only take place over several months, and if the property will remain open while that happens?

For those of you not familiar with LXR, this is Hilton’s fast growing collection of independent luxury hotels. LXR properties have the benefit of Hilton’s global distribution power, plus the Hilton Honors program, all while maintaining their unique designs.

Here’s what Jason Grosfeld, Chairman & CEO of Irongate (the company that owns the property) had to say about this change:

“We are thrilled to spearhead the revival of what I have always felt to be the ‘grand dame’ of Waikiki with its timeless architecture and unobstructed views. Irongate’s enduring commitment to this property, which dates to its inception with a one-day record-breaking sales success followed by many years of award-winning hospitality, underscores our steadfast dedication to the destination of Waikiki and its residents and visitors. Through our collaborative efforts with BOS Studio on design and with Hilton’s LXR Hotels & Resorts as the operator, this iconic edifice embarks on an exciting new chapter.”

Here’s what Feisal Jaffer, the Global Head of LXR, had to say about this property joining Hilton:

“LXR Hotels & Resorts provides guests access to the most alluring destinations globally and Ka La’i Waikiki Beach’s oceanfront location in Oahu is no exception. The resort offers an exceptional locale for travelers looking to create their own intriguing adventure. Illustrating LXR’s unique approach to hospitality, Ka La’i Waikiki Beach is the perfect addition to the brand’s growing portfolio and we look forward to welcoming distinguished travelers from around the world to this unrivaled destination.”

Ka La’i Waikiki Beach Hilton LXR rates & how to book

Now that Ka La’i Waikiki Beach is bookable as part of the Hilton portfolio, what are rates like? For most of the year, cash rates seem to be in the range of $500-600 per night, before taxes, fees, and the $40 nightly resort fee.

If you are going to book a cash rate, I’d recommend doing so through the Hilton for Luxury program, so you can get extra perks. Ford and his team are happy to help with these requests, and can be reached at [email protected].

Meanwhile if redeeming Hilton Honors points, it seems that the standard rate is 100,000 points per night. That seems about right, given my valuation of 0.5 cents per Hilton Honors point. Also keep in mind that if you have Hilton Honors elite status, you can get a fifth night free on award redemptions.

Quite a few Trump properties have rebranded

This is only the latest Trump property to undergo a rebranding. For example, in recent years:

• The Trump Hotel Washington DC became the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
• The Trump Hotel Toronto became the St. Regis Toronto
• The Trump Hotel Vancouver became the Paradox Hotel Vancouver
• The Trump Hotel Panama became the JW Marriott Panama

Bottom line

The Trump Hotel Waikiki has been rebranded as Ka La’i Waikiki Beach, and has joined Hilton LXR. On top of that, the hotel is expected to undergo a renovation in 2025, though the hotel will remain open while this work is completed.

It’s good to see another property join a major hotel group, so that you can earn and redeem points. This is a pretty good new option for those who like to visit Waikiki.

What do you make of the Ka La’i Waikiki Beach?