60 Years of Memories at The Kahala Hotel & Resort

When The Kahala Hotel & Resort first opened in January 1964—then known as the Kahala Hilton—it was the first major luxury resort on Oʻahu set outside of Waikīkī.

Located next to the world-class golf course of the Waiʻalae Country Club, the hotel, its design inspired by the great homes of the Hawaiian monarchy, lured celebrities, heads of state and even royalty. It was grand, it was luxe, and it was the first major resort in Hawaiʻi to have air conditioning in every room.

Over the past 60 years, The Kahala Hotel & Resort has welcomed back numerous return guests, all of whom love the exclusive feel, the impeccable service and its quiet location in an upscale residential neighborhood.

Photo: Courtesy of The Kahala Hotel & Resort.

Lorna Bennett has been working at The Kahala Hotel & Resort for 45 years, currently as a room reservations agent. She first saw the hotel in 1977, awestruck by the chandeliers. “I fell in love,” she says.

Here’s what return guests have said about the hotel:

• “Periodically, over the years, we have stayed at this resort and have never been disappointed. She’s a grand ole lady. The location —between the ocean and the golf course—is unmatched. We can’t wait to return. Everything at the hotel has been updated and kept up with the times while keeping the great old ambiance.”
• “We keep returning to The Kahala. We love the grounds including the beach, the restaurants, food and the staff. Over many years they have retained the same staff and everyone is really wonderful, from the front desk to the restaurants to the bell team to the beach crew. We always have a relaxing pleasant experience with no issues.”
• “I have been staying at The Kahala for over 20 years. The Kahala has my heart. I always feel taken care of, every trip. We will always come back to this second home away from home as it has our heart.”

Photo: Courtesy of The Kahala Hotel & Resort.

Bennett, whose daughter was married at the hotel, says it’s the people who work at the hotel that make the place so special.

“We are The Kahala ʻohana,” she says. “Oʻahu is considered the Gathering Place. The Kahala Hotel & Resort is, by far, the best resort where we can gather and enjoy each other’s company, take in those incredible views, the dolphins, ocean and white-sand beach.”

For more information or to book your stay, visit kahalaresort.com