The Trump International Hotel, Waikiki in Honolulu, will be reborn as Wākea Waikiki Beach under the management of LXR Hotels & Resorts, one of Hilton’s three luxury brands. The change is expected to officially take place in February 2024.

The 38-storey property, which is owned by California-based real estate firm Irongate, overlooks Fort DeRussy Park with views of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head, and is just steps from Waikiki Beach and the area’s restaurants, shops, entertainment and nightlife.

As part of its reinvigoration under LXR Hotels & Resorts, Wākea Waikiki Beach will undergo a custom design renovation by Bryan O’Sullivan Studio (BOS Studio).

Scheduled to start in early 2025 and slated to take place over several months, the renovation will be phased to minimize disruption to daily operations and will encompass upgrades to public areas, including lobbies, pool areas, spa, fitness center, residence corridors, landscaping, and residence interiors. In addition, Wai`olu and In-Yō Café will be reconceptualized, and the destination restaurant on the ground floor will soon be home to an internationally acclaimed restaurateur and chef.

Overall, the redesign will include new finish materials and a furniture collection that consists of pieces tailored specifically for Wākea, as well as updates to modernize building systems.

As part of the transformation, the hotel management team that has played an integral role in the guest and resident experience since the building’s debut in 2009, will remain with Wākea Waikiki Beach and join LXR Hotels & Resorts. This team was essential to the property receiving the prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Hotel designation for ten consecutive years.

“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,” said Jason Grosfeld, chairman & CEO, Irongate. “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.”

“Hawaii has played an important role in Hilton’s history and growth strategy across the Pacific. With more than 20 hotels and resorts open and welcoming travelers across Hawaii, we are delighted to introduce the first LXR Hotels & Resorts property to the destination,” said Greg Hartmann, senior vice president, Luxury and Mixed-Use Development, Hilton. “The signing of Wākea Waikiki Beach complements our Hawaiian luxury portfolio and ensures we continue to meet the needs of our ever-evolving guests in destinations where they choose to be. We are excited about this new era for the resort and look forward to building upon its award-winning reputation.”

The name “Wākea” draws inspiration from the Hawaiian story of Wākea, the Sky Father. In Hawaiian mythology, Wākea and Papahānaumoku, the Earth Mother, collaborated to create the Hawaiian Islands, forming a timeless connection between the earth and the sky. The iconic tower now carries this significant name, reflecting its mission to rejuvenate homeowners, guests, and visitors with the spirit of aloha and ho’okipa, embodying the warmth and hospitality of the islands.