Hawaii always carries a unique kind of magic, especially on Oahu where time seems to slow under the awe of Diamond Head and the sparkling Pacific. There’s no shortage of reasons to fall in love with the island, but this summer, there’s a new reason to choose Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa. The resort has introduced an immersive new chapter to the Cultural Center and Queen's Parlor with brand new offerings for guests that includes immersive cultural programming to tap into and experience the living heartbeat of Hawai‘i.
Rooted in aloha, the Cultural Center, helmed by esteemed Culture Advisor Leilani Kupahu-Marino Kaho'ano, offers guests an opportunity to connect with Hawaiian traditions on a deeply personal level through hands-on experiences, storytelling and time-honored artistry. Set on grounds once graced by Hawaiian royalty as the summer home of the last reigning monarch, Queen Lili'uokalani, the Cultural Center pays homage to the past while offering a vibrant look at the island's present and future. Whether you’re a curious traveler, a returning guest, or traveling with family, this cultural sanctuary is the island’s best kept secret for seeking connection beyond the shoreline.
Ocean Oli at Sunrise
As dawn breaks over Waikiki, guests are invited to greet the day in a uniquely Hawaiian way with Oli, traditional chanting. In this moving ritual, participants learn basic Hawaiian language, chant structure and cultural meaning before walking barefoot to the beach. There, with the waves gently washing over their feet, guests can chant together and connect to the land and sea in a spiritual and memorable moment.
Keiki and ‘Ohana Time in the Queen’s Parlor
Families and curious keiki will find joy and discovery during Keiki and ‘Ohana Time, a creative experience hosted in the Queen’s Parlor. Activities include making kukui nut wrist leis, singing Hawaiian lullabies, learning about the moon calendar, reading Hawaiian stories, or playing Hawaiian language bingo. The popular Queen’s Passport walking tour adds an element of adventure, with sticker rewards earned at each culturally significant stop throughout the property. These sessions are both fun and foundational, gently nurturing an appreciation for Hawaiian culture for every age.
Hawaiian Instrument Making
In a hands-on session at Queen’s Parlor, guests are guided through the creation of a pulumi ni?au, a traditional hula instrument crafted from stripped coconut leaves. This unique workshop highlights both the creativity and functionality of Hawaiian craftsmanship, as participants shape their own instruments while gaining insight into its ceremonial and everyday uses.
Feather Art and Keepsakes
The Cultural Center transforms into a gallery and classroom for one of Hawai‘i’s most treasured art forms: featherwork. Guests are introduced to the stories of the islands’ native birds and their connection to ali‘i (royalty), before creating their own feather flower or miniature kahili, a traditional symbol of Hawaiian chiefs. These activities celebrate lineage, symbolism and legacy in tangible, colorful form.
An adjoining exhibit, Na Lima Mili Hulu No‘eau, honors the multi-generational artistry of Kumu Mele’s family, showcasing feather lei and works originally sold on Kapahulu Avenue by her grandmother, Aunty Mary Lou Kekuewa, and mother, Aunty Paulette Kahalepuna. Today, Kumu Mele carries the torch as the third-generation artist, with her pieces now displayed in Brisbane, Australia; a testament to the global admiration for this revered Hawaiian tradition.
Strumming the Sounds of the Islands
For music lovers, the Hawaiian steel guitar experience is another standout. Retired attorney and cultural enthusiast Daniel Tremblay brings his passion to life by providing guitars and instruction to guests, teaching the basics of playing and sharing the instrument’s history.
The Art of the Lei
The resort’s lei workshop celebrates the softness and symbolism of the Ali‘i yarn lei, crafted using the Wili style. While feather lei requires over 40 hours of intricate work, this yarn-based version captures the same spirit and intention in a more accessible form. As guests weave their own keepsake lei, they also learn about the seven traditional lei styles of Hawai‘i.
Vintage Mu‘umu‘u Library
Another new addition is a curated collaboration with the Vintage Mu‘umu‘u Library, a beloved Honolulu-based cultural initiative spotlighting the legacy of Hawai‘i’s fashion history. With an ever-evolving display of authentic vintage mu‘umu‘u dresses, the exhibit brings a colorful and deeply nostalgic chapter of Hawaiian life into the resort.
A Rooftop Celebration to Remember
To round out the cultural experiences, the resort’s Paina Luau is a modern revival of a cherished Hawaiian tradition at Queensbreak Rooftop. With hula performances, storytelling and a menu infused with local flavors, the lu?au is one of the island's best; a sensory celebration of culture, history and place.
From the earliest hours of the morning to creative afternoons, these experiences celebrate Hawaiian language, music, mythology, artistry and family tradition. And in a destination known for its hospitality and natural beauty, Waikiki Beach Marriott offers a place where culture, comfort and connection converge. Whether you're crafting a lei, chanting to the rhythm of the waves, or discovering the celestial wisdom of the Mahina (moon) calendar, these experiences transform a stay into something far more memorable than a beach getaway.
An aerial view of the hotel's Queensbreak Rooftop, which welcomes guests to poolside celebratory cultural events.
The Waikiki Beach Marriott offers prime beach access to the iconic Waikiki Beach.
Hotel guests have incredible access to Waikiki Beach and views of nearby Diamond Head.
Rooms at the hotel come with oceanfront views.
