Halekulani, which means "House Befitting Heaven" in Hawaiian, is a four-and-a-half-acre beachfront Waikiki retreat that opened in 1917 and is now one of the island's most luxurious hotels. It boasts elegant accommodations, from large suites to rooms with private patios and an opulent outdoor pool area with an orchid mosaic at the bottom. The hotel hosts local events such as jazz performances under the stars and offers classes in hula, ukulele and lei-making. The hospitality extends to the on-site dining that includes La Mer, one of Hawaii's top French restaurants.