A new boutique luxury property from Aqua-Aston Hospitality is coming to Waikiki this summer, providing the most high-end experience in the company’s Hawaii portfolio. Espacio The Jewel of Waikiki, will have nine, three-bedroom suites, each on its own floor and with a dedicated butler.
The soft opening is expected in mid-July, and the official opening is expected roughly a month later, according to general manager Dean Nakasone.
“Waikiki will always be one of Hawaii’s most iconic destinations and not many ultra-luxury accommodation experiences are currently available,” Nakasone said. “With a continued increase in wealthy travelers visiting the area, especially families and multi-generational groups, Espacio will now meet the demand for a high-end, multi-suite, exclusive experience in the heart of Waikiki.”
Espacio, an approximately $50 million project, will serve as the sole luxury property in Aqua-Aston’s portfolio, Nakasone said.
All of the 2,250-square-foot suites are adorned with Italian marble bathrooms, full kitchens equipped with Sub-Zero and Wolf appliances, dry sauna, and in-room iPads that serve as a control center for the suite lighting, climate control and hotel messenging service. All of the suites feature three bedrooms with king beds and ocean-view balconies with Jacuzzis. There are also three full bathrooms and one half-bath. Every reservation also comes with complimentary airport transfers and the use of a luxury rental vehicle, such as a Mercedes GLC SUV or BMW X3.
“The iPads will ensure each guest will have their needs met immediately from the moment they arrive on property,” Nakasone said. “Guests will have the opportunity to bring their dream vacation to life with Espacio’s next-level hospitality accommodations … [and] location-based technology will provide more targeted guest interactions and recommended activities around Hawaii.”
The hotel will also feature a new restaurant, rooftop infinity pool, and full-service spa. There will also be a rooftop barbecue for guests and a poolside bar.
“The on-site restaurant, Mugen, will be led by Chef Jason Yamaguchi, serving up modern American cuisine with Japanese and French influences,” Nakasone said.
Yamaguchi formerly worked at Driftwood Kitchen in Laguna Beach, Calif., a tourist hot spot with sunset views and a menu based around sustainable seafood.
The boutique hotel is situated across from Kuhio Beach on Kalakaua Avenue, and is taking over the space that was once the Aston Waikiki Beachside.
“There is nothing like Espacio in Waikiki,” Nakasone said. “It is differentiated by its unique service proposition including butler service, location and the exclusivity of just nine suites that occupy an entire floor each, offering spacious and luxury accommodations.”
Reservations for this summer are currently available online at the Espacio website with rates beginning at $3,150 per night.