With its beachfront views, iconic Rainbow Tower, and a legacy steeped in music and movie history, the Hilton Hawaiian Village at Waikiki Beach has long been more than just a luxury resort -- it’s a living piece of Hollywood history.
During a recent visit, our entertainment reporter Courtney Tezeno had an exclusive inside look at the legendary property while staying in the presidential suite called the Niumali Suite, located in the Rainbow Tower, a space frequently occupied by the King of Rock' n’ Roll himself, Elvis Presley.
"Blue Hawaii" Filming Location
Presley famously made the Hilton Hawaiian Village his home away from home during visits to Hawaii and while filming the 1961 classic “Blue Hawaii,” which helped cement both the film and the hotel as pop culture staples.
Walking through the resort feels like stepping onto a soundstage where generations of stars have left their mark. The Hilton Hawaiian Village has hosted some iconic entertainers over the decades, spanning music, film, and television.
Michael Jackson’s Sold-Out World Tour Stop
Michael Jackson stayed at the hotel in the Alii Tower’s Mahele Suite when he traveled to Hawaii for his sold-out HIStory World Tour at Aloha Stadium on January 4, 1997. This was the King of Pop’s only U.S. stop where he delivered a memorable concert that remains a historic moment for fans.
Music legends like the Godfather of Soul have also graced the hotel’s stages. James Brown performed at the Coral Ballroom on December 31, 2001, ringing in the new year with his soulful energy and unforgettable sound.
Beyonce Opening for Britney Spears Concert
Pop royalty also made waves on the resort’s famous beach in 2000. During a Britney Spears television special, Beyoncé performed with the original members of Destiny’s Child, belting out one of their first major songs, “Say My Name.” The live beachfront performance on April 24, 2000, turned Waikiki into a global stage.
Where "Hawaii Five-0" Filmed for 10 Years
The resort’s ties to the small screen are just as impressive. From 2010 through 2020, the Hilton Hawaiian Village served as a major filming location for the hit CBS series “Hawaii Five-0,” starring Alex O’Loughlin (Detective Steve McGarrett) and Scott Caan (Detective Danny “Danno” Williams).
Over the course of 10 years, scenes were shot at Tropics Bar & Grill, Duke Kahanamoku Lagoon, Paradise Pool, Hau Tree and the Rainbow Tower, showcasing the scenic appeal of the poolside eats and oceanfront dining for millions of viewers worldwide.
Key Location for Live-Action "Lilo & Stitch"
More recently, the Hilton Hawaiian Village continues to attract major productions, including on-site filming on Waikiki Beach for the live-action adaptation of “Lilo & Stitch” (2025), further proving its enduring appeal to Hollywood.
From Elvis’ suite to Beyonce’s beachfront performance, the Hilton Hawaiian Village Waikiki stands as a rare destination where luxury, hospitality, and entertainment history collide.