The Royal Hawaiian Band

Hotels in this story

Price Dates

The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort, Waikiki

Ala Moana Hotel

Visitors to the islands will find plenty of music to enjoy, but one continuing musical tradition dates back to 1836. Founded by King Kamehameha III, The Royal Hawaiian Band (formerly known as The King’s Band) still performs regularly throughout Hawaii and around the world. The heart of the Royal Hawaiian Band, the only full time municipal band in the United States, is Hawaiian music. Featuring stylized Hawaiian melodies including “Sophisticated Hula” and “Hukilau” the band always closes with the famous “Aloha Oe” composed by Queen Liliuokalani. There are several standing dates on Oahu where you can catch a free concert:

Iolani Palace – Fridays at noonKapiolani Park Bandstand – Sundays at 2 pmRoyal Hawaiian Center (at the Royal Hawaiian Waikiki, Hawaii) – Some Thursdays at 1 pmAla Moana Center Stage (adjacent to the Ala Moana Hotel Waikiki, Hawaii) – Some Wednesdays at 2 pmMililani Town Center – First Saturday of every month

The band plays other dates and locations, too. Check their online calendar for an updated listing.

–Kris Bordessa of and

[Photo Credit:Flickr/Steve and Sara]