Inside The Diamond Head Club's Ritz-Carlton Penthouse Experience

You’ve never seen Waikiki quite like this.

Very rarely do visitors to Waikiki take a moment to look up at the many buildings that overlook the world-famous beach, but if they did they might catch a glimpse of their fellow travelers looking down from the best sightseeing spot in town. Perched high atop the second tower at the Ritz-Carlton Residences Waikiki Beach is a rooftop lanai so exclusive that most people probably don't even know it exists. This spot is just one of the many perks enjoyed by members of the Diamond Head Club.

Members or "homeowners" of this club partake in either flexible or fixed ownership programs and enjoy access to two- and three-bedroom residences, or the Diamond Head Penthouse, which boasts three bedrooms, a family room and den, and more than 4,100-sq. ft. of space for an Oahu luxury experience unlike most others. And through the two ownership programs, the members can also enjoy never having to stress about high rates, overbooked hotels and long lobby lines.

Diamond Head interior
Ranging from approximately 2,000-4,000-sq. ft., these penthouses are great for relaxing between trips to the beach or private rooftop lanai. | Ritz-Carlton Residences

The Ritz-Carlton Residences towers were both completed within the last three years, and the Diamond Head Club's renovation is expected to be completed in 2020. Located within the top three floors of the second tower, the Diamond Club's six penthouse residences begin at more than 2,000-sq. ft. and offer all the space and resources owners need for relaxing in between excursions, beach trips and strolls through the city. However, the lavish design of these residences will make it difficult to leave at all, what with each unit featuring a private rooftop cabana that opens onto the extravagant lanai.

rooftop lanai
The private rooftop lanai will feature a pool and two Jacuzzis, in addition to a bar and dining area. | Ritz-Carlton Residences

And the lanai is about as good as it gets on Oahu. The garden theme will keep guests at peace as they shuffle between the saltwater pool and two Jacuzzis, or take a seat at the bar or outdoor dining spot for snacks and tropical cocktails. Best of all, with only six residences, that means a limited number of guests at any given time and more attention from the dedicated concierge, bolstering a level of exclusivity that will make this the home base for the greatest possible Waikiki getaway.

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