The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach opened its doors to a new wave of global travelers on the majestic island of Oahu in world-renowned Waikiki. The much-anticipated residential resort marked its official opening with a Hawaiian blessing and ceremony that was attended by community leaders and dignitaries.

"Our journey on this monumental and exciting project started three years ago, and it is truly an honor to celebrate this momentous occasion with everyone involved in transforming The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach from a vision yesterday, to a reality today," said Lance Wilhelm, Managing Principal of Irongate, developer of The Residences. "Our resort would not have been possible without the many hands that touched this project, from the hundreds of construction workers to the many members of our surrounding communities, and we would like to send a very special mahalo for their continued support and kokua."

The Ritz-Carlton Residences are the latest addition to the Waikiki skyline, featuring the ultimate in residential resort-style experiences with expansive ocean views from every residence, global culinary experiences, exceptional amenities and legendary service.

Construction of The Residences started in Summer 2013. Architect Guerin Glass, inspired by Hawaii's natural elements, designed the 38-story tower using a mauka (mountain) to makai (sea) vision that is seen in the resort's stunning exterior through artful details and inspired craftsmanship. The exterior front reflects the ocean, sky and wind and the exterior back reflects the mountains and Honolulu's urban metropolis. A three-dimensional, modern interpretation of traditional Hawaiian kapa (bark cloth) design covers the first three floors of the tower.

Interior design firm Jon Brent Design's understated elegance, contemporary island-deco and modern luxury inspiration is seen throughout the resort's common areas and 307 stylishly-appointed studio, one-, two- and three-bedroom residential accommodations and penthouses. All residences face the ocean, providing guests with an unparalleled view of the Pacific, and include kitchens with premium appliances along with in-residence washers and dryers.

"The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach brings elegance and luxury to Kuhio Avenue, adding a level of sophistication to a part of Waikiki undergoing significant enhancements. It is vital that Hawaii's tourism industry is able to offer a variety of quality lodging accommodations to match the desires and pocketbooks of global travelers. Ritz-Carlton is a brand name of choice for discerning travelers and will provide them with another reason to chooseWaikiki as their preferred destination. Congratulations to the entire Ritz-Carlton team on this exciting day," said George D. Szigeti, President and CEO of Hawaii Tourism Authority.

Guests staying at the resort can discover a vast array of distinctive experiences along with legendary Ritz-Carlton service. Amenities include the highest infinity pool in Waikiki on the eighth floor with private cabanas, and a premier fitness center designed by celebrity trainer Harley Pasternak. The Ritz-Carlton Spa will open in mid-September offering customized treatments that incorporate cultures and traditions from different countries around the world.

Adding to the enjoyment for guests is a fine selection of dining experiences that are both creative in taste and presentation, ensuring an adventure for the senses. BLT Market opened on June 28 offering modern, American-inspired cuisine from Executive Chef Johan Svensson, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu changes daily and is influenced by the best of the season's bounty sourced from the local purveyors and Hawaii growers that supplyHonolulu's freshest farmers' markets. Additionally, BLT Market oversees all food and beverage service for the resort's in-residence and poolside dining. A world-class beverage program can be found at the restaurant's bar and lounge, featuring craft beer selections, internationally-curated and bio-dynamic-focused wines, in addition to seasonally-changing specialty cocktails.

In mid-September, guests can also look forward to Dean & DeLuca, one of the world's most beloved and iconic gourmet markets with more than 25 locations around the globe, debuting its first Hawaii location at The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Waikiki Beach. The acclaimed Sushi Sho is also opening its first location outside of Japan at the resort in mid-September, led by Keiji Nakazawa, Tokyo's most influential sushi chef, famed for his mastery of the techniques of the ancient Edo sushi masters.

"This is an exciting day for us as we continue to redefine the standard for luxury hospitality in Hawaii," said Doug Chang, General Manager of The Residences. "As manager of the first Ritz-Carlton Residences on the island ofOahu, we  will deliver a highly-sensory respite in Waikiki for residence owners and guests from near and abroad."

In celebration of the resort's opening, guests can enjoy a complimentary fourth night for one-, two- and three-bedroom bookings or complimentary fifth night for studio category bookings. Reservations may be booked online at www.RitzCarlton.com/Waikiki or by calling (808) 922-8222.

A two-night minimum stay is required and this residential resort does not participate in The Ritz-Carlton Rewards or Marriott Rewards.