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Queen Kapiolani Hotel Waikik Beach Honolulu Hawaii
Military

RIMPAC 2026: Experience the World's Largest Naval Exercise from Waikīkī

By: / Apr 06 2026
Naval Fleet RIMPAC 2010

Witness the Action: RIMPAC 2026 in O'ahu

In 2026, Honolulu, Hawaiʻi will once again host the Rim of the Pacific Exercise (RIMPAC), the world's largest maritime training event. Taking place from June 24 to July 31, 2026, RIMPAC will bring together 31 nations in and around the Hawaiian Islands, reinforcing its role as the premier multinational maritime exercise in the world.

RIMPAC 2026 at a Glance:

  • 31 participating nations
  • Approximately 40 surface ships
  • 5 submarines
  • Around 140 aircraft
  • More than 25,000 military personnel

Set against the strategic backdrop of Honolulu and nearby Pearl Harbor, the exercise will combine advanced naval operations with humanitarian training, disaster response coordination, and multinational readiness exercises.

For visitors, military personnel, government contractors, and families, this is a rare opportunity to experience world-class naval operations while enjoying the natural beauty and culture of Oʻahu.

What Is RIMPAC?

RIMPAC (Rim of the Pacific Exercise) is a biennial, multinational maritime training exercise designed to strengthen cooperation, interoperability, and readiness among Pacific Rim armed forces.

Key focus areas include:

  • Maritime security operations
  • Disaster relief and humanitarian assistance
  • Anti-submarine and surface warfare training
  • Air and naval coordination exercises

Hosted near Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, RIMPAC underscores the strategic importance of Hawaiʻi in global maritime security. The presence of Pearl Harbor adds historical depth, connecting modern cooperation with a legacy of naval history.

Why Honolulu Is the Perfect RIMPAC Host City

Honolulu offers a rare combination of operational access, strategic location, and visitor experience.

During RIMPAC 2026, visitors can expect:

  • Live ship and aircraft demonstrations offshore
  • Military vessel movements visible from shorelines
  • Cultural events and community engagement across Oʻahu
  • A vibrant mix of global military presence and Hawaiian hospitality

And just minutes away, Waikīkī Beach provides the perfect place to unwind after a day of observing operations.

When you're off duty or between events, Oʻahu offers:

  • Surfing, snorkeling, and ocean activities
  • Historic sites and cultural landmarks
  • Local dining and entertainment in Waikīkī

Stay Near the Action: Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel Waikīkī Beach

For RIMPAC 2026, location and convenience matter. The ideal home base is the historic and beautifully updated Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel, located just steps from Waikīkī Beach and a short drive to Pearl Harbor.

Whether you're traveling to Oʻahu for RIMPAC or extending your stay after duty, Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel offers a comfortable, military-friendly home base designed for ease, relaxation, and convenience.

Military-Friendly Rates & Government Travel Support

Exclusive Military Leisure Rates

  • Rates starting at $179/night
  • 50% off hospitality fees
  • Available for active duty, veterans, retirees, and immediate family members
  • Ideal for rest and relaxation before or after RIMPAC

Valid military or veteran ID required at check-in. Rates subject to availability.

Government & Contractor Per Diem Rates

For official RIMPAC travel, Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel offers:

  • Government per diem-aligned rates at $202/night
  • Easy billing and booking support
  • Convenient access to Pearl Harbor and military installations
  • Comfortable accommodations for productivity and rest

Available for active duty, GS employees, and contractors with valid orders or ID.

Group Room Blocks for RIMPAC 2026

Traveling with a unit, team, or agency? Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel offers customized group room blocks to simplify logistics and keep your group together.

Benefits include:

  • Discounted group rates
  • Dedicated booking link
  • Flexible rooming lists
  • Streamlined check-in
  • Close proximity to key military locations

To reserve 10+ rooms, contact:
Nicole Darity
Ndarity@pmhotelgroup.com
808-230-5534

Why Stay at Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel During RIMPAC?

  • Military-friendly pricing and government per diem options
  • Prime Waikīkī location near Diamond Head
  • Walkable access to beaches, dining, and attractions
  • Approximately 20-minute drive (12 miles) to Pearl Harbor
  • Ideal for groups, official travel, and leisure extensions
  • Island-inspired comfort with modern amenities
  • Trusted hospitality in the heart of Honolulu

Plan Your RIMPAC 2026 Stay

RIMPAC 2026 will bring global forces together in one of the most strategically important and visually stunning locations in the world. Whether you're attending for duty, business, or leisure, your experience in Honolulu will be unforgettable.

Make Queen Kapiʻolani Hotel your home base and enjoy the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and Hawaiian hospitality just steps from Waikīkī Beach.

 

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