In 1927, the Coconut Grove Lanai hosted afternoon tea at the Royal Hawaiian. The roof of the lanai featured a sun lanai that overlooked a landscaped courtyard and the ancient Helumoa Coconut Grove. The landscape originally featured a fountain, constructed of moss-grown lava rock from Koko Head Crater, designed by K. Takano.
Few of the historic features of the 1927 Coconut Grove Lanai remain, except for the exterior plaster painted pink, the terra cotta medallions, and the primary architectural forms.
In 2008, several historic features were restored, including opening the enclosed area on the makai side of the lanai (see photo, right) and removing other walls that had been added to enclose the lobby. This allowed for a new seating and gathering area in an open-air atmosphere. Details such as replica sconces bring back the feel of the original light fixtures.