SURFING SOAPBOX:Aloha, royal hotel

FOR THE RECORD

The headline on the “Surfing Soapbox” column in the July 7 issue of the Coastline Pilot misidentified the Royal Hawaiian. It is a restaurant.

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Our once little beach town is now just another destination resort town that caters to the tourist. Downtown Laguna Beach is quickly becoming the second coming of Honolulu ? beginning with the sudden and sad demise of the Royal Hawaiian.

With the town buzzing over the sale of this Laguna landmark, and after dozens of phone calls and e-mails, it was time to see for myself.

It was worse than I anticipated.

Word on the street is that the new Hawaiian is planning on putting in VIP rooms. This would be as bad as enforcing a beach curfew and belongs right there with the worst idea I have heard in years ? the neutering of sea lions.

What a way to lose your local clientele. A place that was a local mainstay because of its low key and “aloha” vibe. A place that was about sandals and smiles, much like the old Laguna was.

I am sorry to say that, yes, it’s true that the institution once known as the Royal Hawaiian is over.

The fish tanks.

The blowfish.

The friendly faces that had worked there forever and who actually knew us ? the locals. Families and generations of Laguna who had for decades celebrated life, love and friendship must now look for a new place to begin another Laguna tradition.

Gone.

Goodbye.

Over.

We’ll miss you Royal Hawaiian.

And here’s one last suggestion: Instead of VIP rooms, a rubber room maybe better suited?

Peace.