Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach

All in all, this hotel is a great choice. We stayed here for 10 days and overall our stay was pleasurable. The food was good, the hotel is beautifully historic and the service was great. Here are pros and cons that we experienced. Pros: 1. Beautifully historic 2. Direct beach access 3. Good food options 4. Has good nighttime entertainment, very lively. 5. Amazing views 6. Comfortable beds Cons: 1. The bayan rooms are SMALL. If you plan on being here more than a few days, make sure you reserve a tower room. You will thank me later 2. Furniture was updated but broken, so a little more attention to room maintenance is needed. 3. Bathrooms in bayan are small and limited space to accommodate skincare / make up 4. Bayan rooms you hear every noise on the street. So beware of loud cars and emergency vehicles. 5. Resort fee is absurd. Very high for things you will never use. 6. Parking fee is out of control. $65 per day.

The Moana Surfrider is one of those places that immediately reminds you why it’s known as the “First Lady of Waikiki.” Even if you’re not staying at the hotel, it’s absolutely worth visiting to experience its timeless elegance and rich history. Walking through the grand lobby feels like stepping back in time, with its beautiful colonial architecture, soaring ceilings, classic details, and relaxed Hawaiian atmosphere. It’s a perfect blend of historic charm and beachfront luxury. We spent the afternoon at the Beach Bar, and the setting alone is worth the visit. Sitting just steps from the sand with the iconic banyan tree providing shade, listening to the waves roll in while looking out over the turquoise waters of Waikiki, creates one of the most picturesque dining experiences on Oahu. The views of Diamond Head and the beach are simply stunning, making it an ideal place to slow down and enjoy the island. We ordered drinks and food while taking in the scenery. Although our visit was during a busy time, the atmosphere remained relaxed and inviting. Whether you’re stopping in for cocktails, appetizers, or simply to admire the ocean, it’s easy to understand why so many visitors make this a must-see destination. What truly makes the Moana Surfrider special is its history. Since opening its doors in 1901, it has welcomed guests from around the world while preserving the elegance and character that make it one of Waikiki’s most recognizable landmarks. It’s more than just a hotel—it’s a piece of Hawaiian history. If you’re visiting Oahu, I highly recommend taking some time to walk through the property, admire the architecture, and enjoy a drink or meal at the Beach Bar. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, watching the sunset, or simply soaking in the beauty of Waikiki, the Moana Surfrider offers an unforgettable experience and a glimpse into old Hawaiʻi with some of the best beachfront views on the island.

Two Banyan Wing Rooms - Beach & Diamond Head Views. Our stay at the Moana Surfrider was the perfect way to celebrate the Fourth of July and our daughter’s 32nd birthday. From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with genuine Hawaiian hospitality that made our family feel right at home. Known as the “First Lady of Waikiki,” the Moana Surfrider beautifully combines historic elegance with modern comfort. Walking through the grand lobby and learning about the hotel’s rich history made our stay even more meaningful. You can truly feel the legacy of this iconic property while enjoying every modern convenience. One of our favorite places was the magnificent banyan tree, the heart of the hotel. Whether enjoying morning coffee, listening to live music in the evening, or simply relaxing in its shade with the ocean breeze, it created an atmosphere that was peaceful, timeless, and unforgettable. The beachfront location is simply unbeatable. Stepping directly from the hotel onto the soft sands of Waikiki Beach made every day feel like paradise. Watching the waves, taking early morning walks along the shore, and celebrating the Fourth of July in such an incredible setting made this trip one we’ll always treasure. Our daughter’s birthday was made even more special thanks to the thoughtful and welcoming staff, whose kindness and attention to detail made the celebration truly memorable. The Moana Surfrider is more than a beautiful hotel—it’s a destination rich in history, charm, and aloha. It provided the perfect backdrop for celebrating family milestones while creating memories we’ll cherish for years to come. We can’t wait to return to the First Lady of Waikiki.

Beautiful hotel. We stayed in the historic section with a Banyan tree and ocean view. Hotel staff were all very friendly and helpful. Originally, we had a city view room in the tower, and they upgraded us to partial ocean view. Be warned that tower rooms with partial ocean view look at a wall of balconies. We weren't happy with that, so we were allowed to switch. We loved the new room and location. Pool was small, but fit the bill. Chairs were fairly easy to come by. The beach was beautiful and the water was perfect. We are Elite members, so we got complimentary beach chairs each day. That was nice. The beach bar was great. Yummy food and drinks. All the staff were so helpful. We had tea at the Veranda. It was wonderful. Delicious food choices and tea. Our daughter wasn't excited about her options, so they brought her the Keike sandwich plate. They were very accommodating. We felt so pampered! Perfect vacation spot.