Our Experience - Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach
Few hotels capture the spirit of Waikīkī quite like the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa. Known as the "First Lady of Waikīkī," this historic beachfront resort perfectly blends classic Hawaiian elegance with modern comfort. From the moment we arrived, the hotel's timeless architecture, open-air lobby, and iconic banyan tree created an atmosphere that felt both relaxing and uniquely Hawaiian. It quickly became one of our favorite places to unwind after a day of exploring Oʻahu.
The biggest highlight of our stay was undoubtedly the location. Step outside the hotel, and you're immediately on the sands of world-famous Waikīkī Beach. Whether you're looking to swim in the crystal-clear Pacific Ocean, rent a surfboard, or simply relax under the Hawaiian sun, it doesn't get much more convenient than this. Being able to walk from our room to the beach in just a matter of minutes made every day feel like a true island vacation.
Our guest room was comfortable, well-appointed, and provided everything we needed for a relaxing stay. While the accommodations have been thoughtfully updated with modern amenities, the hotel still retains the historic charm that makes it one of the most recognizable resorts in Hawaiʻi. Combined with friendly service and the resort's inviting atmosphere, it was easy to see why so many visitors choose to return year after year.
If we had one minor critique, it would be the size of the swimming pool. Compared to many modern Hawaiian resorts, the pool is relatively small. That said, it's hard to consider this much of a drawback when one of the most beautiful beaches in the world is literally just steps away. For us, Waikīkī Beach became our pool, making the resort's incredible beachfront location far more valuable than a larger pool deck ever could.
As always in the Jet2Gether world, we love when a stay ties into the Marriott Bonvoy program. The Moana Surfrider is a great option for earning or redeeming points, adding even more value to an already memorable experience. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want comfort, location, and loyalty perks all in one.