Moana Surfrider
Historic 'First Lady of Waikiki' hotel since 1901, offering a blend of timeless elegance and beachfront luxury.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Moana Surfrider
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more serene
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic 'First Lady of Waikiki' hotel since 1901, offering a blend of timeless elegance and beachfront luxury.
"The Moana Surfrider is the smallest and shortest but my favorite hotel out of all on Waikiki beach."
🎯 Book Oceanfront Suites
Upgrade to an oceanfront suite for extraordinary views and a modern, clean experience.
☕ Enjoy The Veranda Tea
Afternoon tea at The Veranda is a must-do for a top-tier experience with ocean views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Banyan Tree Courtyard
Main Courtyard
Relax in the shade of a majestic banyan tree, a serene oasis amidst the bustling beach. Perfect for people-watching and enjoying a cool drink.
Beach Bar Views
Beachfront
Sip on tropical cocktails with your toes in the sand and breathtaking ocean views. A quintessential Waikiki experience.
The Veranda Afternoon Tea
The Veranda
Indulge in an elegant afternoon tea service with ocean breezes and historic charm. A delightful treat for a special occasion.
Iconic Rocking Chairs
Lobby and Courtyard
Settle into the famous rocking chairs and soak in the ambiance of this historic hotel. A beloved spot for relaxation and people-watching.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History, Expect the Crowds
Renovations and Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Oceanfront Suites
Upgrade to an oceanfront suite for extraordinary views and a modern, clean experience.
☕ Enjoy The Veranda Tea
Afternoon tea at The Veranda is a must-do for a top-tier experience with ocean views. +1
🍹 Beach Bar Bliss
The beachfront bar offers top-tier drinks and stunning ocean views, perfect for sunset.
🪑 Rocking Chair Relaxation
Don't miss sitting in the iconic rocking chairs, especially with a local treat.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Oceanfront Suites
Upgrade to an oceanfront suite for extraordinary views and a modern, clean experience.
☕ Enjoy The Veranda Tea
Afternoon tea at The Veranda is a must-do for a top-tier experience with ocean views. +1
🍹 Beach Bar Bliss
The beachfront bar offers top-tier drinks and stunning ocean views, perfect for sunset.
🪑 Rocking Chair Relaxation
Don't miss sitting in the iconic rocking chairs, especially with a local treat.
💧 Water Refill Station
Wish for a water refill station; currently, you might need to ask for cups or use bathroom sinks.
👻 Haunted History
Explore the hotel's history, including tales of the 'Lady in White' on the 2nd floor.
🛍️ Lawson Station Convenience
Grab local favorites like ramen and shave ice at Lawson Station within the hotel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Guests consistently praise the Moana Surfrider's historic charm, prime beachfront location, and the relaxing ambiance of its banyan tree courtyard and iconic rocking chairs. The beach bar is a highlight for its views and drinks. However, some find the pool area small with limited seating, and certain amenities like beach chairs may be restricted. Dining can be pricey, and breakfast selections may become repetitive for longer stays.
"Attached my suite voucher and upgraded to ocean front suite on the fifth floor. The room is extraordinary and super clean and modern. My wife and I loved the room, as well as the decoration and design of the main lobby. The overall stay is super good. 9/10 experience. The only flaw is the breakfast. The selections stay the same across our three day stay, which makes it a bit boring. But the staffs are super helpful though."
Qiliang Lin
"While we stayed at the older building, the hotel is just full of charm and beautifully maintained. We were surprised how many people walk by that aren’t staying at the hotel for pictures or to sit on the rocking chairs, and how clean it was still kept up despite the high traffic. Chris at check in was very nice, attentive and sincerely ready to help. The food was delicious in the evenings at the beach bar. No umbrellas or chairs are provided unless you are an elite member and given what surrounding hotels/resorts in the same price bracket offer, we do wish we had something more to use for shade. Still it was an unforgettable stay and would love to come back once the renovation is fully completed. Can’t imagine how much more beautiful it’ll be!"
j a
"Its the smallest and shortest but Its my favorite hotel out of all on Waikiki beach.
I love the island decor and the vibe of this establishment! Breakfast here is delicious too!
And the rocking chairs?!!! 🥰 we've had so many rainbow shaved ice (from next door) and cappuccino sips (also next door) on those rocking chairs!!! Its the perfect spot to cool off while people 👀"
a deleon
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From HNL, you can take a taxi or rideshare service directly to the Moana Surfrider, which is about a 30-40 minute drive depending on traffic. Public transportation options like TheBus are also available but will take longer.
Yes, the Moana Surfrider offers valet parking for guests. Be aware that parking fees can be substantial in Waikiki.
Absolutely! The Moana Surfrider is perfectly located on Waikiki Beach, within easy walking distance to shops, restaurants, and other popular Waikiki landmarks.
Yes, the Moana Surfrider is directly on Waikiki Beach, offering immediate access to the sand and ocean.
Waikiki is very walkable. For longer distances, consider using local buses, trolleys, or rideshare services. Many visitors find walking to be the most enjoyable way to explore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Moana Surfrider is a hotel, so you don't need tickets to enter the lobby or public areas like the courtyard. However, access to rooms, the pool, and some dining facilities requires being a guest or making reservations.
As a hotel, the Moana Surfrider is open 24/7 for guests. Specific amenities like restaurants, bars, and the spa will have their own operating hours, which are best checked directly with the hotel.
Yes, non-guests are generally welcome to visit the Moana Surfrider's beach bar and restaurants, though reservations may be recommended, especially for popular spots like The Veranda.
There are no entrance fees for the public areas of the Moana Surfrider, such as the lobby and courtyard. However, be mindful that these areas are frequented by guests and may have a more relaxed dress code.
You can book rooms directly through the official Westin Hotels website, or through various online travel agencies. Early booking is advised, especially for oceanfront rooms.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Don't miss relaxing in the historic banyan tree courtyard, enjoying cocktails at the beachfront bar, experiencing afternoon tea at The Veranda, and soaking in the ambiance of the iconic rocking chairs.
Yes, the Moana Surfrider has an outdoor pool. However, reviews suggest it can be small and chairs may be limited or taken quickly. +1
The Moana Surfrider offers a blend of historic charm and beachfront relaxation. It's known for its elegant ambiance, especially in the lobby and courtyard, and its lively beach bar.
Indeed! Known as the 'First Lady of Waikiki,' it was the first hotel in Waikiki, opening in 1901. It retains much of its original charm and has a fascinating history, including ghost stories. 
Oceanfront suites are highly recommended for their views and modern amenities. Many guests also appreciate rooms with balconies overlooking the beach.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Moana Surfrider offers several dining options, including the Beach Bar for casual drinks and bites, The Veranda for afternoon tea, and other restaurants within the resort.
Breakfast is typically not included unless specified in your room package. Reviews mention the breakfast selection can become repetitive over a few days.
The Beach Bar is popular for its tropical cocktails and stunning ocean views. It's a great spot to enjoy the sunset.
While not exclusively Hawaiian, you can find local favorites like shave ice and ramen at Lawson Station within the hotel. The Beach Bar also offers delicious food.
Dining at the Moana Surfrider can be pricey. For more budget-friendly options, consider exploring the many eateries outside the hotel in Waikiki or grabbing snacks from Lawson Station.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots in the historic banyan tree courtyard, from the beachfront bar with ocean views, and from your oceanfront room balcony. The iconic rocking chairs also make for great photos.
Absolutely! Its historic architecture, beachfront location, and elegant interiors make it incredibly photogenic. The 'First Lady of Waikiki' charm is evident throughout.
Yes, visitors are welcome to take photos in the public areas. However, be respectful of guests and their privacy, especially in common areas and near rooms.
The hotel's architecture, especially the original structures and the banyan tree, offers a glimpse into its past. The 'Lady in White' ghost stories also add a unique, albeit spooky, photographic angle for some.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for beach and ocean shots. Mid-day can be good for capturing the vibrant courtyard and architectural details.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider grabbing shave ice from Lawson Station within the hotel for a classic Hawaiian treat that kids will love.
💰 Budget Travelers
+1Enjoying a drink or snack at the Beach Bar can be a more affordable way to experience the beachfront setting compared to a full-service restaurant meal.
Alternatively, grab local treats like shave ice or ramen from Lawson Station inside the hotel for a budget-friendly bite. 💖 Couples & Honeymooners
+1The historic ambiance, coupled with the sound of the waves and the beautiful beachfront location, creates a memorable backdrop for special occasions. Consider a stroll along Waikiki Beach at sunset or simply relaxing together in the iconic rocking chairs.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History: The 'First Lady of Waikiki'
+2Despite numerous renovations and expansions over the decades, the Moana Surfrider has strived to maintain its original architectural elegance. The banyan tree courtyard remains a central, serene feature, offering a tranquil escape from the beach buzz. This blend of historical significance and modern luxury makes it a unique place to stay, offering a tangible connection to Hawaii's past.
+1Waikiki Beachfront Experience
+1While the hotel provides a beautiful setting, it's worth noting that amenities like beach chairs and umbrellas might be limited or require elite status. Some reviews mention wishing for more shade options. Nevertheless, the direct beach access and the vibrant atmosphere of Waikiki Beach right outside your door are undeniable perks.
For those looking to engage with the ocean, surf lessons are often available nearby, adding an adventurous element to your stay. The sound of the waves and the ocean breeze are constant companions, enhancing the quintessential Hawaiian vacation experience.
Dining and Refreshments
+1For a more refined experience, The Veranda hosts an elegant afternoon tea, a delightful way to spend an afternoon surrounded by historic charm.
Convenience is also key, with Lawson Station located within the hotel, offering local favorites like ramen, shave ice, and soft serve ice cream.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit