Known as the "First Lady of Waikiki," the Moana Surfrider opened in 1901 as Waikiki's very first hotel and has been the social heart of the beach ever since. The graceful Beaux-Arts main building, now the Historic Banyan Wing, frames a courtyard built around an enormous Indian banyan tree planted in 1904 — still the property's signature gathering spot for sunset cocktails, live Hawaiian music, and afternoon tea. A Westin Resort & Spa within Marriott's portfolio, the hotel pairs period-detail rooms in the historic core with modern accommodations in the Diamond and Tower wings, plus the Moana Lani Spa, an oceanfront pool, and the Beachhouse at the Moana for steaks and seafood. It appeals to history lovers, honeymooners, and repeat Waikiki visitors who want classic ambience and a front-row seat to the beach.
"The courtyard with the big Banyan tree is one of my favourite places in the world to sit under watching the surf roll in and sipping on a cocktail."