Developed by English businessman Walter Chamberlain Peacock in 1901, the Moana Hotel was Waikiki’s first hotel and Hawaiʻi’s first to offer an electric elevator and telephones in every room, all for the steep rate of $1.50 a night. Over one hundred years later with further renovations, resulting in the Surfrider wing in 1952, and the Tower wing in 1969, the now 793-room Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, offers award-winning restaurants, nightly Hawaiʻian entertainment in the courtyard, and the same Moana (or ocean) front access to Waikiki beach, that attracted Mr. Peacock over a century ago to this prime location. And for the traveler seeking extra R & R, there’s no better bet than the luxurious Moana Lani Spa, the only oceanfront spa in Waikiki. Filled with history, Hawaiʻian healing traditions and innovative spa rituals inspire the spirit in this tranquil oasis, letting mind and body become one.

Photo: Courtesy of Moana Surfrider Luxury Hotel