The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki
Contact: +1 (888) 605-1350
Choosing between The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki and Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa, Waikiki Beach? This in-depth comparison breaks down location, vibe, rooms, food, nightlife, price & more so you can decide which resort fits your Waikiki getaway.
Best for travelers who want an iconic Waikiki experience at the legendary "Pink Palace of the Pacific" with historic grandeur, a prime beachfront setting, and timeless Hawaiian elegance.
Better for travelers who want the Victorian charm of Waikiki's oldest hotel—the "First Lady of Waikiki"—with classic colonial architecture, a famed Banyan courtyard, and refined beachfront ambiance.
If you want to stay at Waikiki's most iconic landmark hotel with Spanish-Moorish architecture, a signature coral-pink façade, and a sense of Hollywood-era glamour, The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki is typically the better pick—especially for travelers who want that "Pink Palace" experience.
If your priority is Victorian elegance and classic colonial charm, Moana Surfrider usually comes out ahead—particularly for guests drawn to its historic Banyan Tree courtyard, wraparound verandas, and "First Lady of Waikiki" heritage.
Bottom line: both are legendary Waikiki beachfront properties with rich history. Choose The Royal Hawaiian for bold, colorful grandeur and a more resort-style atmosphere, and choose Moana Surfrider for refined Victorian character and a classic plantation-era feel.
| Category | The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki | Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Vibe |
Iconic "Pink Palace of the Pacific" with Spanish-Moorish architecture, bold coral-pink design, and a legendary resort atmosphere on Waikiki Beach.
Best for Iconic Glamour
|
The "First Lady of Waikiki" with Victorian colonial architecture, a historic Banyan courtyard, and refined old-world Hawaiian elegance.
Best for Classic Charm
|
| Location | Prime beachfront position on Waikiki Beach with direct sand access and views of Diamond Head. | Beachfront on Waikiki Beach with a historic oceanfront setting and iconic veranda views. |
| Architecture & Design | Spanish-Moorish design with signature pink exterior, tropical gardens, and a sense of 1920s Hollywood glamour. | Victorian-era colonial design with white wooden architecture, wraparound lanais, and period details throughout. |
| Rooms & Suites | Rooms blend historic character with modern comforts; many feature ocean views and Hawaiian-inspired décor. | Rooms in the historic Banyan Wing offer Victorian character; Tower Wing rooms provide more contemporary style. |
| Dining | On-site dining includes oceanfront options with a focus on Hawaiian and Pacific flavors in an elegant setting. | Signature dining beneath the historic Banyan Tree, with classic afternoon tea service and oceanfront restaurants. |
| Pool & Beach | Freshwater pool in tropical garden setting plus direct access to Waikiki's famous beach. | Beachfront pool area with direct Waikiki Beach access and historic courtyard lounging. |
| Best For | Travelers seeking the iconic Pink Palace experience with bold design, resort energy, and legendary status. | Travelers who prefer Victorian elegance, a quieter historic atmosphere, and classic plantation-era ambiance. |
Rooms at The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki reflect the hotel's legendary status and tropical grandeur, with Hawaiian-inspired design touches and views that showcase Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head.
The Royal Hawaiian is the better pick if you want to stay in a piece of Waikiki history with bold, colorful character.
Moana Surfrider offers accommodations that honor its Victorian heritage, particularly in the original Banyan Wing, while the Tower Wing provides a more modern option.
If you want Victorian charm and a connection to Waikiki's oldest hotel, Moana Surfrider delivers that heritage feel.
Dining at The Royal Hawaiian emphasizes oceanfront elegance with Hawaiian and Pacific-inspired cuisine served in settings that match the hotel's legendary atmosphere.
Expect:
Moana Surfrider is renowned for its Banyan Tree courtyard dining, offering a unique open-air experience beneath the property's famous century-old tree.
If afternoon tea and historic courtyard dining appeal to you, Moana Surfrider offers a distinctive experience.
The Royal Hawaiian features a freshwater pool set within tropical gardens, plus direct access to Waikiki Beach—one of the world's most famous stretches of sand.
Moana Surfrider offers a beachfront pool with the added charm of its historic Banyan courtyard nearby—ideal for guests who appreciate a classic Hawaiian setting.
Both hotels share Waikiki Beach access; the choice comes down to garden pool setting vs. historic courtyard atmosphere.
The Royal Hawaiian opened in 1927 and quickly became known as the "Pink Palace of the Pacific"—a glamorous destination for Hollywood stars and royalty.
Moana Surfrider opened in 1901 as Waikiki's first hotel, earning the title "First Lady of Waikiki" with its Victorian colonial design and oceanfront setting.
Both properties hold landmark status in Waikiki history—the choice depends on which architectural era speaks to you.
The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki is ideal for travelers who want iconic resort glamour, bold design, and the legendary Pink Palace experience.
Moana Surfrider is the better choice for travelers who prefer Victorian elegance, classic plantation-era ambiance, and a more refined atmosphere.
Choose The Royal Hawaiian if you want the legendary Pink Palace experience with bold design, tropical grandeur, and Waikiki's most iconic hotel atmosphere.
Moana Surfrider is the better pick for classic colonial charm, Banyan Tree courtyard ambiance, and the "First Lady of Waikiki" heritage experience.
For romantic escapes with sunset views and a glamorous resort atmosphere, The Royal Hawaiian offers an unforgettable Waikiki setting for couples.
If you want afternoon tea, historic courtyard dining, and a refined Victorian ambiance, Moana Surfrider delivers classic Hawaiian hospitality.
Questions? Contact Us!
Explore more helpful planning guides and insider articles for The Royal Hawaiian, Waikiki:
