Magnificent Property!
Written: Sep 02 '02 (Updated Sep 02 '02)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Lovely historical property, great service, unbeatable ambiance
Cons: Pricey, Waikiki
The Bottom Line: The Moana Surfrider is absolutely perfect!
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| ca_trophy's Full Review: Sheraton Moana Surfrider |
On our recent trip to Oahu, Waikiki and two nights at the Sheraton Moana Surfrider was our last stop (first two nights at beautiful Marriott J.W. Ihilani Resort and Spa -see review, middle four at a private beach cottage on windward side). It was difficult coming into Waikiki and all the noise and traffic, and then there we were at the Sheraton Moana Surfrider and from the moment we were greeted be the valets (leis even!), life was just fabulous! It was like being transported to another place and time. The hotel underwent extensive renovations a little over a decade ago, and it is gorgeous, romantic, and just everything one would possibly expect from 'The First Lady of Waikiki.' Our room was a corner ocean view in the historic Banyon Wing. Not only did we have a fabulous view of the beach and ocean - and I mean fabulous - not so high up everything was miles away, but a view framed by palm trees, and at night the ocean was illuminated just enough to be picture perfect, but the window on the other wall looked out on the historic Banyon tree and courtyard. The decor was charming, and there ought to be an award given to whoever was in charge, because while the room and bathroom were small, they were done wonderfully. To highlight these first moments upon arrival there was champagne on ice (I'd let them know it was our anniversary upon confirming reservations a couple of weeks earlier). As if all that wasn't enough, while sipping champagne and taking in the awe inspiring ambiance, Hawaiian music began wafting up from the courtyard. I just couldn't get over the perfection of it all! This was the romantic Waikiki of old!
Dining: Our first evening we weren't really that hungry, so we just had drinks and appetizers under the Banyon tree, the entertainment was great, service was a tad slow, but really no big deal. Later we went to the Royal Hawaiian for drinks - beautiful property! Next day we had breakfast at the Beachside Cafe (following an early morning snorkel at Hanauma Bay)the food was fine, service terrific. In the afternoon we did tea on the Banyon Veranda - an absolute must do! It was so fabulous and once again just epitomized that feel of a bygone era. That night we had dinner at The Ship's Tavern. The food was wonderful and the service was excellent (get one of Johnson's tables if he's there!). In between we enjoyed drinks while listening to more Hawaiian music accompanied by Kanoe Miller's dancing and watched the sunset at the Halekulani's House Without a Key - another must do in Waikiki. Most of the time we preferred staying at the Moana Surfrider, however, as Waikiki in general just isn't our thing, but the Moana takes you away from it all!
I would stay here again in a heartbeat! Our vacation was wonderful until we got to the Moana Surfrider - and then it became PERFECT!
A note about my star rating as the room is concerned: I gave the room five stars because it exceeded what I had expected and was wonderfully romantic (perfect views) with nice amenities (soft bathrobes & complete toiletries, even included aloe). I couldn't believe how charming it was! Please do not confuse this rating with a true five star rating, this was not a large, extravagant, luxury room as there just isn't the space in the historic wing.
And location: I gave it four stars because I don't much care for Waikiki - too terribly commercial, but the Moana Surfrider is right there on the best part of the beach.
Note: Look around for special rates. We paid $259. a night for a room that listed over $400. on the hotel's website.
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
ca_trophy
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Reviews written: 5
Trusted by: 0 members
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