
Historic wing reimagined with modern design and curated programming honoring its legacy
HONOLULU, Nov. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Waikiki's first hotel, the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa, today announced the completion of its Banyan Wing renovation and new retail experiences. Honoring its 1901 heritage, the Banyan Wing embodies the transformation of a classic, highlighting architect Oliver G. Traphagen's original design, with its Beaux-Arts influence, soaring columns and intricate crown molding.
Revitalized Banyan Wing Guest Rooms
Preserving historic character while embracing modern comforts, the Banyan Wing remains a beloved favorite among Moana Surfrider guests. As was common for the time, each room varies slightly, offering its own charm. The wing's guest rooms and suites feature views of Diamond Head, the historic courtyard banyan tree, or Waikiki skyline.
Guest rooms in the Banyan Wing, the Moana Surfrider's original wing built in 1901, will provide a redefined expression of The First Lady's classic elegance and tradition, inspired by various limu (seaweed), which once grew with abundance along the shore and was used in different ways, including sustenance, nourishment and healing. Carefully selected furniture and artwork balance the Moana's iconic architecture with modern, yet transitional touchpoints designed to create an ambiance of spacious living. A thoughtfully designed work area, fresh flooring, custom entertainment and refreshment center, and artwork evoking the graceful lines of limu, complete the space.
New Lobby Boutiques
The Banyan Wing Lobby has introduced new, locally owned retail shops:
- Lonohana Estate Chocolates Pop-Up (November & December): This pop-up features Hawaii-grown, handcrafted chocolate rooted in sustainability. Open daily, 9 a.m. – 9 p.m., guests can browse the full range of chocolates and savor island-crafted indulgence steps from the shore.
- Nick Kuchar's Art & Vintage Gallery: Acclaimed local artist Nick Kuchar unveiled his first Waikiki gallery on October 1. Open daily, 9 a.m.–10 p.m., the gallery features surf-inspired artwork, apparel and lifestyle goods that reflect the nostalgia of early surfing and travel culture.
"As we complete the Banyan Wing, we're honoring the Moana Surfrider's 124-year legacy while elevating comfort for today's traveler," said Thomas Foti, Biplex General Manager, Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa and Sheraton Princess Kaiulani. "From design that draws on the restorative spirit of limu to thoughtful in-room enhancements and new lobby retail partners, we're excited to welcome guests into spaces that feel both timeless and inspiring, inviting guests to experience the spirit of Waikiki in a refreshed way."
Fresh Guest Programming
To complement the renovation, the resort is expanding and debuting new guest experiences:
- Ultimate Spa Experience: In keeping with the Moana Surfrider's commitment to restorative travel, an all-new, exclusive two-person experience debuts at the Moana Lani Spa. The experience is held in an Oceanfront Spa Suite, and includes a 25-minute facial, a 50-minute massage and a soothing coconut milk bath. Following the treatments, guests can enjoy the in-suite whirlpool spa, a cheese and charcuterie board, two premium desserts and two glasses of prosecco.
- "The One Year Wave": The resort invites travelers to make Moana Memories and revive the lost art of letter writing. Upon arrival, each visitor receives a Welcome Guide featuring a detachable postcard. They can handwrite a short message to their future selves, include a mailing address, and drop the postcard at the Front Desk for delivery one year later.
- These additions join a robust calendar of complimentary activities, including daily yoga, meditation, beachside runs with the Run Concierge, and bi-weekly historic tours.
Exclusive Offer for Marriott Bonvoy Members
Guests interested in experiencing the newly renovated Banyan Wing rooms can book Marriott Bonvoy's Blue Friday members-only offer: up to 40 percent off select stays in Waikiki and 10,000 bonus points per stay when booking the promotional rate for a limited time. Book here.
For more information, visit www.moanasurfrider.com.
About the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa
Known as the "First Lady of Waikiki," the Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa, is Waikiki's most historic resort, offering a seamless blend of Victorian elegance and contemporary comfort. Boasting an unsurpassed beachfront location, the hotel is just steps from the gentle waters of Waikiki Beach and within walking distance of Honolulu's best shopping, dining and entertainment attractions. The hotel features three distinct and sophisticated wings, an elegant outdoor pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, the only beachfront spa in Waikiki, award-winning oceanfront bars and restaurants, and is home to an iconic, gracefully sheltering century-old courtyard banyan tree.
About Westin® Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality's global leader in well-being for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand's Six Pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. At more than 235 hotels and resorts in over 40 countries and territories, guests can benefit from distinct wellness experiences, including the brand's iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, signature WestinWORKOUT® offerings, such as its Fitness Studios with TRX fitness equipment, and its versatile Gear Lending program, featuring the latest in recovery and strength training from Hyperice and Bala, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more.
Dara Young
Director of Public Relations
The WAIKIKI Collection – Marriott International
[email protected]
SOURCE Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort and Spa
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