September 22, 2026
Waikiki Beach is a dream destination, with two miles of beautiful white sand along the south shore of Oahu. It truly has something for everyone, from calm swimming areas that are perfect for families to spots that are ideal for learning how to surf. I went surfing here for the first time, and it was unforgettable, I highly recommend it.
Beyond the beach, Honolulu is bustling with great restaurants and high-end shopping. Since Waikiki is such a desirable vacation spot, there are endless hotels to choose from, which can feel overwhelming. Not every hotel is beachfront, some are set farther back in Honolulu, others are a quick walk across the road, and a select few sit directly on Waikiki Beach.
One thing to keep in mind is that while many Honolulu hotels have pools, they often do not feature the massive resort style pool complexes found at other beach destinations. In this post, I’m breaking down three beachfront Marriott resorts to help you decide which one best fits your Hawaiian getaway.
Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort & Spa
Opened in 1901 and known as “The First Lady of Waikiki,” this beachfront resort has an incredible history. The property underwent a renovation in 2026 while preserving its historic character. The hotel has three distinct wings: the Tower Wing, offering modern beach luxury; the Banyan Wing, a restored classic; and the Surfrider Wing, featuring contemporary beach style. If you love history, the Banyan Wing is the one to choose. It is the original wing, and although it has been updated, it still retains many elements of the historic hotel. The stunning banyan tree in the courtyard is another standout feature, and if you’ve never seen a banyan tree you may think it’s odd that I am mentioning a tree, but they really are a sight to see.
The resort offers one rectangular pool beneath the banyan tree, with a beautiful view of the ocean. Even though there is only one pool, you are just steps from the beach. This is where Aloha Beach Services is located, offering paddleboarding, surfing, and canoe surfing lessons, along with rentals for everything you may need during your beach day.
Points rate: 65,000–105,000 points per night
Credit Marriott
The Royal Hawaiian, a Luxury Collection Resort
The Royal Hawaiian, also known as the “Pink Palace of the Pacific,” is part of Marriott’s Luxury Collection. The resort opened in 1927 and continues to celebrate its history and Hawaiian culture throughout the beautiful property. Located directly on Waikiki Beach, this hotel is truly iconic.
The Royal Hawaiian has one pool, the Malulani Pool, which is exclusively for hotel guests. It has a quiet, serene atmosphere, complete with pink chairs and umbrellas that match the hotel. A major perk is that guests can also use the Helumoa Playground at the neighbouring Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort. It features two pools, waterslides, a waterfall, and two large whirlpool spas. The Helumoa Playground is the only pool you can use at the Sheraton Waikiki, as the infinity pool is reserved for Sheraton guests only.
Points rate: 66,000–112,000 points per night
Credit: Marriott
Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort
The Sheraton Waikiki Beach Resort delivers the more traditional resort experience you might expect from a beach vacation. It offers two distinct pool environments: the award-winning, adults only infinity pool overlooking the ocean and the family friendly Helumoa Playground. The playground features two pools, waterfalls, two whirlpools, a 70-foot waterslide, and ocean view cabanas. Of the three resorts, this is likely the best choice for families who want a good mix of pool time and beach time. While this resort is beach front there is technically no beach right in front as its built on a seawall. To the east side of the resort you can access the beach at the Royal Hawaiian which takes less then a minute to get there.
Points rate: 67,200–117,000 points per night
Credit: Marriott
If you are worried about location the Moana Surfrider is the most central of the three resorts along Waikiki beach but all the resorts are in a great location. No matter which of the three resorts you choose dining and shopping is all within walking distance. Whether you prefer historic charm, iconic luxury, or a family friendly pool experience, there is a Marriott property in Waikiki to match your travel style. Happy travelling!
—Alexis