Oahu Revealed - Moana Surfrider, A Westin Resort Waikiki Beach

793 rooms, pool, 24-hour room service, 2 restaurants, lounge, shops, free daily coffee for the rooms, free room safes, 6 conference rooms, Hi-speed Internet access in rooms, Wi-Fi in common areas, Nintendo, child care (at the Sheraton Waikiki). This is one of Waikiki's most historic hotels, and the second floor has a nice display describing the legacy of this establishment. Their three buildings surround a century-old banyan tree than lends an air of timelessness to the ambiance. As an early player here in Waikiki, their location is among the best on the beach. The resort was renovated n 2007 with pleasing results. Even the Banyan Wing rooms are now a tasteful blend of modern Hawaiian decor and convenience in a historic setting.

The buildings are compact enough that you won't have to do much walking (except to where your car is parked behind the Princess Kaiulani). Valet parking is $25 per day, or you can pay $15 to self park. You have signing privileges at the other Sheratons in Waikiki.

The oceanfront rooms labeled Oceanfront Diamond are the most recommended. The views are amazing and the sound of the ocean ever-present. Historic Banyan Ocean rooms are a mixed bag since they're in an older building with older fixtures, plus some labeled this way don't face the ocean head-on. Upper Deluxe Ocean Towers are best closer to the ocean. Avoid rooms nearest Kalakaua Avenue, especially in the Banyan Wing--traffic noises might be more than you'd expect, and the old windows there allow in lots of sound. In fact, if you're not going to spring for the admittedly overpriced oceanfront rooms, consider staying elsewhere. The Standard and City View rooms are a real disappointment.

The gem rating refers to the grand beachside location and assumes you're in an oceanfront room. In general, if you got a good deal (or if price is no object) and you're willing to overlook some of the wear and tear the resort shows, you'll be happy with the oceanfront rooms here. The views were so good, we chose a shot taken from one of the balconies to start this chapter. And after our stay, we left this hotel feeling delightfully relaxed--until we got our credit card bill in the mail.

Their kids’ program is very extensive--it’s $50 per ∞ day plus lunch, and they don’t just jam them into a toy-filled room. They go to the zoo, aquarium, have cooking days and plenty of other activities.

As a Starwood hotel, they may charge extra if you choose to check out before your original departure date. Rates (222-348 sq. ft.) are $405-$730, Suites (460-1,822 sq. ft.) are $1,300-$3,500.