This is what I'm looking for:

~just me & my husband, so "kid friendly" doesn't apply.
~something moderate or a little more upscale
~right on the water
~nice pool area


I think that's it! Any suggestions?? There are SO many places to choose from!

The Sheraton Moana Surfrider is my absolute favorite hotel on Waikiki. It has the most beautiful terrace on the beach and the old colonial styling is just lovely.

I agree on Sheraton Moana. Romantic, cozy, elegant, like stepping back in time with the elite of yesteryear.

What is the pool area like at Moana Surfrider? And the dining? Any hints where I can find a good special??

The Moana is great, I stayed there last time I was in Honolulu. I also love the Royal. I understand it was refurbished. With travel being down, don't know if you might be able to get a deal at either the Moana or the Royal.

Just in case you're googling, it's actually the "Royal Hawaiian" -- I think there are other hotels with "Royal" in the name.

Outrigger Reef is nice for 'moderate'. Good pool areas, two nice restaurants, great lobby shops, good little beach, near Fort de Russey park. Royal Hawaiian is a beautiful property. Halekulani the most high end. Moana Surfrider (it's a Westin these days not Sheraton anymore) is historic.

IF you want a hotel that is *right on the water* (not across the street) & in the central strip of Waikiki beach, there's only a few hotels that fit that. From one end to the other the beachfront hotels are:
HHV
Hale Koa Hotel (military only)
Outrigger Reef
Halekulani
Sheraton Waikiki
Royal Hawaiian
Outrigger Waikiki
Moana Surfrider

Check out:
Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort & Spa

Hyatt is not "right on the water", it's one of those across the main boulevard from the beach.