I am open to either location as well. Always nice to talk shop with other like minded TUG addicts.
I think Ko Olina is a terrific property, and each time I've been, I've loved it and wondered why I don't visit more often. I believe the addition of new adjacent luxury properties will impact some of the tranquility that is wonderful for MKO, but will also provide new destinations and continue to spur development. I do not think Ko Olina will be crowded by any stretch.
All this being said, I still prefer Maui Ocean Club. I think the location on Kaanapali Beach is fantastic and that the units themselves (new tower) and the grounds/amenities are superior to MKO. The expansive, ocean-front lawn and pool are tremendous. The walking proximity to good shopping and restaurants is desirable, and an attractive mix of high end hotels adjacent provide additional features. MOC is my favorite of any timeshare property, and only the attractive features of Ritz Carlton STT gives me any hesitation -- but I still prefer MOC to RC-STT.
The only thing that I consider superior at MKO is the lagoon. The beach/coral/waves at Kaanapali can be dangerous and the rocks can be painful -- we do enjoy wave riding out from the Napili Tower/Kaanapali Alii, but net net, there isn't much time spent on beach in front of MOC. We will walk to where the waves/entry/sand are better.
And the points chart reflects these realities -- would I choose to go for 11 days in a 2BR OV at MKO or 7 days at a 2BR OF at MOC-L/N? I would probably take the extended trip at MKO, because time is precious in Hawaii.
Marriott was very smart when they developed their points chart, and forecasted demand.
It is a nice problem to have -- being able to critique the difference features of two exceptional Hawaiian properties.
Kauai Lagoons is another worthy competitor (as is Waiohai), but KL struggles with a substandard pool infrastructure and no beach -- living on the desirability of its room layout and stunning lanai. Others should chime in on Waiohai, as I've not stayed, but it looks like a beautiful property with great proximity to a desirable beach. Great options for us to choose from.
Best,
Greg
Greg, I've enjoyed your posts on the various Hawaii resorts and will chime in with my thoughts. Given that proximity to a great beach is first and foremost for me, I like the Waiohai more than all of the others. I think the units at Kauai Lagoons were the nicest, and the views were great, but the smallish pool and distance from even a mediocre beach are big drawbacks to me. I see Kauai Lagoons as a great resort for a few couples to go to without kids for a golf trip or something of that sort. KBC is far and away my least favorite of any of the Hawaii MVC resorts. The only think going for it are views. The units and entire property seem a bit tired, and the beach seems fine until you venture around the island a bit to see what you are missing.
Koolina has really nice units and views, but the sterility of the man made lagoon just doesn't do it for me. Kaanapali has what I consider the best views, and the newer towers have a fit and finish that is first class as well, but that beach is just not my cup of tea due to the seasonal nature of its existence.
I come back to the Waiohai. The units are not even in the same class as KL, Kaanapali or Koolina, and most of them have no view, but the location on the beach makes it my favorite. Somehow I've managed to be assigned one of the units that directly faces the ocean several times now, and while those views are great there are only a handful of those units on the entire property (while some of the other MVC resorts have dozens of units with better views). As I read in someone else's post some time ago, that's why they make cholocate and vanilla!
Chris
Ok leta meet in front of the marketplace. Lots of chairs and tables and have met many tuggers there over the years. Bring your own drinks or purchase at the marketplace. I just buy a $35 drink mug yearly. It is a bargain for our usage. See you all in a couple of months.
Tables by the marketplace? I like to get a drink there or would you guys prefer longboards? Maybe longhis if they have a bar with drinks? We have a little while to decide.
Had a great meet and talk with crf450x! If you have some time friday night silentg for a meet up just post it here. I will be available in the evening and maybe crf450x will be able to also?
Great talk about the travels and places you have been to crf450x! Always a pleasure meeting like minded Tuggers and discussing the joys of timesharing.
We have been here since Sunday and leave for maui sat. Tomorrow night would work better for me as well. What time works for everyone. Same time of 8pm at the marketplace?
Sure. We will be leaving for the Marriott Maui Ocean Club Sat evening. Anytime should be good for a meet up.
I would have to put in another kudos for Frank. Absolutely one of the most interesting timeshare owners I have met and was blown away by what he has done with his ownership / mostly permanent residency at Ko Olina. A wealth of knowledge and so friendly & welcoming. He truly exudes the meaning of Ohana and I now look forward to seeing him each time I go back. It's like visiting an old friend. He would be a Marriott / TUG ambassador in my mind.
I loved trading information with Frank. Great guy and wonderful person to sit and have a drink with. Always interesting things to learn from him. Don't miss the opportunity to sit down with him and ask him about timesharing - will impress even the most veteran owners with the things he has done ! Full time timesharing in your home town.![]()
I did not take any shuttle bus yesterday.We are staying at Maui Lea at Maui Hill. This is our first trip. I'm wondering if we met you at the bus shuttle last night?
Silentg