Hey, sorry I missed joining you guys for a cocktail! I hope to make the next one, but like Slip, am stuck here in the mainland.
So....Frank.....tell us about the Big 5 above, and why you prioritized the way that you did?
Best,
Greg
My prioritization is based upon what my family and I value the most. Peace, quiet and pools that are great and open late.
Marriott Ko Olina - The best T/S on the island of Oahu. It is a big resort but does not feel crowded at all. Always able to find an empty jacuzzi to relax in and is never crowded by the pools. Grounds are immaculate and there is a bunch of bar b ques by each tower. The two fitness centers are large with a variety of machines and open late. The only T/S on Oahu that has a steam room and a sauna also. Fit and finish of the units are equal to Aulani and superior to HHV. Elevators are quick and parking is abundant also, they do not charge for parking unlike HHV. I like the tranquility of the lagoon and the grounds for walking around at nite and mostly everyone is friendly.
Now if you are looking for a variety of activities to do like Aulani and HHV offers it is where Ko Olina is lacking. Also since we are on the westside, there is not very many shopping or dining within walking distance. Since we are locals that is not as important to us.
Disney Aulani - Great resort with a great pools and the ONLY lazy river on hotel property. It is crowded compared to MKO but at nite it's very open and relaxing. There are only 4 jacuzzis but at nite had no problem finding empty ones to relax in. To me the quality of the furnishings is a tad better compared to MKO. Superior fit and finish and quality of furnishings to HHV. Grounds are immaculate and the play area and activities for kids are the best. They have so many activites for the kids and a lot of them are free. Read your daily IWI (newsletter) for the character meet and greets and various activities. Can't beat the free Auntys beach house area to keep the kids entertained. Let's the parental units get some relaxation also. Also must checkout the party on the lawn and the storytelling by the fire pit! Pretty far walk from elevator bank to rooms if you have the last room in the wing. The wings are longer than MKO and HHV. Fitness center is also very good at Aulani. State of the art with a variety of machines. Everyone is very friendly and where else in Hawaii you are gonna see Mickey!
HHV Lagoon - This is the best tower IMO of the HHV properties. It is the closest to the ocean and offers SPECTACULAR VIEWS of the sunset and ocean. If you like night life and being close the to restaurants this is the best T/S on Oahu. The pools are great but very crowded. Also the pools close early at around 7pm. Even after the remodel, the furnishings do not have the superior fit and finish as MKO or Aulani. There is camp penguin for the kids but that is the extent of the activities for the little ones. You are in the city so everything is close by and no car is really needed. Grounds are kept very nice.
HHV also charges you $25 a night for parking even for owners which I find ridiculous. A great perk on Friday night is a small fireworks show at the lagoon. If you can see the top of the parking garage you get to see the luau nightly from sun- thur. When you get tired of it the noise might bother you.
