Ocean Tower with out a [car]

[Monkeyboy]

I have seen a few mentions of going to OT without a car. I am most concerned about the Uber or taxi back to the airport. Curious is Uber works out ok or if a taxi is going to be more reliable.

 

[MM9]

You'll be fine! There are plenty of Ubers around, and it usually takes just 8-10 minutes for one to pick you up from the airport. In Wakikola Village (which is larger than just the Hilton), the wait time might even be shorter, as there are always several cars driving around the area.

A little-known tip: there’s a free shuttle bus that runs between the airport and the Hilton. Just head downstairs from the main lobby, and you’ll find a bus stop outside. From what I’ve heard, it runs every hour. There’s also a Hilton-sponsored shuttle that can take you to Queensland Market and nearby shops for $5 per person, each way.

If you’re open to suggestions, though, I’d recommend renting a car. While the resort is okay, it feels a bit isolated, and there’s so much more to see and do beyond the property. Also, keep in mind that the Hilton doesn’t have beach access—you’ll need to go to the Marriott to get to the sand. Personally, I haven’t been impressed by any of the dining options at the resort, and I’ve tried them all. Most people I’ve spoken to agree that it’s not worth the money. Breakfast at Waters Edge is decent, but it’s definitely way overpriced for what you get.

If you’re looking for a more convenient, car-free vacation in Hawaii, I’d recommend considering Oahu. Many resorts there are within walking distance of a variety of attractions, so you won’t need a car to fully enjoy the island.

 

[brp]

A little-known tip: there’s a free shuttle bus that runs between the airport and the Hilton. Just head downstairs from the main lobby, and you’ll find a bus stop outside.

Do you have a link to this? I've never heard of this and am not able to find anything about it in a search. Thanks.

Cheers.

 

[Monkeyboy]

You'll be fine! There are plenty of Ubers around, and it usually takes just 8-10 minutes for one to pick you up from the airport. In Wakikola Village (which is larger than just the Hilton), the wait time might even be shorter, as there are always several cars driving around the area.

A little-known tip: there’s a free shuttle bus that runs between the airport and the Hilton. Just head downstairs from the main lobby, and you’ll find a bus stop outside. From what I’ve heard, it runs every hour. There’s also a Hilton-sponsored shuttle that can take you to Queensland Market and nearby shops for $5 per person, each way.

If you’re open to suggestions, though, I’d recommend renting a car. While the resort is okay, it feels a bit isolated, and there’s so much more to see and do beyond the property. Also, keep in mind that the Hilton doesn’t have beach access—you’ll need to go to the Marriott to get to the sand. Personally, I haven’t been impressed by any of the dining options at the resort, and I’ve tried them all. Most people I’ve spoken to agree that it’s not worth the money. Breakfast at Waters Edge is decent, but it’s definitely way overpriced for what you get.

If you’re looking for a more convenient, car-free vacation in Hawaii, I’d recommend considering Oahu. Many resorts there are within walking distance of a variety of attractions, so you won’t need a car to fully enjoy the island.

Thanks I appreciate the advice. We have been several times and just going to relax. I agree with the food options they are not great.

 

[MM9]

Do you have a link to this? I've never heard of this and am not able to find anything about it in a search. Thanks.

Cheers.

I don't have a personal link that advertises it, but I did find a schedule. The person who informed me mentioned that the bus makes several stops at other resorts, but it's comfortable and quite nice. Best of all, it's free!

https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/getting-around/bus-schedules-and-maps/east-hawai-i/route-80-hilo-to-south-kohala-resorts

https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/getting-around/bus-schedules-and-maps/west-hawai-i/route-90-pahala-to-south-kohala-resorts

 

[1Kflyerguy]

I don't have a personal link that advertises it, but I did find a schedule. The person who informed me mentioned that the bus makes several stops at other resorts, but it's comfortable and quite nice. Best of all, it's free!

https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/getting-around/bus-schedules-and-maps/east-hawai-i/route-80-hilo-to-south-kohala-resorts

https://www.heleonbus.hawaiicounty.gov/getting-around/bus-schedules-and-maps/west-hawai-i/route-90-pahala-to-south-kohala-resorts

The links are for the county bus. I seem to recall a different post mentioning that the county bus is not setup for luggage, or may have have rules against it. I don't have any personal experience, but something you might want to check if you usually have much luggage.

 

[MM9]

The links are for the county bus. I seem to recall a different post mentioning that the county bus is not setup for luggage, or may have have rules against it. I don't have any personal experience, but something you might want to check if you usually have much luggage.

I honestly can't speak personally, but I was told that it's a large motor bus (like something you'd use to cross the county) and she used it from the airport. I'd be surprised if they did not allow suitcases.

 

[4TimeAway]

Thanks I appreciate the advice. We have been several times and just going to relax. I agree with the food options they are not great.

A reason timeshare work for us is the ability to cook. Some places have terrible BBQ tools, marginal at best knives, and pans that well... I'd only used if forced at gunpoint normally, but on vacation we improvise, relax and make do.

You should read on what people bring who cook. I bring spices, others bring more, I do bring a small egg cooker, the steamer you so we can make soft-boiled or hardboiled eggs easily.

If you like to walk there’s plenty of things to do in my opinion, but we plan to always rent a car. It’s a such a big island and we like to see the countryside not just the resort. You can rent a car by the day at many places and some resorts don't charge parking.

 

[linsj]

If you like to walk there’s plenty of things to do in my opinion, but we plan to always rent a car. It’s a such a big island and we like to see the countryside not just the resort. You can rent a car by the day at many places and some resorts don't charge parking.

You can rent a car on property for one day at a time and not have to pay parking.

 

[lynne]

I honestly can't speak personally, but I was told that it's a large motor bus (like something you'd use to cross the county) and she used it from the airport. I'd be surprised if they did not allow suitcases.

The hele-on bus does have room for luggage on the bottom of the motor coach. Our house sitter would take the bus from Hilo and we would pick her up at the Mauna Kea stop. She would bring luggage. Not sure if it is limited to only 1 piece per person.

 

[brp]

A reason timeshare work for us is the ability to cook. Some places have terrible BBQ tools, marginal at best knives, and pans that well... I'd only used if forced at gunpoint normally, but on vacation we improvise, relax and make do.

You should read on what people bring who cook. I bring spices, others bring more, I do bring a small egg cooker, the steamer you so we can make soft-boiled or hardboiled eggs easily.

Kingsland is very good for BBQ. We do this 2-4 times/trip and it is very nice. We bring spices, foil, some wine (of course) and then we get fresh stuff when there. We do our own breakfast every day and the majority of dinners. Lunch, we wing. Some nice early happy hours.

Cheers.