As the date approaches where I'll have to choose between Oahu and Hawaii -and as I study the patterns on HGVC website - it SEEMS that I will easily get a one bedroom in Lagoon or Kali tower (is there a difference between the Lagoon and Kali?) OR a 2 bedroom in Waikoloa or Bay .
My kids will be 14, 11. They never mind sharing a bed - but I don't want them to be uncomfortable. Will a one bedroom be big enough and is the pull out comfortable, does anyone know? (The pull out in Orlando was NOT comfortable - luckily - they didn't have to sleep on it).
I lean towards wanting Oahu and there seems to be more to do, it's beach front, it has a great pool. I realize Big Island will be fascinating and that I can shuttle to the hotel for the beach and the great pool (is that a hassle?)
Thanks for any thoughts - as always!
Hi Ellen,
Let me first say that the experiences at HHV and HGVC Waikoloa are very different, but both are wonderful, IMHO.
We have traveled to both places over the last few years with our now 14 yr old son. So maybe I can give you some insight there too.
On the HHV unit sizes: From my memory, I think the bedroom in the Kalia Tower unit is larger than the bedroom in the Lagoon Tower one bedroom. However, overall the Lagoon one bedroom unit is larger than the Kalia Tower unit. While the Kalia Tower units are prettier and newer, I prefer the Lagoon units because they have larger kitchens, dining and living areas. With two teenagers, I'd definitely go with the Lagoon Tower if you choose a one bedroom at HHV. As for the sofa bed, I've never slept on it, but one time a TUGGER wanted to know what the brand and style was so that she/he could get one for their home.
On the units at Waikoloa: The units at the Bay Club are larger and older with bigger lanai's than the ones at HGVC Waikoloa. I always stay at HGVC Waikoloa, because I love the upgraded interiors and we want free use of the hotel pool. This past summer we were at HGVC Waikoloa with our son and his friend for two weeks, and we found it very comfortable.
On the best location: That depends on what you want.
Oahu is a hub of activity. The beach is right outside the door. There are lots of inexpensive places to eat nearby. With a rent car, there are a wealth of sights all over the island that are little more than a short drive away - history, natural beauty, famous beaches, deserted beaches, roadside hut food stops, short hikes to water falls and mountain vistas, etc. If you go after December, 08, you'll have use of the new pool which looks like it will be as good, if not better than the pool at the Waikoloa Hilton hotel.
Waikoloa will be a quieter experience, but still fun. The Waikoloa resort area is an enclosed, safe community. I would have no problem letting teenagers, provided they always stay with a buddy, having the run of the place. My son and his friend had freedom of the resort on the condition they check in by cell phone at designated times. They loved the hotel pool, which by the way is NOT free to Bay Club guests. My son would be very unhappy to be at Waikoloa without use of the hotel pool, my husband would be very unhappy to pay a daily fee.
The shuttle runs every half hour, but really the walk is not long - I do it all of the time. In short, I don't think it is a hassle, but it is not as convenient as HHV. There is not a real beach at the Hilton hotel, so you have to go to the Marriott for the beach, also a shuttle stop.
The Big Island is also full of wonderful sights but, because the BI is BIG, they are a longer drive to see. Also, you should note, there is major roadwork on the main highway from Waikoloa to Kona so the road traffic is frequently stopped! I don't know how long this will last.
I hope this helps!
nonutrix