Which is the best hotel to stay at as part of the Aloha Spirit reward?? Which is in the best location, best facilities, etc. The Waikoloa Village looks the best resort, but is on the big island. Does this matter ??

I went to the Waikoloa Village once for dinner. I stayed at the Sheraton Orchiad at Mauna Lani instead. I wanted to do the aloha spirit package during that vacation but I guess it was one of those blackout periods.

Anyway, let me just say that that resort is huge. Its kinda like Disneyland. It has a tram that takes you from one end to the other (and makes 3 stops). Anyway as far as the big island goes... the island is not as lush as some of the other islands. The beaches are not as pretty as some of the islands either mostly because the island is fairly new (from the active volcanoes) compared to the other islands. So there is a lot of lava rocks and such all over the island. But its still a great place to visit and spend a week. It was one of the most relaxing vacations I've ever had. Theres plenty of things to do and see. If you have a chance you must go to Roys and Cafe Pesto (the greatest gourmet pizza anywhere) and if youre a beer lover, you must visit the Kona Brewing Company. Theres a tasting room where you can pretty much sit down and drink free beer an hour.

You'll love seeing the volcanoes, visting the beaches , seeing all the sea life, and much more. Its a great place to vacation. Hope this helps.

Im a hilton diamond member with loads of points. i am thinking for useing 100,000 points for a 6 night award. has anyone had any experience with this. do i get exec club ? do i get u/g to best avail room or is it just like a basic stay. i will probebly do 1 in waikiki and one on hawaii

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I'm gold and didn't get upgraded in August '99 at Waikoloa or Turtle Bay. BUT Waikoloa did give access to the Towers lounge where we enjoyed some wonderful free breakfasts and Hor d'oeurvres.

I recommend the Hilton Hawaiian Village at Waikiki over the Turtle Bay. Waikoloa is incredible.

Book the reward stays directly through the hotel. 1-800-hhonors never seems to have these properties available.

I have booked but have not stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian Village at Waikiki . I had some problems with the dates, but the friendly HHonors guy called the hotel directly and they opened up some days for the dates I wantd.. nice of them.

I told them I was Gold and it was my 2nd Anniversary, they said they would note the record. I am thinking about coming back to Hilton after some mistakes I have been having with Starwood...

Who knows...

tinkybelle: I have used the VIP award at the Waikoloa property about five or six times and the best I've managed in the way of an upgrade is an ocean-view.

Hilton Hawaiian Village, however, has been much more generous with an ocean-view suite.

letiole,lax1k and dhacker
thanks for the specifics. i just booked 6 nights at waikiki and 6 at waikoloa in feb.at first they said no space but when i said the magic word-Diamond- they said no problems-so im in!!iuf anyone else is there then let me know
Ill let u all know my verdict

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Hi, first time on.

My wife and I used a VIP HHonors award for the Hilton hawaiian Village in June.
Had a wonderful time, with a room that had an incredible view up Waikiki beach to Diamond head crater.
We did'nt get upgraded, but the room was good quality...more than adequate for our needs.
I did'nt have any problem booking, I made my reservations two months ahead. I could'nt get in to the Turtle Bay, but in seeing both, I think the Hilton Hawaiian Village is better.


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I'm GOLD and did get upgraded to a suite back in Nov 99 without asking at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.

Empress.. you Canadians get all the luck! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

I hope we get an ocean view.. that is all I really care about..

Whatever you get at Waikoloa will be good enough. I'd stay in a broom closet just to be there again.

I'll be posting a trip report for a couple of 6 nites VIP award stays at the Hawaiian vilage and waikoloa in the next few days as soon as I get it written up. I'm a tad jet lagged at the moment after 10 hrs worth of time change http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

RE: Hawaiian Village

They do not specifically have a towers level. However, the do have a separate hotel called the Ali'i Tower.

They generally do not allow ANY upgrades to Ali'i (kind of like the Waldorf Towers scenario).

The Ali'i Tower has it's own pool and Towers type lounge and fitness center. You can only access it if you are staying in that Tower.

Don't worry though, there are plenty of suites in the other Hotel sections.

I like the Rainbow. We have gotten corner suites that feature balconies on each side. One with city view and the other with Ocean view. One of the best rooms with a view I have ever had.

Good luck.

I am planning on taking a reasonably long vacation to Hawaii later this year and want to use my points to pay for it. I have more than enough HH points to do ALOI (5 nights +air) and another ALON on top of that for 10 night including air. I also have enough points to redeem on Continental to get the flights covered.

Has anyone out there nested the 2 hawaii rewards together or know if it can/can't be done?

And am I better off trying to use the HH points or CO points for air?

Thanks,
Seth.

Seth
I don't have the answer to the question you are asking, but both the rewards you mentioned are for 6 nights not 5, so you would talking about a total of 12 nights.
Cindi

I used an ALOA award this year for RT air for two plus 6 night stay. I used American airlines for the air reward and received American airline miles for the flight. According to reports in FT - American tickets earn miles, United tickets do not, and I am not sure if Continental tickets earn miles or not. For the interisland I chose to use 5000 Northwest miles per person rather than the ALOI option. I have also heard that availability of the "free" tickets is easier if you use Hilton points compared to using FF miles for the airline ticket to Hawaii.

It should be possible for you to use two awards ALOA/ALOI and ALON, since the air reservations and hotel reservations are independent. Hilton sends you certificates for the air and certificates for the hotel, and you need to make the bookings for all of your airline and hotel stays.

[This message has been edited by PG (edited 04-23-2001).]

sbm12 - I can recomment Hilton Waikoloa Village as a great place to spend 5-6 nights. It was a paid stay, so I don't know about the rewards. Great place!

It should be possible for you to use two awards ALOA/ALOI and ALON, since the air reservations and hotel reservations are independent. Hilton sends you certificates for the air and certificates for the hotel, and you need to make the bookings for all of your airline and hotel stays.

[This message has been edited by PG (edited 04-23-2001).][/B]

Does this mean that I'm stuck making the reservations via AA or UA or CO based on their availability in certain classes? Am I going to have to sort out the availability and blackout dates all on my own, or do the HH rewards people help at all with that?

Thanks,
Seth.

In my case they gave me the phone numbers for AA and CO, and I had to sort out availability. I first called Hilton reservation (separate phone number from Hilton award number) and booked a 6 night award stay. Then I called AA and did not get my first choice of dates, but got a departure 1 day prior to what I wanted - I booked this. Then I called Hilton reservation and changed my hotel stay to be 1 day prior - which was available. Later I made my own inter-island reservations using NW miles, and booked the hotel on the other island.

I was booking 2.5 months in advance in a relatively busy travel period.

[This message has been edited by PG (edited 04-23-2001).]

Planning on a nice vacation in Hawaii sometimes next year, and will be using Hhonor points for free hotel nights, how far advance should I book these rooms? Also, is it an headache to use points to book rooms?



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Al

I've had a lot of success using points at the HHV and Hilton Waikoloa. I've booked nine months in advance during some peak periods at Waikoloa, but I've also gotten award rooms during slower times only four or five weeks in advance. The HHV has a lot of rooms and is probably the easiest of their Hawaii hotels to get awards stays at. You're best bet is to call the hotels and find out from them.

Originally posted by letiole:
I've had a lot of success using points at the HHV and Hilton Waikoloa. I've booked nine months in advance during some peak periods at Waikoloa, but I've also gotten award rooms during slower times only four or five weeks in advance. The HHV has a lot of rooms and is probably the easiest of their Hawaii hotels to get awards stays at. You're best bet is to call the hotels and find out from them.
Appologize for my ignorance but what is HHV?

The Hilton Hawaiian Village - in HNL.

Just to give you a recent, real-life example, I just booked a six night ALON award at the Hilton Waikoloa Village for January 2002. I received my first choice of dates! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

I booked my HHV and Waikialoa 6 mths ago for a May stay-then had to change the date twice -with no drama. i just emailed the waikialoa and they were very co operative.

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Hyatt Diamond/Hilton Diamond/Starwood Platinum/UA1K-Ansett-WHITE/Qantas-WHITE

I have stayed at the Waikoloa property 10 times just call the hotel res line and ask for a reservation it is usually easy. If you have a problem ask for Sharon in res she is the best and the nicest.

Even at 6 months, you might not get your first choice of dates. I have always been successful booking award accomodations 7-9 months in advance.

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Addicted to airline miles? Check out: Mileage Workshop (http://www.mileageworkshop.com)

Not Hilton, but I've had some pretty good luck with other properties (Marriotts) when my dates have been flexible. On my last trip, I called three months before and they had two or three choices. I had to pay for two out of 14 nights, but I was pleased with the availability on such short notice.

I got the ALON award for the Waikoloa Village for Easter week with only about 3 weeks advance notice. I wanted 4/14/01 - 4/20/01 and got it without any problem on my first try.

I booked for next year spring break, at both HHV and Waikoloa--got my first choice, but I did it almost a year out. You don't need to redeem the certs right away--if you have ANY idea of when you might want to go, book---you can always adjust your plans later!!

letiole's quote is right on!

Basically ASAP if going during peak times,
i.e. Thanksgiving, XMAS, March-April

A colleague of mine just booked the VIP award for six nights at the Hilton Hawaiian Village in the middle on July - got first choice.

I just called and booked today for October at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. i got the dates I wanted. The hardest thing about free travel is getting the Flights to align with the Hotels. This time the Hotel was the easy piece of the puzzle.
It is always easiest when booking farther in advance.

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TWA Elite I
Marriott Gold
Hilton Gold

I also booked my last HHV award stay about 6-7 mos. in advance. I usually booked the hotel first, then worked the schedule w/ the air tickets.. and adjusted the dates if needed. Of course, sometimes it's a breeze, and sometimes it's a job all by itself.
Good luck.

Yes, I've used the search feature, I do however have a few questions which are a bit more subjective...

1) Which is the best property to use ALON with?

2) Where exactly is the Waikaloa village, on the same island as Honolulu? If not, how much is a puddle jumper to get there?

3) Realistically speaking, what are the upgrade chances as it seems that every third poster is/was headed there?

Thanks

Hilton Waikoloa Village is on the island of Hawaii. The nearest airport is Kona (KOA) which is a 35-minute flight from Honolulu. Aloha and Hawaiian provide frequent service between HNL and KOA. UA offers non-stops to KOA from LAX and SFO.

You can get interisland fares for about $60-70 each way. Or if you have Northwest points, you can get an interisland round trip for only 5,000 miles- a relative bargain!!

I'm not sure what factors influence upgrades or what the best time is, but I was just at Hilton Waikoloa Village last week for three nights. I was upgraded to the executive level in the Ocean Tower. I am HH Diamond. There are some 1200 rooms, so even though it's popular, it's also a large resort.

As others have previously posted, the upgrades are a nice deal, in that the lounge serves food virtually throughout the day, including a nice continental breakfast, and a decent cocktail service with appetizers changing nightly.

Other benefits included free access to the exercise facility at the spa, and a killer view.

I flew Continental, which had easy connections to Kona through Honolulu on Hawaiian. I think Northwest and American do as well. United does fly direct to Kona, or you can also connect with Aloha.

Use of 'search' yields 142,123 results for 'hawaii.'

Just kidding. I love that others, like myself, are taking the offensive on the search only posters!

Originally posted by hfly:
2) Where exactly is the Waikaloa village, on the same island as Honolulu? If not, how much is a puddle jumper to get there?
Thanks

It's on "The Big Island", a different island than Oahu, which is where Honolulu and Waikiki are. The airport you want to go to is Kona (KOA).

Most major airlines either fly directly to KOA from the mainland or do code-shares to KOA, so you probably will not have to buy a ticket for a puddle jumper.

If you do need to get a ticket HNL-KOA, then act now, because there is a fare sale of $105.50 going on right now. It's been years since published inter-island fares have been that low.

Just FYI,

Waikaloa is not on the beach and is not near much (restaurants/life), if that matters to you.

Just got back from a week of vacationing at the Hilton Waikoloa Village.

Got upgraded to an ocean-view room. Could not get one on the exec floor, as it was packed for Memorial Day weekend (checked in on Fri). First, I was told that the access to the exec lounge (Ocean Tower) is limited to those staying on the exec floors (6 and 7) only, to which I replied that I will be very disappointed not to get an upgrade, given my Gold status. So, the front desk agent 'checked' with the manager, and handed me keys to the exec lounge, with compl access to the Kohala spa and tennis courts.
Breakfast is served from 6:30am till 10am and includes a variety of fruits, cereals/milk, muffins and croissants, yoghurt, fruit juices, coffee and tea. There's mid-day service (noon to 4pm) that includes refreshments and cookies. The sunset service (5-7pm) includes cocktails (alcohol is $3-5/drink) and compl hors d'oeuvres.

The hotel is on the beach, although there's only a lagoon beach on the property -- where one can rent a variaty of water toys (kayaks, hydro-bikes, paddle-boats, snorkel equipment, etc for $55 + tax per stay or $15 per half-an-hour or $20/hr). The $55 package allows for 50% discount off 4-hr snorkel sail (reg $75) and 2.5-hr sunset sail (reg $53) on the Noa-Noa catamaran boat. No whale-watch sales at this time of the year.

There are several good restaurants -- Donatoni's offers fine Italian dining (~$60pp for a three-course meal, alcohol is extra); Kirin Chinise Restaurant, Kamuela offers island cuisine; Imari offers good japanese food; the Palm Terrace is a breakfast and dinner international buffet restaurant; the Orchid Cafe -- breakfast/lunch 'alfresco' dining, great cocktails being served there. There are several food court pavilions around the village; as well as the Friday's Luau dinner show.

The 1mi museum walkway includes a multi-million dollar collection from asian and oceanic cultures.

Complimentary boat and tram services offer an 'exotic' alternative to explore the surroundings.

There's a golf course on the property, and many other courses in a walking distance.

There's a sand-beach in a close proximity (5min by car), where one car charter boats, snorkel, sail, and wind-surf... However, keep in mind that there's hardly any wind on that side of the island.

One shopping mall area in the village, and another one nearby (15-20min walk).

American Express Travel Services have an office by the lobby -- they offer horse-back riding, sailing, trips to the observatories on the top of Mauna Kea (> 13700ft high), scuba diving, parasail, and helicopter tours.

It is recommended to rent a car if you plan on exploring the island on your own.

Overall, I had great experience at the resort and the island -- the 100,000pts/6-night deal was well worth it.

If you plan on visiting other islands, consider redeeming NW 5K miles for coach round-trips per person (10K in first class) on Hawaiian Airlines (CO and AA are also partners of theirs, but not sure if Hawaii reward travel is offered on their FF programs).

As far as the other Hilton properties are concerned, there are 2 other villages on Oahu (one on Waikiki beach, the other one on the opposite (North) side of the island -- Turtle Bay Golf & Tennis resort).

sp

Definitely a stay at the Waikoloa is well worth the 100K. I've been there several times and just absolutely LOVE it. There isn't quite as much to do on the Big Island as on some of the other islands, like Maui, but this resort is awesome.

To piggy-back on solarprobe's most comprehensive answer:

If you play golf, the King's Course at Waikoloa is one not to be missed...just seeing the emerald green grass ringed by black lava rock is a delight.

Aloha

Thanks Guys, now just one problem. For the dates I want, only the HHV is available. Does it suck, or is it ok? I've got to make a decision pretty soon.

Thanks

I have stayed at both and each one has its own good qualities, basically following the difference between the islands. Honolulu is a lot more touristy and if you haven't been to you must do Pearl Harbor, also there is alot more nightlife on Honolulu. Hawaii is a laid back island with alot of nature stuff( Volcanoes and great snokeling)The Waikoloa is a nicer resort which it needs to be since you will want to stay there more.

You can't beat either one for 100,000 points.

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TWA Elite I
Marriott Gold
Hilton Gold

I agree on all the positive comments on Waikoloa Village. We were there for Easter week, and because of the holiday, did not get an upgrade to the Ocean Tower, but did get one of the nicer rooms in the Palace Tower. With Gold HHonors, we got access to the towers lounge (which is only a short walk from the Palace Tower). The breakfast buffet is $24.00/Adult, so the lounge saved a lot for a six night stay.

On inter-island transportion: there is also a 5,000 mile (United miles) round-trip award on Aloha if you don't have NW miles for the previously mentioned award.

A couple of useful websites:
http://www.hiltonwaikoloavillage.com/
http://www.redsail.com/

Cheers,
sp

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica" size="2">Originally posted by hfly:
Thanks Guys, now just one problem. For the dates I want, only the HHV is available. Does it suck, or is it ok? I've got to make a decision pretty soon.

Thanks</font>

FWIW, I thoroughly enjoyed my week at the HHV. I know some here have expressed disappointment that they didn't get all of their HH Gold "goodies" there, but I had a great time. I was on a bounceback rate, so I didn't have to ask for breakfast coupons. They gave me a great room with a gorgeous view of Diamond Head. It's a full service hotel, with lots of shops and a very nice beach.

It depends on what you're going there for, I guess. Oahu is touristy and busy, but I liked it for my first trip to Hawaii.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica" size="2">Originally posted by hfly:
Thanks Guys, now just one problem. For the dates I want, only the HHV is available. Does it suck, or is it ok? I've got to make a decision pretty soon.

Thanks</font>

Did you call the hotel directly? If not, don't give up. The main Hhonors 800 number usually says that Waikoloa Village is unavailable while the hotel itself will book the award reservation. It worked for me in 1999 based on advice posted on FT.

I also got an award stay at the HWV by calling the hotel direct. BTW, AA also has the 5K interisland award on Hawaiian.

I'm sure it's been asked before...
I want to take a week or so in hawaii and need some help with what hotel to pick.
I need some rest but don't want to be too far away from any nightlife. any advice?

Try a search in this forum using the keyword "Hawaii". You should see a wealth of information.

We are thinking of returning to Hawaii in January, 2003 for another family visit, and I have a few questions I'm looking for some feedback on...

1. What property choices do I have for an ALON certificate stay...is it now just the HHV and Waikoloa Village, since Turtle Bay is no longer Hilton?

2. For an 01/2003 stay, should we go ahead and try to book now? What are the risks/rewards of doing so?

3. If I'm interested in adding a few extra days (2 or 3) to the stay, should I try for a good rate, or use additional points for the extension? Thoughts?

Thank to all for your comments.

i'm planning my first ALON in June (God willing that United is still around!), so i THINK i can answer a few:

1. i think you could stay at basically any other hotel in the hilton "family" (if there are any in Hawaii), although probably a waste of 100k points, since they aren't resorts.

2. i think you can book only 1 year in advance, although the HWV is so big, you probably have some leeway. but, there is no real downside. make your reservation ASAP using your points (assuming you already have them). you don't have to request the actual certificate until you get close to the travel date. this allows, you can modify your reservation or cancel, as the certificate is not printed to be used for specific dates. and even if you do request your ALON certificate, you can always send it in and get the points added back to your account fee free.

two caveats: 1) there's no telling when/if Hilton will change the points required for the ALON (especially since cheapos like me can earn 100k without staying at a Hilton, period). requesting the certificate now "locks in" your ability to use it, 2) however, you have 1 year to use the certificate, so don't ask for one TOO fast (although you could always send it in and get it "recommisioned", that could take a few months).

3) if i were you, i'd go ahead and do the point thing at the same time you ask for the ALON. that way, you're covered, but can still cancel it later if you see a good last-minute deal, then send in that certifcate to redeposit in your account.


<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by E:
We are thinking of returning to Hawaii in January, 2003 for another family visit, and I have a few questions I'm looking for some feedback on...

1. What property choices do I have for an ALON certificate stay...is it now just the HHV and Waikoloa Village, since Turtle Bay is no longer Hilton?

2. For an 01/2003 stay, should we go ahead and try to book now? What are the risks/rewards of doing so?

3. If I'm interested in adding a few extra days (2 or 3) to the stay, should I try for a good rate, or use additional points for the extension? Thoughts?

Thank to all for your comments.</font>

Another question for those seasoned HWV guests...what would/should a Hilton GOLD Elite member expect, in terms of room upgrades and/or other amenities, staying on an ALON certificate?

Anyone ever get upgraded to a suite? Or maybe just executive level and/or lounge privledges?

I just stayed at Waikoloa. Diamonds got lounge access (or breakfast coupons) and an oceanfront room on the Executive floor. Golds got an upgraded room, but not on the executive floor. They did not get lounge access, but I believe they got breakfast coupons.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by teammjs:
make your reservation ASAP using your points (assuming you already have them). </font>

There is no requirement to have all the necessary points in your account in order to make an award reservation.

Sorry, in sharp contrast to FT tradition and much to the astonishment of many friends, I actually paid for my last stay on the Executive Floor at the HWV! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Have a great trip! http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

I was at HWV Easter week of 2001 as a Gold, and we got access to the lounge, but they said they didn't have any rooms available in the Ocean Tower Executive Floor. The lounge access is a BIG benefit for the breakfasts, and if you are there in the evening, you can make a dinner out of the appetizers they serve then. There is an honors bar in the evening, where you serve yourself, so you can make the drinks as strong as you like, and I believe they were $5.00/drink which is less than the restaurants and bars in the resort charge. As mentioned elsewhere, the prices in the restaurants are very high, even for Hawaii, and the best food we had was actually in the lounge! I'd try eating most meals off property if I were you, but we enjoyed the resort a lot otherwise, and would return again.

I stayed at HWV in October on the ALON award and was upgraded but I don't know what I would have had if I had not been HH gold. The room was nice with an ocean and golf course view.

Another idea is to reserve the room without having the points deducted from your HH account. I did that since my wife and I weren't certain that the trip would happen so soon after the September tragedies. I had the award certificate faxed to me just before we left to go to HI. It is a valid concern that they could change the award requirements (I asked about that) but I was assured that it wouldn't be a problem. Assurances aren't always worth much but it was good advice this time.

Just returned from HWV - still one of the best resorts in the world. As a Diamond, they upgraded me (in advance) to a superior ocean view room on the Executive floor. They have cut back on the evening munchies, although breakfast still has great fruits, danish, juice, et al.

The boats and tram are running less frequently and a lot of the nightime illumination of the grounds has disappeared. Still, great service level at a wonderful resort.

About the only negative things are the "add-ons", like $4.17 a day for the safe, $14 a day for valet parking, and half a dozen others

[This message has been edited by MiamiFlyer (edited 12-18-2001).]

Miami Flyer, did you get charged the add-ons? I was told that Diamonds were not charged all those fees, and we did not get charged for use of the safe.

I'd also like to second eating off-property. Roy Waikoloa is in the King's Shops just down the street. You might also try Bamboo which is about 25 minutes away from the resort.

After seeing the HWV several years ago, Mom has dreamed of staying there. I am wondering if there are any months that are ever offered there on the 40% off point strecher award? I can't seem to find info on this on the H web site. I am racking up points but not enough to have the full amount any time soon. Thanks!

I am planning to go to Hawaii with my wife in Feb (15th till 20th). I have about 125K HH points and want to use an award for my hotel stay. What is the best hotel in HNL in terms of value (location, amenities, etc.) for points spent?
Thanks!

Best value is the ALON award, for VIP's. 100,000 for six nights..can't beat that.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by pointman:
Best value is the ALON award, for VIP's. 100,000 for six nights..can't beat that.</font>

What type of properties is that for? What are my options in HNL?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by anandrag:
What type of properties is that for? What are my options in HNL?</font>

There are now only two options for the ALON. In Oahu, there is the Hilton Hawaiin Village. You used to be able to use it at the Turtle Bay resort, but that is no longer a Hilton. On the Big Island, there is the Hilton Waikoloa Village.

anandrag,

I don't know if you have any United miles, but for only 5000 you can get a roundtrip between islands on Aloha Airlines (while they are still in business).

So if you do plan on any neighbor island trips (Kauai is incredible), the 5K is one of the best bargains.

In HNL you can stay at the HHV or the Doubletree. I've heard alot of great stuff about HHV, but nothing on the Doubletree. Further, the rate at the Doubletree is about 40% that of the HHV.

Given the 100K for six nights, I would definitely go to the HHV if you are Elite. Otherwise it might be less points to stay at the Doubletree.

If HNL isn't your only option, you might try Waikoloa Villiage on Hawaii. I've heard the Island is much nicer and the resort is comparable to the Hawaiian Villiage in HNL. If so you can fly into Kona.

Hope it turns out well.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by VolleyballFerd:
anandrag,

I don't know if you have any United miles, but for only 5000 you can get a roundtrip between islands on Aloha Airlines (while they are still in business).

So if you do plan on any neighbor island trips (Kauai is incredible), the 5K is one of the best bargains. </font>

Thanks! I don't have too many miles on UA but definitely have that! This is very helpful!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by mountain flyer:
Given the 100K for six nights, I would definitely go to the HHV if you are Elite.

If HNL isn't your only option, you might try Waikoloa Villiage on Hawaii. I've heard the Island is much nicer and the resort is comparable to the Hawaiian Villiage in HNL.</font>

Anyone have info on these 2 properties? Which one would you recommend?

Search and you'll find more info than you can possibly want http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif)

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by anandrag:
Thanks! I don't have too many miles on UA but definitely have that! This is very helpful!</font> Alternatively, 5,000 FF miles on Northwest works for interisland trips on Hawaiian Airlines (or at least it did two years ago for us).

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by rtpflyer:
Originally posted by anandrag:
Thanks! I don't have too many miles on UA but definitely have that! This is very helpful!</font> Alternatively, 5,000 FF miles on Northwest works for interisland trips on Hawaiian Airlines (or at least it did two years ago for us).



Do forget 5,000 AA FF miles for Hawaiian interisland RT ticket and 5,000 UA FF miles for Aloha interisland RT ticket are available too.

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ValueConsumer.com (http://www.valueconsumer.com) Home of Tripple Dipping Online Shopping

Stayed at Doubletree on last night in Oahu. Although upgraded to a suite (19th floor), the HHV had it hands down over the Doubletree.

FYI, the Doubletree is about 1/2 mile from the HHV, not on the beach, small pool, business center computer broken when we were there, very expensive restaurant, and they give $10 coupons to Gold HHonors members instead of continental breakfast coupons 9which happens to cost $12.

Hi, I will be going to Hawaii for a honeymoon July of 2003 and was wondering if anyone had any Hiltons they recommend in Maui or any other nice area of Hawaii. I have about 50,000 HHonors points (i know, not much!), and was wondering if i would be able to use those buy 3, get 4th night free coupons for Hawaii properties?

Any help would be greatly appreciated!

I recommended HWV for a co-worker, and it was a big hit. Of course, that was a year in which the place was very empty, so it felt like their own very large house after a while. As to the 50k points, if you can swing 4 stays for the current 50k bonus you can reach 100k. (Pay for them if you have to!) With your VIP status you can redeem an ALON at 100k, which is the very best deal going.

just got back from my honeymoon at the HWV. overall, a very intersting and attractive property. plus, you won't run out of things to do on the Big Island.

suggestion: if you have 25k miles on assorted airlines, look at transfering those into 50k Hilton points to get 100k. for 100k and either Silver or Gold VIP status, you can book a 6-night stay at the HWV-- a great deal by any standard!

also, check with Hilton as i don't think you need to have 100k in the bank to make the reservation, just when you request the certificate (which can be done much later). so, might be a good time to at least make a tentative reservation.

My wife and I stayed at the HWV on the ALON award in Oct/Nov and had a great time. We also spent two nights at a B&B on the volcano side and I suggest you consider the same. It takes a while to drive from the HWV side to the volcano and it was a great experience. We didn't want to spend much time on Oahu so the HHV wasn't appealing. We did stay at the Doubletree Alana Waikiki -- nothing fancy but OK. There isn't anything else under the Hilton umbrella as far as I know.

Which hotels on which island would be the best buy for using HH points? Any special promos for lower number of points?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by best:
Any special promos for lower number of points?</font>

Another question (if I may): is the ALON 100,000 for 6 nights the best point spending deal in Hawai'i?

It may be the best frequent traveler award available anywhere. The there are three hotels you can use it at: Hawaiian Village and Doubletree on Oahu and Wailaloa On the Big Island. The Doubletree I believe is more of a business hotel, but there are numerous threads on whether Hawaiian Village or Wailaloa is better. The truth is they are both great.

You get way more value for each dollar spent at the Waikaloa. And if you stay at the HHV first, then Waikaloa, you really see it.

Having just stayed at both, I wish I had cut the HHV stay short. (Even with the added bonus of opening our room door to checkout and seeing nearly a dozen Honolulu cops with guns drawn in the hallway.)

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Jakester:
seeing nearly a dozen Honolulu cops with guns drawn in the hallway.)</font>

Was Steve McGarret there? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by 767-322ETOPS:
Was Steve McGarret there? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif</font>
"Book him, Dano!"

We are flexible on the dates, but what is your recomendation on best point deals there?

ALON at Waikoloa, hands down.

[posting same question on Hyatt board]
Planning honeymoon - 13 nights in Hawaii next March. I've spent a good amount of time pricing hotels out. My itinerary as it stands now is as follows:
-6 nights: Big Island - Hilton Waikoloa
-4 nights: Maui - Hyatt
-3 nights: Kauai - Hyatt

The 6 nights on the Big Island are free using Hilton points. The remaining split of Hyatts is on the "island hopper" rate.

My questions are:
-Any thoughts on any of the above hotels? (before some of you bite my head off, I KNOW I can do a search and find posts on this question - I have already, but ask the question once again for additional insight)
-My biggest concern is, am I making a mistake only giving us 3 nights on Kauai (at the Hyatt which I've heard is fantastic)? I booked only 3 nights out of necessity because 6 nights are free. I've considered spending less days on the Big Island, but if I can take advantage of free nights, I think I should - especially at the ridiculous rates hotels in Hawaii charge.
-Thoughts, websites, strategies for getting the best Hyatt rates on Kauai and Maui?
-The rate I got at Hyatt Maui is no better than the rate I got at Four Seasons Maui, which looks amazing. I booked Hyatt because it allowed me to get lower price at Hyatt Kauai.

Thank you in advance for all comments.

You will love the HWV, fantastic service, huge beautiful grounds!!! Do not stay at HHV we stayed there a week later and hated it literally.

Dump the Maui Hyatt if you get similar rates at the Wailea Four Seasons - it is a far superior hotel. We stay next door at the Grand Wailea for 2 weeks at the end of March each year for the past 9 years. We prefer the dry, desert Wailea coast on Maui. Have a great, memorable honeymoon.

I noticed that many folks have been lucky with getting the Maui Hyatt in the Priceline game.

Here's a link to a helpful site that gives you a lot of info on bidding at Priceline. The Maui Hyatt seems to be a a common hotel that's available through Priceline.

http://pub109.ezboard.com/bpricelineandexpediabidding

I personally have no experience w/it. We stayed at the Renaissance Wailea in February w/the Entertainment rate. That was reasonable for us ($250/night for ocean front incl buffet breakfast).. but you're right.. Hawaii is very pricey. We also stayed free at the HWV for 5 nights (gave up 1 night so we could spend 3 nights in Maui instead of 2). We really enjoyed the HWV but found that for us, 5 nights was perfect. We had done enough to satisfy us for that island.. Then 3 nights on Maui gave us enough time to get the feel for it. 2 nights would have been too rushed.

Good luck to you..

I fully understand taking the 6 days based on an ALON award.

As a former resident of Hawaii, I just think that you shouldn't make your decision about where and how long based on the hotels - base it on the islands instead. I know that doesn't answer the question - my preference would be more time on Kauai than on the Big Island or Maui, that is just personal preference.

I'd say you should read up on the islands and what you want to do - if all you want is to lounge by a resort pool and beach, then pick one and stay there. If you want to hike to waterfalls, find secluded beaches, bike down a volcano, snorkel, etc. then you'll have more decisions to make.

I wouldn't exclude Oahu, either - depending on where you go there are incredible places on that island (just more crowds around Waikiki).

I love Kauai too, but the Big Island has rivers of LAVA!!! (http://www.pbase.com/image/6171044)

Sorry about not getting together with Rocket-man or the other FTers at HWV last week, but we couldn't resist the volcano and the scuba diving (when we weren't attending my neice's wedding and related events). We hit the jackpot on Monday with spectacular views of flowing lava from a helicopter followed by a breakout in the surface flow at the end of the road that started flowing right in front of us and within minutes formed a river/pool of lava about 60-80 feet wide. Here are some more photos taken with my Olympus C2100:

http://www.pbase.com/davehacker/kilauea_october_2002

We also took some incredible video that I need to capture and edit.

As for the HWV, they gave us an upgrade to a deluxe oceanfront room on the sixth floor of the ocean tower with lounge access. We didn't stay around the hotel much, except for two excellent mornings of scuba diving with Red Sail from the adjascent beach. On Tuesday morning as we prepared for check-out, there were torrential rainstorms that several employess said were the worst there in over ten years. If I hadn't rented an SUV, I probably would have been stalled out in the flooded parking lot.

We also stayed two days at the Hyatt Regency Maui on the $65 priceline rate. However, we were enjoying Little Beach near Makena too much to spend a lot of time at the hotel. This was our first trip to Maui and we will definitely return.

I'll try to do a full trip report when I have a chance.

Edited to show an improved photo gallery.

[This message has been edited by dhacker (edited 11-08-2002).]

My advise is...

DON'T GET MARRIED!

You're welcome.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

funny you should mention that. one day we were there it rained a little. we were in the lobby and heard all this strange squealing. turned out it was the tires from all the vehicles trying to get traction that were parked along the circle in front of the lobby!! made me wonder what would happen if they got a heavy rain http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/smile.gif

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by dhacker:
On Tuesday morning as we prepared for check-out, there were torrential rainstorms that several employess said were the worst there in over ten years. If I hadn't rented an SUV, I probably would have been stalled out in the flooded parking lot. </font>

Yup, those shiny, polyurethaned cobble stones were really squeeking! Part of the lobby and some shops were flooded as well.

Thanks for the helpful thoughts and comments.

This raises a related question: when I booked the HWV stay, I was told that ALON is not available there, only at HHV, so he booked me for TEEN. I don't think he was correct, but didn't fight him because he said TEEN is same thing.

What is the difference between ALON and TEEN? Also, was he correct to state the ALON not available at HWV?

[This message has been edited by FlyChicago (edited 10-18-2002).]

(to the top)

The ALON award is good for the HHV & the HWV, I'm not sure why the agent would tell you otherwise.

It's plainly stated here..

http://www.hilton.com/en/hhonors/rewards/vip.jhtml#aloha

Although I've never personally booked the TEEN award before, according to the website, it applies to the HWV as well, but doesn't include the green fees.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by dhacker:
I love Kauai too, but the Big Island has rivers of LAVA!!! (http://mywebpages.comcast.net/davehacker/volcano/PA140258.JPG)

Here are some more photos taken with my Olympus C2100:

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/davehacker/volcano/

</font>

Dave,

GREAT photos. You lucked out, as we saw lava on our 9/20 trip, but nothing like what you witnessed. Photos just don't do it justice though -- no too often you get to see new land being created.

Hello I am looking to get opinions on hotels in Honolulu and Maui. I am looking for somewhere that has NICE Ocean views and access to the shopping areas as I have never been to HNL or Maui this may not be possible but please let me know what you guys and ladies think?

Thanks for your help.


Brian


------------------
Sorry mama i gots to get all the miles i can

Brian

There are only a small handful of HHonors hotels in all of Hawaii, and there are countless existing threads discussing each of them.

Yeah, I know it sucks to get this response, but you really need to do a search. There has been a topic-a-day on Hilton Hawaii properties for the last 3 years.

Good luck!!

If you enjoyed the lava photos ...

Here's some video (in Real format):

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/davehacker/volcano/lava%20breakout.ram

For Maui and the Big Island, be sure to get the Revealed guide books. We spent a week on each last fall and LIVED by those books. They are written by locals and very helpful.
I have never been to Kauai, but think you are right to spend 2X as much time on the Big Island as Maui. Maui is beautiful, but twice as much to do on the Big Island and the beaches there are just as nice. I am sure you can't go wrong, no matter how you divide your days, but I think I would do Maui first and when your body is still on CST and waking up too early, the first day or two, go ahead and get up at 4AM and drive to the top of Haleakala for the sunrise, rent bikes and ride back down. Overall your 2 weeks will be gone too soon. Have a great time.
Cindi

Just a word of advice about the bike ride
if you aren't regular bike rider this can be real dangerous its your honeymoon save your energy Go to the top and back in a car
sunrise is fanastic and well worth it

Just got back from our honeymoon on the Big Island using an ALON award. The Island was tremenous and we had a great stay at the HWV. One of the best parts of the trip was that we could really didn't have to worry about spending a lot of money on food and activities since the hotel was free. We stayed in a corner room in the lagoon tower. We had breakfast everyday at the Palm Terrace buffet with out breakfast coupons (this was an incredible value -- even if you upgraded to the hot buffet it was $12 for both of us to eat breakfast.) We ate of the reservation most of the time but the first night we ate at Donatoni's (on property which was good but $$$)

This all being said, any trip to the big island would be a complete waste of time if you do not buy Hawaii the Big Island Revealed: The Ultimate Guidebook by Andrew Doughty, Harriett Friedman. (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0963942999//102-6241042-1435355?v=glance) The book had everything that you need to know about the island and we would have missed so much without it. The same authors have a book on Maui as well.


If you want restaurant recommendations (definitely hit the Four Seasons and Kei Cafe or snorkling ideas drop me an email.

Have fun and enjoy the trip.

P.S. -- Also, you will want to rent a car and bring your Costco card -- its by the airport and gas is $.25 cheaper a gallon there.

The "Revealed" books are absolutely the best guide books I've ever seen or used.

We also shopped at Costco, for gas and gifts (macadamia nuts and coffee).

[This message has been edited by dhacker (edited 11-11-2002).]

Have recently stayed at all of the properties you mention. I would go with the Hyatt in Kauai and not even go to Maui. Kauai is much nicer, quieter depending on what u r looking for. Lots of good food as well. Been to all of these islands 3 times over the past couple years and only plan to return to Kauai & Big island w/the kids.

We did Renaissance Wailea on Maui and the HWV for honeymoon in September. Both hotels were outstanding.

Thoughts on the Big Island: we took the HGVC tour to get half-off on all activities during our Big Island stay. It saved us about $600 off of the "retail" value of the activities, because we did the helicopter, the Mauna Kea stargazing, a guided hike, two rounds of golf, sunset sail, and snorkel cruise. Most stuff was half-off, while some things were a 25-30% discount. We told our salesman at HGVC that we were on our honeymoon, and he gave us a five-minute schpiel and let us go book our activities. He said he knew honeymooners don't buy timeshares, so he let us off without the usual 90-minute presentation.

All of the activities we did were top-notch. Expensive even with the discounts, but they were very memorable. The golf is truly world-class on this island.

HWV is an excellent property. Wonderful grounds, great room, friendly staff, etc. Only two minor criticisms: (1) Donatoni's is very overpriced for average Italian food. (2) the Kohala Spa tried to charge us different rates for massages and such from what was printed on the brochure in our room. In the end, I felt like they pulled a fast one on us. We got nice massages, but it's definitely not on par with the world-class spas such as Grand Wailea. I didn't feel like arguing with them so I paid the higher rates, but I definitely will avoid the spa if we go back to HWV.

What are some of the best times? I mean how is New Years eve, memorial day, labor day, etc...

I dont know what youre interested in doing but Ive been to Maui twice over Halloween and it was great! The weather was fantastic and the shut down the streets in Lahaina for a VERY interesting street celebration. (Adults only after 10 pm)

Between January and December http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/wink.gif

Check out weather.com or the like for long term weather statistics. These confirm the Jan-Dec assertion.

I like going there to maximize the contrast between the yukky weather where I live and the gorgeous weather in Hawaii. This means Oct-March/April and June-Aug/Sept are valid months with peak contrast occurring in Jan/Feb. I don't mind the heat since I stopped having to wear suits to work so July/Aug is only a local maxima and doesn't qualifiy as a true peak.

Depends on what you're looking for ... there are generally no conventions during election week; there are usually no families (or much of anyone) during the first week of school in September; the islands are packed with families during spring break; the whales are there from late December to early April; downtown Honolulu (the government buildings) puts on a great holiday light show; the surf's biggest in the winter ... whatelse, whatelse

any new years eve special shows or just jacked up prices :-)

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by letiole:
the whales are there from late December to early April;</font>

And that is why that is the only time of year I will travel to HI.

I've never understood traveling to someplace like HI when it is one's summer back where they live.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">I've never understood traveling to someplace like HI when it is one's summer back where they live.</font>Here is one reason. <font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">"The coldest winter I ever saw was the summer I spent in San Francisco."
- This quote has been attributed to Mark Twain, but until the attribution can be verified, the quote should not be regarded as authentic.</font>

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Sweet Willie:
I've never understood traveling to someplace like HI when it is one's summer back where they live.</font>

Have you ever been to Arizona in July? http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/biggrin.gif

I've been planning to do an ALON in conjunction with low fares from LGA-HNL. It seems that Sept.-Dec. (pre Christmas) and Jan-March are seasons with the current $536.40 fare.
Are these good (not too crowded or expensive) times to go?
When were the notorious $350 fares from the east coast to HNL offered? I've searched for the fares here but had no luck.
I'm leaning toward the Jan-March timeframe...

Is it crowded the last couple weeks of August?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by luddgang:
Is it crowded the last couple weeks of August?</font>

We were in Oahu last August and it was jam packed solid. Everyone is trying to squeeze in the last of their summer vacation before the kids go back to school. I understand that the weeks right after Labor Day are wonderfully uncrowded.

September through x-mas is the slowest tourist season. Weather can be iffy, by Hawaii standards - more storm systems, higher humidity, still pretty hot. Usually by late December-early January it cools down a bit. This year winter has seen a much larger amount of cool, rainy weather than in the past couple of years - may be a longer term variation. Many old pictures of Diamond Head show it green with vegetation. When I moved here in '01, people said that was a thing of the past, that I shouldn't expect to see it. But lo and behold, it greened up for a long period last winter, and is green now. Very pretty.

When is Hilton going to beef up in Hawaii? I know people rave about HWV and I have stayed at HHV and enjoyed it, but that is it. Where is there Maui representation? Have heard rumors twice that the Emabasy Vacation resort might somehow become affiliated. Anybody know?

I just booked 2 rooms at Diamond Head Tower for ALON award. But then realized that they have other towers too. How is Diamond Head compared with other towers? The agent told me Ali'i tower is not for reward stay any more, is that true? Have you booked ALON in other towers, how about Lagoon Tower, it is a condo, has anybody used ALON in there too?

Thanks.

Diamond Head Tower is nice. Last Oct I had Room 1401. It's one of the few rooms at the south end (nearest the water) where you can actually see Diamond Head. Its a small suite, king bed with separate smaller living room. I say smaller because part of the emergency stairwell on the end of the building takes up some of the space. However, these 14th floor rooms have the largest lanai (balcony) for this building, and most other buildings, as well. Huge lanai where you can see Diamond Head and the ocean. You could hold a small dinner party out there.

If you are Hilton VIP, let them know on the reservation and politely inquire about the availability of any upgrade rooms when you check-in. Schmoozing the person behind the counter helps, as well.

We just got back from an ALON stay at HHV. We did not request any particular tower and got the Rainbow tower on the 16th floor, nice view of the ocean and marina but not Diamond Head as we were facing the Lagoon tower across from us which was fine because we had our 3 kids (18,20,23) staying in a 1 bedroom condo in the Lagoon tower which I had booked on the open season through HGVC for $80.00 a night. So we could see them out on their balcony from our balcony. Our room in the Rainbow tower was nice, nothing extra special but the view was great as we could see the ocean, lagoon, marina and the lights of the city at night as well as the sunset from our balcony. The rooms at the Lagoon tower are really nice!! Very nicely furnished and clean, the 1 bedroom condo had a king size bed and a full kitchen with everything you would need, a nice livingroom with large TV and full size sleep sofa, nice stereo and VCR.
We also got the 2 bedroom condo on the open season rate of $100.00 a night for the last two nights of our trip. This condo was great, oceanfront on the 14th floor with 2 balconies, one off the dining area and the other off the livingroom, directly facing the ocean and above the lagoon pool. This unit had a king size bed in master bedroom with TV and own full bathroom. The second bedroom had 2 twin beds and a tv. The livingroom had a full size Sleep sofa and large tv, VCR and nice stereo. Full kitchen with everything full size and everything you would need, cookware, utensils, rice cooker, toaster, coffee maker, even laundry basket and small box of laundry detergent. Each floor has a laundry room with 2 washers and dryers. I don't know if these rooms were recently renovated or not but they were extremely clean and beautifully furnished with nothing looking worn out or needing repair or replacement.
I would definitely stay there again on the open season rates or using club points, but I would have trouble paying $350 per night for this room or any room, which is what I believe these rooms go for.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by boggie:
a 1 bedroom condo in the Lagoon tower which I had booked on the open season through HGVC for $80.00 a night... We also got the 2 bedroom condo on the open season rate of $100.00 a night for the last two nights of our trip. </font>

Can you please explain these points. I've been monitoring rates at the HHV for a couple of years now, including HGVC, and have never seen any rates like this anywhere. The latter is exactly what we are looking for for a future family vacation with flexible dates. Are you an owner?

[This message has been edited by yyzflyer (edited 05-02-2003).]

We stayed last Christmas on an ALON award, we were in the Diamond Head tower, ocean view, 10th floor. We were not happy with this tower! We could hear the trucks and buses before 7am with the balcony door shut! This is the oldest building I think. We are diamond and asked to be moved to another tower/room, but no luck! This is a beautiful hotel though, Ali'i and Kalia towers are much nicer, never been in Rainbow. Good luck

I always preferred the Rainbow Tower when I stayed there. The views are nice. But - the higher levels in the Tapa Tower also have nice views and large rooms.

Never stayed in the Lagoon Tower.

I thought the Kalia Tower was still closed for a mold problem. Am I wrong?

yyzflyer,
Yes, we bought a timeshare at HGVC in Las Vegas last year and one of the benefits to being an owner is access to available HGVC units within 30 days of intended stay.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by cjh:
I thought the Kalia Tower was still closed for a mold problem. Am I wrong?</font>

You are not wrong, Kali'a Tower is still closed. Also, it is the furthest tower from the beach, and the closest to a busy intersection. Even if the rooms there are nice, I would not recommend it because of the location. Rainbow Tower is a winner, located right on the beach, and views from the corner rooms (xx0 and xx01) are breathtaking. Ali'i Tower is good, but award stays are very rarely upgraded to that tower.

Thinking about booking a GLON in Hawaii before the price goes up. I have only been there once, years ago. Will be taking wife and kids, 10 and 13. Where do you recommend?

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by spstx:
Thinking about booking a GLON in Hawaii before the price goes up. I have only been there once, years ago. Where do you recommend?</font>

Do you mean ALON, that is the reward most associated w/Hilton Hawaiian properties.

Hilton only has two properties in Hawaii.

If you do a search like UpgradeMe suggested and use terms such as HWV, HHV, Hawaii you will find TONS of information as there are numerous threads on the Hawaiian properties.

search function is in the upper right hand corner of the page.

------------------
Visit FlyerTalk Dining http://flyertalk.com/diningfr.shtml

For kids that age, the HWV (Waikoloa) is heaven. Order your ALON and reserve your dates now before availability disappears!

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by Sweet Willie:
Hilton only has two properties in Hawaii.
</font>

There's now a third - I just saw it when I was doing an HHV search on the Hilton website. It's called the Doubletree Alana Waikiki. I had never seen it before so I don't know if it's a new one or just one that we rarely discuss here. No idea whether it's worth spending an ALON on...

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by pinniped:
There's now a third - I just saw it when I was doing an HHV search on the Hilton website. It's called the Doubletree Alana Waikiki. I had never seen it before so I don't know if it's a new one or just one that we rarely discuss here. No idea whether it's worth spending an ALON on...</font>

The Alana is a small "boutique" property about a block mauka from the HHV (if you know where the Sizzler is, it's around there).

I remember staying there about 10 years ago, before it was a Doubletree. We had one of their better suites on the top floor and it was very nice, but nothing exceptional. It's a nice place as far as it's small size and guest to service ratio, but is lacking in beach access and other ammenities. Maybe not a bad choice for someone not expecting to spend a lot of time on property.

My $02.

<font face="Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Originally posted by pinniped:
There's now a third - I just saw it when I was doing an HHV search on the Hilton website. It's called the Doubletree Alana Waikiki. ...... No idea whether it's worth spending an ALON on...</font>

My bad!!! I knew about this property I just would not recommend it (especially for an ALON) as it is not on the beach.

I don't think the Doubletree is available for a ALON but it would be a bad choice anyway since the HHV is closer to the ocean and a more expensive property. I haven't been to the property on the big island but can't imagine anyone who wouldn't enjoy the HHV. If you get into the Rainbow Tower as we did it is right on the beach. Not only that it is the best part of Waikiki beach. Further east the beach all but disappears in front of some of the hotels. There are lots of things to do and see in the hotel complex as well as lots more within either walking distance or a short car ride away. I loved it so much I have already made reservations for next April.

Going to HLN Nov 5 to 8th looking for specials or discount advice. Maybe HH points for trade if you have some.
Regards,
Robert

Maybe a timeshare Hilton promo stay?

Try priceline. I was able to get the HHV a year and a half ago for $85/night.

Wanted to go to Hawaii on my Honeymoon and use my hilton points. Was hoping for some suggestions for a great hilton property there. also wondering how it would compare to some of the other top hotels out there.
Thanks vey much for your help!

There are only two Hilton properties in Hawaii that could even remotely be considered "honeymoon" properties.

A search will tell you all you need to know about both of them.

Yes, there is lots of information available. Search for HHV and HWV.

OK thanks

Looking to spend 175k HH points next June to take wife and 7 year old daughter. What are the best choices here?

From my quick review, I think the Hilton Waikoloa Village is the best deal. 6 nights for 175k sounds like the ticket.

Before I book this, I am missing something? Any other tips?

Thanks!

We stayed there last year, and will be going back this year using the ALON
award also. It's a fun, but big resort. Some people have complained about
the size and the fact that it's too "Disney", but my family (kids - 11 and 7)
loved it. We did not think that it was too big, the walk from building to
building was not too far, and we liked the beautiful grounds. We stayed at
the Ocean Tower, and even though we would swim at the Lagoon Pool (Ocean
Pool was being renovated), we had no problems with the long walk. It's
great exercise. My spouse & kids loved the monorail, though I find it is much
faster to walk.
When the kids found out that we were heading back there this year, they
were both very excited. There was plenty for them to do at the hotel, though
they did not sign up for the kid's programs. Do pay extra and sign your
daughter up for the Dolphin Quest. My kids did that last year and my 7 year
old wants to do it again this year.
It's also a very relaxing place for adults. Lots of pool choices and the lagoon
was fun to swim in for the kids.

When the kids found out that we were heading back there this year, they
were both very excited.

Same thing with me....
we took our 3 kids (then ages 13, 12 and 8) to both the Hilton Hawaiian Village and the Hilton Waikoloa Village in 2003...they enjoyed both.

I just booked another Hawaii trip for Feb 2007, and when they heard we would again be at the Hilton Waikoloa, they were thrilled.

By the time you'll be spending your points next year, both the Grand Wailea on Maui and the new (old) Kauai Hilton will be participating in the HHonors program.

Check out the Hilton website for details on the properties.

I agree with the previous posts who believe the the Waikoloa property is fantastic. I've paid for 2 visits and used points for another.

srsaz

Waikoloa beats HHV hands-down, esp with kids (and big kids).
Grand Wailea may beat HWV (water elevator, great water slides, etc.) for kids, but no Dolphin swim and some other stuff.
Can't go wrong with either. HHV is just a hotel on a busy city beach (Waikiki), not a real Hawaiian resort.
HWV or Grand Wailea are the tickets for sure!

The people who have mentioned the Grand Wailea have neglected to mention that six nights there would be 350,000 points, as opposed to the 175k for HHV or HWV.

Mike

The people who have mentioned the Grand Wailea have neglected to mention that six nights there would be 350,000 points, as opposed to the 175k for HHV or HWV.

Mike

Ouch ... unless it's twice as good ?

My wife and I are big fans of the HWV, even without kids. For one, the Big Island is a special place no matter where you stay. But in regards to the property, it is a bit disney but, IMHO, not enough to be annoying. The grounds are beautiful, the rooms large, and the sunsets are spectacular. Perhaps it is because I am still a kid at heart, but I enjoyed DolphinEncounter and riding the boats and monorail (though we usually walked everywhere).

I've been to the HWV, the HHV and the Grand Wailea. In my opinion the biggest bang for the buck/point is the HWV. I really like the other 2 properties but HHV is not as stunning and the Grand Wailea is 2x the price and I don't particularly care for Maui. The HHV in Honolulu is great if you planning on driving around Oahu and seeing the sites. You can do that at the HWV as well but it's more of a destination resort and if you are traveling with kids they will be in heaven - an you'll be pretty happy too.

I have to agree that the HWV is better than the HHV.
We don't have kids (we have holidays) and I don't particularly like being on holiday with other people's kids, which is why we avoid school holidays. But at the HWV there's enough room for us and kids to be happy in our own space. Same true for HHV, as there we don't tend to stay in the hotel and the beach is big enough.

Would like to try the other/new Hilton properties on the other islands though.

The people who have mentioned the Grand Wailea have neglected to mention that six nights there would be 350,000 points, as opposed to the 175k for HHV or HWV.

Mike

Shouldn't the real decision maker be which Island you want to be on? Maui beats Oahu hands down.

Personally, I prefer Oahu and the HHV to the big island and HWV.

Shouldn't the real decision maker be which Island you want to be on? Maui beats Oahu hands down.

Agree with you on that! Only problem is it's just too many points. I can
stay at HWV for almost two weeks for the Wailea points.

Planning a last minute trip to hawaii with a friend. Any recommendations for the Hiltons in Hawaii? :confused:

The Hilton Hawaiian Village is always a good bet - right on the beach in Waikiki but not smack dab in the middle. You can walk anywhere and the resort is great.

Welcome to FlyerTalk. If you do a search on Hawaii in this forum, you'll find lots of threads. As with everything else, opinions vary. Personally, I like both Hilton Hawaiian Village (HHV) in Honolulu and Waikoloa (HWV) in the Big Island.

But if you want to swim with the dolphins, you go to Waikoloa. It is near a small shopping center but a half hour to the town and airport. It is our family's favorite resort anywhere.

After just staying at the HHV Alii Tower for 5 nights, if I had a choice, I would not stay there again. Look at what is important for your vacation.

It is a beautiful mega large resort, but akin to Manhattan during a week day. You better be awake in the morning before you leave your tower, or you may get mowed down by the masses.

Do you want to sit by the pool? Better be there 1/2 hour before the pool opens to wait in line. Although there is a rule of not leaving a chair for 45 minutes or you lose it, I did not hear of that happening.

Do you want to sit under an umbrella by the beach? Better be there early (not as early as the pool) or you will be 3 rows behind others, looking at the backs of 2 rows of chairs in front of you thereby having no view of the water.

That said, the ladies at the Alii Tower Terrace for breakfast are wonderful. Two of the female concierges were down right terrible. Wrong driving directions, forgot about my requests for 1.5 hours, and it continued to go down hill on one morning.

The beach is great for small children (boring for older ones, ie. no real waves).

I had fabulous mahi mahi at the Rainbow Lanai for lunch (thanks to Amex); cooked to perfection on the underdown side rather than some of the overcooked fish in other restaurants.

So, weigh the pros and cons, but make sure if you go to Oahu to get to the North Shore - it was amazing. Snorkel at Shark's Cove (forget the name) it was better than Hananamana (SP?) Bay while we were there.

So, weigh the pros and cons, but make sure if you go to Oahu to get to the North Shore - it was amazing. Snorkel at Shark's Cove (forget the name) it was better than Hananamana (SP?) Bay while we were there.Hanauma Bay. ;)

This question gets raised a lot. So instead of typing my long drawn out answer here, I'll keep it short: the HWV for two reasons.
1. No impending strike (another search will bring up more info)
2. No feeling of being enclosed in a mini-metropolis.

Also remember that there is the Grand Wailea on Maui, if your budget is up for that.

If you can go to both the HHV and the HWV, the two islands are very different. Whatever you do, try and get out of the resorts :cool:

Have you been to Hawaii before? What are you looking for the nicest resort? The nicest nature surroundings? The best opportunity for sight-seeing? These questions matter if you ask me.

People dog Oahu, but if you have never been to Hawaii and are looking for things to do HHV on Waikiki Beach has much to offer. Just really depends on where you've already been and what you are looking to accomplish with your trip.

Have fun no matter what!! :)

\If you can go to both the HHV and the HWV, the two islands are very different. Whatever you do, try and get out of the resorts :cool:


I totally agree with this suggestion, 2 different islands both are great resorts. We go to Hawaii almost every year and we actually love Oahu as there is plenty to see such as the North Shore, Polynesian Culture Center, Pearl Harbor, and I think the HHV is one of the best properties in Oahu, just my opinion.

Bottom line it is up to you as to what you want to do and see,,,,,
Hope you have fun in Hawaii

I normally would prefer Waikoloa, but earlier this summer it was under construction, so I would check that out first if I were you. Otherwise, the Big Island is incredible and HWV is normally an amazing place.

Of course, if you have the opportunity/time, as suggested earlier you should try both HWV and the HHV in Waikiki.

OK - I have 300k miles saved up for my honeymoon. Need about 50k more to get this whole honeymoon to work. But that's beside the point.

Where should we stay? Flying in from Newark (via Continental reward).

We will be staying our first 6 nights at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Then we have 6 more nights at one of the following. If you have the time, tell me the pros and cons of each. Thanks for your help!

Waikiki Prince Kuhio (opening in Dec '06)
Hilton Kauai Beach (formerly Radisson and heard the old hotel was not great)
Hilton Hawaiian Village (too old and busy?)

OK - I have 300k miles saved up for my honeymoon. Need about 50k more to get this whole honeymoon to work. But that's beside the point.

Where should we stay? Flying in from Newark (via Continental reward).

We will be staying our first 6 nights at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Then we have 6 more nights at one of the following. If you have the time, tell me the pros and cons of each. Thanks for your help!

Waikiki Prince Kuhio (opening in Dec '06)
Hilton Kauai Beach (formerly Radisson and heard the old hotel was not great)
Hilton Hawaiian Village (too old and busy?)

Welcome, it appears you're a newbie here, Hawaii is a well discussed topic here, I suggest you do an ADVANCED search, as the questions you might have, will most like already be discussed.

Happy planning!

See my post about the construction at the HHV and Waikiki.
http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showthread.php?p=6493744#post6493744

Welcome, it appears you're a newbie here, Hawaii is a well discussed topic here, I suggest you do an ADVANCED search, as the questions you might have, will most like already be discussed.

Happy planning!

I'm actually not a newbie here. I've been around FT since 2002. I did do an advanced search and all the topics are about the individual properties. I was hoping we could get a discussion about all the Hawaii properties together in one thread. Thanks for your post.

OK - I have 300k miles saved up for my honeymoon. Need about 50k more to get this whole honeymoon to work. But that's beside the point.

Where should we stay? Flying in from Newark (via Continental reward).

We will be staying our first 6 nights at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Then we have 6 more nights at one of the following. If you have the time, tell me the pros and cons of each. Thanks for your help!

Waikiki Prince Kuhio (opening in Dec '06)
Hilton Kauai Beach (formerly Radisson and heard the old hotel was not great)
Hilton Hawaiian Village (too old and busy?)

Would you consider the Grand Wailea? You didn't mention when your honeymoon is, but if you're a HHonors Amex user and book for this fall/winter, you could probably spread 300-350k points around at HWV and the Grand Wailea using the special AXON and GW5N awards for discounted stays at each property.

Also, is this your first trip to Hawaii? If you're set on the Big Island (my personal favorite), what one or two other islands would you want to visit within your 2 weeks there? Oahu is a good choice for the city life at the HHonors properties there ...although Kauai will give you a similar rural-tropical feel that the Big Island does (although both islands are extremely different.)

Would you consider the Grand Wailea? You didn't mention when your honeymoon is, but if you're a HHonors Amex user and book for this fall/winter, you could probably spread 300-350k points around at HWV and the Grand Wailea using the special AXON and GW5N awards for discounted stays at each property.

Also, is this your first trip to Hawaii? If you're set on the Big Island (my personal favorite), what one or two other islands would you want to visit within your 2 weeks there? Oahu is a good choice for the city life at the HHonors properties there ...although Kauai will give you a similar rural-tropical feel that the Big Island does (although both islands are extremely different.)

Thanks for your post. I would definitely consider Grand Wailea. Maui would be my first choice of Hawaiian Island to visit (I've been there before) - but doesnt the Grand Wailea require double points for rewards? I thought I read in another post that 6 nights there would cost 350k points. I need to stretch 350k points into 12 nights.

I think my Fiance and I are set to go the first 6 nights to the big island. The other 6 nights are still up to debate.

Congratulations...

Waikiki Prince Kuhio is also formerly the Radisson Prince Kuhio Hotel http://www.princekuhiohotel.com/

Honolulu is just like being in any other major city. It's going to be busy. We love the Hilton Hawaiian Village but we love traveling to major cities for sightseeing, museums, historical places, and dining.
Hilton Hawaiian Village & Hilton Waikoloa Village are both huge properties where rooms can range from 1 (old, dirty, smelly, moldy) to 10 (spotless, new and refreshing). HHonor status and mentioning that it's your honeymoon will greatly help.

I would also add the Embassy Suites Hotel - Waikiki Beach Walk to your list (formerly the OHANA Waikiki Tower and OHANA Waikiki Village Hotels)
http://www.waikikibeachwalk.com/press_release_detail.aspx?prid=9

Good Luck

http://www.grandwailea.com/accommodations/rates.asp


HILTON HHONORS® VIP

Natural Beauty Outside. Luxury Inside The Grand Wailea Resort Hotel & Spa is offering limited-time rewards to Hilton HHonors® VIP members.
Between September 1 and December 20, 2006, book a reward stay for four nights, for 200,000 HHonors points, or five nights, for 250,000 HHonors points.
To book your reward, call 1-800-HHONORS. You must request reward code GW4N for the four-night reward and GW5N for the five-night reward. Terms and Conditions:
Limited-time rewards valid for stays from September 1 through December 20, 2006. You must be a Silver, Gold or Diamond HHonors member to be eligible to redeem HHonors points for these rewards.

The OP didn't say when the Hawaii trip was planned? The special offer is only for the next couple of months.

The OP didn't say when the Hawaii trip was planned? The special offer is only for the next couple of months.

Thank you phyllisnnj and katj - our honeymoon is being planned for August 13-26, 2007. That current promotion for Maui will not be valid for our trip but thanks for the tip.

So I guess the Prince Kuhio and the Hilton Kauai are both old Radisson's. I don't know if we should risk it or not. At this point we may just stay the first 6 nights at HWV and then fly to Maui and priceline it. I will check out the Embassy Suites in Waikiki though...

Thank you phyllisnnj and katj - our honeymoon is being planned for August 13-26, 2007. That current promotion for Maui will not be valid for our trip but thanks for the tip.

So I guess the Prince Kuhio and the Hilton Kauai are both old Radisson's. I don't know if we should risk it or not. At this point we may just stay the first 6 nights at HWV and then fly to Maui and priceline it. I will check out the Embassy Suites in Waikiki though...

If you're going to the Big Island for the first six days, I'd urge you to consider Kauai for the next part of your trip. Maui is nice, but it has over the last 20 years become a bit touristy. We (my wife and I) consider Kauai to be the lovliest of the islands. Granted, it's not big on nightlife. But it's great for romance, relaxing and sightseeing.

If you can swing it, I'd recommend the Grand Hyatt Kauai, perhaps by buying a Costco travel package -- a huge bargain.

Whatever you decide to do, congratulations on your upcoming wedding, and best wishes for a lifetime of happiness to you and your sweetie.

There's so much to do on each of the islands I'd prioritize the island I'd want to visit first followed by the accomodations --you'll spend so little time at the resort, it should be a second thought.

Even at a resort as grand and as widespread as the HWV, the Big Island is so amazing it'd be a shame to not spend as much time off-site as possible. And the same can be said for the other islands.

There's so much to do on each of the islands I'd prioritize the island I'd want to visit first followed by the accomodations --you'll spend so little time at the resort, it should be a second thought.

Even at a resort as grand and as widespread as the HWV, the Big Island is so amazing it'd be a shame to not spend as much time off-site as possible. And the same can be said for the other islands.

I agree. Choose by island. My first trip to Hawaii was a great combination of tourist and quiet (and also happened to be in August ^ ). I don't mind some touristy stuff, so I spent my first week at the Renaisannce Wailea in Maui, which was great because South Maui gives you the opportunity to play tourist but you return to a quieter area. After that week, I was ready to go to the Big Island for a few days.

I'm going to Kauai in April, staying at the Hilton. I'm interested to see what the renovation will be like, but I'm more excited about exploring the island.

If you don't mind tourist attractions, go to Maui. It's gorgeous. If you are into a more quiet/hiking/natural destination and you don't think the Big Island will suffice, choose Kauai.

Perhaps the Activities discussions on the Hawaii Board might help you decide on which islands to visit during your honeymoon.

http://www.flyertalk.com/forum/showpost.php?p=3087919&postcount=6

We spent our honeymoon and 1st anniversary in Hawaii. Two Marriott 087's and two Hilton ALON's. Renaissance Wailea, Marriott Kauai, HHV, HWV.

Favorite islands were Maui, Big Island, and Kauai - they are all very different and we loved them all, it's hard to rank one higher than the other. Kauai is probably the best for total relaxation: uncrowded beaches and "self guided" activities like hiking that you do at your own pace. The Big Island has maximum variety, and we ended up doing more guided activities there (a trip to the observatories, helicopter flight to the volcano, etc.).

Maui has awesome beaches in the Wailea area and also some wonderful scenery on the Hana side. Maui also has the biggest tourism industry of the three (non-Oahu) islands, so you get the pros & cons of that. It's busier, but there is also better nightlife, more restaurants, etc. Since we spent little time up in the northwest part of Maui, we weren't overwhelmed at all by a feeling of overdevelopment. Wailea is fairly tasteful, and the Hana side is spectacular and mostly undeveloped.

Starting with HWV is a great call. For two weeks, I'd stick to two islands - that way you only blow about one half-day of your vacation on interisland travel, and you really get to spend more time experiencing those two islands fully.

If you pick Maui, you could possibly move some CO miles through Amtrak to HH and maybe pick up some free Grand Wailea nights. That said, GW is a huge, busy resort...after HWV, you might be in the mood for something a bit more understated...that's your call.

If you pick Kauai and decide not to go with the old Radisson, you might consider the Marriott Kauai. If you're willing to suffer a timeshare pitch, you can get it for $599-699 for 5 nights plus some other perks (either rental car credit or resort credit - depends on the deal being offered). We did a timeshare schpiel at HWV and simply told the guy "We're on our honeymoon. We aren't buying a timeshare." The guy ended the pitch in about five minutes... :)

Congrats on the wedding and no matter what, you are going to love Hawaii!

I tried to book the Kauai property the other night through the Diamond Desk and I was told that they are not in the rewards system yet.

We spent our honeymoon and 1st anniversary in Hawaii. Two Marriott 087's and two Hilton ALON's. Renaissance Wailea, Marriott Kauai, HHV, HWV.

Favorite islands were Maui, Big Island, and Kauai - they are all very different and we loved them all, it's hard to rank one higher than the other. Kauai is probably the best for total relaxation: uncrowded beaches and "self guided" activities like hiking that you do at your own pace. The Big Island has maximum variety, and we ended up doing more guided activities there (a trip to the observatories, helicopter flight to the volcano, etc.).

Maui has awesome beaches in the Wailea area and also some wonderful scenery on the Hana side. Maui also has the biggest tourism industry of the three (non-Oahu) islands, so you get the pros & cons of that. It's busier, but there is also better nightlife, more restaurants, etc. Since we spent little time up in the northwest part of Maui, we weren't overwhelmed at all by a feeling of overdevelopment. Wailea is fairly tasteful, and the Hana side is spectacular and mostly undeveloped.

Starting with HWV is a great call. For two weeks, I'd stick to two islands - that way you only blow about one half-day of your vacation on interisland travel, and you really get to spend more time experiencing those two islands fully.

If you pick Maui, you could possibly move some CO miles through Amtrak to HH and maybe pick up some free Grand Wailea nights. That said, GW is a huge, busy resort...after HWV, you might be in the mood for something a bit more understated...that's your call.

If you pick Kauai and decide not to go with the old Radisson, you might consider the Marriott Kauai. If you're willing to suffer a timeshare pitch, you can get it for $599-699 for 5 nights plus some other perks (either rental car credit or resort credit - depends on the deal being offered). We did a timeshare schpiel at HWV and simply told the guy "We're on our honeymoon. We aren't buying a timeshare." The guy ended the pitch in about five minutes... :)

Congrats on the wedding and no matter what, you are going to love Hawaii!

Thank you to everyone for your posts.

We were up in the air as to the 2nd part of our trip. After reading up on Kauai we both really liked the sound of it but the downside was Hilton's new property (old Radisson) didn't sound very enticing. But I guess everyone is making a good point - pick the island not the resort. I have been to Maui and loved it, but Kauai sounds awesome too. I may just book (when its available) the Hilton resort in Kauai and I can always cancel. In the meantime I can work getting reward stays through other hotel chains.

Congratulations!

I also enjoyed my honeymoon in Hawaii just this past June and would like to let you know what we thought of our time.

The wedding was held in Honolulu and we stayed at HHV. We held the reception in the Kalia tower and everyone that we were in contact was great and very accomodating to our requests.

We then moved on to the Big Island for the honeymoon. It was our first time and I was really excited about seeing HWV and the Big Island. While our stay was pleasant enough, in hind sight I would have gone somewhere else for sure. HWV is like a big amusement park and there are tons of families and kids running around, not necessarily a bad thing, just not the best thing for a romantic honeymoon. Even the restaurants that say they require a dress code and discourage families with small kids sat us right next to a screaming 2 year old. I know you want to use your HH points, but I would recommend staying away from HWV if you want a relaxing, romantic, peaceful honeymoon. We went down the road to the Four Seasons for dinner one night and I kicked myself for not staying there instead. If you have your heart set on the Big Island I would recommend giving the Four Seasons a look, great setting, atmosphere and great restaurants for adults.

My two cents.

NGO-NWA

Congratulations!

I also enjoyed my honeymoon in Hawaii just this past June and would like to let you know what we thought of our time.

The wedding was held in Honolulu and we stayed at HHV. We held the reception in the Kalia tower and everyone that we were in contact was great and very accomodating to our requests.

We then moved on to the Big Island for the honeymoon. It was our first time and I was really excited about seeing HWV and the Big Island. While our stay was pleasant enough, in hind sight I would have gone somewhere else for sure. HWV is like a big amusement park and there are tons of families and kids running around, not necessarily a bad thing, just not the best thing for a romantic honeymoon. Even the restaurants that say they require a dress code and discourage families with small kids sat us right next to a screaming 2 year old. I know you want to use your HH points, but I would recommend staying away from HWV if you want a relaxing, romantic, peaceful honeymoon. We went down the road to the Four Seasons for dinner one night and I kicked myself for not staying there instead. If you have your heart set on the Big Island I would recommend giving the Four Seasons a look, great setting, atmosphere and great restaurants for adults.

My two cents.

NGO-NWA

Thanks for the insight. We want to stay 12 nights at Hilton's in Hawaii using points. Been saving up for years and to save us all that dough when we're just starting out will be awesome....Maybe we should start out in Kauai for the first 6 nights then go to HWV. That way we relax on a more secluded island for the first part of the trip and then maybe we can handle the hustle and bustle of HWV for the second part....

Decisions, decisions...

OK - I have 300k miles saved up for my honeymoon. Need about 50k more to get this whole honeymoon to work. But that's beside the point.

Where should we stay? Flying in from Newark (via Continental reward).

We will be staying our first 6 nights at Hilton Waikoloa Village. Then we have 6 more nights at one of the following. If you have the time, tell me the pros and cons of each. Thanks for your help!

Waikiki Prince Kuhio (opening in Dec '06)
Hilton Kauai Beach (formerly Radisson and heard the old hotel was not great)
Hilton Hawaiian Village (too old and busy?)

Hi Honeymooner!

Wanted to offer my experience. Stayed at Hilton Waikoloa once w/points. Its okay. Kind of artificial property. Difficult to get to rooms by boat. If you like the monorail or walking that's an option.

I'm a runner & noticed I coughed the whole time on the Big Island. Locals told me it was called "Vog" (volcano fog). Because the island has an active volcano, there's a constant unseen ash in the air. Really effects those with asthma. On the Big Island, no beaches. Sightseeing just ok for me.

We prefer Hilton Hawaiian Village. It's easy to get to anywhere, lots to do, fireworks every Friday night. Upgrade was incredible. Perfect view. Many waterfalls nearby to enjoy. Diamonds get free fitness access & daily continental breakfast.

I've always stayed at the Lihue Marriott in Kauai (5 min from airport but no noise at property). Beautiful pool w/beachfront view, rates are very affordable. I used 2 nites/points & purchased 2 nites. Kauai is our favorite island. More waterfalls & lots of activities.

Have fun!

I tried to book the Kauai property the other night through the Diamond Desk and I was told that they are not in the rewards system yet.

Dugernaut - did the Diamond Desk give you any indication when rewards can be booked for this property?

I just booked my honeymoon in Hawaii, 2 nights at HHV and 6 nights at HWV (Apr 3-11). These spotty reviews are getting me nervous. I'm Diamond and totally cashi