Just got back from a week at the Orchid and The Spouse and I had a fantastic stay.

One thing that particularly stuck out for me was that despite the hotel being quite full (two weddings and some sort of business event were going on and the parking lot was full) the hotel never really felt full. That reinforced the feeling of luxury and tranquility.

Staff was friendly and helpful - and one thing I noticed was that they were not only that way to the guests, but also to each other (for example, I saw a front of house staffer rushing to help a waiter wrangle two room service tables into an elevator when it quite likely wasn't her job to do so).

The landscaping was a big plus, especially over by the North tower where the "Spa without walls" booths are located. Lots of little pools, tons of trees and flowers -- it was a pleasure just to walk through it.

Our partial ocean view room had more view of the golf course than the ocean, but made up for it by having a larger than average terrace. Wifi access was a little flaky, and there was no wifi at all in the Orchid Court, which was a bit annoying for those who like to catch up with the day's news while at breakfast.

We visited the Hapuna Beach Prince while on the island, and although the beach itself was lovely, we felt that the hotel itself was clearly inferior to the Orchid.

All in all we're extremely pleased we chose the Orchid and would gladly return.