Long time reader, not much of a poster here. My wife and I are wrapping up 5 nights at the Wailea, so I thought I would do a quick summary.

Stayed here on points. I'm platinum... got upgraded the week before check in to an ocean front room in Hala 7. Just an awesome view from the room.

My overall impression of this hotel is that its all about the location. The views from the room and the infinity pool are just superior. The close proximity to a couple of world class beaches is also great.

However, in my opinion, the category 8 classification is ludicrous. I know the property is relatively aged, so I came into the vacation with tempered expectations. However, there are details that are just really unacceptable for a property like this. Examples:

- Really cheap shower amenities (cheap shampoo, conditioner). No body wash (important for a resort), and a couple of small bars of soap.
- Coffee in the room is the standard Marriott coffee maker - fine. But, powdered cream?
- Literally ZERO available power outlets on the bed side of the room. Had to unplug lights to plug in my iphone near the bed.
- The service at the Mala lounge is really poor. Had a couple of bad experiences there, and just refuse to go spend any more money there.
- Birds (non-exotic) are in abundance. I know wildlife is just something you need to deal with when going to any island, but birds literally eating fries from your plate by the pool and bird crap on pool chairs (and even on the chairs at the Mala lounge) is really annoying.
- There's a weird vibe to this place too. Very little local music played, the tiki's are only lit for a couple of hours at night, the pools all close at sunset, and there's only one outdoor bar (the waitresses at the infinity pool are fabulous and will get the drinks for you despite the walk). If it wasn't for the weather and the open lobbies, I'm not sure I would know if I was in Maui or the Caribbean.

The activities (beach, outdoor massage, adult pool, cabana rentals overseeing the beach, etc) makes it seem like its a location for couples looking for a distinguished getaway without the "party" atmosphere. But its not really run that way. As a picky traveler, the details really matter to me. I purposely take my vacations at higher end hotels so I don't have to worry about the little things. At hotels where the age shows, like the Wailea, the little things should matter more. That hasn't been my experience here.

Overall, my recommendation is this is a good resort if you can find a good rate. I don't think the points required for a cat 8 hotel is good value here - unless you really prioritize the view (which is great) and a great quiet pool location (the infinity pool). In comparison, I stayed on points at the JW in Orlando last month, which is a Cat 7... and that hotel just completely blows this one away.

I love the island - but if/when we come back, I'll probably look elsewhere. Let me know if there are any questions I can help answer about this property.