My kids are 8 and 10. The Waikoloa has easy access to two pools, a slide and the beach with paddleboards and kayaks. The King and Queens marketplace are within walking distance for kids who are picky eaters. Also, Hapuna beach and Spencer beach are only a short drive away.

If it was just the wife and I, we would have definitely preferred the Mauna Kea. The pace there is easy and the ambiance is made for relaxing. OTOH, there is one pool and just getting out to route 19 takes 5 minutes each time.

I guess part of the reason could also be due to my older one developing an ear infection on our way from HNL to KON. So, we pretty much spent our first day at the urgent care in Waimea and in our room.

Edit: Funny, I am travelling and in MSP at this time.