KBH is best for location/value amongst all the hotels on the strip there but it lacks a few facilities such as a gym if this is important to you. Apart from KBH, Sheraton and Hyatt, I think the rest are condominium/timeshare complexes with the hotel companies managing them. Not sure if this makes a difference as they all look like hotels from the outside. Apart from KBH and perhaps Kaanapali Alii they are pretty similar and your loyalty to a brand is probably the deciding factor at a given price point.

The Paia Inn on the north shore is worth looking at if you want an authentic surf town rather than a 60s/70s Beach Resort.

Wailea is the posh part of the Island but feels a bit less Hawaiian as a result. If you stay in one of the resorts here then make sure you get to see other parts of the Island.

The Island is a real joy so will make up for the long trip down the back.