Not worthless but very difficult to find availability. I have done award stays at Kauai Lagoons (wonderful Ritz Carlton Grade TS) and Maui Ocean Club Napili Towers. I also found availability for Ko'Olina (SP?) and Kauai Beach Club though went to the previously mentioned properties instead. In order to find availability you need to start looking early (approx. 1 year out), check often, be willing to string multiple reservations together as you find availability for some days, be somewhat flexible on the dates, and be persistent.

That said it has been a few years since I booked any MR award stays at any TS property (Hawaii or elsewhere) and I do believe availability has gotten tighter in general. It may be related to more of the Marriott Timeshare Owners converting over to the Destination Points System from the Weeks System. MVC holds all of that inventory in trust and tends to try to either rent it directly or deposit into exchange companies (e.g. it doesn't show up as MR award availability).

In any case before you throw in the towel, keep checking for a while. You may get lucky and find something. Another thought, if you're driving factor for a TS is a kitchen and more space, you should also consider the brand new Residence Inn in Wailea. Good Luck!

--Jon