Just had a short stay here as a Globalist using my annual Cat 1 to 7 certificate. Ironic to read that it will go up to Cat. 8 next month. I wouldn't pay that, and honestly won't really miss the property. The economics of visiting Hawaii are all messed up. It's certainly now one of the most expensive destinations in the world, and if you don't have a "lodging solution" (which for Flyertalkers, is probably going to involve a points deal) you should try to vacation elsewhere. I see that rooms at this hotel are now typically going for $1000/night. That's a bad joke. Reality check: it's a nice hotel, with very pretty and extensive grounds, an enormous pool complex, some enjoyable Hawaiian activities, and friendly staff. But there's no swimmable beach, rooms are 4 star not 5, and Globalist benefits are good but not great. You get far more for your money at Hyatt's non-USA resort hotels.

Some quick notes. The Globalist lounge is spacious and attractive, if you don't mind the old Italian restaurant decor. The food is a bit disappointing, worse -- surprisingly so -- than the Waikiki Regency. There are 2 hot breakfast dishes, and often only one hot dinner dish if you exclude miso soup. It's tough to make an evening meal out of, unless you've had an ample lunch. They charge $5 for wine and beer on an honor bar: the wine, at least the pinot noir, is horrible. They do put out some afternoon snacks like cookies and chips. The location next to the pool complex makes it attractive to run in for a beverage or snack. Good food at the hotel is expensive: like $79 steak.

The spa is now no longer free for Globalists, but I was told you could show up, act surprised and disappointed, and they might let you in "one time" for free. I didn't have a chance to try this.

There's free sunscreen at the towel stand by the pool if you ask.

If you're up early, I recommend the 7 am walk with the fitness instructor to the Poipu Beach Park. We saw dolphins, whales and turtles. Lots of people are out and about at that time! Later in the day, it's a fine place to swim, but a bit crowded and IMO overrated.

If you have any interest in Hawaiian culture, I recommend you check out the culture room and do some free activities. The staff know their stuff. I "learned" how to play ukulele and, in another class, I played the various hula musical instruments.

At check in, each of us received a voucher for a meal or drink at the pool restaurants. Not sure why we received it: maybe because we had to wait an hour to get into our room. You could order anything up to $24. I recommend the poke bowl. This was useful given the lackluster lounge food.