The variety of opinions on the Hilton Waikoloa sure shows that so much depends on your point of view.
We returned yesterday from a one week stay at this resort. It had been 8 years since our last visit. We could not have enjoyed our stay more.This is my wife's favorite hotel in the world and as a Diamond, we travel alot.
The staff from the minute we checked in until we left made us feel like they really cared. When even the security and maintenace people smile and ask about your stay, you know they are trained well and enjoy their jobs. The grounds are as beautiful and clean as ever and every where you look you are amazed by the beauty and uniqueness.
As it was a holiday week and fully booked, we did not initially receive or expect an upgrade. 2 days later , we received a call from a manager informing us that they would be moving us to an ocean view room. It pays to be nice sometimes.
Our favorite dinners were at Kamuela provision company. Ask for David the server. Also say hello to Yoshi in the executive lounge. He will make your day.
The only sour employee we met in a week was the blond haired hostess at Kirin. She must have been having a bad day, so we walked away and had a wonderful experience at The Palm Terrace.
Two other suggestions- Book a trip with Waipio on Horseback. The wranglers were a blast and the Valley is a site to see. Skip Red Sail. We canceled our second trip after our first experience. Left late, returned early. Never sailed, just motored. Ads show 7-8 people on boat, we had over 40. Pu Pu's were uncut fruit and a bowl of snack mix with a bunch of little kids hands sifting through it.
Overall. one of the top Hiltons in the world. From my point of view!
Ray