If you don't really need to be directly in the resort, perhaps check out the Mauna Lani condos. That's what we did last year and they are amazing, plus you have privelages at the Hotel and the fairmont (or at least we went up there all the time). I'm sure more than the hotel, but worth it in my oppinion for the privacy, space and kitchen. Plus, the community has a nice separate/private beach area with a small "restaurant," as well as another black sand beach.

We booked ours through a travel agent and with the car, it was the best price we could find. They are pricy, but we were a bit scruffy (the hiking/snorkel type, we didn't even bring true resort wear), and like the "seclusion," as opposed to the busy resort ways.

If you go, the beachfront restaurant at the fairmont is top notch (and doesn't require resort attire)! Expensive, but it's outdoors and we were at sunset...definitely the best and most memorable meal of trip!

Enjoy the trip...once you go, you can't stay away!