we stayed at HWV for 4 nights in December w/2 kids 14 and 10. The kids really enjoyed the pool and it's a very nice place to "kick back". We also wanted to explore the island so used the hotel as a base... BAD move.. Traffic was really bad heading towards Kona. (unf. we had to go there the first day after arriving late -- after 11PM at hotel-- due to a major problem at Alamo). We wished we could have stayed longer but we had a connecting flight to Kauai and also Xmas. The kids also really enjoyed heading to Hapuna Beach for the afternoon and body surfing. We also headed south one day to go snorkel (saw amazing turtles) and another day to go to Place of Refuge -- so we didn't get to enjoy the HWV. It takes a long time from leaving the room to get to car (had to always allow at least 1/2 hr. -- boats weren't running at all and tram was on a delayed schedule) which put a major crimp on things. The kids really did enjoy having a quick bite in the AM in the lounge. That said DD wants to return back to HWV... we all want to return back to Big Island (didn't have enough time at Volcano) but think if we stay in Waikoloa area may not stay at Hilton. There are a few other options that we may have (have points for Marriott which aren't had to get a week for).
Carolyn