I will be at the Ko'Olina 05/24-05/29. I have booked an ocean view room and have asked to be upgraded to a deluxe ocean view. The upgrade points alone (on top of the base points for the garden view) are 70,000 points.

I note quite a few people get upgraded, while many don't. What tier should I book, did I do it right? I really dont care to have a garden view in Hawaii, it kind of defeats the vacation experience. I, of course, would like to save as many points as possible. I really haven't traveled to any resort areas using points so I am not sure how the game is played. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

I am a Marriott Gold as is my friend who is traveling with me (we were both Plaitnum last year

My wife and I will be travelling to the same property 6/4-6/11. I am Platinum (151 nights this year) and called the platinum line to ask a similar question since we booked a garden room. We let the platinum desk know that it was a special event (honeymoon) which they noted, but they said they wouldn't guarantee anything (of course) since Plats don't get auto upgrades on award tix . But they did say that often they look at the # of nights and status to determine upgradabilty and it was possible.

I am guessing that both of you are talking about award stays at the JW Marriott Ihilani even though that was not explicitly stated. While upgrades are possible, they will probably go to paying Platinum and Gold Elite guests first (YMMV). Also, there is no such thing as an auto uprgade as all upgrades are based on availabbility. If the hotel is sold out then nobody will get upgraded.

Now with that said. If an Ocean View is a must, then book an Ocean View otherwise your expectations may be dashed which could result in an unpleasant start to your trip. I have stayed at this property a half dozen times, all on paid stays, and I have always booked a mountain view room. I have always gotten upgraded, but I would have been content had I not.

Watever you do, have a wonderful time.

I agree with the above. It's too far to go to not book the minimum room you will accept. We always book regular ocean view, as far as we can tell there is not a giant difference (although we prefer deluxe ocean-view) between them. We have been very lucky with upgrades but realized after our first visit we would NEVER book garden because it would kill us to go this far and not see/hear the ocean in the room. There are some great rooms on the garden side. While checking in I have seen people with garden reservations being given a junior suite (giant single room) but still on the garden side. We have never stayed garden side. I wonder if anyone who has can report on whether you at least view ocean from the lanai?

I was there labor day weekend, it was sold out. I was on standard award points. I'm a plat.

I was upgraded to a deluxe ocean view without request. I'm guessing it was on my status. I didn't really care what I had for a room since I was not going to be in the room much anyway.

Personally, when you go to places like this, I don't think the cost (either points or cash) are worth it for me. Usually I can get a decent room without any additional outlay of points or cash. As a gold, you will get a decent room just by default. Being on an award won't work against you.

Think about it, those points (70K) can get you another award for another trip. is that the price you want to pay for a better angle at the ocean. The way this property sits looking out at the Pacific, (its horseshoe shaped) chances are the ocean view you get, will be adequate.

Maybe you are one who will sit on the balcony for the better part of your trip, then if so, maybe I'm completely off base, but if you aren't that type then save your points for something else.. just my two cents