Has anyone used thier points to go to Hawaii?

[Malibelle]

Just wondering if anyone used thier points to go to Hawaii? How many points roughly did you use? How long did you stay?

If we buy into DVC we want to go on a honeymoon there.

 

[dianeschlicht]

We used points for an exchange to the Big Island (our favorite), and it was 160 points for a 1 bedroom at Kona Coast II resort. That will definitely be the easiest one to get into, since it is a very large resort.

 

[dumbo71]

We used points for an exchange to the Big Island (our favorite), and it was 160 points for a 1 bedroom at Kona Coast II resort. That will definitely be the easiest one to get into, since it is a very large resort.

Diane,

How was that resort? Why is the Big Island your favorite?

Thanks a lot.

 

[Dean]

KCR is an extremely easy resort to exchange in to if one plans far enough ahead. Most of HI is High season but some times are Mid and Low season for DVC exchanges. Count on 160 points for a 1 BR and be happy if it's less. I can give you some additional times for some resorts that may be less than high but if you're looking any time from Dec to Easter or summer, assume high season. There are several problems exchanging DVC for HI. One is that most trades are a down trade at least in terms of resort quality. Another is that it is uncertain, there are no guarantees. Also getting a 2 BR is even far more difficult than the rest. Since you're looking to buy in to DVC, I'd rent something for HI or look for a hotel package then buy DVC separately. If the cost is the issue, just buy less points.

 

[dianeschlicht]

Diane,

How was that resort? Why is the Big Island your favorite?

Thanks a lot.

We just like the variety on the Big Island, and like the more laid back atmosphere there. LOL, kind of the same reasons we like OKW! The resort is seperated from the ocean only by a golf course fairway. This part of Kona is not a beachy place, but jagged lava rocks with blow holes and beautiful sunsets. Many of us went across the golf fairway in the evening to visit the blow holes and absorb the atmosphere. The resort had some very nice pools and spas, and one of the things we liked is that some of the spas are away from the pools, so nice and quiet. The resort had lots of concierge activities, but we usually rent a car on Hawaii and spend a lot of time driving to all the sights there. You can see snow capped mountains and ride a horse drawn wagon into the pali area on the north, or you can go to the other extreme and see the red lava and volcanos on the south. Lots of beautiful scenery and historical sights to visit along the way too. We particularily like the imediate Kona area as well as the Kohala coast and Waipio canyon. The volcanos National park is a must do also, but seeing it from the air is even more fun. People here seem more "old Hawaian", and everything is a simpler lifestyle than the more beachy Maui or the fast paced city life of Oahu.