Hawaii

[sue]

We just booked the Mauni Lani Resort on the big island of Hawaii for this coming August. Wondering how many of you have stayed there and if you can pass on any fun facts to me. We have a garden view, 2 connecting rooms. We have two daughters 21 and 15. We have been to Maui and Oahu before. We have done the Atlantis submarine and a few other things on that trip. Just wondering what you have done, what the resort is like, points of interest, type of room you had, if you rented a car(we are), places you ate etc. All info would be greatly appreciated

 

[jekjones1558]

The Mauna Lani is a lovely resort on extensive, historical grounds. You will enjoy walking around the property and reading signs that tell about the history. Sea turtles are fun to watch. If you are sun worshipers, you will like the lounges at oceanside.
The Mauna Lani is 20 - 25 miles from the airport and 25 - 30 miles from Kona, so it is good that you have a car. If you have not visited the Big Island before, then you could spend at least a couple of days just driving the perimeter to see the vastly different terrains in each sector of the island. The Big Island is our favorite because of the diversity of the landscape--Volcano National Park, Hilo and tropical gardens, Parker Ranch and Kohala coast, as well as the activity of Kona. While there are dining options at the Mauna Lani, they are relatively expensive (e.g., Ruth's Chris Steak House). There are a few restaurant choices not too far away in a shopping center and in a small town, but I would definitely take the opportunity to check out restaurants if you do any touring. Kona has the most choices.
Enjoy your trip. WDW and Hawaii are our 2 absolute favorite vacation spots!