Hawaii

[Chadm]

Can anyone directly compare the two Concierge Collection hotels in Hawaii, Kapalua Bay and Mauna Lani?

I know that they are on two different islands (Maui and The Big Island) and that they are probably of comparable quality. I'm sure some of the comparison will depend on location.

We are planning a 5th anniversary trip and Hawaii is at the top of the list for us. I'm aware that this may not be the most economical use of our points, but it really doesn't matter to me because this is a special occasion.

Any comparisons or opinions of either of these resorts, or Hawaii in general, would be appreciated.

Thanks

 

[Doug Wolfe]

Sorry, I can't do a comparison for you. But, one of my friends, who is also a DVC owner, took his wife to Maui for their anniversary. He said they really loved it. So at least Maui would be a solid choice. By the way, he is also my dentist and he was drilling my teeth while he was telling me! Thank goodness it was a good trip that left him in a good mood.

 

[KLR-wlv]

I was just looking at each of the hotel's websites today and it's not such a bad use of points - the one was 43 points for a garden view and the cash price was $390 before tax....

 

[Chadm]

Originally posted by KLR-wlv
I was just looking at each of the hotel's websites today and it's not such a bad use of points - the one was 43 points for a garden view and the cash price was $390 before tax....

Actually, I've gotten some current rates for both the Kapalua Bay and Mauna Lani resorts and they are cheaper than the rack rates being quoted on their websites. In fact, the difference in points vs. cash would be almost enough to cover our round trip flights if we decided to rent the points (at $10 / point) and pay cash. For example, 6 nights at Kapalua Bay would cost 258 points in a garden view room (that's at 2003 point values, we are going in 2004). I got a quote for that same room plus round trip air from New Orleans and it was less than $3000. So, if I were willing to rent 290 points or so, I could pay for the airfare as well.

I'm not sure if we'll actually do this because I've never rented my points out before and I don't know if I want to deal with the hassle, but it's certainly an interesting possibility. The great thing about renting out the points for cash is that we are not confined to the DVC system. Right now we are looking hard at these two resorts in Hawaii, but if we change our minds we may decide to look at resorts not available through DVC. So far, we have used DVC to our best advantage, which is staying at DVC resorts on property. However, it's nice to know that we have the flexibility to do something else every few years.

 

[jekjones1558]

We have stayed in both resorts as well as many others on both Maui and BI. Kapalua has a more traditional, tropical feel, IMHO. Our room last time, booked on points, was huge and more lavish than the one we booked at Mauna Lani (also booked on points). Kapalua is not far from Kaanapali and Lahaina (8 - 10 miles?), so you have access to much activity, shopping, restaurants. The beaches on Maui are better than BI. Drives to Hana and the windsurfing beaches near Mam's Fish House would be fun. Whale watching (Jan. - Mar.) is addictive and the main reason we go to Maui now. It has become a VERY busy island. You can whale-watch on BI too, but it's better on Maui.
Mauna Lani is frequented by the rich and famous (Celine Dion was there when we were there). The grounds are spectacular. It is rather secluded (30 miles to Kona?), so if you like to be near lots of activity, restaurants, shopping, it is not the best choice. If you want a quiet, restful vacation, you won't find better. The restaurants are great but rather costly. You may want to do some driving around the BI if it's your first trip. There are 4 distinct terrains, like being on 4 different islands. BI is our favorite.
Either resort is lovely. Can you do 5 or 6 days in each? Then post back with your review! Wish I were going to either/both right now. But going to OKW in 2 weeks, so can't complain too loudly!