We spent Dec 26-Jan 5 2009 at HHI.
We drove to WDW first for 5 nights and then to HHI and then back to Tx.
We had a great stay. We rented bikes the whole stay. We rode bikes to the beach and walked on the beach. Recreation put on a full schedule of activities each day. Not all suitable for teens, but there was a little something for everyone. Some are pricey though.
NYE we had dinner at the Salty Dog and then made it back in time for the NYE party at the pool. No fireworks and it lasted maybe an hour, but it was fun, they passed out hats, noisemakers, one of the CM's Dj'd and we all did the cupid shuffle (line dance) on the pool deck. THen everyone went back to their rooms.
Lots of restaurants were open and all the malls and shops were open. I went outlet shopping. Things do close early, expect 8 pm but after a day of riding and shopping I was happy to soak in my big jacuzzi tub with a glass of wine.
New Years day was cold but mostly sunny 65-75 weather. We called it outdoor active weather. We were out alot riding bikes and walking and we were not too hot and not too cold. Sort of like Texas in the winter.
Beach was great not too many people although very active with walkers and loungers and great for riding bikes on. Beach house closed at 3 pm or 4. They also have Wi-Fi access and the food place was open for lunch.
We did take more electronics Wii, Laptops, gameboys than we normally travel with in preparation for cooler weather and my boys loved having the large 2 bedroom. I liked having the big porch and Wi-Fi. I took an electric blanket and would sit out on the porch in the morning with my coffee and laptop.
I cooked most days.
Sams Club is right down the street so we had easy to prepare restaurant meals at home. We also had big breakfasts.
It was different, but we enjoyed it and would go again this time of year even with the risk of cooler weather. We had planned to go back this year, but we were able to get a THV for the 2 weeks
Many restaurants were opened but closed kinda early.
