Hilton Head is obviously not for everyone, and much of what you say is true. The last rehab was an attempt to make the resort more modern, and some of it was 'okay' but, it was themed to be a 1940ties fishing lodge - not a modern entity. Of course that's no excuse for lack of amenities or comforts and I think the rehab missed that.
All that said, I still love Hilton Head and here's hoping that your words will keep a room open for me!
I agree with the lack of counter space in the bathroom. I was confused at first as I usually stay in a 1 or 2 bedroom, and then I realized you were probably talking about the studio bathroom. I always find the studios there just a little too gloomy, but they are fine as a 2nd bedroom when you have a living room to go to.
I'll have to disagree about the cast members. I think Hilton Head CM's go above and beyond. I also frequent BWV and other resorts at WDW several times a year, and I've met many great CM's at both. But, at HH, CM's take time to get to know you just a little more, see you often if you are there for a week or so, and it's not quite the same as being at a huge resort at WDW where nobody knows your name although they are always smiling and cheerful.
I've been going there since 1997, and not that much has changed. Maybe some paint colors and a few faces. My kids grew up going there on vacations and now my grandkids want to go to the 'green hotel'. They had their 3rd visit earlier this month and love it. They've also been to WDW a few times yet they asked to go to HH. I always feel as if I'm at my home away from home when I'm there and I rarely notice any of the shortcomings such as food offerings. The town itself has about 200 plus places to eat so we pick somewhere special during our visit, but mostly have family time and do some cooking in our kitchen.
The campfires and smores stopped last March, when everything closed down. I think a lot of the more adult activities have been put on hold, but hopefully all of those things will return soon. The ride to the beach has never bothered me and I actually like leaving the sand at the beach house. But, a lot of people prefer beach front properties in beach towns, myself included. It's just a different experience at Hilton Head, and not necessarily a one size fits all.