*HHI Owners and Beach Lovers Group Thread*

[MinnieSueB]

We are heading down ro DHHIR from March 12th through the 18th! I managed to piece together the week by stalking the DVC site daily and waitlisting. So happy it all came together!

It is our first visit to Hilton Head. Any recommendations onfood, excursions etc? What is the weather typically like in mid March?

Thank you!

You will love DHHIR! Weather can be dicey. We've been there middle of March with 80 degrees or could be really chilly.
Look thru thread - lots of food & excursion recs

 

[hhisc16]

Can someone post the November activity guide? We will be visiting in dec.

 

[sleepydog25]

Posted on another site re: HHI, and the caption was "I also took this pic of what I’m pretty sure is the test room for the refurb… I see a pull down bed but maybe just because that’s what I want to see." Wrong position for a Murphy bed...however, that doesn't mean she's incorrect about them installing said Murphy beds...

 

[MinnieSueB]

Posted on another site re: HHI, and the caption was "I also took this pic of what I’m pretty sure is the test room for the refurb… I see a pull down bed but maybe just because that’s what I want to see." Wrong position for a Murphy bed...however, that doesn't mean she's incorrect about them installing said Murphy beds...

View attachment 716449

My DD LOVES sleeping on the murphy beds at DW! Wonder how things went with whomever approves the refurbes trip went? Let's get that refurb going!!!

 

[meekey7197]

Posted on another site re: HHI, and the caption was "I also took this pic of what I’m pretty sure is the test room for the refurb… I see a pull down bed but maybe just because that’s what I want to see." Wrong position for a Murphy bed...however, that doesn't mean she's incorrect about them installing said Murphy beds...

View attachment 716449

Hey that’s my pic and I agree That the beds seem to be swapped if that’s a Murphy bed. For the record, in the Value studio at AKV, I have Stayed in one where the bed was swapped (it was against the window). Also, I did not get a pic from another angle because I was Starting to feel like a creeper, but the light fixture above the table was absolutely not the same as the one in the studio I was Staying in.

Also, if anyone is there and wants to try to take a gander at this room, it’s the studio below the grand villa in building 30 if someone has a exterior pic of the balcony side of a building with grand villas in it, I can Show you which room

 

[DisneyStarWisher]

Ewwww. I won’t like it if they switch the bed and the couch. I love AKV value studios except for that one thing.

 

[sleepydog25]

Hey that’s my pic and I agree That the beds seem to be swapped if that’s a Murphy bed. For the record, in the Value studio at AKV, I have Stayed in one where the bed was swapped (it was against the window). Also, I did not get a pic from another angle because I was Starting to feel like a creeper, but the light fixture above the table was absolutely not the same as the one in the studio I was Staying in.

Also, if anyone is there and wants to try to take a gander at this room, it’s the studio below the grand villa in building 30 if someone has a exterior pic of the balcony side of a building with grand villas in it, I can Show you which room

I did wonder if you didn't follow along here, too--I don't post often on FB, a bit more so here. The rooms in question are 3012 (1BR) and 3014 (studio). They actually did the initial test refurb on those two rooms about a year ago; they've been sitting empty since (so, two rooms out of inventory from an already tough to get resort). They've done some minor touch ups and color pallet changes since. Beds won't be against the windows.

 

[Simba's Mom]

I did wonder if you didn't follow along here, too--I don't post often on FB, a bit more so here. The rooms in question are 3012 (1BR) and 3014 (studio). They actually did the initial test refurb on those two rooms about a year ago; they've been sitting empty since (so, two rooms out of inventory from an already tough to get resort). They've done some minor touch ups and color pallet changes since. Beds won't be against the windows.

Over on Facebook there are several speculations about why the rooms are still sitting empty, including the notion that the Town Fathers in HHI disapproved of the plans, so they had to go back to the drawing board. That one doesn't make sense to me. However, we'll be there for 12 days at Thanksgiving, and I just might mosey on over to Building 30 to see what I can see. Thanks for telling me where the rooms are.

 

[sleepydog25]

Over on Facebook there are several speculations about why the rooms are still sitting empty, including the notion that the Town Fathers in HHI disapproved of the plans, so they had to go back to the drawing board. That one doesn't make sense to me. However, we'll be there for 12 days at Thanksgiving, and I just might mosey on over to Building 30 to see what I can see. Thanks for telling me where the rooms are.

Yeah, pretty sure the ubiquitous "town fathers of HHI" have no jurisdiction in this decision. They may have been able to dictate a few things when the resort was built (e.g., provide public bathroom access at Beach House), but an internal change to buildings is not in their wheelhouse as long as building codes are met. The driving issue has been the pandemic and Disney's notorious tightness with the purse strings. The latter position is why I just don't see them starting this refurb until next year, ostensibly next fall. I've been wrong before.

 

[DisneyStarWisher]

I did wonder if you didn't follow along here, too--I don't post often on FB, a bit more so here. The rooms in question are 3012 (1BR) and 3014 (studio). They actually did the initial test refurb on those two rooms about a year ago; they've been sitting empty since (so, two rooms out of inventory from an already tough to get resort). They've done some minor touch ups and color pallet changes since. Beds won't be against the windows.

Okay, so I admit I'm having a very hard time making out anything in the picture. The red lines aren't helping me either. Does it look like a bed against the windows? Based on the discussion, I was imagining it against the wall, just with the bed and couch switched.

 

[hhisc16]

2023 dues are roughly 10.75 per point.

Does anybody know why dvd owns 4% of dhhir, while dvd owns 2% of wdw dvc resorts/aulani/vero?

 

[CarolynFH]

Does anybody know why dvd owns 4% of dhhir, while dvd owns 2% of wdw dvc resorts/aulani/vero?

The % that DVD owns of any DVC resort will fluctuate. By law, they're required to own a minimum of 2%, to allow for units taken out of service for repairs, etc. But in reality, they also own additional % via points taken back in ROFR, foreclosure, etc.

Actually, thinking about it, the 2% is Florida timeshare law. It's possible that South Carolina timeshare law requires DVD to retain 4% - hopefully someone with more expertise will comment!

 

[jvalic33]

Hi Everyone, I'm hoping I can glean some tips and info from people.

We've stayed at HH years ago, but this is our first visit for NYE. We're driving down on our way to Disney and stopping first in VA and then our second night in SC.

We have a dinner reservation early around 5:30pm at Nunzios (any input on that one would be great) and then hopefully we'll have a lovely dinner and it won't take too long because we want to get over to the resort and do some of the nighttime activities like smores and campfire stuff.

Anyone else stay at HHI to give some input on the activities they have NYE night?

Of course weather will play a big role in things because it could be lovely and warm or freezing, but we're tough, at least on the first leg of our trip down to Disney because we haven't enjoyed the warmth yet for it to weaken our Northeastern bones yet.

I always find it funny when we get back from our trip because the kids all of a sudden realize how cold winter is when we get back from Florida!

Thanks!

 

[sleepydog25]

Hi Everyone, I'm hoping I can glean some tips and info from people.

We've stayed at HH years ago, but this is our first visit for NYE. We're driving down on our way to Disney and stopping first in VA and then our second night in SC.

We have a dinner reservation early around 5:30pm at Nunzios (any input on that one would be great) and then hopefully we'll have a lovely dinner and it won't take too long because we want to get over to the resort and do some of the nighttime activities like smores and campfire stuff.

Anyone else stay at HHI to give some input on the activities they have NYE night?

Of course weather will play a big role in things because it could be lovely and warm or freezing, but we're tough, at least on the first leg of our trip down to Disney because we haven't enjoyed the warmth yet for it to weaken our Northeastern bones yet.

I always find it funny when we get back from our trip because the kids all of a sudden realize how cold winter is when we get back from Florida!

Thanks!

First, let's talk about Nunzio's: excellent food and service. You shouldn't be disappointed other than if it's NYE, then they'll likely be extremely busy. As for the activities at the resort, I'm not certain they'll do much. In the past 2-3 years, they haven't, but that was also partially due to the pandemic. If they even do s'mores on that day, I am quite certain they will not do them late at night--more like 5:30 which is when you'll be eating. Now, all those things could possibly change between now and NYE, with a chance of fireworks somewhere (Shelter Cove doesn't usually do them) and some "later hours" activities at the resort, but generally speaking, DHHIR doesn't do a whole lot. Enjoy your trip, and perhaps others will have things of which I'm unaware.

 

[jvalic33]

First, let's talk about Nunzio's: excellent food and service. You shouldn't be disappointed other than if it's NYE, then they'll likely be extremely busy. As for the activities at the resort, I'm not certain they'll do much. In the past 2-3 years, they haven't, but that was also partially due to the pandemic. If they even do s'mores on that day, I am quite certain they will not do them late at night--more like 5:30 which is when you'll be eating. Now, all those things could possibly change between now and NYE, with a chance of fireworks somewhere (Shelter Cove doesn't usually do them) and some "later hours" activities at the resort, but generally speaking, DHHIR doesn't do a whole lot. Enjoy your trip, and perhaps others will have things of which I'm unaware.

Well....the important thing is Nunzios has good food!

And in the end if the activities are dull or we miss something then we'll deal. At least we'll be somewhere safe and close to Disney in a lovely room. Last year we were in Savannah and it was insane...the kids were seeing half naked people dancing on the rooftops out our window, which I guess is just as entertaining as fireworks...LOL

I'm just going to cross my fingers that they do s'mores a little later so we don't miss it.

The unfortunate thing is you have to plan dinner when your at HH because they have no food at the resort....that's one thing they could improve on...would be great if they could add an awesome restaurant on site.

They told me to call the resort one week in advance and they'll post their activities schedule.

 

[sleepydog25]

Well....the important thing is Nunzios has good food!

And in the end if the activities are dull or we miss something then we'll deal. At least we'll be somewhere safe and close to Disney in a lovely room. Last year we were in Savannah and it was insane...the kids were seeing half naked people dancing on the rooftops out our window, which I guess is just as entertaining as fireworks...LOL

I'm just going to cross my fingers that they do s'mores a little later so we don't miss it.

The unfortunate thing is you have to plan dinner when your at HH because they have no food at the resort....that's one thing they could improve on...would be great if they could add an awesome restaurant on site.

They told me to call the resort one week in advance and they'll post their activities schedule.

Yes, the activities schedule is posted a week ahead much of the year, though sometimes they do a month-long calendar.

Nunzio's is one of my favorite spots. I grimace when I say this because inevitably someone will disagree on some level, but it appears to be "authentic" recipes there for things such as Bolognese and their pasta of the day selections. I'm fully aware that people who come from the NY/NJ, etc., have particular ideas of authenticity. But, that's true of any regional food. As a general rule, I've found in my far-reaching travels that as long as you stick to those places which offer a good menu from someone with true knowledge of the cuisine, you're okay, and Nunzio's has that. In this case, according to their website, the family moved here from the Puglia region of Italy (and I've long admired wines from that terroir), so they brought along their recipes.

On a bit of a side note, I've also often found the argument that something isn't authentic because it's not made the way "I was taught" or "where I grew up" is a bit tiresome. I hail from the South originally, and I can tell you that the way we made cornbread and collards was definitely authentic...but also different than a style you could get just across the Louisiana border not 25 miles away. I simply love the variety. While you don't appear to be there long, next time you travel back to HHI, I would also recommend OMBRA Cucina--Chef Michael Cirafesi hails from NYC originally and has been voted top chef at HHI many years.

Yes, you will find something to enjoy at the resort, even if it's just taking in the late night sounds and smells. There is something almost magical about that resort. As for a restaurant, I doubt that will ever happen. The most accepted (and likely true) story is that when Disney approached the city council about building the resort, the council wouldn't approve of the permit if a restaurant was built as, at the time, they didn't want to take away from the local eateries. Now, that the island is more of a year-round destination, that likely is less of an issue, but I still don't think Disney would ever be encouraged to put something in. At any rate, enjoy your trip!

 

[jvalic33]

Yes, the activities schedule is posted a week ahead much of the year, though sometimes they do a month-long calendar.

Nunzio's is one of my favorite spots. I grimace when I say this because inevitably someone will disagree on some level, but it appears to be "authentic" recipes there for things such as Bolognese and their pasta of the day selections. I'm fully aware that people who come from the NY/NJ, etc., have particular ideas of authenticity. But, that's true of any regional food. As a general rule, I've found in my far-reaching travels that as long as you stick to those places which offer a good menu from someone with true knowledge of the cuisine, you're okay, and Nunzio's has that. In this case, according to their website, the family moved here from the Puglia region of Italy (and I've long admired wines from that terroir), so they brought along their recipes.

On a bit of a side note, I've also often found the argument that something isn't authentic because it's not made the way "I was taught" or "where I grew up" is a bit tiresome. I hail from the South originally, and I can tell you that the way we made cornbread and collards was definitely authentic...but also different than a style you could get just across the Louisiana border not 25 miles away. I simply love the variety. While you don't appear to be there long, next time you travel back to HHI, I would also recommend OMBRA Cucina--Chef Michael Cirafesi hails from NYC originally and has been voted top chef at HHI many years.

Yes, you will find something to enjoy at the resort, even if it's just taking in the late night sounds and smells. There is something almost magical about that resort. As for a restaurant, I doubt that will ever happen. The most accepted (and likely true) story is that when Disney approached the city council about building the resort, the council wouldn't approve of the permit if a restaurant was built as, at the time, they didn't want to take away from the local eateries. Now, that the island is more of a year-round destination, that likely is less of an issue, but I still don't think Disney would ever be encouraged to put something in. At any rate, enjoy your trip!

Thanks for the advice...and will definitely keep tabs on OMBRA for our next trip.

We will have a wonderful time regardless...we always do.

 

[Judique]

I did wonder if you didn't follow along here, too--I don't post often on FB, a bit more so here. The rooms in question are 3012 (1BR) and 3014 (studio). They actually did the initial test refurb on those two rooms about a year ago; they've been sitting empty since (so, two rooms out of inventory from an already tough to get resort). They've done some minor touch ups and color pallet changes since. Beds won't be against the windows.

Hey Sleepy! I'll be there for a few nights in January and I'll be happy to test out the new rooms for them! They need to get moving as 2042 is fast approaching.

Actually been wondering if they moved forward with the refurb. The Murphy beds are a 'can't wait' for us when we use studios. Stayed at Poly in April 2022 and the bed made a huge difference in comfort for our group, myself, daughter, and 2 grand daughters.

 

[hhisc16]

Hey Sleepy! I'll be there for a few nights in January and I'll be happy to test out the new rooms for them! They need to get moving as 2042 is fast approaching.

Actually been wondering if they moved forward with the refurb. The Murphy beds are a 'can't wait' for us when we use studios. Stayed at Poly in April 2022 and the bed made a huge difference in comfort for our group, myself, daughter, and 2 grand daughters.

We are going in December, so I will keep a look out for the refurb rooms.

We also hope for the murphy beds.

 

[sleepydog25]

Hey Sleepy! I'll be there for a few nights in January and I'll be happy to test out the new rooms for them! They need to get moving as 2042 is fast approaching.

Actually been wondering if they moved forward with the refurb. The Murphy beds are a 'can't wait' for us when we use studios. Stayed at Poly in April 2022 and the bed made a huge difference in comfort for our group, myself, daughter, and 2 grand daughters.

We are going in December, so I will keep a look out for the refurb rooms.

We also hope for the murphy beds.

Fairly certain both of you will get your wish re: Murphy beds...