Kapaulua Bay Hotel Trade

[deerh]

Still waiting on a 1/2BR in Hawaii to open up with the World Passport Collection for next summer 05.
I called MS and they said they had points for 05 at Kapalua Bay Hotel as follows:

GView=47
OView=58 (partial ov)
OView=66
Now the cavarat: You get 1 night free if you stay 5 or more nights, and also breakfast for YOUR ENTIRE PARTY (not just the 1st 2 occupants) if you do this 5 night program. One other side note: It must be for ov or part ov.
So, the points for 6 nights (1nite free): ov-330 for 6 nts, or ov (partial):290 for 6 nights. These both include breakfast for 4.

Now the question, do you think this is a good deal point wise, and how is the Kapaula Bay Hotel in general? Is this a good trade or not? Also been reading up on weather in the summer and they say the NW part of Maui is "iffy" weather. Can any Hawaii experts chime in?
Thanks!
P.S. How long should I wait for WorldPassport? Put in for a 1/2BR in March for June-July 05.
Thanks!
Deerh

 

[bwvBound]

FWIW ... "trip reports" on this hotel may be found on TripAdvisor.

If you might consider a direct exchange (for a somewhat more 'modest' property) ... perhaps we may chat offline?

 

[DisnutDave@work]

We stayed at the Kapalua Bay Hotel this past April and loved it; in fact we're hoping to return in couple of years.

The grounds are beautiful, and the rooms fairly spacious. One of the best hotel bathrooms we've ever had, with his and her sinks AND closets. The point spread you mention looks about the same as what we had. As for the view, it is up to your preference. We had a garden view and it was very nice, though the OV rooms looked great, too. And with the offer they are giving you, that makes it an easier choice. Either way, it is a short walk to the pool/beach, as the hotel is fairly small and not too spread out.

The weather in late April was great, only a brief sprinkle or two. We did hear, as you did, that the NW corner does get more rain overall. This would not dissuade us from staying at Kapalua. If it is raining there it will most likely be clear at Kaanapali Beach, and you can hit the beach there (or the pool at one of the hotels there, I think it was the Westin- they are a sister resort of Kapalua and you can use all their facilities).

If you go, we recommend dinner at the nearby Plantation House. Great food, beautiful view.

Good luck with your planning!

 

[babylisa4]

We exchanged a few years ago with Kapalua and loved it. During that trip we also stayed at the Grand Wailea which is a mega hotel with big water slides etc. Kapalua is much more laid back - kind of refined elegance- more true Hawaii feel. Even though the pool is more plain- we really enjoyed the feel at Kapalua more. Its reasonable close to Lahaina for the nightlife and good golf if you are into that. I think you'd love it there. While we were at Kapalua- there were a couple of weddings on the lawn overlooking the ocean- if that tells you how beautiful and serene it is.

 

[Dean]

You must decide if it's worth it for double the points for only 6 nights compare to 7. It depends on your situation. I'd second the idea of a direct exchange. You might also want to look at a cash reservation you can cancel if your points trade comes through late, which is when it is likely to match.

Truth is you are just getting into the window where the Marriott owner will start to deposit. II will get deposits from 12 months out until 2 months out and actually likely get more inside 2 months.

Those that must get everything planned and in place a full year out should not consider the II exchanges as a viable option. It' more like playing cards in Vegas.

 

[dianeschlicht]

Yep, trades are dicey when you are trying to plan airline flights etc.

 

[Patty3]

Five years ago, as part of our wedding present to our DS, we gave him points to stay at this hotel on his honeymoon. They absolutely loved it and would love to go back. This time it is on their dime. I have also been to this hotel and it is quite lovely. During whale season, the whales go right past the hotel, and it is quite a sight.

 

[jekjones1558]

Now that we are accustomed to DVC accommodations, it is hard to stay in "just" a hotel room, UNLESS it is Kapalua. Absolutely gorgeous. If you decide to splurge with your pints and go to Kapalua, make it at least partial ocean view. You won't regret it.