Positive experiences using points in Hawaii

[happyrebster]

Has anyone here had a positive experience using DVC points for a trip to Hawaii? Either conceirge or II?

This is not a discussion of whether it is worth it to use the points in this manner, please. Just a chance for folks to talk about their thoughts re: the accomodation options. Thanks!

 

[Patty3]

Six years ago, we used our points at the Kapalua Bay hotel. We gave these points to our DS as part of his wedding present to use for his honeymoon. They just loved the resort. Since this resort is no longer available, points can be used at the Grand Wailea. The Grand Wailea is a gorgeous hotel. I have considered using our points there, but we love the Four Seasons next door so much that we pay cash and get a mountain view room there.

 

[dianeschlicht]

We used 160 points for an extended 1 bedroom at Kona Coast II resort 3 years ago. The Big Island is one of our favorites, so we knew we would love the location, and the resort was very nice as well. The only drawback was that there was no on-site restaurant, so we cooked a bit more than we intended to. The sunsets on the Kona side of the Big Island are spectacular, and it was a nice central location to base out of for getting to all the things we like to do on Hawaii. The unit had a nice well stocked kitchen and good sized living room/dining room with a balcony almost as large as the OKW ones. There were two full baths in the unit, but no Jacuzzi in the room, and the laundry was a set of stackables between the door and the kitchen. By taking the Shell Vacation Group sales tour, we were able to get great discounts on the side tours we wanted to do. We took the horse drawn wagon into Waipio Valley and did a small plane tour of the island and the volcanos. Hawaii is one island you want to be sure to have a car on. We asically put about 500 miles on our rental just driving around on that big rock for a week! KCRII is easily accessible to the volcanos National Park, the City of Refuge and is right in coffee plantation territory. We also did a day up to the Kohala coast and Wiamea and the Parker Ranch. We did a quick drive to Hilo too, by way of the east side of the island.

 

[happyrebster]

Thanks so much! Both of your posts were very helpful!

Looks like there are some great options. I am thinking that I will put in for a II exchange and hope -- but, then, if it doesn't come through, will work with one of the two concierge options. Any of them seem great to me, frankly. It's a surprise trip for my husband's graduation from business school and I can't wait! We love both Maui and the big island, so options look good.

 

[dianeschlicht]

If you can be VERY flexible with dates, you will increase your chances of a trade coming through. I recomend you request either island and have a VERY wide range of travel dates. We gave a 6 month range and said ANY island! Good luck!