Using RCI in Hawaii...

[CindeBella]

We're new to DVC and have yet to use our points with RCI. I've read on other forums that it can be a challenge. We would like to go to Hawaii but I'm certain it will be tough to book through the new Aulani resort opening Fall 2011. With that being said, can anyone tell me success stories and give recommendations of nice resorts in Hawaii, the point requirements, etc? We have yet to decide which island. We are interested in relaxing on the beach, a nice pool bar , etc

 

[Dean]

We're new to DVC and have yet to use our points with RCI. I've read on other forums that it can be a challenge. We would like to go to Hawaii but I'm certain it will be tough to book through the new Aulani resort opening Fall 2011. With that being said, can anyone tell me success stories and give recommendations of nice resorts in Hawaii, the point requirements, etc? We have yet to decide which island. We are interested in relaxing on the beach, a nice pool bar , etc

There are not a lot of good RCI resorts for HI. For Oahu I'd list the Wyndham Beachplace and the Hilton's; for Maui, only Kaanapali Beach Club; for Kauai maybe The Point, Shearwater and Shell; for the big island I have less knowlege but KCR and the Hilton's would head the list. Expect 270 points for a 2 BR and 160 for a 1 BR unless traveling truly off season, the look at MID level points.

Personally, I'd look at other means such as a private rental or a private exchange. One should be able to find someone willing to trade for DVC for less points than it'd take using RCI to trade out. Make sure you investigate the options because what's good for me might not be for you.

 

[lilpooh108]

I'm pretty familiar with Hawaii and the RCI exchange options are not that impressive at all (compared to what you'd get at WDW). The nicest resort that I can see are the Hilton Hawaiian Villas on Oahu or the new Hilton Grand Vacation Club on Big Island (not the bay club, but the Waikoloa one)...the other resorts do not seem comparable at all. Perhaps you can look at the concierge collection and book the Grand Wailea?

 

[JulieWent]

We traded to Hilton Grand Vacation for my parents' 50th anniversary. (They were married in Hawaii and wanted to go back to celebrate.) They were VERY pleased with the accommodations and had only good things to say about their experience. The trade was fairly easy and only took about three weeks to come through. (I think it was 160 points.)

Anyway, it can be done with a minimum of fuss. My parents DID say that, given the opportunity to do it again, they'd spend more time on the Big Island. (They wanted to spend time on Waikiki since they had lived there 50 years ago. Not surprisingly, it has changed a bit in 50 years!)

Julie

 

[CindeBella]

Thank you for the replies! I will look into all receommendations. We will either want to stay on the Big Island or Oahu, most likely the Big Island in either September or October.

Julie, which room did you book for your parents for 160 pts? We are a family of 5 and I'm wondering if a standard room will accomodate us?

 

[JulieWent]

I will ask my parents what they think. It was just the two of them, but they were in a one bedroom. (Think one BR at DVC resorts -- I looked at the accommodations before I booked.) Mom said she felt like it was very spacious and that they had lots of room. Once again, though, it was just the two of them.

If you go online to the individual resorts, you can usually look at the accommodations.

I'll try to remember to ask Mom and Dad. My guess is that a 1BR would be tight for a family of five.

Julie