Hawaii Retirement celebration trip
Aug 3rd, 2017, 07:34 AM
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Hawaii Retirement celebration trip
Hawaii is my 'happy place'. The only place I really 'relax'. I have been three times. The first to Waikiki staying at the Ilikai; the second to Maui - Kaanapali Beach where we stayed at the Westin, the third in Oahu at Disney's Aulani.
I would like to return for my 'retirement celebration' (but will wait until the following spring for warmer water). I would like a 'luxurious experience' but not 'You have to be a millionaire" I got a super deal on Maui in 2010 ($1050 each for two people - flights and 5 nights at the Westin - a GREAT deal!) but now Maui seems much pricier than other islands.
I have not been to Kauai or Big Island
I basically have breakfast, go to the beach, have lunch, go to the pool, and I like shopping (I don't know that there are a lot of options in Kauai- walkable distance). I did sightsee in Waikiki but I mostly just want to relax. Somewhere there will not be splashing kids. (adult pools are nice but sometimes parents do not follow the rule)
I may go alone or with a friend. I want a beach right at the hotel, walkable shopping and restaurants, and lovely grounds. Music and hula available.
Any personal favorites - any island.
I would like to return for my 'retirement celebration' (but will wait until the following spring for warmer water). I would like a 'luxurious experience' but not 'You have to be a millionaire" I got a super deal on Maui in 2010 ($1050 each for two people - flights and 5 nights at the Westin - a GREAT deal!) but now Maui seems much pricier than other islands.
I have not been to Kauai or Big Island
I basically have breakfast, go to the beach, have lunch, go to the pool, and I like shopping (I don't know that there are a lot of options in Kauai- walkable distance). I did sightsee in Waikiki but I mostly just want to relax. Somewhere there will not be splashing kids. (adult pools are nice but sometimes parents do not follow the rule)
I may go alone or with a friend. I want a beach right at the hotel, walkable shopping and restaurants, and lovely grounds. Music and hula available.
Any personal favorites - any island.
Aug 3rd, 2017, 10:01 AM
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To me, it sounds like Kauai would be the perfect place (other than the lack of shopping). Where on Kauai depends on time of year and your personal likes/dislikes.
The north shore of Kauai is the most spectacularly beautiful (think South Pacific), but there aren't many hotels and most are high above the water on cliffs in the Princeville development (which itself is much too manicured for my taste, but many here love it - it has houses, condos, hotels, golf courses). There are homes and cottages in the Hanalei area, including some closer to the water. The ocean can be violent on the north shore (of all the islands) in winter.
For the reasons I mentioned in the last paragraph, we stay in the Poipu area when we go to Kauai. The Grand Hyatt is just what you'd think, a big, beautiful resort with great pools (the rooms themselves are standard issue). Not a great beach. The Sheraton and Koa Kea are on a great beach. There are also many condos for rent.
The north shore of Kauai is the most spectacularly beautiful (think South Pacific), but there aren't many hotels and most are high above the water on cliffs in the Princeville development (which itself is much too manicured for my taste, but many here love it - it has houses, condos, hotels, golf courses). There are homes and cottages in the Hanalei area, including some closer to the water. The ocean can be violent on the north shore (of all the islands) in winter.
For the reasons I mentioned in the last paragraph, we stay in the Poipu area when we go to Kauai. The Grand Hyatt is just what you'd think, a big, beautiful resort with great pools (the rooms themselves are standard issue). Not a great beach. The Sheraton and Koa Kea are on a great beach. There are also many condos for rent.
Aug 3rd, 2017, 10:13 AM
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My favorite islands for the beauty and tropical feel are Kauai and Oahu.
I agree with sf that the North Shore of Kauai (Hanalei) is spectacularly beautiful but the hotels are generally not right on the beach. I've never been to the Poipu area (other than to drive around) but I would go there if you want a hotel on the water. You can also drive to the North Shore as it is not that far.
You mentioned postponing your trip until the spring because the water temps will be warmer. But because Hawaii in so much closer to the equator the water temps from month to month or season to season (which they really don't have) will only change about 5 degrees from a low of approximately 76 in the "winter" to approximately 81 degrees Jan thru November.
Which compared to where I live the ocean temps are 59 in winter to 75 in summer - so for me Hawaii anytime of the year is great for swimming.
I agree with sf that the North Shore of Kauai (Hanalei) is spectacularly beautiful but the hotels are generally not right on the beach. I've never been to the Poipu area (other than to drive around) but I would go there if you want a hotel on the water. You can also drive to the North Shore as it is not that far.
You mentioned postponing your trip until the spring because the water temps will be warmer. But because Hawaii in so much closer to the equator the water temps from month to month or season to season (which they really don't have) will only change about 5 degrees from a low of approximately 76 in the "winter" to approximately 81 degrees Jan thru November.
Which compared to where I live the ocean temps are 59 in winter to 75 in summer - so for me Hawaii anytime of the year is great for swimming.
Aug 3rd, 2017, 10:23 AM
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Agree the North Shore is beautiful, only two hotels, the St. Regis and the Westin which is also timeshare and tends to have kids. Although if you travel in say early-mid May you will likely not run into many other than littles. There is also Hanalei Bay Resort which is condos but run partly like a hotel. All of these are in Princeville.
If you can afford it, Grand Hyatt in Poipu has multiple pools including an adults only pool. Beach is not swimmable but Poipu and other beaches are a short drive.
I have experience with the Marriott in Lihue, has a beautiful pool and several restaurants with others a short walk. It is on a bay however (Kalapaki) and not the open ocean.
There is another Marriott in Poipu but it is 2 bedroom timeshares, the Marriott hotel rents out a few rooms for a high price but most people book through an owner. Beach is very good.
If you can afford it, Grand Hyatt in Poipu has multiple pools including an adults only pool. Beach is not swimmable but Poipu and other beaches are a short drive.
I have experience with the Marriott in Lihue, has a beautiful pool and several restaurants with others a short walk. It is on a bay however (Kalapaki) and not the open ocean.
There is another Marriott in Poipu but it is 2 bedroom timeshares, the Marriott hotel rents out a few rooms for a high price but most people book through an owner. Beach is very good.
Aug 3rd, 2017, 12:37 PM
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I'm not a fan (the pool is okay, but the hotel is very tired in my opinion).
The Waiohai that jamie99 refers to (the Marriott timeshare in Poipu) has beautiful grounds and is on the same nice beach as Sheraton and Koa Kea. The rooms are spacious although generic. If I stayed there again, I'd be sure to get (and pay for) a room overlooking the interior grounds (it's shaped like a horseshoe with the pool and beach at the open end) -- some of the outside rooms overlook the parking area.
Aug 4th, 2017, 08:47 AM
#8
This is a GREAT idea. I've been to Hawaii six times or so now. But mostly I go to Waikiki. When I'm alone I don't really want to stay out of the way on a deserted beach! I like to have a town to be able to walk around in for entertainment.
Besides Waikiki, Lahaina is where I would head. But I don't think either fits what you say you want from this trip. suze
Besides Waikiki, Lahaina is where I would head. But I don't think either fits what you say you want from this trip. suze
Aug 4th, 2017, 09:49 AM
#9
I'm guessing you would love the St. Regis in Princeville on Kauai. But it's probably our of your price range. It's on a gorgeous beach with spectacular views and a wonderful pool. The pool at the Grand Hyatt is phenomenal, but the beach is mostly not swimmable, and Poipu feels too much like a generic resort to me.
I'm a North Shore Kauai guy. For me, no other island comes close to matching my fantasy of "Hawaii." But I can't think of anyplace that would meet your desires of being able to walk to shopping from a luxury hotel on Kauai. You'd probably enjoy browsing in Hanalei, but that would require a short drive.
I don't like the crowds and the overly-developed vibe on Maui, but a hotel in or near Lahaina might suit your needs. There are some remarkably beautiful places on Maui, but I was sooo turned off by the highways, high-rises, and crowded beaches in the main tourist areas. I've had friends go to Oahu and Maui and be very disappointed by the same issues. But some people like that. I think the key is to learn about where you're going--before booking it.
I stay at the Hapuna Prince on the Big Island every year for a conference. It's a reasonably priced, very nice hotel on a BEAUTIFUL beach. There is a free shuttle that takes you to its "sister" hotel, the Mauna Kea, which is a little more upscale and also has a fantastic beach, as well as additional shops and restaurants. The Big Island is definitely not my first choice for sightseeing, but it might fit your needs and budget.
You'll find people who extol the virtues of each island. It's a matter of personal taste. I'm guessing you'll have a great time whatever you choose. Congratulations on your retirement!
I'm a North Shore Kauai guy. For me, no other island comes close to matching my fantasy of "Hawaii." But I can't think of anyplace that would meet your desires of being able to walk to shopping from a luxury hotel on Kauai. You'd probably enjoy browsing in Hanalei, but that would require a short drive.
I don't like the crowds and the overly-developed vibe on Maui, but a hotel in or near Lahaina might suit your needs. There are some remarkably beautiful places on Maui, but I was sooo turned off by the highways, high-rises, and crowded beaches in the main tourist areas. I've had friends go to Oahu and Maui and be very disappointed by the same issues. But some people like that. I think the key is to learn about where you're going--before booking it.
I stay at the Hapuna Prince on the Big Island every year for a conference. It's a reasonably priced, very nice hotel on a BEAUTIFUL beach. There is a free shuttle that takes you to its "sister" hotel, the Mauna Kea, which is a little more upscale and also has a fantastic beach, as well as additional shops and restaurants. The Big Island is definitely not my first choice for sightseeing, but it might fit your needs and budget.
You'll find people who extol the virtues of each island. It's a matter of personal taste. I'm guessing you'll have a great time whatever you choose. Congratulations on your retirement!
Aug 4th, 2017, 10:17 AM
#10
<the crowds and the overly-developed vibe>
I think it's different when you travel alone. Or at least for me it is.
If I was with a friend, friends, or a group then getting off the beaten path is OK. But when you're a traveling solo, I don't want to be so isolated. Kind of limiting. It would be boring and maybe even a tad scary for me personally (staying off in a cottage in the jungle or on a deserted beach somewhere).
I think it's different when you travel alone. Or at least for me it is.
If I was with a friend, friends, or a group then getting off the beaten path is OK. But when you're a traveling solo, I don't want to be so isolated. Kind of limiting. It would be boring and maybe even a tad scary for me personally (staying off in a cottage in the jungle or on a deserted beach somewhere).
Aug 4th, 2017, 10:58 AM
#11
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Songdoc I saw the pictures of your new condo and you are living the life! Just beautiful.
I have thought of the St Regis but some of the reviews made me doubt the price is worth it. I like the activity of Waikiki if alone, as Suze indicated, but there are no real 'resorts' unless you go up to where the Four Seasons and Disney Aulani are located (shopping and restaurants were limited there to a small plaza with an ABC and some small boutiques).
Re: Kauai I had once thought it would be nice to be near Coconut Marketplace but apparently it is being remodeled and pretty deserted...
I have thought of the St Regis but some of the reviews made me doubt the price is worth it. I like the activity of Waikiki if alone, as Suze indicated, but there are no real 'resorts' unless you go up to where the Four Seasons and Disney Aulani are located (shopping and restaurants were limited there to a small plaza with an ABC and some small boutiques).
Re: Kauai I had once thought it would be nice to be near Coconut Marketplace but apparently it is being remodeled and pretty deserted...
Aug 5th, 2017, 10:35 AM
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Up to $400-500/ night if right place. I paid that st the Aulani but did get some extras. I'm not a hotel snob though. I'm happy at moderate places unless special- for example upcoming trip to London staying at One Aldwych
Aug 5th, 2017, 02:05 PM
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In the Poipu area:
I don't know if you can get the Hyatt for that price at some times of the year. If I wanted to splurge, I'd choose the Koh Kea but it is likely over that price point. We own at the Waiohai which we love, but you are unlikely to be able to get a unit there. They are all 2 bed/2bath units. The units are not glitzy, but are roomy and comfortable. The grounds are lovely and the beaches are very nice.
There are two shopping centers nearby that have restaurants and shops, the Poipu Shopping Center and the newer Kukui'ula Village Shopping Center. Both have a number of restaurants as well as nice shops.
I haven't seen the rooms at the Sheraton, but the beach is nice.
I don't know if you can get the Hyatt for that price at some times of the year. If I wanted to splurge, I'd choose the Koh Kea but it is likely over that price point. We own at the Waiohai which we love, but you are unlikely to be able to get a unit there. They are all 2 bed/2bath units. The units are not glitzy, but are roomy and comfortable. The grounds are lovely and the beaches are very nice.
There are two shopping centers nearby that have restaurants and shops, the Poipu Shopping Center and the newer Kukui'ula Village Shopping Center. Both have a number of restaurants as well as nice shops.
I haven't seen the rooms at the Sheraton, but the beach is nice.
