1st time - what Starwood properties in Hawaii?
 

Hi -
My husband and I are thinking about going to Hawaii for the first time this January. We'll be going for 8-10 days, but haven't planned a thing yet. We do have a bunch of Starwood points and would love to hear any thoughts about which properties in Hawaii (westins, sheratons, etc) are most recommended or any experiences you've had. Thank you!

First question, do you prefer a hotel or a condo (there are Westin timeshare properties, in addition to Westin hotels, Sheratons, etc.).

Second, do you prefer ultra-luxury (not sure), plain old upscale (for ex., Westin Maui), or more modest lower key accommodations (for ex., Sheraton Maui and Sheraton Poipu Beach)?

I think we prefer a hotel, rather than condo...

Regarding what level of luxury, I think it depends. Location is usually most important, but I'm open to hearing comments on all levels.

Thank you!

Which island?

If I had a bunch of Starwood points, my first choice would be the Princeville on Kauai. Second choice, the Sheraton Maui. Third choice, the Royal Hawaiian on Oahu.

Just curious why you would choose the Westin Princeville and the Sheraton Maui, which are clearly different levels of "upscaleness".

I don't care for the location of the Westin on Maui--in Kaanapali I prefer the bookend Sheraton and Hyatt properties because they don't feel as "crammed in" to me.

I think the Sheraton Maui is a nice property, actually.

The location of the Sheraton is nice, and the grounds and pool are nice, but the hotel itself and the entire "vibe" is certainly more laid back and less upscale, than the Westin. Lots of people really love it for exactly those reasons. It's not that I don't like it, it's just that I don't think they're an apples to apples comparison, so I thought it would be good for you to give your reasons (and location is a very good reason!).

Are you interest in any/all of the islands? Any specific one?

Thanks for your feedback so far. We haven't decided where we're going yet as we'll only have 9/10 days and are just booking flights now. I think we'll probably do two different islands and will want to take advantage of which starwood property will be in the best location, provide the better experience...I'd say more luxurious/less crowded the better. Thanks!

Hello,

The Princeville on Kauai is under major renovations for the next several months. The Sheraton Kauai is down in Poipu Beach and has an outstanding location, but I would make sure not to stay in the Garden Wing because it is across the street from the main hotel and the ocean. We stayed in the Westin Princeville Villas in a studio with a spa-like bathroom, small kitchenette (great for snacks, small meals, groceries) and a beautiful location. It is a new resort, but it is fabulous.

Best Regards,
Julia