By Husband, 7 yr old son and I are headed to the big island for about 12 days in August. Have read so many great tips/reviews from all of you! I am looking at splitting our stay between 2 hotels. Looking at the Hapuna Beach Resort, Hilton Waikholoa, and Sheraton keahlua. We have decided that we are not really B&B/lodge people so we problably won't stay in volcano or hilo but will drive to that side. I am trying to figure out how far about the above properties are and is it worth moving during our stay.

12 days is enough to change hotels once although I prefer to stay wherever it is I've unpacked the first time. Hapuna and Hilton are fairly close together, probably a 10 mile difference between the two. I'd guess that the Sheraton is about 25-30 minutes south of the Hilton depending on traffic. With a 7 yr old I would pick Hilton -- wondrous pools, dolphins, huge property, family oriented. The Sheraton also has a great pool but the food is somewhat better at Hilton.
Depending on the route you take it's a long -- or longer -- trip over to Volcano from either the Waikoloa area or out of Kona. Pretty sights along the way, but still more than a 2 hour drive (I haven't done it in a long time, but I think it is at least 2 hours, possibly 2 and a half).

Okay, here's another opinion. If you're sure you don't want to stay on the Hilo/Volcano side of the island: Spend part of your time at Hapuna for the lovely beach and close proximity to the north shore sights like Pololu Valley, Waipio Valley, Waimea, waterfalls and such along the Hamakua Coast to Hilo. Then move to the Sheraton Keauhou for the fun pools and close proximity to Kona, Place of Refuge, South Point, and Volcano National Park. This way you can enjoy two different parts of the island and use two semi-circular tour paths to see the east side where you can enjoy rain forests, waterfalls, and the Volcano National Park.

The Hilton looks like a lovely destination resort, but there's so much to see and do on the Big Island that I choose my resorts based on exploring opportunities - and some luxury, of course.

thanks for the input. After more thought we have decided to spend one night at the volcano. I have booked 5 nights at Hapuna Beach Hotel, 1 night and Kilauea Lodge, and 7 nights at the Hilton. Even though it isn't as far south, I just think my son will love the pools at the Hilton. Thanks again.

Good plan.
Visit the black sand beach (Puna'a'lu'u) near Volcano. Not only is it gorgeous and calm enough for swimming, but there are usually turtles to see!

I don't blame you. That sounds like a good plan. My daughter is a "pool nut" too and we're finishing up our Hawaiian vacation at the Grand Wailea for that very reason!