jenbertoni

Ok well i wasnt planning on going back to hawaii for quite some time, but Dad just told me he wanted to do a big family vacation next year, so i get to plan it! Yay!

Here are the basics: 12 of us total. 4 kids ranging from 1-6yrs, 2 at 23-25, 4 at 35ish, and my parents in the late 50s. We arent really sure if we should try and rent a large house or do separate rooms at a hotel. it really depends on what makes the most sense as far as cost and location for our group. Our budget isnt really set up yet, but my dad likes to go all out, so i dont want to limit any options by cost JUST yet.

Which island?
We will likely be going for a week in April and the most important thing is to be walking distance to a swimmable beach for the kids (pref. ON the beach). next is a variety of snorkeling (for me!) during that time of year. Nightlife isnt super important or anything and we dont mind being a bit away from the main city areas. We are leaning toward maui, but want other options as well as far as island and which area to stay at.

Suggestions for accomodation options and island are GREATLY appreciated! Thanks. Oh, and Im sure i forgot some important info, so please let me know if you need more to help me.

suze

My family did a similar trip, Maui worked great for us. We stayed in Lahaina, so people could get out separately from the group, on foot, not only be tied to a resort or using the rental car. There were 10 of us, but all adults (two generations, no kids).

Dukey

How long a period?

You say, "nightlife isn't important" but with a group that diverse in age I suspect something besides the beach and perhaps playing golf, etc., might become more important depending on the time length.

I am sure Maui will work (you know the family better than we do) but i still prefer the wider diversity of activities available on Oahu or even the BI.

volcanogirl

Wailea in Maui, North Shore of Kauai, or the Kohala Coast of the Big Island - any of the them would probably work for you.

dmlove

Although Wailea is gorgeous, I personally would choose Kaanapali Beach with a group as diverse as your's. Nice beach, snorkeling you can walk to, hotels, restaurants and shopping, and only a few miles from Lahaina.

dusty56438

More to see & do on Oahu than any other island.

Lots of info including sites with free brochures for all islands:

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...1&tid=34812564

bobludlow

You say that you are leaning toward Maui - that's a spectacular choice if you are looking for a combination of swimmable kid-friendly beaches and good snorkeling. On parts of Oahu you often have to choose between one or the other. There are lots of condos in the Kaanapali area, as well as some spectacular hotels (in case your dad does go "all out"). We could probably give you better advice once the budget is clearer.

Have fun!

fun2travel

I'd second Kaanapali, do a hotel with kids that age, maybe the Sheraton right on Black Rock.

dmlove

If any are available and you prefer a condo to a hotel, the newly built Marriott timeshare property (adjacent to the old hotel, which was converted into timeshare suites, but not full condos - no kitchens) are gorgeous and right on the beach. Next door to that, Kaanapali Alii condos are very large and high-end --- smaller pool (not a "resort" pool) but right on the beach. I haven't stayed there, but the Sheraton at Black Rock looks like a good property for families - nice grounds and great beach (snorkeling right at the beach).

voyager61

Maui is a good choice; I'd look at Napili Beach, including Napili Kai Beach Club, which is totally perfect for large family gatherings. Good snorkeling on that beach and the one next door. It's away from the busier areas of Maui, but close enough to do a day of shopping, etc. if you want. Also, it has no high-rises. There are other options on Napili Bay, including Napili Shores.

rmtan

I had two separate trips to Hawaii with my two children (ages 4&6) and wife. Maui and the Big Island. Preferred the Big Island and we stayed at the Hilton Wakaloa (sp). Great place for kids (we were there in mid April for 7 days). Lots to do onsite(water slides, swim with dolphins, kayaking, snorkling etc) A man made beach is onsite and a real ocean beach is a short walk. A huge resort that was great at 50-60% occupancy but would be less attractive at higher occupancy. Much to do on the island: walk the volcano, drive the island (one whole day as the island is big), Mauna Kea, hiking waterfalls.

Maui I would suggest Grand Wailea. Great pool/water slides for kids. A real beach is right there also. I would stay away from the Kanapali side as it is too busy.

Ag3046

12 people is an expensive group in a hotel. You are much better off in a condo.

I know many people really like Puamana condos in Maui, just south of Lahaina. They have a beach, although it is grassy. There are also great condos in the Wailea area. It all depends on your budget. If your dad is paying and going all out, try for condos on Polo Beach in Wailea Maui or similar. They are gorgeous and the beach is really nice.

Ag3046

Sorry- didn't quite finish my thought...

If you have the choice, it is always much nicer to have a beachfront condo than one you ( and the kids) have to walk across streets to get to.

martym

If you would like to look at large houses on the various islands and if Dad really like to go all out--check out these websites.
http://www.fabulous-homes.com/
http://hawaii-vacation-homes.com/
http://www.luxuriousdestinations.com...FR-YYAoddQZNAA

adventureseeker

Definitely Maui. You will get the gamut of activities, sights, etc. to make everyone happy in your age ranges.

I'd definitely rent a house (and look for one near the beach or with a pool. Also with an outdoor lanai for alfresco dining). Check out VRBO.com which has some great options. We used to be resort people, but lately opt for house rentals which we can spread out and cook in (if we want!).

It's also great with large families so you can spend time visiting and dining together in the comfort of a home. Stock up on provisions at Costco (near the airport). Also, peruse the local farmer's markets for local produce.

Lahaina is a great town. My fave is Kaanapali with the long walking path near the beach/resorts. Lahaina has the most nightlife and is a short drive from Kaanapali. Wailea is beautiful, but too resorty and pretentious. You won't find a house in these resort areas large enough to accommodate your large group...but you can rent 2-3 condos.

I stayed a couple times at Kaanapali Villas which are condo rentals and the beach in front was excellent.

If you go the large house rental route...I'd check out a Maui map and choose a town on the West where Lahaina/Kaanapali are located. Or better yet, contact a vacation rental agency in Maui who will assist in meeting your needs.

Here's a few to check out (14 occupants):
http://www.vrbo.com/82083 (this is a FAB looking place in Lahaina and the price is right!)

http://www.vrbo.com/116844 (another Lahaina property w/ pool)

http://www.vrbo.com/56977 (Lahaina w/ pool)

http://www.vrbo.com/145840 (STUNNING and brand new! 2 miles to Lahaina)

These are very luxe, high end:
http://www.vrbo.com/111502 (14 persons with pool in Napili...very pricey, but luxe)

http://www.vrbo.com/72866 (in Kahana)

http://www.vrbo.com/129488 (in Kapalua..very pricey & luxe)

Dine out at Hula Grill at Whalers Village on Kaanapali (great family meal options...our 1yr old (then) loved the Keiki Pasta!) and put your toes in the sand. Another fave is Hali'imale General Store in upcountry (near Makawao). A great lunch place when you're exploring that area.

Drive up to Haleakala crater to see the views and take a hike. The downhill bike ride might be fun!

Go to a luau.

There is great snorkeling at Black Rock (Sheraton Resort) at the end of the Kaanapali path. Also a spot just before Lahaina (the name escapes me) on the way in from the airport. Many take a snorkeling tour to Molokini Crater for an all day trip.

Take a day trip to Lanai via a catamaran.

The youngsters will love the aquatic center/aquarium in Kihei.

Good luck!