HM

Anyone been to the Grand Wailea on their honeymoon recently? I would appreciate feedback on the experience for honeymooners at this hotel.

abc

We stayed at the Four Seasons, right next door. We LOVE that property. However, here was our view of the GW when we walked over to check out one of their restaurant's menus one afternoon. We felt like it was a TOTAL zoo. The pool is like a water park and is packed with kids. Most (pretty much all) of the kids and families seemed Japanese and the pool area was very crowded (although it is bigger than the 4S). We went to the Old Lahaina Luau and sat with another honeymooning couple who was staying at the GW and they were not thrilled. They felt it was all Japanese, too many kids, and they also said they felt nickel and dimed (they mentioned having to pay for the cabanas poolside, which is free-or part of your rate anyhow- at the 4S). We felt that the feel of the 4S was much more understated elegance, relaxing, and quiet (even though there are some kids at the 4S too, but they aren't everywhere) while at the GW we felt like we were at Disney-Tokyo Disney.
Just my honest opinion. Congrats on your upcoming wedding and have a great honeymoon!

HM

we switched from the 4 seasons due to the renovations that will be taking place during our stay including...demolition and jackhammers...I'll take the kids any day over that.

abc

it depends on when you will be going. The 4S is going to be having construction from Sept. to Dec., I believe. Other than that, you will be fine.

def

I take it you don't like the Japanese.

abc

I don't have a problem with the Japanese, but the hotel has a different feel because of the large # of Japanese clientele. In fact, I believe I read somewhere that the GW is owned by billionair Japanese businessman. I think it's fair to tell someone that when they are considering staying there.

def

OK, I can understand that. On the other hand, I kind of like a hotel with an international clientele, I guess it makes it seem more exotic.

HM

We were scheduled to arrive at the 4S on Sept 1 and the demolition will begin on Sept. 3...no thanks.
and less likely for kids at the grand wailea since they will most likely be starting school.

Marybeth

I wasn't a honeymooner, but we did stay at the Grand Wailea on 2 seperate trips to Hawaii and loved it both times, The first time we stayed in the "club rooms" which were very elegant, and free snacks and drinks all day long! The second time we stayed in the regular rooms which were really wonderful also. I didn't get the feeling at all like it was "Disneyland Tokyo" and didn't feel overwhelmed by a million kids either. It was relaxing, fun and a beautiful property.
There are alot of Japanese people visiting everywhere in Hawaii. I remember a hotel on the Big Island that had all it's signs in Japanese, and then English. I don't think the Grand Wailea that as an abundance of Japanese people, the whole state is a big vacation destination for them.
BTW The first time we stayed at Grand Wailea we heard Jerry Seinfeld was at the 4 Seasons.
Another poster mentioned the Old Lahaina Luau, which was the nicest, and least "Las Vegas like" of all the luaus I've been to. Lahaina is a fun day trip, lots of shopping and funky little restaurants. If you want any tips or ideas, send me an email and I'll be glad pass them along.

abc

Just want to clarify that I was at the 4S in July, admittedly a big vacation time, so that may be why there seemed to be SO many kids at the GW. However, my impression still stands as my view of the hotel when I was there in July 2001. If you are planning on going other than this Sept.-December, I would go with the 4S. I'm sure you will still have a fine time at the GW. These are all great resorts!