Hey Fodorites,
Thought you might be interested in my trip report from the Big Island. What a wild place! Check it out: http://www.fodors.com/wire/archives/001256.cfm

Mrs. T, would be very interested in your opinion of the Sheraton Keauhou as compared to Waikoloa Beach Marriott, if you've been to both hotels. Enjoyed reading your report!

Hi bonniebroad:
I unfortunately did not make it to the Marriott, but I can give you my thoughts on the Sheraton--it had pluses and minuses. The biggest drawback is that there is no beach. You have to drive or take the hotel shuttle to nearby Kahalu'u Beach (I'm not sure if the Marriott has a beach on-property or not; most hotels on the Big Island do not have beaches). On the other hand- the Sheraton has an awesome pool complete with waterslide, sprinklers and a tiny man-made "beach" for little ones. The setting is really lovely. I thought the lobby was one of the prettiest on the island. The hotel is literally right on the water so the whole property is bordered by green landscaping, followed by jet-black lava, followed by the bright bright blue of the Pacific. It's really stunning. The rooms are on the plain side, but mine was in the Waimea Tower so I had an amazing view of the manta rays swimming below at night. I would definitely request a room with a view of the manta rays--they're amazing. I wasn't particularly impressed by the restaurant but you are very close to Kailua-Kona so there are options close by.
I hope that helps!

Mrs. T, the Marriott does have a fabulous beach, "A Bay," but is going through an extensive re-modeling now. Sounds as though it would be worth it to stay at the Sheraton just to see those Mantra Rays! I'd read elsewhere that the setting for the Sheraton was prettier than their actual rooms. I don't mind plain rooms, if they are immaculate. Thank you for the info! Very much appreciated ... hope you will get back there soon, as I intend to!

Ms. T,
I noticed the Fodor's Editor designation next to your screen name. Are you familiar with a Mr. Peter Kay, screen name of Bronxzills? There's a curious thread that's active now. He has indentified himself as a Fodor's Director, but there is no "official" designation that is similar to the other Fodor corporate posters. Just curious. The other thread is a bit strange.
Thanks for any info.

I enjoyed your report (accessed by the link). In particular, I agree with the last question and response. My last trip to the Big Island I spent a week at the Hilton, two days at Volcano in a B&B and then four luxurious days at the Four Seasons. Fabulous way to "do" the Big Island. I can't imagine trying to see everything in less time - but any time in Hawaii is wonderful!

Hi starrsville,
Peter does work here as a director. You are welcome to email him at [email protected] if you have any questions for him. He's great. Also- how did you like the Four Seasons? Was it worth the money?

bonniebroad,
If you do the snorkeling or diving with the manta rays, please post a report for us! I would have loved to have done it but didn't have time. Have a great trip!

Interesting, even if brief reading. And somewhat noteworthy... that while you can e-mail this thread to someone to share - - you can't readily e-mail (with a single click) http://www.fodors.com/wire/archives/001256.cfm to someone... to entice them to visit Fodors.com

Best wishes,

Rex

Thanks, Ms. T.

My answer to your question? In a word, yes!