Kona - Four Seasons or Hilton
 

Need some Input!! I'm planning a vacation for our 10 year wedding anniversary. A family member will be competing in the 2005 Ironman in October which coincides with our anniversary, so we view this as a once in a lifetime trip. We will be staying for a week in the Kona area and will be traveling with our 3 yr old son. I want to stay at a place that will create paradise while still having things for our son to do. Is it worth the extra money to stay at FS, or will I be disappointed if we split the trip between the two? I've read great things about FS but have also noticed that Hilton is very kid oriented. Any help would be appreciated.

Personally, I was very impressed with the four seasons Maui and how well my kids were treated while there. It seems to be much harder to get a room with two double beds to accomodate four people at the BI property so I would go there now before you might add another family member (They will provide you with a toddler bed, along with a king bed). The BI 4S is suposed to be the best hotel in Hawaii and I wouldn't miss it if I were you. However, it's too bad your child isn't old enough to enjoy the complimentary children's program. Do you want a relaxing place (4S) or mostly action/high energy (Hilton)?

I think I'm looking for more of a relaxing atmosphere. I've heard that the Hilton is too big and alot of walking just to get from your car to your room. It is unfortunate that my child cannot participate in the children's program at FS, but grandma and grandpa will be staying on the island so we'll have some help in keeping him busy.

The Hilton is a very nice vacation property and the 4S is a world away in paradise (although just a few miles down the road).

If you can afford the 4S, go for it. If you aren't sure then split your time. For the days you are going to be out and about on the island, stay at the Hilton. Then, when you are ready to relax and be spoiled in Paradise, move to the 4S. Maybe the g'parents would baby-sit for a couple of nights while you are at the 4S.

The Hilton has been called Disneyesque - mostly because of the tram and water taxis that take you to the towers. You don't have to walk to the rooms unless you choose to - and then you are walking through open air hallways past art work. It's a nice property and does have a killer pool for kids. You'd enjoy your stay there - but will absolutely adore at least a couple of days at the 4S.

The last time I was there I stayed at the Hilton for a week and 4 nights at the 4S. Be sure to have a spa treatment there. One of the best spas in the world.

Thanks for the input. I think we are going to relax at the FS. I've read that we can go to the Hilton and get a day pass for the pools so we may do that one day for a change of scenery for our son. I'd rather not have to pack everything and move hotels if we can help it.