Thanks sktraveler for that great perspective. Lots of times people ask for info about rooms and grounds but fail to take into account the peripheral costs associated with it. It's harder to enjoy that maitai when it's so expensive.

So excited to be hearing such good things about the Kea Lani. 26 days to go!!!5 days in maui and 5 days on Oahu at the Hilton Hawaiian Village. Thanks to all of you for your comments. You've all helped me with alot of planning. This will be my second trip. The first was a 10 day cruise last Oct with 5 days on Oahu at the Kahala Mandarin(Excellent!!!). I have to start packing this weekend. Swearing to pack light this time. Right!! Wish we could have two carryons each. Hate to have my luggage out of my sight. Hey, make sure you put your itinerary in your luggage just in case it gets lost. Maybe it'll catch up with before you return home. Especially if you're island hopping...Alooooooooha!!!!!!!

I would without a doubt recommend the Four Seasons Wailea if you do not mind spending the $$. The service was outstanding. The hotel was high-end, but not gaudy or overdone. The pool was very nice and the beach pristine.
There are certainly families, but not as packed with kids as some of the other hotels in Wailea with fancier pools. The restaurants were terrific as was room service. The spa was very good, but if you are really into it you can go next door to the Grand Wailea Resort, which is supposed to have the best Spa on the Island. The scuba/snorkel facility at the Four Seasons was top notch (my husband got certified there). Between all the hotels on the beach, there were plenty of restaurants of great quality. We went Nov 2000 and it looked as if a nice shopping/restaurant area was going to open in Wailea (right in the resort area). Walking the path between hotels that is maintained by the resorts is breathtaking in of itself, but you are certainly in proximity to do many of the other touristy things, ex. Road to Hana, the Volcano Bike Ride, Plantation Visit, visit Lahaina, etc. The weather is incredible- I believe by December you may be able to do some whale watching too. The Four Seasons Maui
is a very lush hotel! The location was convenient.

My wife and I just returned from our honeymoon. We stayed at the Outrigger in Wailea and had a great time. We were next to the Grand Wailea, which reminded me too much of Disneyworld. Our room's private balcony overlooked the pools and the beach. The breakfast buffet was terrific and kept us fueled up until dinner. The only let down was the very skimpy gym, but heck who wants to work out inside with such beautiful surroundings. The staff was great and I think it is a much better value than the neighbouring resorts. Also I thought that the beach next to the Outrigger is nicer and less crowded than Wailea's.

Have fun.