I can't decide between these two resorts in Hawaii: The Manele Bay or the Four Seasons on the Big Island! What do you think?

Will you be staying on only one island during this trip? If so, you should probably stay at the Four Seasons, Big Island. I absolutely love Manele Bay, and its beach is just about the best in Hawaii; nevertheless, unless you want to get away from it all, Lanai has far less to offer than the Big Island. If you coming for more than a week, why not visit both. Lanai is perfect for a three or four night visit and then go to the big island for the rest of the trip.

Just returned from the big island yesterday. We stayed at the Hilton Waikoloa on the big island but went for drinks at the Four Seasons. You will love this hotel. The buildings were only two stories high so it gives you a very nice small cozy feel. They only have three or four hundred rooms so it is not a big hotel. People go here for privacy and to be waited on. The beach was very nice although the weather last week was very windy. You'll want to rent a car to visit the rest of the island. The Four Seasons is about 20 minutes from Kona but you won't need to leave his place except to tour. Have a good time.

My wife and I had our honeymoon on the Big Island. We split our stay between Kona Village and its neighbor, The Four Seasons.

Both were wonderful, but we both agreed that the Four Seasons was spectacular. I still dream about their infinity "seashell" pool. We were there two years ago and were surprised that the hotel didn't seem to have a bigger profile (glad, I would say).

However, as it was rated the top resort spa in the Country by the latest issue of Conde Naste, I'd say the secret is out.

hualalai is by far the better choice. request a room with the garden shower near the beach.

I've stayed at both and the answer is not an easy one as both resorts are top-notch, but in different ways. Please note that the Four Seasons really does not have a nice beach, but instead has a series of fabulous pools (including a stocked, salt-water pool in which you can snorkel). If the beach is a big consideration for you, Manale Bay is the answer. If you want to combine exploring/sight-seeing with your resort stay, then the Four Seasons should be your choice, as there is little else on Lanai beyond Manale Bay/Lodge at Koele, whereas the Big Island is wonderful for driving/exploring. If food is of major importance, you cannot do any better than at Manale Bay, though be forewarned, their restaurants are quite expensive. The resort facilities and guest rooms are very nice at both locations, so your choice should primarily be based on some of the foregoing distinctions. If time permits, why not first go the Big Island and then "wind down" on quiet Lanai!

Thanks, Frank (and others). I think I will go with the Manele Bay because the beach is VERY IMPORTANT to me, and I also prefer a resort that is more on the large and elaborate side such as the Grand Wailea and Ritz-Carlton on Maui. Also, the Mediterranean design of the resort certainly looks more beautiful than the 4 Seasons as well and really appeals asthetically to me! Also, since I have been to all four islands in the past I really DON'T have the need or motivation to explore that much or have any desire for any nightlife as well, so in that respect the Manele will also be just fine, indeed!

Carolyn: Enjoy your stay at Manale Bay!
Just a few suggestions:
1. go snorkeling in the Bay early in the morning (best visibility) and, if you're lucky, you may have a chance to swim out to the school of spinner dolphins that often swim into the bay (an absolutely fantastic experience).
2. the "Paniolo" horseback ride at the Lodge at Koele is very enjoyable and fine for beginners.
3. have dinner one night in the Dining Room at the Lodge at Koele, it's great and the Lodge at night is very atmospheric.
I'm sure you will enjoy the beach, the fine cuisine and the laid-back atmosphere. Have a great trip!