First, my credentials: we have been visiting Hawaii for about 25 years having stayed at either Waikoloa or Mauna Lani at least 18 times. So, I consider myself a professor emeritus on the subject. So, I’ll do the GOOD, BAD and UGLY approach.
GOOD: All in all, it’s a pretty good value We were 2 couples with a teen on the couch. While not spacious it was roomy enough. The air conditioning is excellent with a thermostat settable to 72 reinforced with ceiling fans. Beware, many condos at Waikoloa have thermostats that keep the unit too warm and some turn off when you leave and are in the mid 80’s or more upon your return. The beds are quite comfortable and we almost never heard the neighbors. The pool is far enough away so the sound of kids yelling and splashing is muted but close enough to walk over in a minute. Lots and lots of beach towels as well as a well-stocked garage of snorkeling and other beach stuff. Five or six bicycles as well. We loved the outside barbeque. It’s advertised as electric but it’s gas. I believe The Big Island is the only island that allows patio stoves and they add a lot of fun. Lastly, you will be a few feet from black lava environment it is so well landscaped one never notices.
BAD: This is NOT a luxury unit.The unit, while well cleaned well upon our arrival, overall, after about 25 years of service is weathered and never been updated. We needed to call maintenance several times. The smoke kept going off in the evening was a bit annoying. However, the company was quite good fixing issues in short order. The kitchen is poorly stocked with plates and silverware. We needed to run the dishwasher all the time. The cutting knives were very dull even having trouble cutting through the skin of a tomato. I strongly advise visitors to pack a couple knives as this is a common problem. Otherwise the kitchen is quite good. However, the living space furniture and window treatments are rough and in need of replacement.
UGLY: You will enjoy your condo much better if you find one with windows on three sides. They feel more spacious and not so dark. Not much of an ugly but actually based upon many years of experience this place was ok. Lastly, the BI is the most fun, diverse, and honest of all islands in Hawaii. I hope I have been fair.
