As I sit down to type this review, I have know idea where to begin. This is because this resort is truly a mega-resort. It's huge! Any place that requires you either take a boat or a train to get to your room after checking in, doesn't really need a description of its size, but I will anyway. This place is so big that you could see and do completely different things everyday for at least two weeks without repeating yourself. So many activities, restaurants, and shops will definitely keep you busy. There is really no reason to ever leave this resort, which could definitely be a con. The big island of Hawaii is an incredibly beautiful place, and it would be a crime to just hang out at the hotel all day. I think that the best way to tell you about the resort is to simply list the ammenities and activities, and let you decide if this is what you are looking for in a Hawaiian vacation.

First, there is at least a dozen different restaurants on the ground of the resort. These range from relaxed bar food, to incredibly fancy (read expensive)restaurants for couples. An occasional luau can be experienced and be enjoyable for the whole family.
There are multiple pools to choose from. Some of the pools have waterslides, waterfalls, and caves that kids seem to enjoy.
Dolphinquest is something I highly recommend for children to do. It gives them the opportunity to interact and swim with dolphins, right at the resort. It is, however, fairly expensive, but definitely worth it for your kids.
There is a nice lagoon for swimming and snorkeling, and has little to know waves, so it's safe for the little ones.
One downfall is that there isn't a very good beach with waves for older children to play in. When I was there we drove to a public beach called Hapuna almost everyday to play in the waves. There is a new hotel built on Hapuna beach now that is fantastic (see my review "Best Resort in the World!")
Lots of shopping of all types will keep any shopper satisfied.
The reason this resort only gets 3 stars from me are these:
1. This place is so big, that there is little interaction between you and the staff. Definitely lacks that personal touch that you expect for this type of money.
2. Keeps you at the hotel too much. It seems like there is no reason to leave, and it's a waste of you vacation if you don't get a chance to see the rest of the island
3. Too many children! Be ready to deal with wild kids all day long. This is definitely a "family" resort. Keep this in mind if you plan on staying here.

Overall, this is a very nice resort. It has it's downfalls, just as other resorts do, but also lacks quite heavily in the areas I mentioned. It's a great place for families, as you will have a very easy time keeping your children entertained. I wouldn't recommend it for a honeymoon or romantic getaway!


Recommended: Yes