We recently vacationed on the Big Island of Hawaii for the first time since my kids were babies. Here’s a little back-story: we took the kids to Hawaii when they were 14 months. It was the hardest vacation I had ever taken. It was such a tough age for the long flight, the time change, and all the equipment two 14-month olds need. It took me three years to think Hawaii was a good idea again.
This time, we stayed at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. And, let me tell you, I got my relaxing family vacation this time! First of all, this property is huge with so much to do! There are 4 Hilton sub-properties that neighbor each other: The Hilton Waikoloa Village, The Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Waikoloa Beach Resort, Kings’ Land, and The Bay Club. The Hilton Waikoloa Village is the main resort with everything you could possibly want for you and your family for an island getaway (and more!). With three pools, golf, a lagoon beach, shopping and 14 dining options, there is always something to do.
It is extremely kid-friendly with Camp Menehune - a kids' camp that offers half and full day programs during the week and night programs on the weekends so mom and dad can have a great adult dinner (what a concept, right?). The staff at Camp Menehune is amazing, offering other activities all day long for non-campers around the property and special events such Lava-Pool-Ooza, a fun-filled day by the pool for kids full of games, giveaways, activities and fun!
If you are looking for something memorable to do on your trip, the hotel has a Dolphin Quest on site where you can swim with the dolphins or even be a trainer for a day. Children as young as two can take part. If swimming with the dolphins isn’t your thing, there are dolphin shows throughout the week that are sure to entertain.
One thing I loved about the hotel was Lagoon Beach. Since much of the island is covered in volcanic rock, soft, sandy beaches are hard to come by. The Lagoon Beach is a protected beach within the resort, which makes it great for little ones. I don’t know about your kids but if a wave even thinks of knocking my son down, he takes it as a personal offense and is done with the beach for the day!! So this was a perfect setting for my kids- lots of shallow water, minimal waves, plenty of ocean sports (think kayaks, peddle boats, stand-up paddle boards and snorkeling). The snorkeling was great because the lagoon is ocean-fed so there are plenty of fish and even some fantastic giant sea turtles to check out!
I think the best time we had on the trip was at the Legends of the Pacific Luau located at the Hilton Waikoloa Village. It is not the cheapest way to spend an evening (but on par for Hawaiian luaus) but a great way to make some fantastic memories. We were invited by the hotel to sit in the Ali’i seating which is the preferred seating up front. It is a must do with kids. It allows them to see everything and gives you a little extra room. We went on Father’s Day and they invited some of the dads up for a little hula lesson. I pushed my husband up there and the kids loved seeing him up there. It is a family memory they will never forget!
One more thing…if you are looking for a little extra space for your stay, be sure to check out the Kings’ Land Resort and The Hilton Grand Vacations Club at Waikoloa Beach Resort which are just down the street from the main hotel. The condo-style rooms are HUGE with a kitchen in every unit. Kings’ Land is the newest property and has an incredible pool complex for kids of all ages! And, best of all, you can still use all the amenities at the main hotel.
Everyone deserves a great family vacation. Take yours!
