Op here with an update for future travelers.

The HHV is really nice - the All’i tower is probably worth it for the private pool, but the other towers looked nice too. It was crowded, long line for Starbucks etc., but, there was always plenty of room at the beach or pool. If our trip hadn’t been completely waylayed by my daughter getting sick and throwing up for the first day, unable to eat or really participate the rest of the time, it would have been awesome. I also had a complete loss of appetite and a stomach ache the whole time.

We are now in a taxi headed for the Big Island and just hoping she’ll be better soon and can enjoy the trip. She’s home from college and the primary reason for us going was for her (and DH’s sentimentality). She would have had an absolute blast if she wasn’t sick.

I think Hawaii is so interesting and beautiful. I would have an awesome time there no matter what.
You’re very fortunate to be going. Please enjoy.

I was there last week for work. Sorry to say, it was very crowded. The hotel we usually stay at was booked. Our hotel had a large mass of Japanese high school students. That being said, it’s a crowded madhouse in the summer also.

I’d skip Oahu and go to the Big Island. It always feels less crowded.

^ it starts a few days before so download now if you want to try.

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Way too far for winter break!

Too late now!! Like I said, my DH is very sentimental and felt like this might be the last chance to go all 4 of us. We will probably never go again.

You’ll have tons of fun. Ignore the haters.

You may want to try an app to help you minimize jet lag. I tried one recommended on here (Timeshifter, I think) and I do think it helped on one of our shorter trips.

You could make the Oahu leg of the vacation less crowded by going to the north shore. We are headed to the Ritz Carlton Turtle Bay for for winter break. It's the only resort on the north shore. But there are other hotel options nearby.

Anonymous wrote:Way too far for winter break!

Too late now!! Like I said, my DH is very sentimental and felt like this might be the last chance to go all 4 of us. We will probably never go again.

Way too far for winter break!

Anonymous wrote:Crowded is how I always expect Hawaii. It’s one of its defining characteristics as a destination.

Maybe on Oahu - I’ve never been. Kauai was not crowded at all, anywhere. Maui was more built up and populated but I still wouldn’t describe it as crowded at all though. Our trip was in the summer though.

Did you post about this trip before?

Will it be crowded? Yes
Will it still be awesome? Yes

We enjoy it every time, even for short, whirlwind trips. Just roll with it.

The only thing to mildly worry about is if you want to eat out at popular/fancy restaurants you should make reservations ASAP.

Look into Pearl Harbor and Diamondhead more- you might need tickets/reservations, especially over Christmas.
Make dinner reservations. If you rent a car head to some beaches on the other of the island. Kailua is my favorite but parking might be hard. There are other nice, quiet beaches, just drive until you see one you like.

I have been to Waikiki several times over Christmas and it is very busy, but also very fun! Big Island will feel empty comparatively.

I live on the west coast and yes, Hawaii is an extraordinarily popular destination for families for Christmas. I think you’ll really enjoy Kona, though. The trick with the big island is to be willing to drive- there are plenty of hidden away and quiet spots away from busy resorts.

I would make a plan for most of your “important” meals ahead of time, including ones you plan to have at your hotel. It may be hard to get a reservation for a decent time so call now to see what you can do.