Marriott's Waikoloa Ocean Club

The resort and room were beautiful, and the location was great, but housekeeping made the stay much harder than it needed to be. On a seven day stay, we were supposed to get one midweek condo cleaning. Nobody told us when it was scheduled at check-in. Our baby was napping, so we put out the do not disturb sign that day. They canceled the cleaning and wouldn’t reschedule, saying they were full and short on staff. Later our three year old got sick and vomited in the room. We asked for fresh sheets and cleaning supplies, but they said they had no supplies to give us and couldn’t clean for more than 15 hours. We called four times after they said they’d schedule a carpet cleaning and nobody came. They eventually did clean it, and we had to ask several times for sheets so we could change the bed ourselves. They also had no spray or wipes when we asked. At the front desk, they just called housekeeping and handed me the phone. The place has great amenities, but that whole situation made the trip much less enjoyable.

The restaurant and bar staff were kind and hospitable, and the beach is nice and easy to get to. The villa itself was pleasant, with a partly equipped kitchen, but no real oven or stovetop, just an outdoor grilling area. Still, the food prices were insanely high for a property that isn’t a luxury hotel with luxury amenities. I’ve been to luxury places nearby with the same prices: $90 for the dinner buffet seemed like a bargain next to a full à la carte meal, and drinks were $20 or more. We stayed five days on the vacation club side just before Christmas. Roaches showed up in our room every day. We moved after the first night, but they were in the second room too. Management tried to deal with it, including daily spraying, but they kept coming back and it really spoiled the stay. I’ve stayed at several other Hawaiian MVCs and never had a roach problem before. I love the Big Island, but if I return, I’ll probably choose another property or try the regular hotel side. We’re unlikely to come back here.

The location was great and the pool area was awesome. Our timeshare room was comfortable and nicely decorated, though it was missing some of the small things I’d expect and had no stove. The only water refill station was on the main floor, which was a hassle from our room on the sixth. In a hot tropical climate, it also seemed basic to offer cold water in the lobby or on arrival. When I asked about it, the staff looked puzzled; everywhere else I’ve stayed has had it.

Jakob at the front desk helped us extend our visit by another night, even though we’d originally planned to stay just one. The property was so beautiful, and we’re grateful for his help.