Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection

The location is too far from the popular activities, especially the volcano, so I wouldn't recommend it to tourists. It also wasn't worth the price for me. What bothered us most was housekeeping. On our final day they didn't change the towels or bedding, and they didn't restock the small towels, slippers, or bathrobes. The staff running the hotel activities didn't seem very enthusiastic either. We felt they were less warm and attentive with us than with other guests, possibly because we're Asian. We'd been told our AE card would get us an ocean-view suite upgrade. Once we got upstairs, the room was neither ocean-view nor upgraded. The front desk later said no rooms were available because it was the weekend. The room and facilities also seemed small and outdated compared with other high-end hotels in the same category. During this trip we stayed at another five-star hotel on a different island, where the service felt much more thoughtful and guest-oriented. This stay was very disappointing.

A good resort at the upper end, nearly five-star but not quite. The adult pool stayed quiet and free of kids despite there being lots of families around. Staff were attentive, even offering to set up pool loungers, and our clean room was serviced several times a day. Valet was prompt, easy, friendly, and courteous. No complaints, though my experience at other high-end resorts puts this at 4.5.

The beach was good for swimming, and we saw turtles out on the rocks. Morning yoga by the beach was lovely, and any tour with Ethan is excellent, he's an outstanding guide. We also enjoyed the Lunar New Year dragon dance, the free kiddie golf course, the indoor and outdoor gym, and the hotel shops. The lei greeting when we arrived was a nice touch. We were there for three nights over President's Day weekend. The hotel seemed close to full, but it never felt too crowded, and I'd stay again. The staff were welcoming, the breakfast was really nice, and the whole place had a relaxed upscale feel. Our room, Room 328, was on the small side, though the balcony and view were nice. Canoe restaurant, and the food generally, was really overpriced. There were lots of kids around, and not many complimentary activities.

The beach and location were superb, the service was very good, and the food choices were spectacular. I left really impressed and ready to plan another Auberge vacation. I'm usually a Marriott guy, especially the Ritz and St Regis, but our company recently built an Auberge, so I decided to try this hotel. The programming stood out: there were events going on throughout our stay, including snorkeling, fresh coconut peeling, beach pizza making, and lei making for my daughter. They did a better job with activities than most resorts I've been to.