Includes Beach Gear 317 Shores at Waikoloa

Hotel Description

You know what caught me off guard about Shores at Waikoloa 317? The whole “includes beach gear” thing actually delivers – and I mean really delivers. Most places promise beach stuff and then hand you a sad, deflated boogie board from 2003. Here, you’re getting decent snorkel sets, proper beach chairs, even those wheeled carts that make hauling everything across the lava rock fields way less of a nightmare. Trust me, your back will thank you when you’re schlepping gear down to ‘Anaeho’omalu Bay (locals just call it A-Bay, which is way easier to pronounce).

The condo itself sits in that sweet spot where you’re close enough to the Hilton Waikoloa’s lagoons and shops to feel connected, but far enough away that you’re not dealing with the constant hum of tour groups and wedding parties. Honestly, the setup works really well – you get this residential vibe in the evenings when things quiet down, but during the day you can wander over and pretend you’re staying at the big resort if you want. The unit’s got that Hawaii vacation rental feel – you know, granite counters, tile floors that stay cool even when it’s blazing outside, and lanai doors that actually open wide enough to create that indoor-outdoor flow everyone talks about. The trade winds do their thing most afternoons, which saves you from running the AC constantly.

What I really appreciate is how they’ve thought through the practical stuff. There’s actually enough parking (novel concept, right?), and the check-in process doesn’t involve hunting down some random property manager who may or may not show up. The beach gear storage is organized – not just a pile of sandy equipment shoved in a closet. I mean, it’s not luxury resort level, but for a 4-star place, they’ve got their act together. The snorkeling at A-Bay is legitimately good too, especially along the left side where the reef extends out. Just watch for the surf – winter swells can make it choppy, but summer afternoons are usually perfect. One thing to know: groceries are a bit of a trek to Waimea or Kona, so stock up when you’re coming in. But honestly, after a day of snorkeling and beach time, firing up the grill on the lanai with some fresh fish from the market hits different than another resort restaurant meal.

Rooms

• Holiday Home with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 4 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities