Kids club at Mauna Kea versus Mauna Lani

Question

I can’t seem to find any recent reviews on the kids club at the Mauna Kea, but rave reviews about the one at Mauna Lani.

Anyone have any recent experience? We are going in late August and I want to make sure the kids club is decent and operating regularly before finalizing booking.

Thanks in advance!

Answer

When deciding between the kids' clubs at the Mauna Kea and Mauna Lani resorts, it's great that you're looking for up-to-date reviews to ensure that the experience will meet your expectations for your family vacation in late August. Both resorts are located on the beautiful Kohala Coast of the Big Island, and each offers a unique experience for children, but there are some key differences between the two in terms of kids' club offerings. Here’s a breakdown based on recent experiences and reviews:

Mauna Kea Kids Club: The Mauna Kea Kids Club, known as the "Keiki Club," has been a favorite for families in the past, offering fun, engaging activities for children. However, there seems to be less recent information available online, which might be causing some uncertainty. That said, past reviews have highlighted the following:

Activities: The Keiki Club offers a range of activities, including arts and crafts, nature walks, Hawaiian cultural experiences, and educational games. Children get to explore the beautiful property and learn about the island's culture and wildlife.
Outdoor Play: Given Mauna Kea's vast grounds and gorgeous beach, the kids club often takes advantage of outdoor activities, such as sandcastle building, treasure hunts, and swimming in the resort pool.
Operating Hours: The kids' club typically operates during the day, with flexible hours depending on the season and demand. In recent times, guests have noted that the club may be subject to availability, so it’s a good idea to book activities in advance, especially during peak times like summer and holidays.
Recent Reviews: Recent reviews of the Keiki Club at Mauna Kea tend to be less detailed, but the activities and the location are still highly praised. It’s best to confirm the kids' club schedule and availability directly with the resort prior to booking.

Mauna Lani Kids Club: The Kids Club at Mauna Lani, known as "Camp Mauna Lani," tends to have more recent and glowing reviews. It is consistently praised for its structured programs and variety of activities tailored to different age groups. Here’s what recent guests have shared:

Activities: Camp Mauna Lani offers a comprehensive list of activities, including nature walks, treasure hunts, arts and crafts, water sports, and even cultural lessons like hula and lei making. The club also emphasizes outdoor adventures, with options to explore the resort’s natural surroundings.
Flexibility and Age Groups: Camp Mauna Lani offers programs for various age groups, from toddlers to pre-teens, ensuring that children of all ages can enjoy tailored activities. The programs are flexible, and many parents appreciate the daily or weekly sign-up options, so it’s easier to plan around family activities.
Facilities: The kids' club at Mauna Lani is housed in a dedicated facility, providing a safe and fun environment for children to play, learn, and make new friends. The resort’s emphasis on family-friendly experiences ensures that the club is well-equipped with toys, games, and a trained staff.
Operating Hours: Camp Mauna Lani typically operates during the day and sometimes offers evening programs or kids' night out events, depending on the season. It's often a go-to for parents looking for a trusted place for their kids to have fun while they enjoy a meal or spa treatment.
Recent Reviews: Recent reviews for Camp Mauna Lani are overwhelmingly positive. Parents mention the friendly staff, variety of activities, and how their kids enjoy the club so much that they often don’t want to leave!

Which One Should You Choose? Based on the most recent reviews and available information, if you’re looking for a well-established, highly rated kids’ club experience with plenty of organized activities and flexibility, the Mauna Lani Kids Club (Camp Mauna Lani) seems like a great choice. It’s known for its consistency and excellent programming, which makes it a reliable option for families.

However, if you’re leaning toward the Mauna Kea and are interested in a more relaxed, nature-focused kids' program, the Keiki Club could still be a good fit. Just make sure to contact the resort directly to confirm the availability of the kids' club and inquire about any specific requirements or updated schedules for your travel dates in late August.

Either way, both resorts offer beautiful family-friendly experiences, so you can’t go wrong with either choice. Enjoy your time on the Kohala Coast!