Great Stays: Paradise Found at Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island

By Frank Macek

Visiting the Hilton Waikoloa Village on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island was one of those experiences where you realize the pictures you’ve seen don’t quite do it justice until you’re standing there, surrounded by tropical gardens, waterfalls, and shimmering lagoons that seem to stretch forever. The moment I arrived, it was clear this wasn’t just a hotel stay—it was an island experience in every sense. Spread across 62 acres along the Kohala Coast, the resort immediately impresses with its vastness and beauty. Towering palms line the entrance, koi ponds ripple quietly beside winding walkways, and a soft island breeze reminds you why people return to Hawaiʻi year after year. The check-in was smooth, with friendly staff offering leis and warm smiles that made me feel instantly at home.

The property is massive—more like a self-contained village than a resort. It has everything you could possibly want, from multiple pools and restaurants to an ocean-fed lagoon, cultural activities, and even a tram and boat system to help you get around. That scale is both its charm and its challenge. While it makes you feel like you’re exploring your own private slice of paradise, it also means a fair bit of walking if your room happens to be on the far side of the property. But that’s a small price to pay when you consider the setting. Every pathway is surrounded by lush greenery, bursts of hibiscus, and glimpses of the Pacific beyond lava-rock shorelines. It’s like being on a tropical movie set that just happens to be real life.

I stayed in the Makai Tower, the resort’s premium accommodation, which sits closest to the ocean. My balcony looked out over the lagoon and, beyond that, the deep blue horizon. Inside, the room felt bright and inviting, with modern touches that balanced island elegance and Hilton comfort. There were thoughtful details throughout—a comfortable sitting area, quality linens, and a large balcony that became my morning ritual spot. There’s something about sipping Kona coffee on your lanai as the sun rises, listening to the faint calls of tropical birds and the gentle lap of the lagoon below. At times, I even spotted sea turtles gliding gracefully through the water. Those quiet moments, before the resort stirred awake, were unforgettable.

While the rooms in the Makai Tower were up to the Hilton standard, it’s worth noting that this is a large resort with rooms across multiple towers, some of which have more traditional décor. Guests who value the most modern finishes and best views should definitely book the Makai Tower or one of the recently refreshed categories. For families or groups, other towers offer more affordable options while still keeping you close to the action.

The lagoon itself is the heartbeat of Hilton Waikoloa Village. This four-acre, ocean-fed saltwater lagoon is teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles, making it an ideal spot for snorkelling or paddleboarding. Because it’s protected from ocean waves, the water is calm—perfect for floating under the Hawaiian sun without the surf’s unpredictability. I rented a kayak one morning and paddled across the still water as sunlight sparkled off the surface. Beneath me, colorful fish darted around, and a curious turtle poked its head up before diving again. Few hotel experiences can match that kind of natural connection.

The pools here are equally impressive, with something for everyone. The Kona Pool is the largest, featuring a 175-foot waterslide, rope bridge, and a sandy-entry area for kids. It’s a lively, family-friendly environment where laughter echoes between palm trees. For those seeking a bit more tranquility, the Kohala Pool offers a quieter experience with cabanas and a more subdued atmosphere. I found myself alternating between both—embracing the playful energy of the main pool during the day, then retreating to the quieter spaces to unwind as the sun began to set. No matter which pool you choose, the views are stunning and the service attentive.

Dining at Hilton Waikoloa Village ranges from casual to elegant. Kamuela Provision Company is the signature restaurant, and it’s the kind of place you remember long after you’ve left. Set dramatically over lava rock facing the ocean, the restaurant serves up fresh seafood and island-inspired cuisine with panoramic sunset views that are nothing short of spectacular. I opted for a macadamia nut-crusted mahi-mahi paired with a local chardonnay, and it was one of those perfect travel moments when the food, the view, and the warm Hawaiian evening all blended into one. For something more relaxed, Nui Italian offers family-style meals and pizzas with a to-go option, which makes for a great choice if you want to dine on your balcony. During the day, the Orchid Marketplace near the pool serves quick bites like salads, sandwiches, and tropical cocktails that are surprisingly good given their poolside setting.

Like many large resorts, dining here isn’t cheap, and some guests find the prices on the higher side. I’d suggest budgeting for at least one or two on-site dinners, especially at Kamuela Provision Company, and venturing off-property or picking up groceries for casual meals if you’re staying longer. The nearby Queens’ Marketplace offers a few restaurants and shops within walking distance, giving you a break from resort pricing.

One of the more unique aspects of this resort is how you get around it. Because the property spans such a vast area, Hilton operates both a tram and a canal boat system to transport guests between towers, restaurants, and the lobby. It’s charming in its own way and makes the experience feel more like an amusement park or luxury campus than a traditional hotel. The boats, especially at night when everything is softly lit, add a whimsical touch. However, patience is required—wait times can vary, and walking is often faster if you’re in a hurry. For me, it was part of the fun, and it gave the property an identity unlike anywhere else I’ve stayed in Hawaiʻi.

Service throughout my stay was consistently friendly and helpful. Staff were eager to share local recommendations, help with activity bookings, and greet guests with genuine aloha spirit. Housekeeping was prompt, and every interaction—from the bell desk to the restaurant servers—felt warm and welcoming. Despite the scale of the property, the staff managed to keep things personable. That’s not always easy at a resort this large, but Hilton Waikoloa Village pulls it off.

If there’s one thing to keep in mind, it’s the location. The resort sits on the Kohala Coast, roughly 30 minutes from Kona International Airport and about 40 minutes from the main town of Kailua-Kona. That means you’re somewhat isolated, which can be a good or bad thing depending on your travel style. I personally loved it. The remoteness adds to the tranquility—you’re surrounded by ocean and volcanic landscape rather than traffic or crowds. But if you’re planning on exploring the island extensively, you’ll want to rent a car. That will give you easy access to nearby beaches, parks, and other attractions, including the scenic drive to Waimea or the historic Puʻuhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park farther south.

Even within the resort, there’s plenty to do if you never feel like leaving. I spent time wandering the art walkways, which display hundreds of pieces from Asian and Polynesian cultures, some dating back centuries. It gives the resort an almost gallery-like feel and reminds you that Hawaiʻi has long been a crossroads of Pacific influences. There are also daily cultural classes, such as lei-making, ukulele lessons, and hula dancing, all included in the resort fee. These small touches help you connect with the island’s traditions, rather than just passing through as a tourist.

One morning, I joined a guided tour around the lagoon area where I learned about the marine life and how the resort works to protect the turtles and native fish that inhabit the waters. Sustainability is an increasing focus here, and it shows. The staff spoke passionately about ocean preservation, and the property has several initiatives in place to minimize environmental impact. That’s always something I appreciate as a traveler—it’s reassuring to see large resorts taking real steps toward responsible tourism.

By the end of my stay, what stood out most was how much the Hilton Waikoloa Village felt like its own world. It’s a blend of adventure, relaxation, and culture that captures what makes Hawaiʻi so special. You can wake up to ocean views, spend the morning kayaking with turtles, enjoy a mid-day nap by the pool, take a hula class in the afternoon, and dine over the sunset—all without ever leaving the grounds. Yes, it’s big and occasionally busy, but it never lost its sense of serenity. Even when families filled the pools and trams bustled between towers, there were always quiet corners to retreat to, always a hammock or shaded walkway waiting to be discovered.

For those seeking a romantic escape, a family vacation, or just a restorative island getaway, Hilton Waikoloa Village delivers in spades. It’s a place where you can truly slow down and live that postcard-perfect vision of Hawaiʻi, yet still have all the modern comforts at your fingertips. I left with my camera full, my skin kissed by the sun, and my mind already replaying the images of turtles gliding beneath the surface of the lagoon. This resort has a way of staying with you, long after you’ve checked out and boarded your flight home. It’s not just a stay—it’s a story. And for me, it was one worth telling.

Frank’s “3" Insider Tips

1. Book the Makai Tower Ocean-View Room: It’s the premier location for stunning lagoon and Pacific views, plus easy access to pools and dining. The sunrise from this vantage point is unforgettable.

2. Hit the Lagoon Early: Morning hours mean calm water, peaceful surroundings, and a better chance of spotting sea turtles gliding through the lagoon before crowds arrive.

3. Ride the Canal Boats at Sunset: Instead of treating the boat or tram as just transportation, take a leisurely evening ride. The golden light on the water and soft island breeze make it one of the most magical moments of the day.

Visitor Information: Hilton Waikoloa Village

• Address: 69-425 Waikoloa Beach Drive, Waikoloa, Hawaii 96738
• Phone: (808) 886-1234
• Website: hilton.com/waikoloa-village
• Check-in: 4:00 PM | Check-out: 11:00 AM
• Resort Charge: Includes Wi-Fi, cultural activities, fitness classes, snorkel and kayak rental discounts, and local shuttle service.
• Parking: Available on site for a daily fee
• Dining: Kamuela Provision Company, Nui Italian, Orchid Marketplace, Lagoon Grill, Kona Tap Room.
• Amenities: Four pools with slides, saltwater lagoon with sea turtles, tram and boat transport system, fitness center, Mandara Spa, cultural classes, art walk, and beach access.
• Nearby: Queens’ Marketplace, Anaehoʻomalu Bay, Puʻukoholā Heiau National Historic Site, Mauna Kea Beach, and Kona Airport (30 minutes).
• Room Rates: Typically range from $450–$800 per night depending on season and tower location.
• Ideal For: Families, couples, honeymooners, and anyone looking to blend luxury, culture, and adventure on Hawaiʻi’s Big Island.

Photos Courtesy: Hilton Waikoloa Village

Great Day Out: Discovering the Greater Cleveland Aquarium

By Frank Macek

Stepping into the Greater Cleveland Aquarium on the west bank of the Cuyahoga River felt like entering a hidden aquatic world tucked inside the industrial-chic shell of the historic FirstEnergy Powerhouse. As soon as I passed through the doors, I was struck by how the brick, steel, and history of the building blended seamlessly with shimmering tanks, ambient lighting, and the gentle rhythms of marine life gliding through water. My visit that day became less a casual outing and more a journey—through ecosystems, through time, through wonder.

From the outset, the setting impressed. The aquarium occupies roughly 70,000 square feet of exhibition space inside that powerhouse structure. That alone gives the venue a unique character: you see exposed brick and wrought iron here and there, a nod to Cleveland’s industrial past, even as you peer into the future via coral reefs, stingrays, and sharks. As a Cleveland-based blogger always scouting local gems, I appreciated how the experience felt both rooted and elevated—it belongs here, but it doesn’t feel static or purely nostalgic.

Once inside, the galleries unfold before you, each offering a different slice of aquatic life—freshwater, saltwater, local, and exotic. It’s not a sprawling multi-hour destination park, but for its size it offers depth and personality. The exhibits invite you to slow down, to linger, to absorb the small details: the swirl of a school of fish, a painterly play of light through water, the gentle sway of seaweed in a current. The aquarium features seven immersive galleries, including an 11,000-gallon stingray touchpool and a 175-foot SeaTube tunnel. On arrival, I made a beeline for that tunnel—immersing myself in a corridor surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish, a moment that instantly silenced the world outside.

The design of the exhibits impressed me most. Many tanks are placed at child’s-eye level, making the experience inclusive for families while maintaining sophistication for adults. Rather than feeling like you’re looking down into aquariums, the design invites you to step into each environment. I crouched before a habitat of garden eels—those slender creatures that resemble blades of grass—and watched as they swayed in unison like a living underwater meadow. The lighting, sound, and architecture all work together to heighten that sense of immersion.

One of my favorite zones was the Ohio Lakes & Rivers gallery, a space dedicated to our region’s freshwater habitats. It gave me a new appreciation for the wildlife thriving in our own backyard. Nearby, the tropical forest and coral reef sections whisked me into another world entirely, full of vibrant fish, darting eels, and graceful rays. For those who think aquariums are only about sharks, this local-meets-global perspective is refreshing. And yes, when you reach the shark tunnel, it’s every bit as dramatic as promised—standing under the curve of that glass as a sand tiger shark glides silently overhead is the kind of goosebump moment that sticks with you.

I made a point to stop for one of the daily presentations led by aquarium staff, and it was well worth the time. The aquarist shared stories about coral propagation and conservation partnerships, emphasizing how much the aquarium does beyond its walls. That sense of mission—education, research, and stewardship—runs through the entire visit. The stingray touchpool was another highlight, offering a hands-on connection to the sea that delights children and adults alike. I lingered longer than expected, mesmerized by their smooth, almost friendly glide as they circled the shallow pool.

The SeaTube remains the showstopper. Walking through it, I paused halfway to just stand still and take it in—the quiet hum of filtration systems, the soft light refracting through water, and the surreal feeling of sharks coasting above me. It’s mesmerizing, and it feels both calming and thrilling at once. You can understand why this has become one of Cleveland’s most Instagrammed attractions.

In total, I spent just under two hours exploring the aquarium at a leisurely pace, revisiting a few exhibits and watching families delight in discovery. The entire experience strikes the right balance between immersive and manageable—it’s engaging without being exhausting. When I exited through the gift shop, I found myself picking up a sea turtle magnet, a small keepsake from a surprisingly enriching afternoon.

From a logistics standpoint, the aquarium is easy to navigate. Located at 2000 Sycamore Street in the Flats, it’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking was straightforward in the nearby lots, and the venue is accessible for strollers and wheelchairs alike. I’d suggest arriving early on weekends or holidays to avoid the mid-afternoon rush. During my mid-morning visit, the crowd was light, and there was plenty of room to linger by each exhibit. Staff were helpful and genuinely enthusiastic, eager to answer questions and share insights about the animals. The entire experience felt well-managed and visitor-friendly.

The industrial setting itself adds another layer of fascination. Knowing that this space once powered a city and now powers curiosity gives the visit extra depth. The exposed brick and steel create a unique aesthetic—where industrial history and marine life coexist beautifully. It’s very “Cleveland”—proud of its grit, yet full of life and transformation.

The Greater Cleveland Aquarium doesn’t try to compete with massive aquariums in coastal cities. Instead, it embraces intimacy and authenticity. It’s a perfect size for an afternoon outing, especially for families or anyone wanting a meaningful indoor experience without sensory overload. You’ll walk away having learned something about aquatic ecosystems, conservation, and maybe even about Cleveland itself.

By the time I stepped back into the crisp air outside, I realized that what makes this place special isn’t its scale—it’s its soul. The Greater Cleveland Aquarium manages to blend education, entertainment, and emotion effortlessly. Whether you’re a lifelong local or a visitor exploring downtown, this is one of those experiences that renews your sense of wonder.

Frank's "3" Insider Tips:

1. Arrive Early: The aquarium opens at 10 a.m., and the first hour is the quietest time to visit. You’ll have more room to enjoy the exhibits and better photo opportunities before families and school groups arrive.

2. Don’t Rush the SeaTube: The shark tunnel is the highlight—pause midway through and look up. The reflections and slow movement above you make for the best video and photo moments.

3. Ask the Aquarists: The staff are passionate and approachable. Take a minute to ask about feeding times or animal personalities—they often share behind-the-scenes details not listed on signs.

Visitor Information: Greater Cleveland Aquarium

• Address: 2000 Sycamore Street, Cleveland, Ohio 44113
• Phone: (216) 862-8803
• Website: greaterclevelandaquarium.com
• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas; 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM on Christmas Eve)
• Admission: Adults $24.95; Seniors $18.95; Children (2–12) $18.95; Under 2 free
• Highlights: 70,000 square feet of aquatic exhibits, seven themed galleries, a 175-foot SeaTube shark tunnel, and an 11,000-gallon stingray touchpool
• Amenities: Gift shop, stroller and wheelchair access, rest areas, family-friendly design
• Nearby: Jacobs Pavilion, The Nautica Queen, The Flats East Bank, and the Greater Cleveland Aquarium parking garage
• Ideal For: Families, couples, and visitors seeking a local experience that blends education and entertainment in one of Cleveland’s most creative adaptive reuse spaces

Photos Courtesy: Greater Cleveland Aquarium

Chasing Autumn’s Colors: A Local Journey Through Cuyahoga Valley National Park

By Frank Macek

My local adventure took me to Cuyahoga Valley National Park in search of fall color—the kind that transforms Ohio’s landscape into a painter’s palette of crimson, gold, and amber. As the season reached its peak, I wanted to see the valley at its most vibrant, when every bend of the Cuyahoga River reflects the fiery hues of the trees that line its banks. 

Within minutes of leaving Cleveland, the scenery shifted from suburban sprawl to rolling hills blanketed in color, with bursts of scarlet maples and golden hickories glowing against a soft gray sky. The air carried that unmistakable autumn mix of cool mist and dry leaves, a signal that another season was turning. The park’s name, from the Mohawk word “Ka-ih-ogh-ha,” meaning “crooked river,” felt fitting—the winding waterway seemed to gather every reflection of fall’s brilliance as it curved through the heart of Northeast Ohio.

My first stop was the Towpath Trail, the spine of the park and a thread that ties together its many landscapes. Once a busy route for canal boats hauling goods between Cleveland and the Ohio River, the trail now serves as a peaceful path for hikers and cyclists. I started near the Boston Mill Visitor Center, where the scent of damp earth mingled with fallen leaves. The towpath stretched ahead, lined with maples and oaks shedding their final bursts of color. Each step brought a soft crunch underfoot. Every so often, I’d pause at one of the old canal locks, relics of the 19th-century Ohio & Erie Canal, and imagine the mules trudging along these same banks, guiding boats through a waterway that once defined regional commerce.

At Brandywine Falls, the park’s most photographed landmark, I found what I came for—a dramatic burst of autumn energy. The 65-foot waterfall thundered over sandstone ledges, framed by trees aflame in orange and red. Mist from the cascade rose in the cool air, catching the light and forming a faint rainbow over the gorge. Visitors gathered quietly on the wooden boardwalk, phones and cameras out, but for a moment, everyone seemed content to simply stand and watch. The falls roared with the kind of energy that makes you forget how close you are to a metropolitan area. It was nature, unfiltered and unapologetic.

From there, I drove to the Ledges, a section of the park where time feels suspended. Massive outcroppings of sandstone rise like ancient fortresses from the forest floor. The trail winds through narrow crevices, where moss clings to rock and cool air seeps from shadowed gaps. Sunlight filtered through the canopy, illuminating the last stubborn leaves of the season, now turned to gold. I reached the overlook just before sunset, when the valley below glowed in soft amber light. The patchwork of treetops stretched for miles, every color intensified in the fading day. For a moment, it was completely still—no cars, no voices, just the rustle of leaves and the distant rush of the river below.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is not vast wilderness in the traditional sense—it’s a patchwork of forests, farmlands, waterfalls, and small towns woven into one continuous story. Driving along Riverview Road, I passed through villages that seemed frozen in time. In Peninsula, the heart of the park, century-old buildings now house cafés, art galleries, and outfitters catering to hikers and cyclists. The scent of coffee drifted from an old brick storefront, and I stopped for a cup before boarding the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

The train ride is one of the park’s most memorable experiences. It winds slowly through forests and wetlands, past open meadows where deer graze and great blue herons stand motionless in shallow water. From the window, I watched as the tracks curved alongside the river, reflecting the mosaic of fall colors on its rippling surface. A volunteer naturalist narrated stories about the park’s history—the canal era, the decline of industry, and the eventual environmental rebirth that led to the creation of the national park in 1974. I learned that this was once a landscape nearly lost to pollution and neglect, until citizens and conservationists rallied to protect it. Riding that train, I could see what their efforts had saved.

Later in the afternoon, I stopped at Hale Farm & Village, where costumed interpreters demonstrated blacksmithing, weaving, and candle making as if it were still the 1800s. Smoke curled from a chimney, the smell of wood and beeswax filling the crisp air. Children watched wide-eyed as a potter shaped clay on a spinning wheel. Just beyond the farm’s fences, I could see the hillsides burning with color—nature and history sharing the same view. The scene captured the essence of the park: a living landscape that connects past and present, human hands and natural rhythms.

Photo Courtesy: WKYC

In the quieter corners of the park, I found stillness. At Beaver Marsh, I followed a wooden boardwalk that cuts through a wetland reclaimed from an abandoned auto junkyard decades ago. The transformation was astonishing—waterfowl glided across the surface, and the setting sun turned the marsh into a mirror of copper and flame. A family stood nearby, pointing as a great blue heron lifted into flight, its wings slow and deliberate against the backdrop of glowing trees. It was a reminder that nature, when given a chance, has an incredible capacity to heal.

As evening settled, I returned to the Ledges for one final view. The sun had dipped below the horizon, but a warm afterglow lingered across the sky. The valley below was wrapped in soft purples and deep blues, the trees now shadows in a sea of dusk. I stood there for a while, reluctant to leave. Fall in Cuyahoga Valley feels fleeting, but maybe that’s what makes it so striking—the sense that beauty here is always on the move, always slipping toward winter.

On the drive back north, headlights traced the curves of Riverview Road, and through gaps in the forest, I caught glimpses of the Cuyahoga River glinting in the darkness. It’s hard to believe that this same river once symbolized environmental disaster, catching fire in 1969 and sparking outrage across the nation. That moment, though painful, became a turning point—not just for the river, but for the entire environmental movement. The park that exists today stands as proof of what renewal looks like when people care enough to act.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is more than a refuge for hikers and photographers; it’s a testament to resilience. It shows how nature and community can coexist, how a landscape once scarred by neglect can become a sanctuary again. As I crossed back into the city, I thought about the countless others who, like me, have come here to see the leaves change, to walk the towpath, to stand at the edge of a waterfall. Each visit adds another layer to the park’s ongoing story.

The fall colors drew me there, but what stayed with me went deeper—the sense of balance between the natural and the human, the way history seeps through the soil, and the quiet assurance that beauty can return where it was once lost. In the fading light of that autumn day, Cuyahoga Valley reminded me that sometimes the most extraordinary places aren’t far from home—they’re just waiting for you to slow down and look closely.

Frank’s “3" Insider Tips

1. Time your visit for “golden hour” — when the autumn light bathes leaves in warm tones, your photos and memory moments will shine brightest.

2. Venture off the main path — avoid the most-trafficked overlooks and instead explore lesser-known trails or side roads for quieter foliage views and more personal discovery.

3. Bring layers and a cozy pause spot — crisp fall air means it’s worthwhile to stop, sip something warm, and simply soak in the season; it turns a fast photo-stop into a lingering autumn experience.

Visitor Information: Cuyahoga Valley National Park

• Address: 1550 Boston Mills Road, Peninsula, OH 44264
• Phone: (440) 717-3890
• Website: nps.gov/cuva
• Hours: Open daily, 24 hours (visitor centers vary by season)
• Visitor Centers: Boston Mill Visitor Center, Canal Exploration Center, Hunt House
• Admission: Free entry to all park areas and trails
• Popular Attractions: Brandywine Falls, The Ledges, Towpath Trail, Beaver Marsh, Hale Farm & Village, Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad
• Best Time to Visit: Mid-September through late October for peak fall foliage; spring for wildflowers and waterfalls
• Activities: Hiking, biking, bird-watching, photography, train rides, and historical tours
• Trail Highlights: Towpath Trail (20+ miles through the park), Ledges Trail (2.2 miles with overlook), Blue Hen Falls Trail (3 miles round trip)
• Nearby Towns: Peninsula, Boston Heights, Brecksville, and Hudson—all offering dining, lodging, and small-town charm
• Parking: Available at all major trailheads and visitor centers; some lots fill quickly during fall weekends
• Accessibility: Select trails, overlooks, and the scenic railroad offer accessible options for visitors with mobility needs

Photos Courtesy: Cuyahoga Valley National Park