Making (sort of) last minute ressies for VB or HHI

[MatterhornMiss]

I get four weeks vacation each year (a year is from July 1 to June 30) that I have to use by June 30 or lose the remaining days. I'm trying to plan for the remaining three weeks (I have to plan somewhat in advance, as I have to put my vacation request in at least 2 months prior to leaving) since one of the weeks is for my WDW trip this Sept. I was thinking of going to HHI or VB one week, but I would probably only make the decision 2-4 months in advance (that is waiting until the last minute for me ;)). I don't know what time of year it would be; I wouldn't even mind going in cooler weather because I don't care to actually swim in the ocean, but was wondering if I would have trouble getting a room (studio or inn) not very far out. Would it make any difference if it were a cash trip instead of a points vacation?

Any suggestions for vacation are welcome, including time to go, etc. If anyone has gone in the fall or winter or early spring, I'd also appreciate input. Thanks!

[bwv dreamin]

I get four weeks vacation each year (a year is from July 1 to June 30) that I have to use by June 30 or lose the remaining days. I'm trying to plan for the remaining three weeks (I have to plan somewhat in advance, as I have to put my vacation request in at least 2 months prior to leaving) since one of the weeks is for my WDW trip this Sept. I was thinking of going to HHI or VB one week, but I would probably only make the decision 2-4 months in advance (that is waiting until the last minute for me ;)). I don't know what time of year it would be; I wouldn't even mind going in cooler weather because I don't care to actually swim in the ocean, but was wondering if I would have trouble getting a room (studio or inn) not very far out. Would it make any difference if it were a cash trip instead of a points vacation?

Any suggestions for vacation are welcome, including time to go, etc. If anyone has gone in the fall or winter or early spring, I'd also appreciate input. Thanks!

You will have problems at HHI. I tried to book for anytime in Nov and Dec this year for a studio or one bedroom. Only 1 week was available for a studio...nothing else with consecutive days. If you want HHI, 2 bedrooms are your best bet at 7 mos. And not too much later than that during May, June, Sept. Forget anything at 7 mos for middle of June, all of July and August. You will have much better luck at Vero Beach. Now, you couldn't do this for spring break, NYE, or maybe some of June. These are really popular times at VB. I would say definitely 4 mos. out for an INN room, 2 bedrooms go quick. Hope this helps. :)

[simbasmom]

In February and March, I've always been able to get a 1 BR at HHI at under 7 months. However, I haven't been at that time of year in about 2 years now, and things seem to be getting more difficult to book everywhere recently.

[MatterhornMiss]

Well, I called MS last night and for the first week in Jan (when I'm looking to go), there appears to plenty of availability for a studio. So I have a few more questions. If anyone has stayed at HHI, how comfortable are the sofa beds? Also, in the kitchenette, does the mini-fridge have a freezer? Or is it just one of those sort-of separated areas that might be slightly colder than the rest of the fridge? Or none at all?

[HHIChef]

Hello! I'm afraid that I can't answer your questions about the studios at Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort, but I do live on the island and I would be more than happy to answer any other questions that you may have.

January is a very quiet time of the year here, but it's still beautiful. The weather is a bit unpredictable...in the past we've had temperatures on New Year's Day in the 80's and in the 40's. There are very few restaurants that close for the winter anymore. It used to be a ghost town in the winter, but not now; almost all of the shops and restaurants will be open, and there are plenty of other activities, too.

Please feel free to ask any questions that you may have about Hilton Head Island, and I'll do my best to answer them for you!

Have a magical day!

[MatterhornMiss]

Thanks! I appreciate the help. If I can talk my sisters into it, I think I've decided to move the trip to Dec 14-18. I really need another vacation while I'm at my current site (I change January 1). That time is still considered "adventure" season at HHI. Since it is before Christmas, are the crowds any different?

[lllovell]

We tried out the HHI resort a couple of years ago in January and loved it. Because the points were so cheap, we did a long weekend. The only drawback to that resort is that the it is't on the beach. You have to get in your car and head through a resort across the street to get to the DVC owned beach house. The beachhouse is open in the winter months, but during January, the activities there are not going on and the snack bar/counter service restaurant isn't open. So, if you are thinking of having your cup of morning coffee while you stroll along the cool sand, know it isn't right outside your door. All that said, we REALLY enjoyed our trip and would love to go back. It was our first truly relaxing DVC trip. :p Dang those theme parks and all their activity!

The kids and I even went swimming (with everyone looking at us like we were crazy). We asked and they turned on the slide and everything. It think it was in the 50s but the pool was heated. So we would hustle up the slide and back into the warm water. It was a blast having the pool to ourselves.



Chef - It is fantastic to have someone who lives at HHI here on our boards! I will have to hit you up next time we go down to get some dining ideas for families.


Laura

[MatterhornMiss]

The kids and I even went swimming (with everyone looking at us like we were crazy). We asked and they turned on the slide and everything. It think it was in the 50s but the pool was heated. So we would hustle up the slide and back into the warm water. It was a blast having the pool to ourselves.

:rotfl2:I love that you asked them to turn on the slide!

Relaxing is DEFINITELY what I'm looking for. I'm not a beach person, so it doesn't bother me to not be able to step out of my door and onto the beach. I just want to be able to lay around and enjoy doing nothing.

Any opinions on the sofabed?

[HHIChef]

Hello! If you visit during mid December, you will find the island to be fairly quiet, but not as quiet as January. There will be many holiday related activities to enjoy at that time of the year. One of my favorite holiday traditions is to see the Hallelujah Singers' Holiday Show. They are a local performing group who perform traditional Southern music and they are fantastic. Another fun thing to do at that time of the year is to drive up and down South Forest Beach which is less than 10 minutes away from the Disney resort. The whole neighborhood decorates to the extreme, with millions of lights and other decorations. You can just drive up and down the roads and enjoy the sights...it's like a big party and the purpose is to raise money for some local charities (there are buckets for voluntary donations).

The weather will probably be mild at that time of the year, but our winter unpredictability will have begun, so be prepared for anything from the mid 80's to the mid 50's. It's usually clear and sunny in the winter, though, so even if the temperatures are cool, it will probably at least be sunny. Taking long walks or bike rides on the beach is another favorite winter activity on the island. Shopping is always an option and we have hundreds of outstanding restaurants, too. Of course, the Disney resort will be offering many activities as well.

Please don't hesitate to ask any questions! I hope that you have a wonderful day, and thanks for the warm welcomes!

[Stitch]

We've been going in March and August for many years now. March is usually great for biking and walking about. We will sit on the beach but rarely go in then. The pools can be crowded in March, but fun crowded, not crazy crowded.

We bring the dog in March since it's not too hot and she can go to the beach with us. That bit of building in the background is the resort's beach house.

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b180/90Jetta/HHI%20March%2007/BeachBum2.jpg

here's a quick temp. guide:

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b180/90Jetta/Weather.jpg

[lllovell]

:rotfl2:I love that you asked them to turn on the slide!

Relaxing is DEFINITELY what I'm looking for. I'm not a beach person, so it doesn't bother me to not be able to step out of my door and onto the beach. I just want to be able to lay around and enjoy doing nothing.

Any opinions on the sofabed?


Hey - I figure we paid our dues - turn that puppy on! We wanna slide. :silly:

The kids slept on the sofa bed there so I don't have an opinion. We need Stitch. He love the HHI resort and spends time there every year.

Where is that troublemaker?

Chef - that sounds so pretty :) I love lights. Maybe one year we can sneak over when we can't make it to WDW during the holiday season.

Laura

[Stitch]

where is that troublemaker?

39° 53' n 75° 15' w

[lllovell]

:tongue: well - I asked for that.

Give the woman a studio sofa review....or must you speak with your experimental offspring?

LLL

[Stitch]

how comfortable are the sofa beds?

They're not that bad, I've used them and was surprised to find them comfy.


does the mini-fridge have a freezer? Or is it just one of those sort-of separated areas that might be slightly colder than the rest of the fridge? Or none at all?

It's just the small seperated area at the top of the mini fridge, It will hold an ice tray or two. But it does freeze. I'll take a pic of it next week and post it. (Riveting I know, I bet you can't wait to see a picture of the mini fridge from Disney's HHI resort! I Can hear it now, "Oh honey, look, a picture of mini fridge. Wow!")

[lllovell]

They're not that bad, I've used them and was surprised to find them comfy.



It's just the small seperated area at the top of the mini fridge, It will hold an ice tray or two. But it does freeze. I'll take a pic of it next week and post it. (Riveting I know, I bet you can't wait to see a picture of the mini fridge from Disney's HHI resort! I Can hear it now, "Oh honey, look, a picture of mini fridge. Wow!")


I just LOL and got asked what I am doing in here...all alone...supposed to be working. :rotfl2:

[MatterhornMiss]

I'm getting some great information here. Thanks so much!

What are some restaurants you all recommend? Since my sisters will want to conserve money (and me too), I figured we'd pack food for two meals and just eat out once in a day.

Also, what activities are there that are free or low cost offered at the resort?

Thanks again!

[HHIChef]

Hello! There are literally hundreds of restaurants from which to choose on Hilton Head Island. Within walking distance of Disney's Hilton Head Island Resort are several nice restaurants, including Little Venice (Italian) and Scott's Fish Market. Both are moderately priced and are quite good. There is a Mexican restaurant within walking distance, too, but I don't think that it's too good. You can also walk to the Harbourmaster Ocean Grille, which is pretty expensive, but very, very good. The most popular restaurant on the island is probably the Old Oyster Factory, which is just a short drive from the resort. It has beautiful water views and great food, too, and the prices are reasonable. The Sea Shack is a real 'locals' sort of a place that is extremely casual but has fantastic seafood...it's about a ten minute drive from the Disney resort.

I would suggest picking up some of the brochures that are all around the island. They not only have dining suggestions, but they also have information about many other things to do on the island. The Disney resort has some of these brochures and magazines, but they don't display them so you have to ask for them at the Front Desk. Many of these brochures also have coupons, so they really are worth checking out.

Since you're planning to visit in a relatively quiet time, you might also want to consider the early bird dinners on the island. Most of the local restaurants offer early bird dinners during the quieter times that are very reasonably priced. The only catch is that you need to be there fairly early in the evening. I'm pretty sure that the Disney resort has some information about restaurants, and even some suggestions for dining, and some of the restaurants offer DVC discounts, so please don't forget to ask when you check in!

I hope that this helps! Have a wonderful day!

[MatterhornMiss]

I really appreciate you sharing your wonderful knowledge, HHIChef. I especially appreciate your money-saving tips ;)

I hope YOU have a wonderful day!

[Stitch]

Here you go:

http://www.thehiltonheadislandguide.com/

This is a web version of the 100+ page restaurant guide they give you at check in. The site is a bit clunky, but you can search and narrow down choices. I think that only the restaurants that buy an ad in the printed guide get on this site, but there are still hundreds listed.

Note that the DVC resort is in Shelter Cove and is considered to be in the "North Central" area. Though any area will be within 15 minutes by car.

I'll second the Chef's idea about early bird specials. We have taken advantage of this with take-out as well. It's easy to call from the beach late in the afternoon, pick up the food, and either bring it back to the villa, or run back to the beach house and sit poolside.

Many will also give a Disney Resort 10% discount. Just have your room key ready and be sure to ask.

[MatterhornMiss]

Thanks again! I appreciate everyone's help.

[MatterhornMiss]

Well, I made my ressie today for Dec 14-18. I love it--only 6 points a night for a studio! My sisters have yet to commit, but it might be kinda nice to just have a relaxing vacation all by myself. Either way, I will be happy!

[lllovell]

That 6 points a night is hard to beat!!!

I am glad you made your reservations. It is a nice resort and is so restful. I will be looking forward to hearing how you like the area at Christmas.

Laura

[Stitch]

Congrats. If you enjoy it half as much as we do, you'll hav a great time.

[KevinZ]

After reading this thread, I'm wondering how hard is it to get a room 7 months out for Sept or October? We're thinking about going to HHI next year at this time.

[Stitch]

Can't hurt to try Mr. Figment! Sept & Oct are still prime vacation seasons in HHI. The weather is fabulous then. Even a storm like Fay won't ruin a trip to HHI.

Go for it!

[Sparrowsprincess]

Can't hurt to try Mr. Figment! Sept & Oct are still prime vacation seasons in HHI. The weather is fabulous then. Even a storm like Fay won't ruin a trip to HHI.

Go for it!


Hi,

I have to agree! Keep calling, you never know! I just got 10/5 to 10/9 today @ HH today. I called yesterday and those dates were not available, so be presistant & flexible! Good luck!

[KevinZ]

We will give it a try next year!

[MatterhornMiss]

Well, I have just 12 days until my first trip to DVC's HHI resort. Only one of my sisters can make it with me, and she's the one that is the COMPLETE opposite of me, so it should be interesting from that standpoint (:cool:).

I am very much looking forward to it. I didn't realize how close to Christmas I really was booking it. But that's okay. I'm looking just to kick back around the resort, though we probably will be out doing more given that my sister really likes to stay busy. She said she heard something about some Christmas thing in Savannah--anyone know about that? Or any other special local Christmas events going on Dec 14-18?

I'm going to have to look over the list of restaurants recommended. I'm thinking will have one real meal out a day.

This will be my first stay in a studio! (Although, to be realistic, my first stay in a DVC resort period was just this past September).

[Stitch]

she heard something about some Christmas thing in Savannah--anyone know about that?

Really? They celebrate Christmas in Savannah?

Well I'll be.

[MatterhornMiss]

Really? They celebrate Christmas in Savannah?

Well I'll be.

:tongue:

[simbasmom]

Well, I have just 12 days until my first trip to DVC's HHI resort. Only one of my sisters can make it with me, and she's the one that is the COMPLETE opposite of me, so it should be interesting from that standpoint (:cool:).

I am very much looking forward to it. I didn't realize how close to Christmas I really was booking it. But that's okay. I'm looking just to kick back around the resort, though we probably will be out doing more given that my sister really likes to stay busy. She said she heard something about some Christmas thing in Savannah--anyone know about that? Or any other special local Christmas events going on Dec 14-18?

I'm going to have to look over the list of restaurants recommended. I'm thinking will have one real meal out a day.

This will be my first stay in a studio! (Although, to be realistic, my first stay in a DVC resort period was just this past September).

We just returned from HHI with tons of booklets and the only special event I could find was (I guess it runs the whole season) the Dove Street Festival of Lights, a huge outdoor light display. They even have their own website-www.dovestreetlights.com
Maybe you'll get studio #1134-the view from that one is beautiful.

[MatterhornMiss]

We just returned from HHI with tons of booklets and the only special event I could find was (I guess it runs the whole season) the Dove Street Festival of Lights, a huge outdoor light display. They even have their own website-www.dovestreetlights.com
Maybe you'll get studio #1134-the view from that one is beautiful.

Oooh, thanks! I'll have to request it (or something close) at check-in. I'm afraid to request beforehand :blush:

[HHIChef]

Hello!

As Dorothy already mentioned, the Dove Street Christmas Lights are a must-see while you're here. It is an ocean front neighborhood where the residents put up over the top decorations covering several blocks. They originally did it as a way to raise money for the Deep Well project, and they still do set up donation barrels, but it is a free event and a long time island tradition! There are many other options, as well, like the South Beach Christmas Village, where you can enjoy the Annual Salty Dog Shrimp Festival (until 12-15), the musical South Pacific is playing at the Carolina Arts Center, which is within walking distance of our resort. There are tons of shopping opportunities, with beautiful decorations at most of them. There are some great bargains available this year, too, because tourism is down so the stores are having terrific sales in order to drive their businesses.

I hope that you'll stop by the Broad Creek Mercantile when you have the chance, because I'm sure that I'll think of many other things to do between now and the time that you arrive! As you already know, there are fantastic restaurants here, and there are many, many things to do at the resort.

I'm sure that you're going to have a great time while you're here! Have a safe trip, and I'll see you real soon!

Have a wonderful day!
Gordon

[MatterhornMiss]

Hello!

As Dorothy already mentioned, the Dove Street Christmas Lights are a must-see while you're here. It is an ocean front neighborhood where the residents put up over the top decorations covering several blocks. They originally did it as a way to raise money for the Deep Well project, and they still do set up donation barrels, but it is a free event and a long time island tradition! There are many other options, as well, like the South Beach Christmas Village, where you can enjoy the Annual Salty Dog Shrimp Festival (until 12-15), the musical South Pacific is playing at the Carolina Arts Center, which is within walking distance of our resort. There are tons of shopping opportunities, with beautiful decorations at most of them. There are some great bargains available this year, too, because tourism is down so the stores are having terrific sales in order to drive their businesses.

I hope that you'll stop by the Broad Creek Mercantile when you have the chance, because I'm sure that I'll think of many other things to do between now and the time that you arrive! As you already know, there are fantastic restaurants here, and there are many, many things to do at the resort.

I'm sure that you're going to have a great time while you're here! Have a safe trip, and I'll see you real soon!

Have a wonderful day!
Gordon

Thanks for the tips! I'm sure my sister would love the shrimp festival. And I'm always up for bargains!

[MatterhornMiss]

Just want to make sure--do the studios have DVD players?

Oh, and one more thing--does HHI have (free) internet in the rooms?

[HHIChef]

Just want to make sure--do the studios have DVD players?

Oh, and one more thing--does HHI have (free) internet in the rooms?


Yes and yes:thumbsup2:! There are a selection of DVDs available to borrow at the Broad Creek Mercantile...of course, they are all Disney titles, and they are free to DVC Members.

I just got back from a bike ride around the Dove Street lights (it's a very warm evening here). It's beautiful, as always. The island seems quieter than usual. I've heard that tourism is down, so I guess that explains it...you should be able to walk right into any restaurants that you choose and get great parking spots at all of the shopping areas.

I'll see ya' real soon!
Have a safe trip,
Gordon

[simbasmom]

Oh, and one more thing--does HHI have (free) internet in the rooms?

I can agree with Gordon from personnal experience. I used the internet from several different rooms over Thanksgiving. It was great, and no, I never got charged for it. A call to the front desk (because they ask for a password given to you by the front desk) verified that it was free for members.

[MatterhornMiss]

Thanks so much everybody!

[MatterhornMiss]

Well, I've been so busy with Christmas preparations that I haven't given much thought to my trip (in fact, I just started packing an hour ago, and I'm leaving in a few hours to drive to my sister's house so we can head out tomorrow morning). But when I went to have my oil changed a little while earlier and pulled out my AAA card for a discount, I caught a glimpse of my DVC membership card and I thought, "I'm going to be in a DVC resort soon!" And my eyes welled up, just a little.