King's Land
Long time listener, first time caller. I believe the OP is referring to HGVC Waikoloa? In case you're considering King's Land, noise from units above 1st/2nd floor has never been an issue for us, so I'm assuming it is better noise insulated than HGVC Waikoloa, but if someone is wearing wood sandals or high heels on a wood floor you are going to hear it no matter what, so if this sort of thing bothers you, then this is a consideration. 1st/2nd floor have lava rock/palm tree views. 3rd floor has golf course views. 1st floor is just personal preference if you like having an open Lanai vs. being on the first floor where someone can just walk up to your door/window. I will say phase 1 King's land have really nice lanais with outdoor couches, table, etc. so you'll definitely want to spend some time out there with coffee, wine, etc. For me personally, I like the "feel" of privacy a 2nd floor enclosed lanai provides versus a lanai open to the common area, although there are limited walking paths (to the pools/BBQ) so you won't actually see anyone walking by. I also prefer the 2nd floor views vs. the golf course views since I prefer the illusion of being at a resort. The 3rd floor ruins the illusion where you can clearly see you are smack dab in the middle of a lava field surrounded by a golf course. The views aren't great, so no sense spending extra for them. By the way, if you do stay at King’s land, make sure you stay in Phase 1 buildings. Phase 2 are across the street, don't have any pools, are smaller, and have chintzy metal/glass tables/chairs vs. wood table and plush outdoor couches in phase 1.
