As another data point (possibly useful), we were at the La Quinta that is midway up the island but located on the beach. There's a pier just down from there that has a decent view (through binoculars or a small telescope).
Even there, when it went up, the door to the beach (which we had open to see if we could hear it) was rattling, as well as the windows in the room.
Obviously there is something to be said for being at the park, but I suspect there is something to be said for being a bit further north - particularly if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds leaving afterwards.
Do plan to spend some time on the island afterwards - as the main route back is a longish two lane bridge that will back up significantly for a couple hours as the early birds try to rush out.
Even there, when it went up, the door to the beach (which we had open to see if we could hear it) was rattling, as well as the windows in the room.
Obviously there is something to be said for being at the park, but I suspect there is something to be said for being a bit further north - particularly if you want to avoid the worst of the crowds leaving afterwards.
Do plan to spend some time on the island afterwards - as the main route back is a longish two lane bridge that will back up significantly for a couple hours as the early birds try to rush out.