Are there enough opportunities on Kauai?

[Guest]

Hey all. Looking for some Hawaii advice. I've been to Hawaii with my 10 year old son 4 times. We have mainly spent time on Oahu and the Big Island. We have had just an awesome time and I want to go back but do something different this time.

I'm very much into sightseeing, photography and just exploring. I absolutely loved doing Astrophotography, seeing the volcano on the big island, especially in 2018 during the eruption. I like a good resort and or condo that is kid friendly. I also enjoy golfing, whale watching and short hikes. My son likes water slides, a nice pool, casual restaurants and casual activities.

I was thinking of doing either Maui or Kauai, I thought about splitting the trip but decided against that. I'm wondering how much more scenic Kauai is over Maui. Also if it's too remote for my taste. Is it more budget friendly for a nicer place?

A few people have told me who split Maui/Kauai they wished they skipped Maui and stayed on Kauai. Everyone is different but I've heard that several times. Road to Hana is overrated etc.

I'm not a rural person but I'm also not a city dweller. I like eating out but also being close to drive to beautiful as scenic places. I felt the big island was perfect, it was vast yet had all the amenities. The star gazing was amazing and the resort we stayed at was awesome. Are there enough opportunities on Kauai?

Looking for some feedback.

Thanks.

[Melissa]

I haven’t been to Maui but absolutely love Kauai! I didn’t think it was too remote. I don’t remember where we stayed but it was nice. The Napali Coast is so beautiful, we hiked it, did a boat tour, and flew over it in a helicopter! Lots of hikes, cool swimming spots like Queens bath. We did a luau there.

It definitely seemed less commercial. For some that means less amenities

[Heidi]

Personally I dislike Kauai and wouldn’t go back, it’s small and feels small after two days my husband was itching to get off the island. Although the helicopter ride over the island is amazing. That said I would pick Maui every single time. It’s beautiful, diverse and big enough you don’t feel trapped. I love everything about Maui!

[Inge]

Kauai and Maui are both awesome. I would flip a coin or see where you can find the nicest lodging, car rental, etc. you can’t go wrong with either. I’m amazed that anyone wouldn’t like Kauai.

[Jenn]

People who like high-end hotels and high-end shopping tend to prefer Maui. If someone is going to Hawaii for the first time or for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I tend to recommend Maui because it has a little bit of everything and the beaches are bigger. But, for someone who has already been to Hawaii…definitely go to Kauai, especially if you are into photography, nature, and general exploring.

[Diane]

If you are looking for the better scenery, Kauai hands down. If you are looking for a wider variety of sites, restaurants, and excursions then Maui wins. Both a expensive but well worth visiting on their own. I spent 5 days on Kauai and thought that was enough time, but to make the most out of your trip, stay a couple days on the south end and a couple on the north. The island is small but they are SO different you will feel like you’ve been to two different islands. It’s definitely a slower vibe there but that’s why many people seek it out. I was surprised to hear from a few different locals that those who live on the South Island can spend their whole life there and never go to the north end and vice versa. Blew my mind!

[Diane]

Kauai hands down for scenery over Maui. Make sure you go to both North and South shores.. very different.

[Melanie]

Not sure where you heard the road to Hana is overrated. It is absolutely worth the drive. I mean it is Hawaii. You cannot go wrong. For myself in order of like it is Big Island, Maui, Kauai, then Oahu. But all are gorgeous.

[Jenn]

Been to Kauai 7 times. It has more of a small town feel but it’s definitely not “remote” (meaning going miles and miles with nothing around). It is SO INCREDIBLY SCENIC…loads of waterfalls, the high cliffs of the Napali coast, and Waimea Canyon (Hawaii’s version of the Grand Canyon). Go to Kauai! Stay in Poipu to be near golf and hotels with waterslides.

Take a boat ride. Take a helicopter ride. You will not regret it!

[Peter]

I have been to Maui and Kauai 3 times each. I definitely prefer Kauai for its ease of getting around, its beauty, and its laid-back feel. Maui is definitely beautiful but it’s too busy for us… there are many wonderful places to visit and the Road to Hana is certainly not overrated. If I am going back to Hawaii, it’s definitely to Kauai

[Batman]

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