ForkinMouth

Planning to split my 6 days on Kauai in mid-November equally between the North Shore (HBR) and Poipu (probably the Hyatt). I know the lush North Shore is wetter, but is the November shoulder season likely to be a wash-out? And, will Hanalei and surrounding beaches be too rough for snorkeling in November?

auntiemaria

Our wet season actually begins in October, and is in full swing by November...usually.

There are years when we have dry winters and then there are years like now -- rain, rain, rain all the way into April.

While our winter surf conditions are legendary, there definitely are days when snorkeling is possible in November...but no guarantees. 8-)

ForkinMouth

Auntiemaria: If the wet season begins in October, what does that "usually" mean for pre-Thanksgiving November conditions on the North Shore? Daily rain? Showers a few days a week? I know its hard to predict the weather, but I'd like some guidance as to whether it is worth it to split my time between Princeville and Poipu in mid-November. I know from an earlier trip that the North Shore is a truly special place, and I wanted to experience it again...but only if there is a reasonable chance that the weather will cooperate.

auntiemaria

If I had to bet money on the November weather, I'd put my money on rain.

We happen to love the rain, the waterfalls, the rainbows, and the lush greenery of the northshore. But for folks who are paying $$$ for a winter vacation here -- hoping for sunny skies and warmth -- I always recommend Po`ipu first.

Just make sure to save one day to come enjoy our area, 'kay? 8-)

salgal

Stayed in PRinceville over Thanksgiving a couple of years ago. We had great weather the whole week. Not a drop of rain. However, the week before we were there, it rained the whole week!!

salgal

Also- we had no problems with snorkeling in November. We snorkeled right off the PRinceville resort.