With a couple of months in November, I would want to split it up between Oahu and The Big Island, maybe with 2 weeks in Kauai and 2 in Maui thrown in. OK, 2 on Molokai, too.

For longer stays, it's more cost effective to rent a condo and you'll have the added advantage of having a kitchen and washer and dryer. Many great condos are listed on vrbo.com.

My husband and I spent a month on the the Big Island last year. The experience was sensational! Lots to see, lots to do, not crowded. There were many days that we had the entire beach to ourselves. We paid $1500 to rent a 2 bedroom, 2 bath, brand new condo.

Like Placename said, you could easily fit 4 islands in an 8 week stay with a comfortable 2wks/island. Pricewise, without knowing what activities you want to do, you can find reasonable food and vacation rentals n all islands.... I will throw this option out...You can visit, Molokai & Lanai from Maui by ferry ...so instead of an intimate visit with airport security, you will have a pleasant boat ride

I think the decision should be based on where you want to be and what you like to do. You can probably find reasonable lodgings on all of the islands.

I stay on the North Shore of Kauai 3 - 4 times a year, for 4 - 6 weeks each time. I rent a Sealodge condo with breathtaking views for around $3,000/month. There are much less expensive places listed on VRBO--but not with those views.

I have found some local car rental companies (individual and family-run businesses) that rent older, less pristine cars for longer periods for a fraction of the price of the majors. I'm hesitant to recommend them until I've tried them--but will be using one for my upcoming 39 day stay on Kauai and will report back. (The best I could do on Hotwire was $1606. I've got a rate of $780 for a 2000 Ford Focus -- 100% all-inclusiive). I found a $725 rate for a '95 Camry, but I prefer the smaller, newer car.

I love my little "home away from home" on Kauai. For 3 -4 months each year I get to live there--and don't have any desire to island hop during my 6 weeks.

Enjoy.