I'm planning a 10 year anniversary trip for next November. We did Maui a few years ago and were not that impressed (too much tourism). I've heard Kauai is better (more remote, bigger cliffs, etc.) but am tempted to just go somewhere like St. John or Tortola. We've done Cancun, Cozumel, Grand Cayman, and Jamacia already. Any thoughts?

St. John or Tortola would be great choices. I haven't been to Kauai but I can't imagine many who wouldn't like STJ or Tortola. Great beaches, laid back, beautiful water.

I have been to St John and Kauai.

Both are nice for different reasons.I liked Kauai for the beautiful dramatic landscape,waterfalls,nice locals,decent snorkeling.It's not over developed with highrises either.

I liked St John for the calm waters,great snorkeling,lush mountainous vegetation.It is not overrun with highrises either but is getting more and more developed.

IMHO..Kauai is a more beautiful island BUT if you like to snorkel or dive..St John would be a better choice.

Both islands have some decent restaurants.

You cannot go wrong with either choice.I love both for different reasons.

Christie

We've been to Maui also, and like you, wasn't impressed. Thought the beaches were sub-par compared to the Caribbean, and the prices too high.

We went to St. Thomas/St. John this past May and really didn't care for it either. We spent the day in the BVI's and like that area better. We would like to explore that area more someday.

If your looking for lush, mountainous, and beauty look into St. Lucia. We went last month and have to say it is the most beautiful Island we have been to so far.

November is getting into the rainy season in Hawaii, and cooler water temperatures. You should find better weather in the Caribbean and water temps. well over 80 deg. St. John is beautiful, with some of the most pristine beaches + snorkeling. Grenada is another lushly beautiful island.

Even though you are going in November, I would still choose Kauai. It is getting into the rainy season, so I would stay in the Po'ipu area and make a day trip up to see the Na Pali coast. The hiking is like nothing you've ever done and the food is a highlight. We came back with more film from Kauai than anywhere else we've ever been. It's a very special place to celebrate a tenth anniversary. The people are very welcoming to their oh- so-beautiful island.

I have been to both islands and agree whole-heartedly with Christie's response. While on Kauai, we also went on a guided tour that included a canoe trip up a river and hike through a tropical forest; the guides were informative and the difficulty level was moderate at best. Both islands are winners; pick one for your 10th and the other for your 11th!

It really depends on what you are looking for.

If you prefer a landscape that can only be described as "Epic"....Then Kauai hands down. Nothing in the Caribbean compares. By far one of the most beautiful spots I've ever had the priviledge to see, especially the Napoli Coast and the Waimia (sp?) Canyon.

If turquoise water and beautiful beaches is priority...Caribbean all the way.