First question: I know it's rainy season in November in Hawaii. Should we forget Hawaii is an option? (We were planning on Kauai)

Next question: Where to stay in Kauai? (clean, safe, moderate)

Last question: Can 1 week in Kauai cost <$4K? I've seen quotes on air/hotel for 2 between $2K and $3K. How much will food/activities cost for 1 week?

Thanks so much for answering any of these questions. I really appreciate it. (FYI, I also did a search

Laura

Hi, as an "old" hand at going to Hawaii especially Kauai (our favorite island) perhaps I can help a little.
(1) where to stay: As far as hotels go and moderately priced you could check the old Kauai Resort now called the Sunspree or any of the Astins, Astin beachboy,etc.

(2) Rainy season: we've been there in Sept and had little rain, but I guess it's the luck of the draw. But then as they say "it's only liquid sunshine."

(3) As far as money, we always plan on 100.00 a day. That covers just about anything and I usually have money left over at the end of the trip.

Hope I've helped some, and if you do go to Kauai have a wonderful trip, it is a wonderful island.

Laura, I forgot to mention that northwest usually has a hotel/air and sometimes w/car deal every year that runs about 800.00 - 850.00 per person depending on where you are.

FYI: The abovementioned Sunspree is now called Aloha Beach Resort and the Beachboy is now called Kauai Coast Resort! These properties are located on the east side of Kauai and are clean and safe, tho the Kauai Coast Resort has gotten pricey since its renovation.

You may want to try a package deal that includes hotel, car, airfare. But post the list of hotels here cuz some of the packages use less-than-stellar facilities.

If you are going to enjoy "activities" on Kauai you will need waaaaaaaaaaaaay more than $100 a day spending money. Boat tours, helicopters cost $100+ per person. Luaus are in the $60pp range. If you are just thinking of hiking, snorleking, beaching, and sightseeing and plan not to splurge on meals then you can do with significantly less spending money.

Kauai has many different areas:
North (Hanalei, Princeville) for gorgeous, spectacular scenery but with a good chance of rain.

South (Poipu) for sun.

East (Kapaa, Lihue, Wailua) for variety and convenience.

Thank you for the information, it does help. I know we'll make it to Hawaii someday (well I hope) but I'm just trying to figure out if now is the right time, or if I should wait for a different weather season - or, mostly, for more cash!

Laura