My wife and I have never been to the Big Island or Kauai and are planning a 5 day getaway the beginning of January. We have been to Maui and love it.
Does anyone have an opinion as to which one would be a better bet this time of year? We both are adventurous but also like to just beach it on a beautiful beach.
Any opinions would be much appreciated.

Thanks so much in advance.
-T

Well, if beaches are important you'll probably want to come to Kaua`i. As the youngest inhabited island in the chain, Hawai`i island has fewer beaches.

Since you'll be here in the middle of winter, I'd suggest you look for a place to stay on the south shore (Po`ipu area). Our north shore can be rather wet 'n wild in January.

Thanks so much for the opinion. Do you think 5-6 days is too much on Kauai?

We visited both islands one January. It rained everyday on Kauai, so we were thankful the itinerary sent us south to the Big Island for the second week. So much warmer there in January that year.
Either place, 5-6 days won't be too long a stay. You wouldn't want to spend one of those precious days traveling, when you just have one week, IMHO.

Thanks MaureenB,
I have been really worried about all that rain on Kauai.
Were did you stay on the Big Island?

Late responder. Been to both. Kauai last month. I'd pick the Big Island. If you don't mind spending some money, I'd recommend one of the resorts in the Waikoloa area. There's also some nice condo choices up there as well. The area around the Mauna Lani is some of the most beautiful in all the islands plus a great beach.

Yes. I'd also STRONGLY recommend The BI. Especially in Jan because we always go to Kauai in Dec/Jan and...<ahem..clearing my throat getting ready to sing the "Kauai Khorus">...


"We all know it rains all the time, no nightlife, too expensive and nothing toooooo doooooooooooooo"

And tell one friend to tell two friends...etc etc....>-

We have stayed three times in a condo complex on the Big Island that we really like, called Sea Village. It's a great location, south of Kona, a smaller complex, about six three-story buildings, fantastic ocean views if you request one, two bedroom/two bath units (smaller ones, too, I think), nice central garden with barbecue grills to use, nice pool by the rocky sea wall, free tennis courts and parking, etc. They are individually owned and managed, so just Google "Sea Village" and you'll find some. Or try Donita's Vacations Unlimited-- she manages the one we've always rented. They are very nicely kept and have been an amazing value the times we've rented through Donita.
For a resort, we have liked the Mauna Lani and the Hilton Waikaloa (when our kids were smaller).

We stayed on Kauai for fourteen days last February. It rained for three of those days, but with all the features Kauai has to offer, we didn't even care. And, 14 days was not enough!