We are going with another couple to Hawaii for the first time this September. Does anyone have suggestions about which island would be best, and where we should stay?

We are looking for someplace that isn't too crowded, but is still close enough to other activities. We are considering both condos and hotels. Thanks for your help!

Kauai is the least crowded of the islands, and very laid back. It's beautiful, and has the best beaches I think. It's my favorite. Maui is beautiful, as is the big island. If you've never been to any of the islands, you really can't go wrong with any of them to tell the truth. Oahu has it's own charms, the shopping, and the the many many tourist destinations. If you want to get away from it all however, head to one of the others. I usually plan on a couple of days in Oahu to get my bearings and party, then spend the rest of my vacation elsewhere.

I'm not an expert on all of the islands, but my husband and I honeymooned on Maui last September and loved it! I would definitely recommend the Wailea area if you'd like to stay somewhere that isn't too crowded. It's a short drive to many of the touristy activities and there are opportunities there in Wailea, too. We stayed at the Kea Lani and it was very nice. The rooms are all suites, and they have a nice beach and a few pools. I don't think you can go wrong with any island, though! Have fun!

I used to live on the Big Island so I'm more than a little prejudice that way but would agree w/ the advice already given to above. My only recommendation is the following: "Do not try to do to more than 2 islands in a visit (unless your going for 3 wks or so. Not sure if plan on going back soon so I would encourage you to spend a night on Oahu and go to the Arizonia Memorial and try snorkeling at Hanauma Bay. Then head to your main destination (I'd suggest Kauai)and kick back!

I like the Big Island but love Maui...the above post was corerect when they suggested the Wailea area. Grand Champions Villas would be perfect. Not too busy and lovely tropical grounds.

Jessica

We went to Maui for the first time last year (October) and we absolutely LOVED it!! We can't wait to go back. Very laid back, lush and beautiful. We stayed in a Condo with hotel ammenties- Aston Kaanapali Shores. They have restaurant, tennis courts, located on the beach, rooms are nice with a/c living room, bedroom, full kitchen, sundry store, game room, fitness room, 2 swimming pools, etc.. Condo is also close to the stores. Make sure to get a room overlooking the ocean. BEAUTIFUL!! Wailea is very nice area too. We stayed in the Kaanapali area closer to all the activites.
Have fun, You won't be sorry
(I'm jealous)!!