When I say this season I mean a week in the summer season

Get the Ultimate Guide to Kauai we found if very helpful in identifying the beaches for families, new snorkelers. They also tell you how to look at the tides, what to watch out for in terms of a rip tide ect... I also could not go to Kauai and not stay on the North Shore. <BR><BR>This is my last North Shore post because I want that house to be availble when I am ready to rebook. I also don't want the North Shore to turn into a Lahaina.

I'm with you, Sarah. Notice that I didn't mention which homes we have rented there? I am very protective of our actual sources because I, too, do not want this area to become too commercial. The one-way bridges will do a lot of this, though.

Sarah, your secret is safe with me ;-) Thanks to you and loveshawaii for all the good info on beaches safe for kids. I've been resisting buying that Ultimate Guide to Kauai (I don't know why) but when I saw the great aerial views of the resorts at wizardpub.com I realized there is probably a wealth of info in that book. <BR><BR>I am looking at a week in May when my kids strangely don't have school -- one of those mystery weeks off. I'm assuming the waves will be safe by then. I will be sure when I book a house to specify one on as far to the northern end as possible, not near beach parking lots. These are the kind of tips I'm looking for. My kids aren't yet into the snorkeling (though this trip could change all that), but more the floaties in the waves kind of action. Mahalo again, fellow Hawaii lovers!

Thing is Susan, that the Ultimate guide tells you everything from where to swim to where to get the best shave ice. We did that taste survey and found their selections were ours. There is a trailer in Hanalei town that we would have never stopped at even though there was always a line when we passed.... also a hole in the wall in Waimea. Yum Yum and Yum. But for more than this the book is helpful.

Susan, and Sarah too: Don't pass up the opportunity to go to the local farmer's markets that are held on different days all over the island. The one in Hanalei, and in Kilauea are both wonderful for fresh produce and fantastic bunches of island flowers for $5 for a huge bunch that will last the entire time of your visit.<BR><BR>Also, the produce truck ("Farmers Market" he calls it) permanently parked next to the shave ice hut referred to by Sarah is also good for pineapples, tomatoes, papayas and limes.<BR><BR>Since you are going in May you should have no trouble finding a place. The waves on the north shore will have calmed down by then. Be certain to ask about any major events that may be scheduled during your stay. Once we got caught up in the outrigger race event in Hanalei that drew hundreds if not thousands of visitors.<BR><BR>One last point about provisioning your condo: the Food Land in Princeville is the most expensive grocery store on all of the islands. THe Big Save in Hanalei is also high priced and not as well stocked. I recommend that after you land in Lihue, stop at the Walmart or the Kmart (if it's still in business by then) and get all your non-perishable staples. Then, as you get closer to the rental unit, go to either of these grocery stores for the perishables. If you are travelling to Haena, you should buy a styrofoam cooler to pack all the cold things. It's at least a 20 minute drive to paradise.<BR><BR>Have a great trip. Happy to help. <BR><BR>

Yeah I actually would not go to the Hanalei store except for something you need in a pinch. This store is smaller a slight jump in price and the quality seems poorer. I like the Foodland in Pville for it's variety and the prices are not that much in difference than what we see in NYC so it was not a problem for us. Can't be bothered shopping for a week directly after a long flight so I frequently skip the grocery stores in Lihue, coconut coast.It is a 30-45 minute drive back to those stores if you want to shop next day. I have to tell you though I found the best fresh ahi (tuna) at Pville. Also there were a bunch of lomi salmon packages out, I asked the butcher when they were made he said I can make you some right now if you like. WOW not something I would even want from a NYC grocery store as the fish would be on it's last day (chain stores)in most cases. ...This was great though.

Oh the cooler idea is great but styrofoam in such a bootiful place? We did that and I still feel guilty. Hawaii has some negligent environmental legislation, no recycling program if you can imagine on such a small island. <BR><BR>Ok I am way off track just meant to say yes the cooler idea is a good one.

Coming from the east coast, I can understand your exhaustion and need to sleep rather than grocery shop. We come from SF so it's not so bad. Also, we try to bring a lot of our own food from home. It's not that we can't afford it, it's that we frequently can't get things we like, or small pantry items that are a nuisance to buy there. <BR><BR>Sorry about the reference to styrofoam, I was thinking Susan might not want to buy a full blown reusable cooler. We actually bring our own Coleman each trip.<BR><BR>I certainly understand the need to keep our little corner of paradise in pristine condition, and I heartily agree with your thoughts.

wow glad you agree I was waiting to get slammed. Just curious loveshawaii what can't find? I seem to find everything but I eat out a lot in my regular life so I don't get extravagant cooking on vacation. What can't you find?

canned tuna from italy!!!!

Hi Sarah, I always recommend my faves, when people ask for B&Bs, I recommend www.bnb-hawaii.com on this board. When people ask for cheap cheap lodging or even hostels, I recommend www.centralymcahonolulu.org. I don't work for them or anything, I just think those are the best values.......