Hawaii in '09
 

planning early for a Hawaii vacation in Nov 09. Using mileage and Hilton hotel points so need to book early. Suggestions on which island to stay - will have 3 seniors and 6 20-40yr old children/stepchildren. Some love to scuba.. most love to snorkel.. need some nightlife but not overload

Just back. Stayed at the Hilton Hawaiian village on Oahu. Very busy hotel with lots of shopping.
People on this board hotly debate which island, and many seem to eschew Oahu, but I felt that it had something for everyone. The Waikiki area is bustling--reminded me a bit of Miami Beach, but if you go to the North Shore or other parts of the island it is breathtaking. Plenty of snorkeling available. HI truly exceeded my expectations in every way, and I can't wait to return.

I would not recommend going to the Big Island, but if you do the Hilton in Kona is fabulous. If there is a Hilton in Kauai, go there if at all possible. It is soooooo beautiful.

I'd pick either Oahu or Maui for the group you describe.

I'm a Hawaii resident so let me try to help you:

1. Oahu is a busy island (almost one mlllion residents). Freeways, congestion... and some very interesting attractions. As others have pointed out, Waikiki is like Miami Beach - lots of high-rise hotels, shopping, nightclubs ... its very busy but lots of fun if you like that sort of experience. The North Shore (which you should see if you visit Oahu) is quiet, rural and very beautiful.

2. Maui is more rural... no freeways, no high-rise buildings... very casual, laid back... and more expensive. It has grest snorkeling, beautiful beaches and some great restaurants - but not much nightlife. If you want a quieter experience, then choose this island.

3. Big Island - it's very beautiful but these days its literally being choked by Vog (volcanic smog). (Crops are even dying from the vog.) I'd stay away from there if I were you.

4. Why not try both islands? Start on Oahu, spend a few days touring, relaxing... then take your rental car on the Superferry to Maui and stay there for a few days.

Hope this info helps you. Aloha.

Oahu & Maui have the most things to do.

Lots of info including sites with free brochures for all islands:

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...p;tid=34812564