I have a 10 day trip booked in early November for 4 nights Kauai & 4 nights Maui. I'm debating whether I should do 8 nights BI for less travel, volcano sights, etc. For a first time visit from East Coast, is both Kauai/Maui in 8 days too much?

No, I think your plans are fine. I've been to all 3 (and also to Oahu) and I still think that Maui and Kauai are the best, especially if it is your first trip to the islands. There is SO much to do and see on Maui and Kauai is so scenic w/ its Na Pali coastline. My favorite experiences were: Road to Hana (buy Maui Revealed and follow the route in the book to swim in waterfalls), drinking mai tais at the Hula Grill in Kanaapalli and at Dukes in Kauai, and a helicopter tour of the Napali Coast on Kauai - scary but a lifetime memory and thrill. The Big Island was TOO big to see in a short period of time - lots of car travel time and the volcano was a bit of a disappointment for us since the lava wasn't really spewing, just oozing on top of some rocks (and it's quite a trek to get to the lava).

Thanks, I needed that affirmation and am going to keep Maui/Kauai itinerary and do Big Island for a separate trip.

I'd say skip Maui but that's just me. I find it too much like Oahu (touristy). Regardless, enjoy!

Aloha Pumpy!

Oh, you must try the no shore on O'ahu... just might change your mind...

Aloha Cotes,

Maui & Kauai are great... smart plan to save BI for a trip of it's own... that's the perfect way to experience Hawaii... keep coming back for more!

And don't let Pumpy scare you away from O'ahu... it's a wonderful island, you just need to know how to experience it...

Much aloha! Happy planning.

Cotes, Kauai and Maui will be great for your first trip. Then plan at least ten days next time, splitting it between Oahu and the Big Island. They're all wonderful......... each has it's own magic!