TheJacksons

I want to thank all the Fodorites who helped me narrow down my trip to the islands of Kauai and BI. My family (brother, parents, husband, and toddler) will be spending 3 days in Kauai and 6 days on the BI. On our short list of things to do we want to hike, visit beaches, and see the volcano. As for accommodations, we want to rent a condo with 2-3 bedrooms (my brother is willing to sleep on the couch if need be) on each island. I am looking for feedback from folks on the following:
1) Do you think we split the time on each island appropriately?
2) Where would you recommend staying on each island and why? This could be geographic location or an acutal suggestion for a condo.

TIA to all who reply. You never lead me astray.

Kal

Decent split all things considered. You'll probably need more time to explore the larger BI.

With only 3 days on Kauai I'd suggest staying on the Coconut Coast-Kapaa area.
Central to everything and a short ride to the airport.
Mucho mahalos!

gyppielou

Kal has it going on. Staying in Kapaa will leave you one day to turn right, one day to turn left and one day to hang low.

Kal

....And in Kapaa you can wave at your non-vacationing friends on the Islander's webcam.
Not like I'VE ever done that.

mgwest

Sounds like a reasonable split. Kauai is small and easy to get around. The 1 hr helicopter tour was amazing (not cheap). The Princeville hotel is outstanding and the south shore is nice.On the BI I would stay in the Kona area (Hilo side has lots of rain). Lots to do but you need a car. Hilton Grand Vacations hotel is special with a train on the property. You can just go in and tour around. Shopping area adjacent to the hotel and a public beach next door. Coffee plantation visit was interesting. To see the active volcano is quite a trip but doable.

Kal

"easy"?

You ever been caught in a "Kapaa Krush"?

iceeu2

For only 3 days on Kauai, you might want to check out the new Waipouli Beach Resort(it's on the east side). You could easily accommodate the five of you in their 2 br condos. I believe it is an Outrigger property or you might get lucky and find only three days available on vrbo.com We stayed there a couple of years ago and liked it very much.

Have fun!

btw, I hope to be in the "Kapaa Krush" in only 50 more days!

TheJacksons

You people are the greatest!!! This is exactly what I was hoping for. I knew the Fodorites wouldn't let me down. Also, I am looking forward to the webcam. Thanks for the tip Kal - no shame in my game! Ha!

gyppielou

In regards to BI, it's still on the list for me, but most seem likely to recommend 2 nights on Hilo/Volcano side and 4 nights on the other side Kailua/Kona. I think I'd start by flying into Hilo and then heading noth/west and flying out of Kona.

i2 - 50 mo dayz?! bully for you I say!

gyppielou

ttt for thejacksons

pspercy

I wouldn't switch islands for only three days, just not worth the hassle, I get very laid back in Hawaii !!

One comment re condos etc, you'll find some won't take as reservation as short as three nights altho' given the downturn in the economy that could change but be sure and ask about cleaning fees.

Have a great trip

Marginal

I don't see the point in going to Kauai for only 3 days. Seems like a rather expensive waste of airline fuel and money to shuttle 6 people to and from Kauai for only 3 days (2 nights)

stpetereb

Don't give up Kauai, it is the most beautiful of the islands. It is too special to miss. You can't see everything but I am sure you will not regret going.

Tropics

Kauai is a much smaller island than the Big Island which has much to see.

Take a look at this website which may help you research in condos and activities: http://www.konaweb.com/