My husband just got back from Hawaii, and because we benefitted from the experiences of others on this board, I'm reporting back.

Kauai: My favorite by far because I like places that don't feel as built up, where I can find a beach that feels like it's mine alone. We rented a car and drove around from beach to beach, site to site. We also took a helicopter tour (my first) and it was great. Stayed at the Outrigger Kauai Beach which was quiet, clean, nice; although we spent so much time out of our room that if I were to go back I'd go for something just cheap and clean. One restaurant comment (although food was not a high priority for us): The Pacific Cafe was a bit of a disappointment, given the good reviews. It was probably just a bad night, but our waiter was sweating he was running around so much, and thus had little time for us. By our 7:30 reservation 3 of the entree selections were gone. I'd spend the money that we spent on that meal on something else if I could.

Maui: Has a lot more going on than Kauai, if that's what your after. However, the same stunning array of beautiful beaches, scenic drives, etc. We stayed at the Renaissance Wailea (which was quite nice) and I was really glad we chose the Wailea area over the Kaanapali/Lahaina area because it was a lot less built up, and more serene. Note: The Wailea Shopping Center listed in Fodor's is closed for most of 1999 as it's being rebuilt -- it would have been nice to have it's shops and restaurants close by.

Jillian - Thanks for the information. My husband and I are going to Maui this summer. We are staying at the Four Seasons in Wailea. Any suggestions for dining out in the Wailea area? Thanks again!

Jennifer: You're kind of limited in independent dining choices in the Wailea area. Besides the hotel options (which are numerous and many are highly rated) there are only a handful of restaurants in the immediate vicinity. Because there are so few, they were crowded. We tried them one night, but we didn't plan ahead and had no reservation. There are plenty of casual dining options just a few minutes up the road in Kihei, and many more restaurants if you drive all the way to Lahaina or Kaanapali (1/2 hour drive?). The crowd situation may be different in summer. However, if there's a restaurant you have an interest in even in the other areas, you may want to make sure you can go by reserving a table. By the way the Four Seasons is lovely -- we walked around the property one day. However, there appeared to be more actual beach in front of the Renaissance, so if it gets crowded at your hotel you have another good option within an easy walk.

This post actually responds to Jennifer's question re. Wailea restaurants. Definitely book a seating at the Sea Watch in Wailea which is actually part of one of the golf course's properties. It overloojs Molikini and has a great veranda where you can eat and watch the sunset. My advice is to get to Maui, see about what time sunset is and then book dinner at Sea Watch allowing time to get a great outside table. My wife and I were there for a week and actually ate there twice, and yes, the food and service are great. Sunset is awesome as everyone, staff included, gather round in total silence to see the sun drop into the Pacific. A great experience! Also walk around the Grand Wailea for a glimpse at a spectacular resort. For a great meal outside of Wailea, try Mama's Fish House. Expensive but incredible seafood. Enjoy, I'm totally jealous.

More fabulous restaurants is one of the many reasons that my wife and I prefer the Kaanapali side of Maui over the Wailea area. Some great restaurants on the west side are
Roys
Nicolina
A Pacific Cafe Honokowai
Pacific O
IO
Plantation House

LOTS more info about Maui restaurants, hotels, activities, sights, etc, at this web site:
http://www.mauihawaii.org
(note it ends in org, not com)
Jon