We are traveling to Kauai in July w/2 other families, 6 kids 8-14. Trying to decide between ocean front Sheraton vs garden view Hyatt for same price. Want nice pool, but ocean swimming would be good too. Help?

Have stayed at the Hyatt last July and loved the salt water swimming lagoon! It was heated and was a fabulous place to float around in. Wonderful. It makes up for the lack of swimming beach here. The beach here is gorgeous, but a bit rough for frolicking and swimming. Lots of surfers. We spent most of our beach time on the north shore at Tunnels and Ke'e. The swimming pool is a kid's delight with a slide and little caverns and waterfalls. It is a huge property and it is a healthy walk to get anywhere from your room, but it is a gorgeous place. Have seen the Sheraton, but have not stayed there. Fabulous beach, not-so-great pool and ocean front roooms appear to have spectacular views. If you choose the Hyatt, Poipu Beach is only a five minute drive away or you can walk through Poipu Kai in 20 minutes or so.

Thanks for the reply. I think we are leaning toward the Hyatt. Will miss the view, but think the kids will love the pool. And I will like the resort.

deby: We got a complimentary upgrade from a gardenview to what they consider "oceanfront", which is really a nice oceanview, so you never know. Have a great time.

I'd pick the Hyatt if the price will be about the same for the rooms you are looking at, mainly because the Hyatt is definitely more upscale than the Sheraton. Granted the beach is alot nicer at the Sheraton, but you can drive there in about 10 minutes and there is a public parking area for access to the Sheraton beach. The Hyatt beach is beautiful just not a great swimming beach. Too rough most times. However,( and a big however with kids) the pool system at the Hyatt is great and the kids will have a ball. Also if Mom gets tired, the Hyatt Anara Spa is absolutely fantastic. Go for a facial or massage, manicure, whatever suits your fancy.....Pure luxury. Hyatt generally has a free sunset hula show which you will enjoy and their Sunday brunch is really great, although a bit pricy. I also believe they still run their twice weekly luau and I attended one year and thought it was fine, as far as luaus go.

i'm going to cast another vote for hyatt. it is a full service resort - spa, great grounds. your kids will never want to leave- nor will you. the sheraton would not have enough diversions for kids for that many days.

I would also stay at the Hyatt in a heartbeat. We went there in Oct. 2000 and the pool was amazing. Your kids will never want to leave it. I have been to some really nice hotels, but this one was amazing. I saw the Sheraton, but didn't really walk around it or stay there, so my opinion is really just one sided.