Thanks to alot of input from folks over the Kauai vs. Maui debate, we have decided to spend our time in Kauai (no hard feelings, will save Maui for another time). Now I am confused over staying at the north shore risking wet weather or the south shore. I'm interested in hearing from anyone who has experienced either and can offer some sound advise!

Oops! Neglected to mention above that we are going in mid-September. Thanks!

Barb, Been to Kauai 9x...You won't miss Maui...Unless you miss Oahu...

Sept. should be no prob for the No. Shore...No.Shore beaches should still be OK. Check out the Kauai TV Visitors Channel on the local cable.

If you stay in P'ville, you're still only about an hour to an hour 1/2 away from the farthest point on the island, Polihale or Poipu.

If it is raining in Princeville, call a business on the south or west sides of the island to see how the weather is and if it's OK, go! Diff. weather systems over there.

If you can, get a convertible. It's worth the money. Ask real nice at the desk and sometimes they have unadvertised specials for ragtops.
A lot of good restaurants, activities, too.
Feel free...
Kal

Barb:
Hawaii is having a very dry summer this year. September is usually the hottest month, no matter where you are. Kauai's North Shore would be fine any September, and particularly this one. Usually the wet season is later anyway. For actual weather figures and predictions, check the U.H. meteorology dept. web site at
http://lumahai.soest.hawaii.edu/cgi-bin/uhmetintro.cgi
But focus mostly on where you'd like to be and what you'd like to do. Weather is not that predictable, and even in the wettest seasons, it is sunniest right by the ocean. Hawaii is beautiful, and the occasional rain shower is usually followed by a rainbow!
Aloha!

Barb,

I would definitely go for the North Shore, especially this year with the dry conditions there. It's so gorgeous, and I'm so jealous! And really, wet weather there is not like wet weather at home! When you see those rainbows there, you're glad it rained a little! Have a wonderful time.

Many thanks folks for helping to make a difficult decision alot easier! I guess the North Shore wins! Now, accomodation will be my next challenge. We are actually booked into Hanalei Bay but now have found some cool sites with condos. Comments would be appreciated. Thanks again!

I'd say rent a condo in Princeville. We are going late in July and staying at Pali Ke Pua in a two-bedroom two-bath condo for $850 for a week.

Nancy,

We have stayed at the Pali Ke Kua on two occasions and thought it was great.

You will really enjoy it.

Oops..

Don't know if Nancy had typo in condo name or we stayed in a different place.

Barb,

If I remember correctly from your first post, this is your first trip to the islands, right???

If that's the case, and, of course, depending on what you like, I'd go for the resort atmosphere over the condo one. I love having the outdoor bar with music, the room service, and all the amenities that a hotel offers. Also, Hanalei Bay is famous for having one of the most beautiful swimming pool areas, and jacuzzi set-ups in the islands. They have a restaurant with some of the most magnificent views at sunset that you will ever see anywhere!

If I stayed in a condo, I'd miss all that! Also, most of the condos do not give you daily maid service - and I'd REALLY miss that! (Tho a few do.)

Having said all that, I can understand staying in a condo if you want to spend your extra money for other things. Every time I plan a trip to Hawaii, I say that I'm going to stay in a condo and save some money, then I book at a hotel resort because I love the atmosphere - it feels more like a vacation to me. But that's just me! Do what you're sure you'll be happy with! I just think if it's your first trip to Hawaii, all the extras would be nice. My best wishes!

Aloha,

Lani

Thanks all for the comments. I think we're leaning toward the resort idea, Lani - you are a wealth of information and it is much appreciated!

Aloha Barb! We've stayed at the Hanalei Bay Resort the last four years.The one bedroom condo units are the best deal. They have daily maid service like a hotel, and included with your room is a
full cooked-to-order breakfast at there
Bali Hai restaurant every day and in the afternoons two complimentary cocktails for each of you. The swimming pool looks as if the resort was built around it! It has a sandy bottom. The view from the restaurant is breathtaking. How many days are you staying in Kauai? We've divided our trips with five days each between the North and South shores. Many resorts give the fifth night free. We'll be returning in August ourselves. Aloha, Eke

Eke, thanks for the post and it's nice to hear you were pleased with the resort. We're planning on staying six nights - really don't want to move during the time we'll be there so just looking forward to exploring and relaxing. Aloha!