I feel like this is the age-old question, but...I am planning our 10 day honeymoon for the end of August - 5 nights Maui/5 nights Kauai. Initially I was set on the South shore due to its great beaches, but the more I read on this site, the more I realize that maybe I'll be missing out by skipping a few nights on the North Shore. Anyone have an opinion on this? Should the weather be a concern - I know it's said to rain more on the North shore but would this time of year be drier? Also, is the North shore in closer proximity to many of the good hiking trails? I just don't want to have any regrets or feel like we missed something - this will be our first time to Hawaii and we can't wait!

Thanks so much!

jwo,
August=NoShore IMHO.

Prettier and right near the Mother of All Trails, NaPali Coast.

But, if youy stay in Poipu, you're also closer to the Koke'e etc trails.

You really can't lose.
I still can't figger' out people's fascination w/ Kauai!

199 mo' days until I continue my extensive reasearch into that phenomena!
Kal

There is really no difference in the weather b/t the north and south in August....the weather is really only an issue during the winter months.

I stayed at The Princeville in the north this past Feb. (and, save for a few minutes here and there, it didn't rain at all) and absolutely fell in love with the resort and "the north"....it just more lush and picturesque than the south, IMHO. If I were ever to go back, I would absolutely stay in the north no matter what time of year.

As far as beaches go, there are some pretty good ones up North as well; e.g. Ke'e, Tunnels.

And as far as hiking trails go, both the north (e.g. Kalalua; i.e. NaPali Coast) and south (closer to Waimea Canyon) have several good ones.

I vote for staying in Kauai's north shore, specifically the Princeville Resort Area, it is close to Kee Beach and NaPali coast hiking trail and is more scenic with lush tropical mountain and ocean views. Head to south shore if it happens to be rainy up North.

If you're driving a convertible it really doesn't matter where you stay!!!

We stayed in South shore visited Waimea Canyon and hiked around there. We sailed out of north shore and snorkeled at beaches there. If you're from CA the driving is no big deal. Driving to the north from the south is shorter than most commutes here with wayyyyyy better scenery!

We have stayed on the north and south sides, and can never decide which is better, because they are quite different. If beaches are important, there are also excellent beaches on the northside, very swimmable in summer. Ke'e and Anini are both very sheltered. The kayaking, both river and Hanalei Bay, is also lovely. It does rain, but the showers are brief and you are usually in a bathing suit anyway.

With only five nights I would choose one or the other and not divide the time. Then you have to visit again to see the other side! If you decide on the northside, try for a condo at Sealodge. Exquisite location and reasonable rates.