jumpy

5 weeks and we're off - it's so exciting and this yr. we've included a 4 day jaunt to Kauai prior to our 14 day stay in Kihei/Wailea area. So far we've made reservations for Mar. 17 at Mulligan's (I'm Irish), Sarento's, Sun. brunch at Maui Prince, and a sail with America II. I'd really welcome some feedback on a few things - with respect to a sightseeing day in Maui, we did Hana 2 yrs ago so don't want to do it again but would a day in the Makawao/Pai'a area be a sweet day, having lunch at Hamilaile? Store, see winery etc (my husband doesn't like to shop but I do - he has patience for a certain amt. though. The shopping looks good in the Makawao area - how does it compare to Pai'a as I've been there.
I've read so much about Kauai that I'm a bit scared about the water and hiking. The friends we're travelling with LOVE hiking and the water and so my request is - could someone suggest a nice, beautiful but not scary hike and a nice calm beach that isn't scary?
Also, since we're only in Kauai for 3 nights we like the idea of a fun bar/supper place that has music. We're staying in the Princeville area - we've heard about Happy Talk Lounge and Duke's but it seems that Duke's might be too far away. We're 4 people in our mid 50's who love to have fun so don't want to be in an elegant, quiet place. Thank you so much! I always appreciate the input I receive here - we have Kauai and Maui revealed books as well.
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jumpy

I forgot - we need to stay overnight in Honolulu. Does anyone have any recommendation for a one-night stay at a reasonable, clean place that doesn't cost a huge amt. We'll be in the room from 10 pm to 8 am
Thanks again

auntiemaria

Hali`imaile General Store gets my rave review -- open for lunch M-F (no reservations allowed); dinners nightly. Winery? That would be Tedeschi -- up toward Ulupalakua Ranch -- a gorgeous drive. Makawao shopping is different from Pa`ia, and not quite as ample. Pa`ia tends to be more surfer/far out art, while Makawao is tends to be more Hawaiian/country (paniolo) art. We stayed at Mama's in Pa`ia -- will stay in Makawao next time!

Winter surf conditions will still be in effect throughout Hawai`i in March. Just be careful -- never turn your back on the ocean, stay off oceanfront rocks, and check with lifeguards for current conditions. Our riptides are deadly.

Northshore music? Hanalei Bay Resort offers a wide variety (good Hawaiian on Tuesday nights), Princeville Hotel has jazz, etc. in their bar, Hanalei Gourmet has live music most nights (and great bar menu). Duke's is only about 45 minutes away -- easy drive, as long as you make someone the sober designated driver for the ride home. 8-)

trippinkpj

For dining I like Cassanova's and Polli's in Makawao. I like Millagro's in Paia. I think Mama's Fish House is over priced for what you get, though the ambiance and setting are great.

AllyGirl

A great way to see Kauai and all the beautiful places that you can hike is by air. When I was on Kauai I flew with Air Ventures (808-651-0679) and it was the highlight of my trip! There are so many beautiful parts of the island that cannot be reached by car or by foot. We flew in a plane designed for aerial site seeing and saw every beach and mountain on the Island. If you are only there for a few days I highly recommend this tour, I loved it!