Traveling to Kuai in Jan. for first time. Would appreciate some help with lodging in Poipu. Is air conditioning necessary, as several condos appear to have only ceiling fans?

Well, it's good that you are asking about AC before going, as this is an issue that varies with personal preference. If you enjoy living with open windows and letting warm breezes blow through as many people do, you will not need AC in Jan. But if you are like me and my wife and enjoy getting the warmth and humidity and stuffiness out of a room with AC, then you will want it. Most hotels in Kauai have AC, most condos don't, but a few condos do. You have to ask when you make reservations. So, really it depends on your particular preferences in this regard.

I've never felt like I needed A/C in June so you should be fine in January. Newer condos seem to have A/C if you think you may need it. The Villas at Poipu Kai come to mind. I'm sure the Marriott, the Hyatt and the Sheraton have A/C, but my favorite place, Kiahuna Plantation does not. The only time I've felt too warm at Kiahuna was getting ready in the bathroom since there is no cross breeze in there. I bought a little fan with me last time and put that on the bathroom sink.

check out the brand new Koa Kea Hotel and Resort located between the Sheraton and Marriott Waiohai. It is right on the water and all rooms have A/C. www.KoaKea.com

Thank you all for your help. Glimmer2, Kiahuna Plantation sounds great. Would you have a recommendation on the many room choices?

Bobd5, yes to me Kiahuna is the best. I just love being so close to the beach and not having to get the in car to pop down for stroll at sunset.
I've stayed at 2 units over the years and I like them both. Unit 155 and unit 179. I hate giving those numbers away but I'll do it to be nice...
155 is a Royal Garden view upstairs and 179 is an Ocean view upstairs. We like to be upstairs because it provides more privacy. They are both listed on VRBO. 155 is a little less expensive because of the view, which it is still nice, but it's not of the ocean.
As long as a unit is in Royal Garden area, within sight of the twin bridges you're fine. You just don't want a unit on the outskirts because those units get noisy and you're farther away from the ocean.

glimmer2, you are the best. Thank you for the great information. One last question from a computer illiterate-what is VRBO?

"VRBO® is Vacation Rentals by Owner"

http://www.vrbo.com/

Good hunting