Hello there!
Just one more question. If going to Hawaii and you had to divide your time between Maui and one other island- which would be the next best one?
thank you!

Kate,

What are you looking for? Night life? Rain forests? Seclusion? Give a little more info and I'll try to make a recommendation.

Thanks!
De Anna

Easy enough - KAUAI!

Actually, I would choose Kauai and the Big Island; Maui has become so commercialized and has grown so much in the 20 years we have been going to HI annually that we don't include it in our itinerary anymore. It's almost as bad as Oahu, in my opinion, but it depends on your likes and dislikes. We like to kayak, hike and get away from it all, but enjoy great dining and excellent accommodations. We go on vacation to get away from the masses - not to rub elbows with them. If you choose Maui, definitely stay away from the Kaanapali and Lahaina areas and try Kapalua or Wailea for some sense of sanity. By the way, kwl is right, Kauai is by far the best - the most spectacular scenery to be found and special get away beaches, kayaking on Kauai's navigable rivers, hiking Kokee, et al, wonderful R&R.

I spent 2 weeks in Maui and Kauai and Loved Maui. Yes, I do agree that it is commercialized and has grown so much in the 20 years but again it is not like going to Chicago (where I live). Maui is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.

As a 27 year lady, it had just the right balance for me. I spent 5 days in Kauai, and although it is beautiful, I personal think Maui is far more beautiful and has a lot me to offer. I loved snorkeling and scuba diving in Maui far more than in Kauai. I also love the fact the Maui has a long costal drive and kauai (at least the distance between the Hyatt and the Princeville Hotel, the two properties I stayed in) didn't have a long extended costal drive like Maui. Kauai was also too secluded and quite for me. I had to cancel my helicopter ride since the weather was pretty bad. While on vacation the whether in Maui was far better than the weather in Kauai.

If you love hiking and seclusion, you will love Kauai but I do don't like either. Also keep in mind that there a lot of people that love Kauai, in fact the only reason I went to both Islands was solely based on the feedback I got from the people on this site. I guess the only way to find out if you would like any Island is to first experience it yourself.

I am planning a 3 week vacation to Hawaii in Sept-Oct and would like advice on whether or not to go to the Big Island and Oahu. I love snorkeling and scuba diving and will like to know if the Big Island and Oahu have great snorkeling and scuba diving. I would like the option of someone that has been to both Island.

Thanks,
Uche

Anywhere BUT Wakiki. Just went to Maui in february and it was awesome. Absolutely loved it but then we headed over to Wakiki and what a disappointment.

When I went to Hawaii we stayed for two weeks in between 4 islands. We first stayed at Oahu, Kauaii, The Big Island and Maui. The best thing about Maui was going to Black Sand Beach which takes forever to get to. Otherwise the island sucks. Kauaii was beautiful because it was small and easy to get around. Oahu was perfect because rental cars are forbidden and there are shuttles that go everywhere. The Big Island was nice all together. But prepared for the flight depending on where you live because it is LONG and be aware the cost of living over there is pretty expensive (for instance a gallon of Milk will cost you $5!) Well I hope you enjoy your trip and take plenty of spending money!

Uche -

I think the key to any recommendation is based on the likes and dislikes of the individual asking. Nuf said, since you like Maui so much better than Kauai (to me, there is no comparison), you would probably prefer Oahu to the Big Island. Kauai and the BI are my two favorites. However, we love to hike, kayak and to get away from the crowds - even more so on holiday. IMHO, the beauty of Kauai is unsurpassed of all the Sandwich Isles - again just personal preference.

I agree personal choice as to what you like!! I am usually high energy & on my first trip it took me a while to slow down ,so it was good to start in oahu and then move on to the more relaxed Maui & Kauai ,for me. Now I prefer Kauai& Maui..not into Oahu -tho if someone wants to give me a trip I won't say no to there either.. just depends on what you are looking for..
I also like the convience of Kaanapali -
I do not find it like Waikiki...aaahhh mental vacation

Kate, I would definatley spend most of my time in Maui. Is is a good x-section of Hawaii. It has the tourist areas plust "get away" spots. I highly recommend Mama's Fishouse for dineer. Spectacular!! But don't forget to make reservations.