Help! We are spoiled. This is 4th trip in 4 years. We have been to Maui, Oahu and Big Island. Thinking about returning to Maui or trying Kauai. Have 2 teen girls, 15, 17 who loved Kaanapali. We are thinking of Wailea Renaissance or 1st time Kaui (Hyatt?). Would venture out for snorkling, possibly Hana, Haleakula (sp?) Crater... Husband & I haven't been to Kaui since honeymoon 20 years ago and remember it slooooow then. Would like a "calm beach" which makes Kaanapali tempting again. I don't want Ipods in ears due to boredom driving around looking for "fun" things. We are spoiled So. Californians but can't resist Hawaii beaches. Any ideas? Likely our last "family" vacation for a while - or at least the last one we let them weigh in on! Ideas? We would be going last week June.

Aloha barb,

What "fun" things do your girls like to do?

Kauai may be a bit quiet for teenagers. We had the "bored kid" experience 2 summers ago with our 16 yr old daughter and her best friend. We stayed in a condo in Kapaa, where they managed to find some other kids around the pool at night, but there was no fun within walking distance. Poipu would be better, but it's not going to be like a Kaanapali. Our girls just weren't interested in hiking and snorkeling much, which all involved a bit of a drive, tho we did have a fun muddy hike at the top of Mt. Waialeale.
They may be happier in Wailea, and if they're happier, you are too!

They won't find the Hyatt boring. There's horseback riding, kayaking, a great spa! and huge fun pool and river area. Poipu has lots of shopping. Ask someone for directions to the glass sand beach.

I would likely not take teenagers to Kauai as it is very, very slow. Lovely to look at, but I was bored to death the week we were there -- and I was 32! Some people really love Kauai, and I admit that it is gorgeous, but teenagers usually want a little more action/options than that island offers. I would opt for Maui again. Just MHO.

Geez - our choice was between two state parks to camp in. I think I agree with your opening sentence!

If you hadn't been at all, I'd chose Maui, but since you've been there, then go see Kauai. It's gorgeous!