If my fiance and I were to stay in the poipu beach area (the hyatt) in Kauai, is it absolutely essential to have a rental car? Or can you get around without one?

We have stayed at the Hyatt twice, most recently last summer. I wouldn't say having a car was essential, as you can get a cab at the hotels, but we had a car both times, and I wouldn't have been without it. There are so many interesting trips to take in Kauai, and we tended to spend 1/2 of each day just laying out at the pool, and 1/2 taking in some sights. Also, if you don't have a car, you'll have to stay reasonably close to the hotel in going to restaurants, and that will really limit you. We went to a different area each night for dinner, and found some really nice restaurants, but sometimes would drive up to 1/2 hour or so to get to them. I would definitely rent a car.

You should get a car, at least for a couple of days, to see some of the rest of the island. The Hyatt's fabulous but there is so much to see on Kauai, it would be criminal to miss it!

Thanks guys for the responses. I'm hoping that we can drive to the beach where they filmed gilligan's island!

Caitlin, You really should have a car. It is easy to keep at the Hyatt. In fact, they have a fabulous valet service which will have your car waiting for you when you get to the front door to drive to one of the great restaurants 2 or 3 minutes down the road. We just returned from the Hyatt 2 weeks ago and rented from thrifty at the airport. I reserved a full size car and the very pleasant woman upgraded us to a brand new Jeep Cherokee for free. The rate was $166.00 for the week. Very reasonable. There are alot of places within a short distance to explore and I would highly recommend renting a car. Be sure to make reservations for dinner at both Roy's and the Beach House. Have a great time!

I do think having a car is essential to fully appreciate Kauai. You will want to drive up to the north shore and explore the beaches and the NaPali coast, and it is also fun to drove west from the Poipu area and see all the various parts of the island. Roads are good and rental cars are not that expensive, so why not? We rented with Dollar and got a good rate and had no problems.

Caitlin,
You really need a rental on Kauai if you want to see all of that beautiful island.

It took us until the 4th trip that we paid the extra few $$$ to get a convertible.

We usually reserve a compact and then ask at the rental desk if they have any convertible specials. They usually do and it seems to be cheaper than booking a convertible before you go.

A drive out to Polihale to see a sunset is very romantic and something you and your fiance would enjoy. Make sure it hasn't rained in a few hours or so because the road is a few miles of cane haul road and muddy. Worth the trip, tho!

Mahalo,
Kal