My two friends and I are planning to visit Kauai for a week in late September. We're looking for a laid back vacation without too much in the way of crowds. We don't need to focus on keeping the budget super low, but don't know that we need to splurge for luxury either. We'll definitely take some day trips to explore around the island and get in some hiking. But we'd like to take a few days to just veg on the beach and swim. I've read some suggestions to go to Poipu for the more reliable weather and swimmable beaches, but a lot of that is for winter recommendations. How much of a concern will that be in late September? Are there other locations on swimmable beaches that we should look at for that time of year? The northern shore sounds beautiful, but I don't know if it will offer what we are hoping for? A convenient location with some nearby walkable diversions and restaurant options could also be nice.

Thanks in advance!

I vote for the North Shore. Gorgeous beaches. To be able to walk to restaurants and shops, you can either stay in Hanalei or somewhere in Princeville, not too far from the shopping center. It's unlikely you'd hit bad weather in September, but if you do, you can drive to Poipu -- if the weather is better there. I live in Princeville and I would not live there if it always rained. At the moment, we have had more than a month of consistently perfect weather. North Shore hotels are pretty limited: the Westin and St. Regis. The St. Regis beach (which is open to the public) is stunning, but better for wading and snorkeling than for swimming. The Westin is not on a beach. The trail to the beach beside the Westin is a 10 - 15 minute somewhat steep hike, but it leads down to a very beautiful, swimmable beach. Most North Shore lodgings are condo resorts.

There are stunning, swimmable North Shore beaches: Hanalei Bay, Anini, Lumahai, Tunnels, and Ke'e. IMO, these are my fantasy of Hawaii, whereas Poipu (which is nice) is more generic beach resort.

You can't lose. Wherever you stay, I'm sure you'll want to explore the other parts of the island. Enjoy!

September is a great time to visit Kauai, one of my favorite months to visit. I agree with Songdoc who is lucky enough to live there about staying on the North Shore, Hanalei Bay Resort is a very nice place to stay with a great pool and the Happy Talk lounge.

I agree with Jamie99. HBR is a great suggestion. Friends of mine loved it there. The only drawback is a five-minute drive to shops and restaurants, other than the onsite Happy Talk Lounge.

Thank you - that looks lovely, and definitely alleviates some of my concerns based on what I've read. I'll see what my friends think and see if we can settle on a decision!

Grand Hyatt or Hyatt Regency (not sure what the name is now) in Poipu area is outstanding. If you want a fabulous condo development that sits right on the water and a wonderful pool right above the water the try Poipu Shores. It is my favorite condo. 2 bedrooms unites with lanai, nice kitchen 2 bathrooms.