My husband and I will be doing both islands in February (3 days Kauai / 5 days Maui). We would like to spend more time in Kauai but 3 days was all we could do. Should we even bother snorkeling on Kauai or save that for Maui? With only 3 days I don't want to waste any time on Kauai, especially if we can snorkel on Maui. Plus, from what it sounds like, winter in Kauai is not the best time to snorkel anyway.
Thank you all.

Kathleen I would stay 6 days on Maui. To my knowledge they are the best island for viewing the winter whales. Kauai has a higher risk of clouds and rain that time of year.

Sarah - unfortunately, everything is booked and paid for so we're kind of stuck with doing both islands. We chose 3 days on Kauai b/c we do want to see the Nai Pali Coast and the other major sights, even though the weather is typically not so nice that time of year. I just wonder if we should even incorporate beach / snorkel time into our itinerary or save the relaxing for Maui....

Kathleen,

I snorkled on both islands and would do both again! On Maui we snorkled to Molakini, which was great, and on Kauai took a snorkle boat down the Napali coast - unbelievable, unforgetable views! You don't have to book ahead of time, just see how you feel and what the weather is like. Both islands will give you great memories.

You're right...I forgot that snorkeling the nai pali coast is amazing! Must learn that planning every second of a vacation in advance is not always a good thing I think we will just play it by ear. Thanks to all for the input!

What are you planning to do on Kauai, Kathleen? Seriously, you can see the "major sights" on a one-hour helicopter tour. Weather permitting, I'd definitely be planning some beach time on the north shore beaches.

Am a bit nervous about a helicopter tour so we'll be doing everything by car / boat or on foot. I have a list a mile long of things to see based on previous posts re: Kauai activities. Maybe we'll change our minds when we get there re: flying but right now it makes me too nervous!

Kathleen, the Na Pali Coast is worth the trip to Kauai just for that alone, snorkeling or no snorkeling!! At the time, we did not incorporate any additional snorkeling time into our trip down that magnificent coastline because we weren't interested, but the scenery is just wonderful! Don't miss it! Also, apparently, Tunnels Beach and Anini Beach are very good for snorkeling, but I'm not familiar with the weather conditions at the time you're going, but who knows, you just might get lucky!! Have a GREAT time and give us a report when you return!

We will be in the Volcanoes Nat'l Park around March 6. Does anyone know what time it gets dark during that time of year? I'm wondering what time we should be at the end of Chain of Craters Rd. Any ideas?

Oops. I posted this on the wrong thread and will repost correctly. Sorry about that....