Hi everyone,

My husband and I returned last month from Oahu, Big Island, and Maui, and I am already hoping to save some $$ and return next summer. I am undecided on which islands to visit however, as we loved all 3 of them so much.

I'm looking for some reputable websites for Kauai vacation/condo rentals. I would be looking to spend under $200/night for a 1 BR with AC and clean, modern furnishings. We would need to be close to swimmable beaches, snorkeling, and fun, casual restaurants. A pool would also be a plus.

Also, could someone explain the areas of Kauai to me and the pros and cons of staying on each? I know that Princeville is on the North Shore and Lihue is on the South (drier) Shore, but that's about it. Also, is Kauai truly more visually stunning than any of the other islands, in your opinions? Thank you!

beachgirl86, all the islands have glorious scenery, but nothing, IMHO, is prettier than the North shore of Kauai, and that's where I would stay in the summer. Yes, Lihue is in the southeastern part of Kauai (Poipu area is truly the South), and here's an excellent link for Kauai:

http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/kaumap.shtml

I've only stayed in hotels there so can't help you with the condo rentals. I'm sure AuntieMaria will come on with great advice for you!

Check out kauaivacationrentals.com for a large selection of condos and houses. Why anyone would want to go someplace where it rains all the time, the restaurants are awful, there is nothing to do and it is so quiet is beyond me.
-Bill

Thank you both for your great tips, both of those websites are very helpful.

Bill -- I haven't made up my mind if I want to visit Kauai and try something new, or explore the islands I already loved, BUT you are sounding an awful lot like Kal...

"Kauai! Katch the Kal Spirit!"

Sing along!!!
"Nothing to do....too expensive to eat, mud is too red and always stains my bare feet...."

"No nightlife to dance....but got no money in my pants...'cuz the air fare was so high...And the hot sun thru all the rain made me fry."

"Nothing to do but drive and boo hoo...So there's one thing that is always so true...only got so many more mo' days...so we'll continue the craze...."

"When I got zinged for my comments, OH ZOWIE....Everyone always know you should go to Maui".

Thank you thank you...I'll be here all week...be sure to tip the help!

oh bruddah!

We found the Kauai Revealed guidebook to have very helpful condo info. where we honeymooned and since anniversaried, in the scenic, verdant, Princeville resort area on the north shore of Kaua`i http://www.wizardpub.com/kauai/kauai.html

Try also http://hanalei-bay-resort.com/
We stayed in unit 8231 view and furnishings absolutely beautiful. Better than the pictures. You can stay in the hotel unit 8232 for only $95.00/night. We were very happy, Hanelai Bay resort has nice pool, tennis courts, and a great lounge. Walk to beach and Princeville resort which has some nice places to eat/drink as well. Ditto on the above posts, north shore Kauai spectacular.

Although it is a very laid back island, it is also the most beautiful. I'm going there in October. This will be my 10th trip. Buildings are not allowed to be any higher than three floors, so ocean views are never blocked by high rises like the other islands.

Don't know why everyone says the food is high priced. Not as expensive as Las Vegas.

Check out gloriasvacationrentals on the web. Prices start around $85.00 per night and go way up from there. You'll pay for what you want.

Enjoy it over there.

For a nice selection of condos and to compare prices try www.outrigger.com and www.castleresorts.com

We recently booked on the grantham resorts website in Kauai. www.grantham-resorts.com