What section of Kauai is best to stay on in mid to late January (North, South, East, or West)? We are going to Maui in late January 2008 but want to do a side trip to Kauai for the week before the Maui trip.

Have read on Fodors about the waters being rougher on the North side during the winter months. Any thoughts, input, or experience?

Is there an area that seems to get more rain than other areas during that time (thought also from something I read).

Snorkeling right off the beach from our hotel is something we love. Any suggestions?

In Hawaii our prevailing winds, which are stronger in the winter, are from the Northeast. The lee side of the islands are the drier, south side. Your best best for good weather in the winter is on that side.

Where you stay will depend to some extent on your budget. Our Kauai experts can help you if you post here to tell them what that might be.

Thank you. I will check out hotels on the south side.

Do you think the areas from Hanamaula to Port Allen would be my best bet for January?

Is Kapaa area still too northern?

I have looked at hotels on Fodors and will also check out the Fodors book on Hawaii. Will also post here with questions.

The area around Port Allen is not great unless you like dry flat and dusty landscape. For snorkeling right from your hotel, Poipu might be the best bet. Kapaa's beaches were rough.

There is no guarentee that snorkling will be possible anywhere on Kauai in January, if that is of extreme importance to you. Ocean conditions are very unpredictable that time of year.

Even in January I think the North Shore is the nicest. it is more tropical and has a more "local" feel to it - and that is what appeals to me when i go to hawaii. the surf can be rough, but it

sorry i posted before i finished...
we were there in January and it is unpredictable but we did have some excellent days for snorkeling.

I would recommend Poipu, Koloa, Kalaheo (for B&B's) and Waimea for that time of year. You can luck out like we did in Feb. one year weather wise, though I would opt. for the sunnier side of the island.

If snorkeling from your hotel and sunshine are your highest priorities, I would agree that Poipu is the best option on Kauai in January.

Thanks everyone for the useful info.