Planning trip in Dec. and wondering the best place to stay. I heard East and South shore are better in Dec., is that right? I am so confused about finding a place that will accomodate everything I want. Some people say that condos are a better choice than resorts...is that true? or timeshares or B and B? Heres what I want
1. next to beach for good swimming/snorkeling (or would it be better to just drive to different beaches than trying to find a place on a perfect beach)
2. Nice/clean/good service for around 100-150 a night
3. Reasonably close drive for different adventrues such as good hiking places, waterfalls, kayking in rivers, ect...

I also hear that AI is not a good choice for Hawaii. I really want to experience the local/cultural food, but will this be too expensive?

Any help on finding a place would be so greatly appreciated. Thanks

First off, I'm no expert on Kauai itself but I believe that the south end (Poipu) would be better in December? I was told by locals that a couple of spots up North we went to in April didn't even exist during the winter due to teh higher surf cinditions.

The area around Anini Beach would be nice as well since it has a monster reef that keeps the shore area calm.

As far as lodging, I'd look for a *private* rental thru www.vrbo.com - we found a cottage RIGHT ON ANINI BEACH for $150 a night.

As far as I'm concerned, EVERYTHING is within a "reasonable" drive on Kauai.

East side is rough & windy, even during our best weather.

If you want the best possibility for nice weather and swimmable ocean waters in December, head to Po`ipu. No guarantees, though.

Use something like google.com to search for "Poipu vacation rentals". It's a little late to be looking for a rental in December, but you might get lucky! 8-)

As far as I know, AI (all-inclusive) is not an option anywhere on Kauai so that's one choice you don't have to worry about. If money is at all a concern to you, a condo is just an immensely better deal than a resort (and by "resort" I mean the Hyatt or Princeville). I highly recommend Kuhio Shores condos for an economical, oceanfront condo right next to a good snorkeling beach. They are privately owned and can be rented through various companies, including VRBO. We'll be staying there for the third time in October.

We did a bunch of research and are staying at Prince Kuhio condos at Poipu Beach right across from the ocean. Less than $100 per night for an a/c studio, which is fine for us--we have simple tastes. Choosing NOT to do an AI will expose you to lots more island eating experiences!