Tell me about Kauai

Was just in Hawaii over Christmas with my mom, dad, sister, brother and sister-in-law. My dad was really adamant about a family trip with all of us scattered now, so it was on his dime/planning, so I wasn't complaining.

We went to Kauai, Maui and the Big Island. Kauai was my favorite. It was probably the "least developed" of the three (which obviously also means it's less developed than Oahu), but it's still a U.S. state so it wasn't that bad, and honestly sorta enhanced it in a way; felt a bit less commercialized. I didn't notice anything particular about Covid besides having to wear masks indoors, but I also had never been to Kauai before so had nothing to compare it to. Kauai's was the "least nice" of the three properties we stayed at, but that was more because the resorts on Maui and Big Island were incredible and I'm sure there are some incredible resorts on Kauai, too.

Kauai is absolutely beautiful though. Stunning. By far the most beautiful of the three, in my opinion. There's a giant canyon that they call "the Grand Canyon of the Pacific". It's not the Grand Canyon. But it's close. Lots of beautiful jungle too. Some of the beaches, while not having as nice of sand as the other islands, have amazing views. And lots of great lookout spots along Highway 56. They filmed Jurassic Park on Kauai for a reason.

We did a helicopter tour that was great that led you into canvases of the jungle/canyon. So many breathtaking views. My mom, dad and sister did a boat cruise the day before I made it out there (due to work) and said they loved it. Kona Coffee Company has a really nice coffee shop and tour of how they grow/make their coffee if you're into that.

All in all, I probably wouldn't spend a week+ in Kauai, the way you maybe could in Oahu or Maui (and possibly the Big Island). But if you're heading all the way out to Hawaii and don't make it to Kauai for 3-4 days, I think you're making a mistake.

Also, Kauai has chickens. Everywhere. Was not expecting that.

We went couple years ago. Stay at the Grand Hyatt if you can

Been several times and we always stay on the north shore of the island in the Haena area, close to Hanalei. Very laid back area. Used to play golf at the Prince but it’s been closed the last couple of time we’ve been. It’s a shame too because it was on of the best courses in Hawaii. The south shore is a lot dryer so if you are looking at hanging out on the beach all day, I’d stay there. The north gets a lot of rain. Doesn’t really matter where you stay, you’ll love it. It’s my favorite of the islands.

PS: watch out for chickens, they are everywhere.