Maui Resorts

sokno asked:


We’ll be traveling to Hawaii in May 2009. We’ll be there for 7 days. We’re planning on going to two islands: Oahu and either Maui or Kauai. Important things on our trip: Pearl Harbor, Hanauma Bay, white sand, calm clear water, great food, and lots of fresh pineapple. We’re not as concerned with finding a totally secluded place as we are with a clean hotel/resort on a gorgeous beach. We don’t mind to rent a car on both islands. Which island should we visit besides Oahu? What order should we visit our two islands? How many days each?
Something I didn’t mention – I’ve been to Oahu before, so exploring the island is not a must. I just want my husband-to-be to get a chance to see what he wants. He’s most interested in Pearl Harbor while I would love to visit Hanauma Bay for snorkeling again. We will probably stay at either the Royal Hawaiian or the Hilton Hawaiian Village there (I know, touristy; but nice, clean, and convenient). As for the second island, we want to stay somewhere that’s right on the beach and isn’t so secluded that we have to drive 30+ miles to eat dinner. So with that in mind, Oahu first or second?

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4 Responses to “Hawaiian residents/experts: Please help us plan our honeymoon?”

1. tripdiva Says:
   April 11th, 2010 at 4:19 am

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   Kauai is more laid-back than Maui – Kauai would be the “more secluded” of the two.

   Oahu has the nightlife (in Honolulu), as well as the historic sites such as Pearl Harbor. You can also check out Lanikai Beach, north of Hanauma Bay but on the same side of the island.

   In Maui, Kapalua Beach is great for snorkeling and swimming in May. There are a lot of great beaches on Maui, but this is one of the prettiest.

   On Kauai, Haena Beach is recommended, although the sand is not as fine.

   You’ll find that there isn’t a lot of “white sand” in Hawaii – that image is the Caribbean. But there are plenty of golden sand beaches in the islands! The beaches I’ve mentioned are known for calm waters as well as being very scenic.

   For resorts, Outrigger and ResortQuest are two of the best resort chains in Hawaii (there are Marriotts, Hyatts, etc, too, but Outrigger and ResortQuest are “Hawaiian” resorts). Both have condo-style accommodations; even if you just get a “studio”, you’ll be more comfortable than in a hotel room, and it generally costs about the same or even a bit less than a hotel. Check their websites for locations and prices, they vary quite a bit. For moderately priced resorts on Maui, try Maui Sunset or ResortQuest Maui Banyan. Lahaina Shores Beach Resort had good prices recently, but I’m not sure that “sale” is still on.

   A car is a must on Maui or Kauai; you can do without it on Oahu, but it’s easier to get around with a car.

   I happen to like Maui better than Oahu, so I’d do 2 – 3 days on Oahu and the rest on Maui or Kauai.

2. Stan Says:
   April 11th, 2010 at 10:01 am

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   I honeymooned on Kauai (4 days) and Oahu (3 days). Oahu was kind of a disappointment after Kauai which, for me, was a more authentic Hawaiian experience. I’ve been to Maui too and I’d characterize the two islands like this. If you want to walk on beach with your spouse, choose Kauai. If you want to ride a bike down a volcano, choose Maui. I’d probably go to Oahu second because your last day of travel will be easier with one less flight.

3. jen_saveonaloha Says:
   April 12th, 2010 at 1:09 pm

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   I don’t think I have enough space to answer this question

   I would make sure you visit Oahu first for a few days, 2 is plenty. Then Kauai the rest. However if you want to explore the island of Oahu you might need more time on that island 2 Days would be enough to visit everythign on Waikiki Beach and the major tourist attractions.

   Another thing to take into consideration is what Hotel specials are offered. Some have 3rd night free, 5th night free, or 6th night free. So depending on where you want to stay that could help sway the vote!

   Many factors help figure out which is the best Honeymoon Package for your needs. Its important to talk to a specialist who knows Hawaii, and most importantly, knows the best deals at all the Properties.

4. beach2cb Says:
   April 13th, 2010 at 8:57 am

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   Your trip sounds relaly nice! Great choices. HIlton Hawaiian Village resort is really gorgeous- here are some photos:
   Hanauma Bay is wonderful- go early before it’s crowded and the water becomes cloudy from sunscreen. Make sure you bring snorkels and masks because it’s so nice to see the fish:
   Get a pineapple drink and sit out on the lanai at the Moana Surf in Waikiki- so romantic- it was so nice with my husband last year:
   Pearl Harbor is very interesting. Arrive before 8am and you won’t line up for 3 hours:
   I think it would be fun to go to Oahu first where it’s more busy and then to relax on Kauai- it’s the most beautiful outer island. I’d stay at the Hanalei Bay Resort.
   Have a great time!