It's a dense, walkable, safe area that has enough to do and see to keep you busy for days. Sure it's touristy but I certainly wouldn't say it's "Vegas on the beach." |
| We like the Kihei area on Maui near Charley Young beach or Kamaole beaches. Good snorkeling, boogie boarding etc and food. Less resort-ish than Kaanapali. |
The cove in Kihei is also a great beginner surf spot. |
| We were just in Oahu (Waikiki) and Kauai with our two teen boys. Neither liked Waikiki much bc a lot of it felt run down. Lots of homeless people. Didn't feel like how we expected Hawaii to feel, if that makes sense. Then we went to Kauai and they had a blast. Yes, Kauai is much sleepier. But it's also gorgeous. They were happy to alternate relaxing on their own at the Grand Hyatt, which has an amazing pool, and doing activities like snorkeling and hiking. |