_invalid_@toddh.net (Todd H.) wrote:
[...]
>We're both early 30-somethings, and pretty active. We've been to the
>Carribbean and Thailand in the past. Having the beach or water close
>at hand for snorkeling is a priority...
Snorkeling isn't as great in Hawaii as it is elsewhere in the world,
and I also include our experiences in the Caribbean (the best, IMO)
and Thailand in that comparison. We lived in Hawaii for a year, and
spent about half that time exploring all the islands. Frankly, here
are just more interesting things to see and do there than spending too
much time looking for good snorkeling. There is much to see.
Having said that, diving along the Kona Coast on the big Island offers
some submerged lava cave exploration possibilities. On Oahu, there is
so-so snorkeling at Haunauma Bay. Much of the Hawaii shores are open
ocean, though, and too rough and disturbed for good snorkeling. Coral
reefs that protect inland bays are the best, but Hawaii's just not the
place for that configuration. (But the surfing is great!)
>Our last vacation was way overpacked on a go go go itinerary, so the
>m.o. for this trip is "relaxing." For me that involves planting my
>hiney near a large body of water in the sun, snorkeling, and some
>diving. If there's beach volleyball to be had that's a pleasant
>bonus. I wanna see the volcanoes, maybe some kayaking, maybe rent a
>car and drive around the island. And I think I'd like to pick up camp
>and move only once during the stay (so, I guess i'm looking for 2
>hotels, one in Maui somewhere, and one on another island..unless
>inter-island transport is too much of a pain).
>I'd welcome any recommendations to narrow it down some! Thanks for
>any experiences you can share!
Oahu is where you change planes. Maui is interesting but limited,
considering the alternatives, unless you are into hiking the trails at
Haleakala National Park. The Big Island offers the Hawaii Volcanoes
National Park -- a worthy destination. Molokai is very laid back, but
also limited other than the interesting Kaulapapa Leper Colony trip.
But considering your above comments, I'd give serious consideration to
Kauai. You could stay in the Poipu area (good weather, good services,
great restaurants, good beach) and tour the island at your leisure.
If you need further info on any of these places, just ask.
Caveat |