Can't decide where to stay on Kauai

[Thingymabob]

Myself and my husband have organised a multi-centre trip to San Francisco, Oahu, Kauai and Las Vegas next February.

Everything is booked... except the accomodation on Kauai. Each time we think we have found the perfect place to stay, something seems to throw a spanner in the works. Whether that be the cost of the hotel, the location, bad reviews or non-availability.

We think we've narrowed it down to either the Koa Kea in Poipu, Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy in Kapaa or the Aston Islander on the Beach in Kapaa.

Has anybody stayed in any of these? Or can anyody suggest any alternatives? We're stuck and need help!!!!

[Junebug]

Since you will be visiting Kauai during the winter months you have already picked places to stay that will probably have the best weather. Kapa'a will offer more choices in closeby shopping and restaurants but Poipu will offer better ocean conditions, less traffic and in my opinion, more of a tropical feel. I highly recommend you do NOT swim in the ocean off of Kapa'a as surf and rip tides can be dangerous with the exception of Lydgate Beach further south. The south shore (Poipu) offers beautiful and much safer beaches. Please don't miss the North Shore--make a day of it. (Check the weather before you go north as it does tend to be rainier during winter months). Stop at the Hanalei Valley Lookout across from the Princeville Shopping Center for photos that will wow your friends back home! Continue down to Hanalei Town, walk around and enjoy. If you don't mind curvy narrow roads, continue past Hanalei to the end of the road for tropical paradise views that capture the heart. We have been traveling to Kauai yearly for over 20 years. Our first meal on island is a traditional visit to the Kauai Marriott not far from the airport. We valet park our car (with the luggage in it) and wander to Duke's Canoe Club right on Kalapaki Bay. Doesn't get much better than that as a welcome to Kauai!