Something Different

[Otter]

I am looking at locations for our family vacation this summer -- mid August. We have 3 divers (2 of which are basically newbies) and 1 non-diver. We have been to Maui 3 times this decade (shore dived, front and backside of Molokini, Cathedrals) and would like to try one of the other islands.

Criteria for island selection:

1. Must be able to dive
2. Must be sand/beach for non-divers and divers during SI to lay/play on the beach.
3. Prefer less 'touristy' / hustle and bustle of Maui
4. Must be able to dive.



Right now, I am leaning towards Kaua'i but would consider the Big Island.

Thoughts/suggestions appreciated.

 

[diversteve]

Sounds like the Poipu Beach area on Kaua'i. Much quieter, nice sandy beach area esp. for small kids. Good snorkeling off the beach, there's reef fish in 3' of water. Sometimes there's big sea lions sunning off the point there. A few minutes from SeaSports diveshop. 10-20 min. drive to most restaurants. Not really great diving there, but near by at Sheraton Caverns. We did dive off the old boat ramp, but it wasn't that great. They teach classes there. I did more boat diving on Kaua'i than shorediving for some reason.

my .02

Steve

 

[divetahoe]

Last visited and dived Kauai in 1999. Got my airfills from SeaSport in Poipu. The area was real laid back and relaxed. The shore diving was nothing spectacular but compared to a freshwater, high altitude lake, it rocked! The boat diving was even better. Beaches were awesome for my kids.

FWIW.

 

[kidspot]

You might also consider Molokai or Lanai - if you want really laid back and relaxing...

of course they are technically part of Maui county...

 

[Wildcard]

Im still gonna have to vote for Big Isle. Two step, harbor dive, old airport, puako and mahukona all meet those requirements.

 

[markd_nscr986]

Im still gonna have to vote for Big Isle. Two step, harbor dive, old airport, puako and mahukona all meet those requirements.

I agree........Big Island has plenty to do topside and some of the best diving anywhere!

Mark