Kauai or North Shore Oahu?

Question

Hello!

We are plannng a trip to Hawaii in mid May for our anniversary. We live in the Bay Area and travel to Hawaii often. Weve been to Maui and the big island several times over the past few years, and want to change things up this time.

Weve been to Kauai a couple of time, but after a lot of rain (would go in dec) and two bouts of illness (Food poisoning and water poisoning in an airbnb) we havent been back to Kauai in over 10 years, but we loved how relaxed, and how much hiking and adventure activities there were to do there. we got engaged after finished the Kalalau trail! Weve only stayed in Hanalei and Poipu and much prefer Hanalei

Weve been to Oahu, but only a short trip to Waikiki and hiked dimondhead, went to Pearl Harbor and the history museum. We are curious about the north shore and how different it might be.

We're looking to do hiking, snorkling, a few scuba dives, and hanging out on beautiful relaxing beaches, which spot would you recommend?

Thank you for any advice on the matter!

Answer

Hi there! It’s great to hear you're planning an anniversary trip to Hawaii. Both Kauai and the North Shore of Oahu offer unique experiences, so let’s dive into what each location has to offer and how they align with your interests in hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and relaxing on beautiful beaches. Based on your preferences, I’ll provide a comparison to help you decide.

Kauai: The Island of Adventure and Natural Beauty

Kauai, particularly Hanalei, is an excellent choice if you're looking for adventure, tranquility, and stunning landscapes. As you've already experienced, Kauai offers a laid-back vibe and an abundance of outdoor activities, including some of Hawaii’s best hiking trails. Since you love hiking and nature, the island’s diverse scenery—from lush rainforests and waterfalls to rugged cliffs—will be right up your alley. Kauai is perfect for a couple who enjoys getting out into nature and exploring remote spots.

Hiking: Kauai is a hiker's paradise. Some of the best trails in Hawaii are located here, including the Kalalau Trail, which you’re already familiar with, and Waimea Canyon for incredible views. The Na Pali Coast is also known for its breathtaking beauty, and you can explore it by foot or boat. For something less strenuous, the Wailua Falls Trail is a beautiful, easy hike with a stunning waterfall at the end.
Snorkeling and Diving: Kauai's snorkeling is great, especially at Tunnels Beach (Makua Beach), where you can snorkel right off the shore and see vibrant coral reefs and marine life. If you’re interested in scuba diving, Kauai has a variety of dive spots, including Koloa Landing for beginner divers or Ni’ihau (a private island off the coast) for more advanced divers.
Beaches: Kauai offers some of the most beautiful and secluded beaches in Hawaii. Hanalei Bay (near where you’ve stayed) is perfect for relaxing, with its golden sands and calm waters for swimming. Other gorgeous beaches include Polihale Beach, known for its dramatic setting at the foot of cliffs, and Poipu Beach on the south shore, which has calm waters ideal for families.

If you loved Hanalei, you’ll find it even more appealing now after a 10-year gap. Kauai is less commercialized than Maui or Oahu, so it retains much of its charm and natural beauty. However, Kauai is also known for its rain, so you might want to check the weather forecast, particularly if you’re traveling in May, which is usually a dry month but can still be hit-or-miss with showers.

North Shore Oahu: A Different Vibe with a Mix of Adventure and Relaxation

If you’re looking for a bit more diversity in terms of things to do beyond just hiking, snorkeling, and diving, the North Shore of Oahu might be a great option to explore. While Oahu is much more developed than Kauai, the North Shore offers a quieter, more rural side of the island that’s perfect for relaxation. It has beautiful beaches and plenty of opportunities for adventure, but without the crowds of Waikiki.

Hiking: The North Shore is home to a few great hiking spots, like Waimea Valley, where you can take a gentle hike to a waterfall and enjoy the botanical gardens. You can also try the Ehukai Pillbox Hike, which offers fantastic views of the North Shore coastline.
Snorkeling and Diving: The North Shore has a number of fantastic snorkeling spots, such as Shark’s Cove, which is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. For scuba diving, you can find diving shops that will take you to some great spots in the area. The North Shore’s beaches, however, can be rougher and more suited to experienced snorkelers and divers, particularly in the winter months when the waves are big.
Beaches: The North Shore of Oahu is famous for its surf, but it also has some stunning beaches for swimming and relaxing, such as Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay, which are perfect for a more peaceful beach day. In addition, Haleiwa Beach Park is a great spot to chill out with calm waters. The beaches on the North Shore are typically much quieter and more serene than Waikiki.

The North Shore is less crowded than other parts of Oahu, and while it does have more development than Kauai, it still retains a laid-back atmosphere. If you're looking for a more relaxed vibe with easy access to hiking, snorkeling, and beautiful beaches, it could be a great fit.

Recommendations: Kauai vs. North Shore Oahu

Given that you’ve already visited Kauai and loved the relaxed atmosphere, it sounds like Kauai might still be a top contender. If you’re looking to revisit the incredible hikes and nature-focused adventures, Kauai will certainly deliver. The only caveat is that it can be more remote, so things like dining options and activities are a bit more spread out, and weather can be unpredictable.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a destination with a little more diversity in terms of cultural activities and dining options (with the added bonus of quieter, more beautiful beaches), the North Shore of Oahu could be a great way to change things up. It has more development and is easier to access from the airport, but still offers that rural, relaxed vibe you’re seeking without the hustle and bustle of Honolulu or Waikiki.

Ultimately, both destinations are fantastic for hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, and enjoying beautiful beaches. Since you’ve already visited Kauai and had such a memorable experience, it might be worth revisiting the island for another adventure. But if you're feeling like you want a different vibe this time, the North Shore of Oahu can offer a nice balance of nature, culture, and peace.

Whichever you choose, I’m sure you’ll have an unforgettable anniversary trip!