Which area of Kauai?

I%26#39;m really confused! I plan to visit Kauai in either July or end of September and I have no idea which area of Kauai to stay. Beach is important as is swimming and snorkeling. How do you decide which side of the island to stay on?

Which area of Kauai?

In July, north shore for sure. In September, probably either north or south. How many people will you have? Any kids? Budget?

Which area of Kauai?

Thanks for such a quick response. Why do you say north side in July and north or south in September? I%26#39;m curious for the reasoning behind your answer. It%26#39;s just the two of us, no kids this time. I%26#39;m looking for a moderately priced resort, condo with kitchenette facilities would be nice. Thanks!

Typically, the north shore has bigger (can be BIG) waves in winter, the south shore in summer. In July the north shore should be ideal for swimming and snorkeling. It will also be cooler in summer. September is kind of a shoulder season that can go either way. For that matter, in September you could stay east side and choose each day which way to drive for the day. No really swimmable beaches, though.

I%26#39;m sure you%26#39;ll get lots of specific info on where to rent, but try www.vrbo.com (vacation rentals by owner). Many of us have had really good luck with them.

The North Shore is wonderful in September. July is more crowded on the South shore because of families vacationing. If you can do September I think that would be the better time. There is nothing like the beauty of the NS that time of year. I was there last Sept and I couldn%26#39;t believe the sunsets over Bali Hai. Either side will be nice (it is is Kauai after all) but just take a look at some pictures on TA that people have posted and then decide what you want to have surround you.

We always go in summer do to family and school, but this last year just my husband and I went the first week of September. We noticed the difference. Hotels and restaurants were booked, but the atmospher was a little more relaxing, and the weather very nice. We are Poipu people who take a drive to the north.