We have been to Hawaii 18 times and the island of Kauai 5 of those (never been to Oahu however).

Up until this last visit, although we thought it was nice, Kauai was out least favorite. We had always stayed in Poipu and could not figure out why some of our friends actually chose to stay in Princeville where the weather could not be guaranteed. In fact, each time we took a day trip up there, it was either overcast or raining.

The beaches in Poipu are just OK. Some of the resorts are on bays and at others, the ocean is not swim-able. Good snorkeling, not much shopping to speak of but a few better restaurants. We are not golfers so I cannot speak to that.

This July, we took advantage of an offer to stay at Westin's Princeville resort. WOW! We were shocked how much we liked it.

First, you must consider when you are to visit.........The sun shines most of the summer. If you are a surfer, the waves are stupendous over the winter and you could care less how cloudy the sky.

WPORV is not a resort for hanging out at. It's quiet and yes, there is no beach. there are pools, a restaurant and I guess they have activities. But what it encouraged us to do each day was to get out and explore the multitude of unbelievable beaches and trails hidden around the north shore. Each one, different from the other. Many of them empty. Snorkeling and hiking abound!! It was stupendous!

The condo's also afford a different, homier experience as apposed to a hotel resort in Poipu. You can choose to watch the sun set......... in your bathing suit, with a bottle of wine, by the BBQ with thick, fresh Ahi Steak sizzling in background. Some people prefer not to have to shop and cook while on vacation. I love not having to go out for every single meal (breakfast especially). I also love going to local markets to find interesting, fresh, local ingredients. Preparing dinner in paradise seems so much less of a chore.

So, you must decide what kind of vacation you want. Poipu is a more traditional resort experience. If you prefer to relax on a chaise by the pool, it might be a better choice. There are probably also more things for kids there too. But if you are active and adventurous...... Princeville, might show you what the true Hawaii is all about.