I'm hoping to get some advice as we're split on how to handle our landing in HNL with a destination of Kauai. This being a first Hawaii trip, we're all naive (couple in 50s, couple in 20s).

We have a DCA morning hop then EWR-HNL direct, "BF lite" on UA15. As everyone knows that is a 10+ hour haul landing at HNL 5:20pm local. The key is our destination is actually Princeville, Kauai by next day.

I currently have two sets of reservations and can't decide which should win over. Please help with your opinion and comments!!!

1) Land in HNL, car service and a fancy lei greeting (fluffy bonus) setup to go straight to SPG Moana Surfrider, Waikiki. Two reward rooms for the night. Then Mid day shuttle back to HNL - with flight to LIH, car rental ready to pickup and head to Princeville condo for 5pm check-in.

OR

2) Land in HNL, with flight onto LIH departing 7pm. Car rental ready for evening pickup and reservation at a local joint near the airport, Garden Island Inn. Wake up next morning and head onto Princeville condo.

I suppose it's basically a question of how exhausted will one be? We've never had such a hefty trip as we're no globe trotters and thus definitely want some input from the experienced.