The Kauai resort is nice, but keep in mind the only swimming you'll be doing is in the pool, and the pool isn't that great (nothing compared to HWV). The beach is not swimmable....WAY too rough. I stayed at the Kauai Beach Resort a few years ago, right after Radisson bought the place and renovated it. It was just the wife and I, and we had no complaints. Very nice rooms, and beautiful hotel lobby. Hotel grounds were decent (keep in mind Hilton is making some major improvements right now). But for me personally, I think the most important decision to make is what does the island offer. Kauai is a lot more laid back and quiet than the other islands, and really your kids might get bored. I would think the HWV would be considerably more fun to your 4 year old than the Kauai Beach Resort. I know my 4 yr old son would have been bored to tears at the Kauai Beach Resort.