Kauai
The basicsKauai is roughly 33 miles wide and 25 miles long. It's home to about 58,000 people.
It's less developed than Oahu or Maui, more compact than the Big Island of Hawaii, and has some of the state's loveliest secluded beaches.
Getting there
There are nonstop flights from Seattle on Alaska Airlines or Kauai can be reached via Honolulu on various carriers.
Where to stay
I stayed in a condo on the island's north shore, in Princeville. The lush north shore is a good base, particularly in summer, when beaches such as Ke'e and Tunnels have excellent snorkeling. In winter, the ocean swell and surf intensify, making many beaches too rough for many visitors to swim. The Poipu side of the island has much calmer waters in winter (and less rain).
More information
The Kauai Visitors Bureau has information on activities, accommodations and more: 800-262-1400 or www.kauaidiscovery.com

