December itinerary - keep five nights on Kauaʻi or consider another island?
My spouse and I are planning a Hawaii trip from Dallas, December 19–January 2. We’ve visited Oʻahu and Maui (3 and 6 days respectively) before, so we were excited to try Kauaʻi and the Big Island this time.
Given the current situation in Kauaʻi, we’re wondering whether to keep our original plan or save it for another trip. Here’s our tentative itinerary:
- Day 1 — Dec 19: Arrive on Kauaʻi, stay in Poʻipū and relax.
- Day 2: Nā Pali coast sunset dinner cruise.
- Day 3: Waimea Canyon and Kōkeʻe viewpoints/short walks, depending on access.
- Day 4 — Dec 22: Our anniversary—relaxed beach/spa day and a nice dinner.
- Day 5: Hanalei and the North Shore, depending on access.
- Day 6 — Dec 24: Fly to Hilo.
- Days 6–8: Hilo—Volcanoes National Park, farmers’ market, gardens and waterfalls.
- Days 9–14: Kona—whale watching, Maunakea sunset/stargazing, manta ray night snorkel, coffee farm and downtime.
- Day 15 — Jan 2: Fly home.
For locals or anyone who’s visited recently, would you keep five nights on Kauaʻi with this wish list, or switch that portion to another island? We enjoy scenery, easy hikes, local food and beach time, and are happy to adjust the itinerary.
I know things could change before December, but firsthand experiences would help us decide. If you’d switch, which island would you choose alongside the Big Island?