2 islands are enough?

Question

Hi - we are a family of 4 (including 2 teens - 17&14). We are planning to visit Maui and Kauai in early July. Our total no of days are 13 days on these 2 islands. Just wanted an opinion on whether we should include another island to the list? And if not how many days should we give to each of these of these - Maui and Kauai?

Any advice will be great. Thanks!

Answer

For a 13-day family trip with 2 teens, visiting Maui and Kauai alone can provide a rich and varied experience without feeling too rushed. Both islands offer unique landscapes, beaches, and activities, so adding a third island is optional and depends on your travel style and energy level.

Here’s a breakdown of considerations:

Maui: Known for its beaches, Haleakalā National Park, Road to Hana, and snorkeling adventures. There’s a mix of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation.
Kauai: Famous for its lush landscapes, Napali Coast, Waimea Canyon, and quieter beaches. Great for scenic drives, hiking, and family-friendly outdoor activities.

If you decide to stick with just two islands, a recommended allocation could be:

Maui: 6–7 days. Allows time for the Road to Hana, Haleakalā sunrise or sunset, snorkeling excursions, beach days, and exploring towns like Lahaina and Kihei.
Kauai: 5–6 days. Gives enough time to explore the North Shore, Waimea Canyon, Napali Coast (by boat or hike), Hanalei Bay, and other scenic spots without feeling rushed.

Adding a third island like Oʻahu or the Big Island is possible, but consider:

Travel days between islands reduce actual sightseeing time.
Oʻahu offers cultural experiences, city life, and Pearl Harbor, which is very different from Maui and Kauai.
The Big Island offers volcano exploration and more adventurous activities, but it can feel logistically heavy if trying to combine with your existing plan.

Overall, focusing on Maui and Kauai allows a relaxed pace while still experiencing varied activities and scenery. If your teens enjoy adventure and scenic landscapes, this combination is ideal without the stress of multiple inter-island flights.

Tip: Plan inter-island flights early in the day to maximize your time on each island and reduce travel fatigue. Also, consider renting a car on both islands for flexibility, especially with teens who may want to explore at their own pace.

2 islands are enough?

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