Where to go?

I%26#39;m an active Australian female 50yo widower returning from 3 wk trip to US in September, travelling alone. Never been to Hawaii before. Likes - swimming, snorkelling, walking, people watching, day trips. Dislikes - shopping, commercialism, crowds as I%26#39;ve already done this in the US. I want 5 days of R%26amp;R before returning home.

I%26#39;ve been told Maui is the island to go, can I please have some feedback? Also any tips on hotels?

Cheers and thanks

Where to go?

Sounds like Kaua`i or the Big Island would suit you.

Kaua`i is probably the least built-up/commercial and has everything you want. Spectacular scenery, plenty of hiking and beaches, snorkeling, lots of day trips. It%26#39;s small enough to be experienced (mostly) in 5 days.

Big Island has arguably the best snorkeling in the islands but very few sandy beaches, mostly in very touristy areas. Lots of things to see, however.

Maui is pretty commercialized and crowded unless you stay upcountry or out in Hana, in which case your activities are very limited. Good snorkeling and nice beaches, but in quite built-up areas.

You might want to repost to the Hawai`i forum. You%26#39;re now on the Island of Hawai`i (Big Island) forum, which does not encompass the whole state of Hawai`i.

Where to go?

Well Maui is very developed and commercial...and is pretty much a jr Honolulu

5 days is not a lot...too short for the Big islandm which has the best snorkeling in the state...but lits of driving needed....its 5 to 10 times larger than any other island not good to exlore alone here..some areas very remote and have issues.

Kauai, the smallest has fair snorkeling and is also very rural.....in 5 days that would be my choice Expect a rougher, cooler ocean than on other islands but much greener due to lots of rain..