USVI or Maui for 9 days?

Yes, I've been to Kauai before. Loved it. We like outdoor stuff (hiking etc.) and SO loves chilling on the beach as well. I am just not able to decide which one to pick. I guess what I'm asking is - what are the pro's and cons for each? (Except the long flight to OGG)

I'm also looking into possibly doing 4 days on San Juan and 4 on St. John if we do USVI. Thoughts?

If it makes a difference I'll be in the following properties:

- Maui
1) Ritz Kapalua (2 nights)
2) Marriott Wailea Resort (5 nights)
If someone is able to convince me, I can flip these two around.

- San Juan
1) WA El Conquistador (4 nights)

- St. John
1) AirBnB most likely

In fact, I've already held refundable reservations at both Maui options and WA on San Juan.

If you were to say Maui plus another island for 9 days vs USVI plus BVIs for 9 days, then your options have vastly improved.

It all depends on who will go with you and what you enjoy doing on vacations. I would probably choose Hawaii. It is a personal choice. Just love the Hawaiian culture, surfing, people, food, etc. I have had remarkable trips to the Virgin Islands as well. It's just a personal preference.

I've been to both, and I'd opt for USVI(St John specifically) over Hawaii because the flight is much, much shorter. The flight home from Hawaii is brutal. I also prefer the warmer waters of the Caribbean to the Pacific Ocean.

Hawaii is really cool though. Either trip will be nice.

I am going next week, if you don't mind please send more details. lsu27dw @ yahoo

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What time of year?

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9/23 - 10/1. Its the Hawaiin Summer!

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Maui I would think is also going to cost more just to play?

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$$ not an issue. The travel time doesn't really bother me. Trying to get an idea as far as the destination goes

Maui and St. John are both expensive islands. St. John doesn't have nearly as many restaurants but has some excellent ones (ZoZo's at the Sugar Mill comes to mind).

The beauty of St. John is that you can charter a boat (from my buddy Steve at Rockhoppin) or hop on a ferry and visit the BVI. Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and even Anegada are a ferry ride away.

There's a host of things to do. You can lay on the beach, rent a jeep and head out to Coral Bay and have lunch at Skinny Legs or hike on the trail system. Over 60% of St. John is a national park so there's tons of nature to explore. You can also rent a dinghy for the day and explore the beaches and coves from the water.

The bar scene at night in Cruz Bay is pretty good. Beach Bar, Joe's Rum Hut, Banana Deck and High Tide to name a few.

If you have more specific questions just ask. I'm on St. John once or twice a year.

It's a tough choice. Compelling reasons for both.

If you liked Kauai, you'll enjoy Maui. The hiking, beach and food were all great.

Also less chickens

I would take Maui over the USVI all day every day. I think you'll be slightly disappointed in Maui since you've been to Kauai. If it was me, I'd spend the entire time on Maui in the Wailea area and forget Kapalua. I prefer the Big Island over Maui.