but that's because I have family there and where my ancestors come from, but also because I've explored the island, and even after all the times I've been there, I still feel I've only explored a small portion. I totally understand the desert like atmosphere on the Kona side and how that might not be your "vision" of what Hawaii is- I personally am a beach guy so I love that side of the island because it's the sunniest in Hawaii (thanks to Mauna Kea) , if you stay out on the Kohala coast Hapuna beach is a fantastic beach, comparable to any in Hawaii and the Mauna Kea Beach next to it is consistently on the lists for best beaches in Hawaii and has been voted as the best beach in Hawaii a number of times. You're right, there's not enough of them in comparison to Oahu and Maui.

I've been to Oahu, and have friends there, but find it a rat race, but admit, there are places I still haven't visited and would still love to go back. Same with Maui, I've gone a few times but because I'm not as familiar with it, I didn't like it. I got stuck in busy traffic getting to and from the airport, had some crappy tours, but admit I didn't get the Maui experience others get.

My wife's a travel agent and she just asks clients what they want to do - and if it's to relax, and get away from the busy city - Kauai and Big Island are great - if you like the nightlife, and tourist attractions then Maui and Oahu are great - but they all offer something great. Plus, there's some great resorts that some get to experience - and others do not.

Everyone experiences things differently. If you didn't like Big Island, that's OK.