It is a very subjective decision and depends on what you are hoping to see. The Big Island has volca

After visiting friends in Calif..I am looking at a couple of escorted tours to the Hawaiian Islands. One tour includes Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. carnival cruise lines mobile Two number 2, obviously more expensive, includes Kauai with the rest. Is Kauai worth the extra $ (around 1,000) and time? Would you pick Kauai or Big Island? (This choice is another option) I am an senior citizen, and organized tours work the best for me ! I realize this is a subjective opinion, but all thoughts are welcome. Thanks, Gail
It is a very subjective decision and depends on what you are hoping to see. The Big Island has volcanoes (active) and a lot of outdoor adventure. Kauai is the oldest island so it is very lush and beautiful, but kind of sleepy. A lot of dropouts from society tend to settle on Kauai, especially in the area near Hanalei. Although, the BI also has its share of hippie communities, one near Akaka falls in the Pahoa Village.
If you are going to Oahu and Maui already, it really is a toss up whether carnival cruise lines mobile to add Kauai or BI. Personally, I would probably choose Kauai. If you will never again to Hawaii, I would add Kauai, if you can afford it.
I'd bite the bullet and see Kauai as well, as you stated this could be your only trip to Hawaii's beautiful islands. Are you considering a cruise or a Perillo type tour? I helped some older friends a few years ago figure out which side of the bus to sit on different tours! They loved it and were not up for independent travel and loved knowing where to sit for the best views!
And just read the 2nd comment. Years ago - a lot of hippies did in fact live on the north shore of Kauai - (some trust babies/surfers still do) - some of them growing pot (pokalolo) - and were "flushed" out by one very wet winter.
I know you don't want to hear this, but I would NOT take a tour like that. The Hawaiian islands are each amazing, and you can't go wrong choosing any of them. I suggest you choose two islands and spend a week each on them, instead of a 'drive by' tour. Just my opinion. We have been to all the islands except Lanai. I am now craving a return to Kauai. Have been to Big Island the most.
How long is this tour, I hope it is at least a month, cause you need at least a week (5 days would work on all but BI) for each island. Hope it is not a big bus tour as they will not be able to get to two of the most beautiful places on Kauai due to the width of the roads. Namely you cannot visit the Kalalau lookout north of Waimea Canyon and you cannot visit the end of the road and a couple of the most beautiful North Shore beaches again due to narrow roads and a few one land bridges.