I am going back to Hawaii for the 4th time, and this time, with our little baby boy (who will be 14 months by then). We are looking for a condo to stay in this time. What are the best condos out there that you have been to and recommend? I would like preferably a good value, such as if they take the Entertainment Card. Thanks!

If you don't mind Waikiki I like the Ilikai very good value. All have lanais and many have ocean views. Call condo association get number from the front desk of the Ilikai. Insist on a unit in the main building.

Bad experience with Pats Kailua Rental agency when we rented on windward side last year. Won't go into it further just wanted to warn. We only had one experience with them so perhaps others can give you a recommendation. Hate hurting Hawaii businesses but as anywhere not everyone earns your repeat patronage.

Jack,

I'm thinking of renting on the windward side next year. Have you rented there other than through Pat's and, if so, would you recommend another service? If you don't mind, what area did you stay in and what did you think of it? Thanks.

We stayed in Lanikai not sure if I would go there again did have a sense of the community but I found it too crowded. Can't suggest other realitors to you. Did not like that beach on Lanikai it was beautiful at (sunset)night but it is way too built up. Lived on Oahu just a few years ago and I remember it being more open.

I like to walk for a mile or two on a beach. For that reason I think I would return to Kailua on the North Shore. I love Waimanalo best but some parts of it you have to be careful. Also if you rent, rent a distance from public access paths or pavillians frequently night party people come out and wake you up.

Always check for bedroom window curtains and your location as related to surrounding homes, parking etc...

Jack,

Thanks so much for the advice. When you said Kailua on the North Shore, did you mean another area--according to my info Kailua is right next to Lanikai. Those are the areas that I have been looking at because we'd also like to be near restaurants. Thanks again.

Consider staying at Grand Champions Villas in Wailea. They have two pool and jacuzzi areas as well as two barbeque areas.

same are but it is more spacious. Don't get me wrong a lot of people love Lanikai it is just not the beach I remember. I would do a post heading and ask people which areas are best for condos. Seems like so few experienced travelers are on this board at the moment.

We were not pleased with restaurants their I am sorry to say. Perhaps we were too picky. Just not the same calibor that Honolulu restaurants.

On Maui I can personally recommend the Maui Sunset in Kihea. The condos are nice but basic, one bedroom size still has 2 bathrooms. All have lanais or patio. The grounds are spacious, lots of green grass, not on a swimming beach, rather a windsurfing beach, but the winsurfers are fun to watch. Nice big pool & jacuzzi (gated). Communal bar-b-ques. Lots of families & kids. Nice central location. Although the Entertainment book states R30 (meaning 30 days or less to get the 50% rate, if you go in an "off" time they will waive that. Just call. Can be seen at www.mauisunset.com