First time to Hawaii. We're in our mid 50's, party scene and beaches not a priority, scenery is. Were thinking about Oahu and Kauai, but open to any/all suggestions! Since we're coming into Honolulu, plan on staying in Oahu first, then to Kauai and back to Oahu. We don't need luxury hotels, low or moderate price hotels are fine. Have searched the site, but would appreciate any tips or suggestions. Thanks!

Hopefully more locals will be able to give you some better tips.
I've been to Oahu and Kauai and they are, IMO, the most beautiful. The North Shores of both island are the most lush if you like scenery.

Oahu has a lot of historical sites that I find interesting such as the Iolani Palace, Bishop Museum, Arizona Memorial.

Lots of info:

http://fodors.com/forums/threadselec...1&tid=34812564

I absolutely loved Hanalei Bay on the North Shore of Kauai. Very relaxed and beautiful!!!

Unless you are one that likes to schedule all the activities to the minute it is easy to spend two weeks on one. We like many others feel they are all different and what one person likes the next may not. Dusty's thread covers alot of material and you really do need to get of Waikiki and see the rest of Oahu.
Hotels on Waikiki the Breakers, Hawaiiana, Royal Grove, Waikiki Circle, Queen Kapiolani and the Ocean Resort ( the newer tower ).
Napali Coast and Waimea Canyon on Kauai, VNP on the BI as the lava is flowing again not sure on far of a hike. Maui the road to Hana and one don't think gets enough mention on the northwest side is Kahekili Highway. Highway is probably a misnomer as it is roughly 12 miles of one lane road with spots to pull to the side to allow another to pass. It is quite scenic though as almost the entire time you have the ocean right in front of you.

Thanks for the helpful advice. We're thinking of staying around Honolulu for the first couple of nights, then maybe go to the north shore. Would appreciate any suggestions for moderate priced hotels for the north shores of Oahu and Kauai. Thanks..

Your selection of hotels on Kauai's north shore is fairly limited with the two choices being the Hanalei Bay Resort (not really a hotel anymore, more condo) and The Princeville Hotel. Neither are really moderate in price, but HBR is cheaper and some of the units are available by renting from the individual owner, which is cheaper.

There are a multitude of condo rentals in Princeville and cottage/villa rentals all over the north shore in places like Anini, Kilauea, Hanalei and Haena.

Here are some reputable vacation rentals agents. Between them you will find hundreds of condo and house rentals all over the island including the north shore.

Kauai Vacation Rentals
Na Pali Properties (I've used them)
Bali Hai Real Estate
Anini Aloha

Take a look.