skapadz

I'm thinking about taking my wife and 5 yo son to Hawaii but we've never been there...we like to visit where it's not too touristy and not secluded. We're on a budget so we're thinking about renting a condo to cook our meals. Anyone have any ideas?

montereybob

I'm not sure what you mean by "not too touristy and not secluded". It would help if you could be more specific about exactly what types of destinations you like and don't like.

nanabee

The Hawaiians Islands are probably the most visited tourist destinations anywhere. (BTW, I love Hawaii and think it is hard to find a better place to vacation). So pretty much everywhere is touristy - but the experience is still wonderful. I love Kauai, not overly fond of Maui, and the Big Island. Oahu gets is often pooh-poohed but it is one of my favorite places to go. There is the less crowded North Shore, and world class surfing beaches, the historical aspect (Bishops Museum, The Ioloani Palace, Pearl Harbor etc.)

Kauai is quieter, and great if you love the hiking, surfing, snorkeling, etc.

HomeShoppeHawaii

I live on Oahu and have a 5 year old. Our family has spent a lot of time on all the islands. There is a lot to do on Oahu - zoo, aquarium, dole plantation, lots of kid friendly beaches, water parks, hotels with waterslides, childrens discovery center, etc. You can make it as touristy as you would like, depending upon where you stay. But I would also recommend Maui and Kauai. I would not recommend the Big Island, unless you are staying in one city/resort and don't plan to go anywhere else. Too much driving. Cities are far apart. Have fun!! Aloha ~ Yvonne

HunyBadger

Maybe consider South Kihei on Maui. Certainly there are some areas there that are very touristy in Kihei (and Wailea too) but if you stay near Kamaole Beach Park III (Kam III), you will be a bit removed from it. That's not to say you will be in wilderness though, a quick drive will bring you to grocery stores and food joints. One option, if you don't need to stay within walking distance of the beach is to find a vacation rental by owner (www.vrbo.com) in Maui Meadows. It's about a 5-10 min drive to Kam III or Keawekapu beach from there and maui Meadows is completely residential.

Finally, if the beach is not needed at all (or just a little), you could try a place in Haiku. The Haiku Cannery Inn is a beautiful little B&B. The owners grew up on Maui and have young kids; they could easily direct you to good beaches and other kid-things.