Hey Maggi, why did you ask a question if you weren't going to pay attention to the advice ??

Don't forget the Warren and Annabelle show in Lahaina.

Hey, "e" have you offered any? Actually, I have always received a lot of valuable advice from Fodors posters, including this question. There are so many diverse opinions, aren't there? I was limited somewhat in my choices because (what look to be fantastic )accomodations I was able to book were not available in that order (Oahu, Maui, Kauai). Here's the plan so far:
Day 1 arrive morning in Honolulu, catch a flight to Kauai. Rent a 4WD and drive to Hale Maluhia (www.kauaivilla.com) in Princeville. We have it for seven nights. On the eighth morning, catch a flight to Maui. Another 4WD, drive to Wailea/South Kehei area for 4 nights at My Waii (www.mywaii.com). Leave in the morning for Hana, take our time on the Hana highway. Check into Hamoa Beach House (http://hanaalii.com/HamoaBeach) for two nights. Then, fly back to Oahu for three nights, in preparation for our flight home to Michigan. This is where I am unsure. As you can see, we like private cottages or homes, but I can see the benefit of a resort hotel in terms of service, etc. I'm drawn to the Kahala Mandarin, mainly because of recommendations of other posters, the Dolphin program and the lagoon swimming area. Thanks to all, for all the tips so far. Keep 'em coming!

I liked the Hilton Turtle bay but not at all in the same class at Kahala Mandarin. I would go there. I found North Shore condos on a search last year to be pricey when compared with other islands. Condos are not like hotels you take a risk. Think the thing that was p***ing me off last year was that the cleaning fees on North Shore were often 275 even if your stay was under a week.

North Shore is great but I would rather be situated in Kahala you are close to the windward and Honolulu side there and there is so much cultural stuff there. You are just a short drive from the wide open space of Diamond Head drive, East coast shore drive (my name not map name), Pali, Byodo temple. Don't miss Iolani Palace, A Royal summer residents. It will not be as country like as Kauai or Oahu but it will if you will be great fun if explore the restaurants, museums and cultural centers. I think this provides your vacation an intellectual balance if that is how you would phrase it. Might want to do Oahu first only because you will miss the wide open space you saw on Kauai and Maui. My guest did last year when I had your plan. I was so mad too because Oahu is special and unique in it's own way as each island is. My guests could not appreciate this as they belly ached over the North Shore of Kauai. Save the best for last, I think. Oahu first, Maui Wailea second, Kauai last. Don't worry about the time taken up at the airport. In my experience that last day is filled with anticipation of the return home so I really don't worry about taking an earlier flight or getting to the airport early. Too hard for me to enjoy the last day sight seeing. I just don't plan anything.

I apologize for that grammar, rushing here. Let me know how much if not all was incomprehensible. The Royal residence I was referring to was Queen Emma's separate from Iolani Palace. Oahu will not be as country like Kauai or Maui.

Hi SSS, thanks! As much as we enjoy nature, we also enjoy cosmopolitan areas "for a change". So I am looking forward to the Waikiki area and all the restaurants and sights, as well as snorkeling at Hanuma (sp?)Beach and hiking up Diamond Head. I think the Kahala Mandarin will be well located for these two side trips. I would do this first, but my accomodations on other islands weren't available to do them in that order.

Well than just realize that Oahu is not going to be like Maui, Kaui. Expect the absolute worst. It is not the worst at all this is just how I have had my best vacations anywhere. The higher expectations you have of any place the less likely you will be satisfied. Drive this point home to your travel mate and you will have a great time. Expect neighborhoods and some conjestion. Don't compare Oahu to the islands compare it to your home state. That is what I do and it is still wonderful in my mind.

The most cosmopolitan stuff on Oahu in my mind is in Honolulu not neccessarily Waikiki. I like AlaMoana Mall (if you are not from the west coast you will appreciate Shyrakia (Japanese Department store), Neiman Marcus for presentation, Ward Warehouse (restaurants)(shopping), Bishop Museum, Iolani Palace a definate must. INCREDIBLE RESTAURANTS both new and traditional Asian. Let's not forget China town I like Legend's Seafood there YUM.

Maggi,

The Turtle Bay Resort is making changes, upgrading. They are not longer a Hilton property - have new owners and new manager. A new second golf course gone in and expansion continues. We send guests there. Close to Polynesian Cultural Center - we recommend go, Sunset Beach has big waves in February March but still pretty sunset scenery in other times of year. North Shore is quiet and good place to relax.

We did not go to Kauai, but did go to Oahu and Maui. We first went to Oahu for 5 days. There is definitely lot to do there. Went to Pearl Harbor, drove around the island to North Shore, Snorkled, and dinner cruises. We then went to Maui, and relaxed! We did do the Hana trip and some sightseeing but it was a great place to sit back and relax!