We are thinking of going to HI in May. We have two youngsters and grandparents with us. the babies are one and two years old.

Which Island is easiest? And do you have any suggestions for places to stay? We think we would prefer a resort with separate cottages, or a large house, or condos. We want the beach...but not so remote that we can't go out to eat when we want to.

Thanks for your help!

Lots of Oahu info:

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

Can you explain what you mean by 'easiest'? Most of the major islands have excellent infratructure and attractions (airports, roads, accomodations, restaurants, beaches etc), and are very easy to navigate. But each island also has its own list of unique attractions (e.g. a live volcano on the Big Island, Pearl Harbor on Oahu, etc).

First do some research on these different attractions and decide on an island. After that, you can specify a price range and get specific recommendations here and elsewhere for accomodations on that island.

I like Waikiki on Oahu, and Lahaina on Maui. Many people think these are too crowded and 'commercialized', but I enjoy places where you can walk around to restaurants and shops and not need to get in the car every time.

With your wide age range group, I go with Suze's recs.

right away, go online and request the visitor's brochure for both Maui and Oahu. You'll get maps etc, so you'll be able to look up properties once you start getting a list together. (Obviously, the properties will have maps and info on their websites, but an overall view is good too.)

On Maui, a condo is great with kids. You can eat breakfast, and other meals in, and everyone has space to spread out. Take a look at Sands of Kahana, Puamana, and the Whaler. Different price ranges, and quality of beach, all around Lahaina. Good luck!

Thanks, everyone! I am going to do what you all suggested. I was tired last night when I was trying to wade through the thousands of HI posts... I was weak and needed your help. You're all great.

Don't know where you live but if its not near one of the airports on the W. Coast w/ non-stops to HI, I would seriously consider waiting until your children are older.

As a general rule, I think long flights with infants and very young children should be avoided as much as possible.