We are planning a 6 day trip to Oahu. We are debating on whether to stay in the Kailu area (daughter's choice) and I would prefer the Waikiki area.... centrally locate, close to things to do.... anybody have opinions on Kailu? Not really looking to have a lay on the beach vacation.

Do you by any chance mean Kailua? If so, know that it’s not on the north shore, it’s about a half hour from Waikiki to the east (past Diamondhead). What DO you plan to do while there?

Well personally I adore staying right in central Waikiki and that would be my pick. But you really haven't given us much to go on??

Kailua is on the Windward Side, not on the North Shore as has been pointed out. I think the better question might be why is Kailua your daughter's choice?

Yes it would help to understand why you daughter expressed that location as her preference. It doesn't fit the "close to things" or "centrally located" part of your post.

FYI, Kailua is more of a "regular town" (meaning not specifically catering to tourist like Waikiki). It that happens to be on/near a couple of gorgeous beaches. The beaches are spectacular (Kailua and Lanikai) and water sports are really good (we kayaked out of Kailua) so if beach and water sports ARE your focus, it's a really good choice. It is farther from the sites/cultural attractions of Oahu than Waikiki, but not much. It's just different.

If you're looking at a vacation rental in Kailua, you need to check if it's legal NUCreport.pdf

Stay Waikiki in a legal rental. Few rentals in Kailua are legal, and the the government is cracking down on people renting with no license to do so. When do you plan to visit Hawaii? Are you staying on another island, too?