Hi folks,

Well, after falling in love with Kauai last year, my husband and I are planning another trip to the islands for this fall. This time we plan to stay on Oahu, and we are planning to bring my parents (ages 66 & 71) for roughly a one-week trip (7-8 days - probably won't be able to stay longer).

For our Kauai trip we rented a condo in Princeville for 5 days and then stayed at the Hyatt in Poipu for 3 days - I'd like to do something similar on Oahu... Any advice as to which area to go for the condo and which area the hotel?

I was leaning toward a condo in the Waikiki area, but from what I've read today it sems there are no condos that are truly oceanfront. Is that correct? Also, I'm concered about noise in this area - should
I be?

And then for hotel... I'd like to stay somewhere more resort-like for two or three days, and in another portion of the island. Would Turtle Bay be a good choice? Or perhaps something near Wailua?

Many thanks for your sound advice. It led us to a wonderful honeymoon last year so I know I can't go wrong with the knowledge on this board!

-Sandra

Turtle Bay would be an excellent choice. Waikiki is a crowded, congested place, while the North Shore is so lush and beautiful. I think if you loved Kuai, you'll love the North Shore.

I believe the only beachfront condos in Waikiki are Outrigger Waikiki Shore condos, located on Waikiki Beach. You can book them through the Outrigger website and use the Entertainment card to get a 'travel club' discount rate.

Turtle Bay Resort is one of our favorites. Although very different from Kauai, Oahu will be a great choice for you and your parents because there is so much variety. We traveled with my fiances parents there last year and though they are a little younger (early 60's) some of their favorites were: I'olani Palace, Bishop Museum, Pearl Harbor and the Alii Tour at the Kualoa Mac Nut Farm - we all had a ball on that little tour, entertaining and very funny...they actually preferred it over the PCC.

Have a great time!

On Oahu the Waikiki Shore is located right on the beach. I have stayed there twice and really like the location. The apartments are very nice, clean and roomy. The property is located right next door to Fort Derussey (sp?) and the Outrigger Reef. I have booked it through Castle Resorts but I think you can book through Outrigger as well. You will be able to use the amenties at the Outrigger Reef as well if you stay at the Waikiki Shore. The prices are also very reasonable. Rooms on the 13 and 14 floor enjoy a view of both the ocean and Diamond Head. You should also get a better rate from there website.

www.castleresorts.com

Hope this helps
Annika

Until my dying day, I vowed to give people my opinion about the Outrigger Waikiki Shore (then called the Aston at Waikiki Shore).

After being assured that the condos were ocean front (which they are) and that the views were similar to those listed on the website, I found my condo was in the back and had an "ocean view" (lean out on the launi and you can see the ocean). As always, ask if your condo will have the view and how current the photos on the web are.

The ironic part is the condo was actually decent but I thought they were deceptive in their advertising.

Some of the photos are still on the web.

Mike Honeycutt

============