My husband, 18 yr. old daughter, and myself are going to our lst trip to Hawaii in June. We are planning on flying into Honolulu and staying on Oahu for 3-4 days before going to Maui for a week. Since this is our lst trip to Hawaii and we probably won't get back for a while we want to see Pearl Harbor, Polynesian Cultural Center, King K's palace, and other not to be missed sights. We would like to stay in a beachfront condo outside the Waikiki-Honolulu area. We don't mind driving 30-45 minutes to get to the tourist attractions but we absolutely don't want to stay in a big city. What about the north shore or the Kailua area? Any recommendations?? Thanks for your help.

Just bringing this back to the top. O really would like some suggestions on places to stay on Oahu that are away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki.

Try the Turtle Bay area on the North Side. It is not far from the Polynesian Cultural Center or Paradise Cove. There are several though not many lodging possibilities especially if a condo is to your liking. It is on the opposite side of the Island from Pearl Harbor and the airport though.

Going in April for the 4th time. However, we always stay in Waikiki area and drive to other places. We always go to the beach in Kailua rather than Waikiki it is beautiful and never crowed during the week. Sorry, I don't know the names of hotels or condos in that area. Good luck

We were about to book the Turtle Bay Hilton until our travel agent said that the current owners were letting the hotel get run-down. We are disappointed. Can anyone confirm or deny this?

Great idea to stay in the Kailua /Lanikai area. Both beach areas are fantastic and the view from the Pali Highway as you cross the mountain from Honolulu to Kailua is breathtaking. Don't know specifically of condos, 'tho certainly there must be some, but how about a bed and breakfast? One idea is to contact Bed and Breakfast Hawaii at 1-800-733-1632 and ask for recommendations. If you tell them what you want , they will try to find a suitable place. Their last book had many Kailua area listings. I envy you the excitement of your first ever trip to Hawaii. It is surpassed only by the anticipation of a return visit!