hope you enjoy the trip. i've been a couple of times. been to oahu, big island, maui, kauai--had a nice time on all the islands. by reading this thread, i must be in the minority; because i love waikiki. at night, it was like walking down the strip at in vegas; but, i don't at all mind the people and activity, never was much for seclusion. And more importantly, the weather suited me better on that side of the island. i have chronic asthma and didn't have any trouble breathing when i stayed at waikiki--the air definitely felt different on the other side of the island, and after a few hours there, i was reaching for my inhaler. Drove all over Kauai and took some great pictures--and saw some waterfalls and the blowhole. I'd go back again...and hope too.