We were hesitant to visit Oahu again given the number of tourists that visit the island and the crowded city feel of the southern part of the island. Bret's condo is located away from the tourist crowds and city, and provides the tropical experience we expect from Hawaii. The condo is located directly on a beach with a far off shore wave break that makes the water and beach very calm and a great place to hang out. There is sea life in the waters of the condo beach, and turtles occasionally visited.
If you're looking to stay away from crowds like we are when visiting the Islands, but also want the opportunity to visit one of the best beaches in the world (Waikiki beach) and spend some time at historic Pearl Harbor, this is a great option. We spent the majority of our trip on the north shore. Haliewa is a classic Hawaiian beach town, and Waimea and Sunset beaches are perfect spots to spend down days. The north shore is much more relaxed and has a relatively low tourist ratio.