Kailua is the place to stay if you want city amenities without the stress of Honolulu crowds, traffic etc. This place is laid back yet vibrant with a beach town feel. Great local restaurants as well. We felt comfortable and safe from the first day. Disclaimer: we stayed at Brandon's for a solid two weeks and I would recommend this unit for up to one week. It is small for two but has what you need especially if you're staying busy doing the tourist thingy and only need a place to crash. Very clean, quiet and well maintained property and neighborhood. Yup, like other comments the beach probably can't be reached in 5 minutes walking. Driving definitely in 5. Kailua beach is probably one of the best beaches on the island and worth any amount of time to get there. Go early as it does get "crowded" (not Waikiki crowded) by early afternoon. Parking can be a problem on weekends as well. If we get to return some day we'll definitely stay on this side of the island. Thanks Braydyn and family for your hospitality!