I stayed at the Kahala Mandarin last july for a weekend on the way to Beijing - a couple of us (my fiancee flew in for the weekend, and two of us stopped on the way to PEK) shared a two bedroom suite. It worked out beautifully - there were two king rooms connected by an enormous living/dining room, all three with balconies.

Fabulous views, wonderful service, a great buffet at the "coffee shop."

It is a ways away from the hustle and bustle of Waikiki, but that makes it sound like it's a bad thing.

This is also a Platinum FHR property, so we got the nice fruit basket and I think lunch one day.

We had never stayed in a "resort" hotel in HNL, so we asked various friends, and the reply to the question "Where is THE place to stay" was almost always the Kahala or the Halekulani.

Will concur w/ BlondeBomber on the personal preference, though.

This property, the Kahala Mandarin, which I've visited but never stayed at as a Mandarin property, is actually the old Hilton, which was sold years ago and the remodeling and service upgrade is quite substantial and notable. Seems as noted that it would be an excellent choice for one desiring to be off the beaten path.

Though tempted, I've stayed with the New Otani due to great satisfaction, recognition and (nearly gauranteed) upgrades with New Otani Club, as well as the breakfast credits. many of the staff has been here for years!