Interesting to hear your experience. I have been to Oahu quite a few times since being married to my wife. Her father was born there and his mom's family still live there. We also have a couple of friends that live on Oahu. We stayed in Waikiki each time. Please do not judge Oahu by Waikiki beach, as there are many areas that are beautiful and natural. The Pali outlook and the Pillbox hike are just a couple. We went to one of the most softest beaches there on the North shore. I wish I had been to Kauai as I hear it is one of the most beautiful places.