[Rinty]

Hi John:

My wife and I go to one of the islands every winter, depending on where the Hawaiian Eye meeting is. We like them all, and have stayed in all levels of accommodation, but for a family trip with a 6 year old, the ultimate place would be the Hilton Waikoloa Village on the Big Island. Have a look at their website and you'll see why.

For more affordable accommodation, I would just get a quality hotel on a beach that offers activities that your youngster will enjoy, as you and your wife will enjoy it regardless. The Aston Kaanapali Shores on Maui would be a good bet.

Something to consider is connections. It may be easier on your youngster to have a single direct flight to your destination island, so you might want to check into whether that is possible from Brisbane. I see Jetstar has direct service to Honolulu twice a week in off season.

Have fun.