I must admit, it is closer to Hanauma Bay and Diamond Head from Waikiki than it is from Aulani and you definitely dont want to be in that morning traffic along the highway from Ko Olina/Kapolei so from a touring perspective for you it is probably better to stay in Waikiki for those few days.
I think the Outrigger Waikiki Beach is seriously one of the best choices for a first time Waikiki visit, mostly because of the location. It is central to everything, sits right on the beach and has more of a holiday feel than some of the properties that are a block back from the strip.
THanks! you are the second person to recommend Outrigger. I was pretty set on Royal Hawiian but the price diff is decently steep enough to make me take a second look. I know there is another one close by with a similar name but the word REEF in the title. Beween these to Outriggers and Royal Hawaian - is one so superior it is worth the difference? confused on difference between the two outriggers...Thanks!