Presidential-Style Vacation at Citizen Prices

Kailua, Old Hawaii

With a population of less than 12,000, the small town of Kailua is reminiscent of old Hawaii, nestled below the gloriously green Koolau mountains. Trails on the hillside lead to waterfalls and some of the most beautiful views on the island, but are for more experienced hikers only. Kailua's quiet streets are lined with more red ginger flowers than cars.

"The beauty, the flowers, the sand and the colors of the ocean make this a painter's paradise," said longtime Kailua resident and realtor David Catanazaro.

Mom-and-pop locally owned businesses add to the small-town feel. Surf shops with gear rentals and fruit stands selling mangoes, bananas and flowers are plentiful.

One of the most popular stops in town is Lanikai Juice, where the blended pineapple, papaya and passion fruit drinks are fresh, never frozen.

Locals consider Kailua one of Oahu's best kept secrets. No telling how long that will last, now that the president-elect has made it his vacation destination.