After a lot of research, we've opted to do 3 nights in Waikiki before moving to Aulani. We chose to do it first because we'll be coming from the east coast, and with the time change, a 6am Pearl Harbor visit or Diamond Head hike will be easier to do in the beginning when we're still waking up early. Also, we won't have a car until we move to Aulani so we can avoid the traffic and parking cost/hassle in Waikiki. We booked a tour to Pearl Harbor that picks up at or near our Waikiki hotel, and also facilitates getting the tickets for us. We booked a different tour to Diamond Head for the second day which also picks up from our hotel. We're staying at the Waikiki Beach Marriott which seems to be walking distance of a lot, and we got a really good rate. Have fun!