Hawaii Vacation Rentals Tips

Oahu Vacation Rental

Oahu is the frugal vacationer's paradise. A great vacation doesn't have to drain your bank account. Follow these tips and you can spend less than $30 a day on a memorable Oahu vacation:

• Oahu vacation rentals can be expensive so skip the fancy hotel and stay in one of the many inexpensive hostels
• Eat in local, inexpensive eateries rather than touristy restaurants
• Skip the rental car and be chauffeured around the island on the super-cheap public buses
• Take advantage of the free attractions (which includes most sights and almost every beach)

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Kauai Vacation

A clean vacationer is a happy vacationer in Kauai!

Considering a Kauai vacation rental? You can frolic with Hawaiian Monk seals on the beach and scuba with sea turtles in the ocean. During the Hawaiian dry season, the daytime weather is warm and sleeping is easy during cool, balmy nights. Beware, however, of occasional mudslides that occur on this island. Stay safe and clean by checking weather reports before driving or participating in activities.

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How to Know It's Time for a Hawaii Vacation Rental

It's the height of winter. Snow covers your rooftop. You need to shovel the sidewalk…again. It's time to trade that snowsuit for a tropical shirt and sip a tall, cool Mai Tai on a beach warmed by tropical breezes year-round. It's time to run away to Hawaii.

It's a stressful commute in heavy traffic every day to a demanding job. You daydream of running away to a serene paradise. It's time to escape that stress and run away to Hawaii.

You've always dreamed of saying “I Do” (or “I Still Do”) in one of the most romantic spaces on earth. It's time to run away to Hawaii.

Family vacation time rolls away and as usual, no one can agree on where to go. The kids want to snorkel, surf and see the sights. Mom wants to relax and rejuvenate. Dad wants to get in a few rounds of world-class golf. It's time to run away to Hawaii.

Your group of buddies craves adventure…hiking, biking, diving, surfing, exploring. It's time to run away to Hawaii.

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Hawaii Beach Vacations

Aloha! Put down that dinky hula hoop and go to places where hula is considered an art form!

• Maui
• Oahu
• Kauai
• Molokai
• Lanai
• Hawaii

These beautiful islands are all just a hop away from each other and offer breathtaking beach vacation rentals. Whether you're interested in a secluded romantic luxury resort or a quiet little bungalow, you'll find it here.

Known for unbelievable surfing and adventurous sports, these islands will appease any adrenaline junkie's appetite as well as please more traditional vacationers with quiet sunning areas on breathtaking beaches and ample shopping. If you want to enjoy the sun while visiting these islands, however, be sure not to go during Hawaii's rainy season which is November through March.

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Maui Vacation Rental

Live like an islander, well, almost…

You can get a beautiful Maui vacation rental and experience natural paradise without giving up modern spoils. Whether you want to stay in a traditional touristy hotel or rent a private bungalow by the beach, you will not be far from grocery stores, video rental stores, restaurants, bars or anything else you're accustomed to back home.

It's convenient (and common) for vacationers to rent cars to get around the island. There are many options available suitable for whatever plans you have in mind (from domestic cars to SUV's with off road capabilities). Be wary of the roads, however, as they tend to be narrow, have sharp turns, and are unpaved on parts of the island.

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Hawaii Vacation

Sometimes it's good to be impatient!

When looking into a Hawaii vacation rental it's possible to save up to 70% on hotels with last minute deals and vacation packages. This isn't necessarily a good idea, however, as waiting until the last minute does not mean there will definitely get further discounts—it's just a possibility. In fact, last minute accommodations can end up costing more (especially during popular vacation times when rooms are in demand). The safe bet is to find a smart deal head of time.

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Cheap Hawaii Vacation

See what the Hukilau is all about!

Looking for an inexpensive trip to Hawaii? Find a wholesaler who lives there and you can get a cheap Hawaii vacation package that won't cost an arm and a leg. Wholesalers have contracts with local suppliers that gain them access to cheap Hawaii vacation packages. And, with wholesale airline ticket prices you'll be paying next to nothing for an amazing vacation.

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Visiting the Garden Island of Kauai

Kauai is a natural, tropical paradise. In Kauai, you won't find high-rise hotels, four-lane highways, sprawling shopping centers or big city life. What you will find is beautiful landscape and plenty of things to do.

Just because Kauai is more natural and rugged than the other islands, doesn't mean that it's boring. There are many historic and cultural sites, outdoor adventure activities, wonderful restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

The beaches aren't crowded, making Kauai a perfect locale for a romantic getaway. But there are many fun family activities in Kauai as well. You can go snorkeling, scuba diving or kayaking while on the island. You can also take a helicopter tour of Kauai, go skydiving or hike the beautiful terrain.

You can also visit the old sugar plantations, tour movie locations or go whale watching. When planning your trip to Kauai, book a Hawaii vacation home rental on Poipu Beach or another location on the island.

Hawaii vacation home rentals are great option when looking for lodging for your trip. You can find condos right on the beach or other Hawaii vacation rentals throughout the island.

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Visiting The Big Island of Hawaii

The Big Island of Hawaii is nearly twice as big as all the other Hawaiian Islands together.

The wet, tropical east side of The Big Island is Hilo. The dry, sunny, southwest side of the island is Kailua-Kona. Most tourist attractions are located in Kailua-Kona. However, Hilo is home to the Botanical Gardens, Pana'ewa Rainforest Zoo, waterfalls and other natural attractions and activities.

In between Hilo and Kailua-Kona is the top attraction - Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. For ten dollars a vehicle, you can visit the park, where you will see Kilauea - one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Kilauea is one of five volcanoes that formed The Big Island. It sits on the southeastern side of Mauna Loa - the world's largest volcano.

While on The Big Island, you can whale watch year round, go wine tasting, charter a sailboat, horseback ride on the beach, take a helicopter tour, visit the train museum, stroll the botanical gardens and even visit a seahorse farm!

Instead of staying at a major hotel, book your lodging on The Big Island at one of the many Hawaii luxury vacation rentals or more affordable Hawaii vacation condo rentals.

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Things to do in North Shore Oahu

When vacationing in Hawaii, don't miss the famous North Shore of Oahu. Book your stay at one of many North Shore Hawaii vacation rentals and then check out what North Shore has to offer.

Here are some of the best things to do when visiting North Shore.

Deep Sea Fishing
The waters on the North Shore offer some of the best fishing in all of Hawaii. You can charter a fishing boat and catch Marlin, Tuna, Mahi and other fish.

Whale Watching
You can take a charter boat tour in the winter months to view the giant humpback whales. Watch these magnificent creatures in their natural environment.

Shark Tours
Take a shark tour a few miles of the North Shore, where you can get an up close look of the sharks near Oahu.

Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is fun for adults and kids of all ages. Happy Trails Hawaii on North Shore conducts guided horseback tours through the orchards and forests.

Polynesian Cultural Center
This the number one paid tourist attraction in all of Hawaii. The center is located on over 40 acres of lagoon-laced landscape. Here you will learn about the Polynesian culture, meet natives of the area, and enjoy a fun-filled day of music, food, games and entertainment. The cultural center is closed on Sundays, so plan accordingly! Entrance to the Polynesian Culture Center is close to what you'd expect to pay at an amusement park.

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Things to do in Maui

The Hawaiian island of Maui attracts more than two million visitors each year. It's a beautiful destination for a family vacation, a romantic getaway or singles experience.

There are 120 linear miles of shoreline and over 80 accessible beaches in Maui. But Maui isn't all about surfing. You find an array of other wonderful things to do while visiting Maui.

One of the most popular attractions is Haleakala National Park, where you can see the Haleakala Volcano - which is over 10,000 feet at its highest peak. The crater of the volcano is an incredible 21 miles across and 4,000 feet deep.

If you love the water, you can snorkel, scuba die, sail, kayak or canoe. You can also charter a boat for deep sea fishing, rent an ATV for off-roading, fly a paraglider, hike to a waterfall, take a mule ride, horseback ride along the beach and much more.

If you are vacationing in Maui during the winter, don't miss the humpback whales. You can take a water or air tour to catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures.

When visiting Maui, you can book a Hawaii vacation home rental rather than a traditional hotel. With a Hawaii vacation house rental, you will be enjoy some of the comforts of home at an affordable price.

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Hawaii Safety Tips

When visiting Hawaii, follow common sense and these basic safety tips.

Ocean Safety Tips

• The beaches and waters in Hawaii are some of the most beautiful in the world. And though the ocean is amazing, it could also become dangerous.
• Swim only where there are lifeguards on duty nearby.
• Pay attention to signs posted on the beach.
• Don't swim out too far, hidden undercurrents can overpower you.

• Don't swim in ponds or streams if you have open cuts on your skin. The bacteria could lead to infection.
• Don't drink the water without purifying it with purification tablets. Better yet, purchase bottled water.

• Don't carry a lot of cash. If you must, use a hidden money belt.
• Leave precious jewelry at home. If you purchase any expensive items on your trip, consider shipping them back stateside rather than carrying them with you.
• Keep your shopping bags, handbags and luggage with you at all times, particularly in crowded areas, such as shopping districts, beaches, hotel lobbies and at the airport.

• Hawaii is an incredible place to hike, bike and horseback ride. If you going to go out on the trails, be sure you have a map.
• Don't go alone, if at all possible. Partner up with a more experienced hiker or a local person from the area.
• Carry a cell phone, in case of emergency, and plenty of bottled water.
• Let someone know where you are going. Mention it to others you are traveling with, or even call someone back home to let them. This way, if you get lost, someone will know where to begin looking.

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Planning a Trip to Hawaii

Here are some basic recommendations when planning your first trip to Hawaii.

Stay at least a week.
There is so much to see and do when visiting Hawaii, that you really should give yourself enough time to enjoy yourself. The flight is long, especially from the East coast of the United States. Therefore, a three or four day trip just not enough time. If possible, book a two week trip. Book your stay at one of many Hawaii vacation home rentals.

Stick to one or two islands.
Hawaii (The Big Island) is huge. Don't try to cram visits to all five islands in one stay. Instead, plan ahead by researching on the Internet or at your local library and select one or two of the islands which appeal to you the most.

Eat at local restaurants.
Instead of eating at five-star restaurants, resorts or hotels, save money and experience some of the best food in Hawaii by eating at local "Mom & Pop" type of restaurants.

Don't carry much cash.
Like in most tourist destinations, you may be a target for pickpockets and thieves while in Hawaii. Carry very little cash; instead use traveler's checks. Don't leave your luggage, shopping bags, purchase or other personal items unattended when at the beach, restaurant or other public places.

When booking your trip to Hawaii, you can choose from a variety of Hawaii vacation rentals, including Hawaii vacation home rentals, condo rentals and other accommodations.

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Kauai is the Garden Isle

Don't come to Kauai for the nightlife unless you plan to make your own nightlife. Come for the incredible beauty and serenity surrounded by fragrant tropical flowers and foliage. Come for romance and the wonderful feeling of being alone together in your private paradise. Marvel at the grandeur Waimea Canyon and the rugged green cliffs of the Na Pali Coast. You'll quickly see why Kauai has been the location of movies like Jurassic Park , South Pacific and Blue Hawaii. Escape the real world in Kauai vacation rentals. Beachfront havens wait for you in a place where Hawaiian kings and high chiefs once sought solitude and artists and writers have found inspiration through the years. Beware: You may never want to leave this serene piece of paradise

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The Big Island WOW Factor

On Hawaii, the Big Island, the WOW factor is high. It is the most ecologically diverse of the Hawaiian Islands. Two massive volcanoes create micro-climates with one side of the island hot and dry and the other side lush and tropical. Climb to the top of Mauna Kea for spectacular view, stay for the sunset and watch the sky fill with glittering starlight.

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is home of active volcanoes Kilauea and Madame Pele. Take a heart-stopping exciting helicopter and peer in the seething cauldron of Kilauea. It's the experience of a lifetime. Enjoy an afternoon on the unique Black Sand Beach of Punalu'u. Hawaii vacation rentals are as diverse as the island itself. Choose a secluded cottage or condo on the beach or spread out on your own private 10-acre ranch with ocean and mountain views. Enjoy yourself in the own outdoor private pool, spa, tennis court overlooking the ocean or relax in your indoor dry/steam sauna. Watch the sunset over the Pacific and make a wish as the sky fills with glittering stars. This is life at its best.

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Maui Is the Valley Isle

It's no surprise that readers of Conde Nast Traveler have repeatedly named Maui the “ Number One Island in the World”. A favorite of honeymooners and families, Maui is an island of lush tropical rainforests, verdant valleys, volcanic mountains and golden sand beaches. Maui is also the best island for whale-watching. Each year humpback whales migrate to the waters off Maui. Between January and March, it is not uncommon to see more whales in the waters off Maui than on an Alaska cruise. A stay on Maui should include driving the famous Road to Hana, a beautiful 50-mile twisting and turning road through tropical scenery. Take a break frequently and enjoy a swim under a waterfall. Hana is commonly known as the “Last Hawaiian Place .” Step back in time with a Maui vacation rental plantation cottage in Hana. Honeymoon in a private studio suite in Lahaina Shores. Wake-up caressed by fragrant ocean breezes to the sound of gentle waves and tropical birds. Enjoy amazing sunsets and an evening luau on the beach and feel the humdrum world slip away.

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Oahu is the Gathering Place

An Oahu vacation rental is a good home base for your Hawaiian getaway. Although there are direct flights from the mainland to each of the four biggest islands, there are more flights into Honolulu or Oahu than to any of the other islands. Consequently, there are more non-stop flights and airfare specials from major cities like Chicago, Atlanta, New York, San Francisco and Seattle.

If you like being in the center of the action, Oahu is known as The Gathering Place. Choose a Waikiki vacation rental on the beach with views of Diamondhead. Waikiki Beach is crowded, but offers great people-watching and Waikiki is a good place for beginners to learn to surf. Waikiki also offers the most nightlife in the islands. If you are looking for Oahu vacation rental options away from the action on Waikiki Beach, Sunset Beach and Waimea Bay are scenic surfing beaches. Imagine view from a beautiful four bedroom/three bath home on the famous North Shore of Oahu just a short walk to Waimea Bay Beach and Sharks Cove.

Watch the surfing daredevils run gigantic breakers or opt for great swimming and snorkeling at Three Tables beach. Other popular Oahu vacation rental locations include: Turtle Bay, Ewa Beach, Kaaawa, Kailua and Lanikai.

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Where to Stay in The Islands

There are four primary types of lodging in the Hawaiian Islands. First, there is a limited number of bed and breakfasts found in the islands that run the gamut from simple to lavish. Major hotel brands offer budget priced to upscale properties on one or more islands with the largest hotel presence in Honolulu. Most large resorts are found on Oahu and Maui and rooms at resorts tend to cost more than hotels. (Note: Although travel agencies promote all-inclusive resort packages to Hawaii, these are not the same all-your-food-and-drinks all-inclusive deals popular in the Caribbean. These all-inclusive offers usually refer to a room, rental car and sometimes rounds of golf.)

Hawaiian vacation home and condominium rentals are rapidly becoming the most popular choice for Hawaiian holidays. Here are a few reasons why:

• Space: Why stay in a single cramped hotel room when you can have the run of an entire villa or condominium?
• Privacy: Togetherness is great, but too much togetherness adds stress and strain to any vacation. Why share beds and baths when everyone can have their own space?
• Affordability: On average Hawaiian vacation rentals cost 30% less than resort accommodations. When family and friends travel together and share the cost, a vacation rental offers ultimate luxury for less.
  
• Flexibility: Staying in a home, villa or condo provides the freedom to stay and play on your own schedule. Want a midnight snack? Raid the kitchen. Prepare your own meals or a picnic to enjoy by the pool or in a tropical garden setting. No waiting for restaurant reservations.
  
• Luxury: Not everyone can afford a luxury second home on a tropical island. Vacation rentals offer the chance to sample the rewards of luxury living without the risks of ownership.

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Fact You Should Know About Hawaii

Here's some trivia to pique your interest in a Hawaii vacation rental:

• Hawaii is not a single place. There are eight main islands and over 100 islets (tiny uninhabited islands) sprawling in a crescent shape across 1,500 miles in the Pacific Ocean.

• If you want get away as far away from the rest of the world as possible, the Hawaiian Islands , located 2390 miles from California, 3,850 miles from Japan and 5,280 miles from the Philippines, is the most isolated inhabited island in the world.

• The Hawaiian word “Aloha” is both a greeting and a farewell and it means love. No doubt, you will fall in love with Hawaii and bid farewell only until you can return again and again to this sparkling Pacific paradise.

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