Hawaii vacation rentals listings for Big Island vacation rentals, Kauai vacation rentals, Lanai vacation rentals, Maui vacation rentals, Molokai vacation rentals, Oahu vacation rentals.

May 30th, 2008

If you love to ride bikes and go for seriously long bike rides or even short ones then you should really consider combining that into your vacation planning. If you may not have thought of things previously then you should start thinking about vacationing in the island of Oahu in Hawaii. You may not have thought of Oahu as a biking place but it truly is one of the most spectacular places to ride bikes. A fun event to attend while staying in Oahu rentals is called the Jash Century Bike Ride. This is a biking event that really draws a crowd of great people who just love to bike. The bike ride has options for all types of riders as well. Your stay in Oahu rentals will ensure that you are close to everything you need to be close to tackle the Jash Century Bike Ride. The ride is really for anyone since they have something for all riders whether you are a beginning or whether you are an expert who is serious about riding. The riding you will do will be simple unforgettable and beautiful beyond description. There is a 25, 50, 75, and 100 mile bike ride options so that you can choose which ever option you want. You will see the beauty of the volcanic rock formations and also the beauty of the beautiful ocean sea. Without a doubt you will want to return to stay in Oahu rentals and probably want to return to the bike tide too.

May 30th, 2008

Not everyone plans a vacation to a place during a certain time of the year simply to attend a festival but it is fast becoming a common trend in vacationers. Many vacationers do not want to normal everyday vacation and in fact want more flexibility and want their vacation to have a theme or focus. This is becoming a popular trend with those vacationing in rental property in Hawaii where they are truly looking for accommodations that are little bit different than a hotel or motel but offer comfort and beauty as well. The hotel and motel vacation is fast becoming less common. People are trying to plan vacations around culture events as well and that has lead to increased attendance at some. Rental property in Hawaii is a fabulous way to vacation and to enjoy your vacation with other people or family members. You should all plan to vacation in Hawaii on the Big Island during the late summer so that everyone can attend the too fun Big Island Festival. The festival has great music, dancing, dinner, and even wine tasting and entertainers. The event is tons of fun whether you are a local or a vacationer. Your choice to stay in rental property in Hawaii will mean that you are close to all the action as well so that you can do just about anything you would like to do on the Big Island within a reasonable time period.

May 30th, 2008

If you are one of those types of people who are concerned about health and wellness then you should consider incorporating those concerns into a vacation idea. This might sound like its crazy but it is really easy to do when you consider that you can not only vacation in an amazing place but also place a focus on health and wellness. A vacation in Hawaii on the island fo Maui during the month of September is the perfect way to accomplish this. You can stay in a Maui condo rental and then attend the annual LifeFest Kapalua which is a health and wellness that is held every year. You will truly appreciate the wealth of information and the openness that your feel and get at the event. This will be a unique way to incorporate health in to your vacation. The annual LifeFest Kapula event is an event that combines many things. The event is meant to educate the mind and rejuvenate the spirit all while encouraging physical fitness. Additionally the event also focuses on local practices that are indigenous to Hawaiian cultural practices giving you the absolute best experience possible. A stay in a Maui condo will ensure that you are close to all the action that you might want to be close to. You can attend the event and then retreat to your condo for a nice relaxing evening or to get warmed up for the evening too.

May 30th, 2008

If you know a college football lover or you happen to be a college football lover then you should consider doing something a little different this year and vacationing in Hawaii. You will want to make sure you are in Honolulu, Hawaii for vacationing during the last week in December so that you can attend the Hawaii Bowl. The Hawaii Bowl is always a great match up and certainly a heck of a good time. You can easily stay in a Hawaii condo during your vacation on Honolulu and while attending the game you will have comfort in knowing that you have a wonderful place to go back to and crash if necessary. After a day of hooting and hollering that just be what the doctor ordered. If you really need to recover you will be completely comfortable in the Hawaii condo where you have comfortable accommodations and just about anything you could ever want. You can sit together with your family or friends and truly have a wonderful time just enjoying the season and reminiscing about the game regardless of whether your favorite team lost or won. After the game is over really take the group out to celebrate and enjoy some of the freshest and finest prepared seafood available. Then do a little shopping and do a little sun bathing and your vacation will be complete.

May 30th, 2008

Some people vacation to just enjoy life and enjoy themselves and their loved ones. Other people vacation to learn about culture and history and art. Still others vacation to participate in well known physical events and these are people that some of the other people might at times refer to as crazy! But we all know that people who love to run marathons and are concerned with their health and competition are actually just doing what makes them happy and content. If you are looking to attend and participate in the Maui Marathon and Race Weekend – the annual running event in September every year then you should consider staying in a Maui condo during your time on the island of Maui. You will have such a relaxing place to stay that is comfortable and not the least bit cramped. Your stay in a Maui condo will be everything you need to get ready for the Maui Marathon and Race Weekend whether you are actually going to race or just cheer another runner on. The furnishings will be appropriate and nicely appointed. You will have easy assess to the location of the race and to all the many other wonderful things that the island of Maui has to offer including hiking, biking, and lots of surfing whether it is wind or board surfing. You might even decide to run the Maui Marathon every year just so that you need to come back to Maui and stay in your choice of a Maui condo.

May 30th, 2008

If you are looking to vacation in the month of September and you want to go someplace that is warm and beautiful in September then you should plan on vacationing on the island of Kauai in Hawaii. The island of Kauai is an especially awesome place to vacation in the month of September because if you time it right you can attend the annual Kauai Mokihana Festival that is held annually in the month of September in mid to late September. You can stay in Princeville condos and vacation in the lap of luxury and still be very close to the festival where you can experience the interesting facts about Hawaiian culture and art as well. You will have such a unique vacation experience that it is quite likely that you will choose to vacation there every single year in September. Princeville condos are certainly the way to stay in Kauai as the area of Princeville is gorgeious and has an up scale but also inviting feeling. You may even see a star or celebrity whiel there since Princeville is a popular area for those types to vacation. At the festival you will see hula competitions, a stringed instrument competition and to top it all off there is a party with music, food, crafts, and other activities to entertain you. After the celebration you can simply return to your condo and just relax and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you.

May 30th, 2008

Hawaiian music is perhaps some of the most beautiful music there is anywhere and it is truly easy to appreciate it too since the music is so flowing and just down right beautiful. If you love to listen to the guitar music then you should plan on attending the Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival on the island of Kauai in the month of September. The festival is a truly awesome experience with some of the most renowned and well known slack key guitarist existing. You can stay in Kauai rentals and have everything that you need to participate and attend this fabulous festival. You will be close to all the great action and all the fun festivities that come along with the festival too. Kauai rentals are perfect accommodations for the person traveling to Kauai to attend the Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Festival in Kauai because they are comfortable, appealing, nicely appointed and convenient at that. Additionally, if you are traveling with a group to the festival you can easily all stay together in the rentals and feel more united and have more time to talk about he festival and just appreciate the music that you have gotten the privilege to hear and be a part of. You can even through a little after party in the comforts of your rental incase you meet a few friends who want to carry the party over.

May 30th, 2008

Are you looking for a vacation experience that you can have year after year after year? If you are trying to find a vacation avenue that you can stay in annually then you should consider planning a vacation to the islands of Hawaii and choosing your favorite option from Hawaii condos. The best part of Hawaii is that it simply never gets boring or old regardless of the number of times you have vacationed there. Additionally Hawaii always stays nice and clean and interesting as well. There are so many cultural and local events to attend every year and all year long on all of the islands. Hawaii condos are exactly the type of place you should be looking for to find an annual vacation spot. The condos are accommodating, nicely appointed, comfortable, and close to everything you could ever need including the beach and shopping and lots lots more. While your family changes the best part about Hawaii condos is that they will still remain comfortable whether there is just a couple or a whole family. This is why there is such an advantage of choosing a condo instead of a hotel or motel. You will be comfortable and still be able to spend time together as people change and grow. Also there are activities for anyone regardless of age, gender, or activity level. You will find quite quickly that vacationing in Hawaii is definitely something you will want to do every single year together.

May 30th, 2008

Not all vacations need to be boring and full of laying around and doing nothing. You can spend your vacation doing much more than that by just choosing the right vacation destination and place to stay. One such destination for optimal action are the islands of Hawaii where you can cruise the islands and experience many types of vacation experiences. Additionally the accommodations are pretty much anything you want if you choose to stay in Hawaii house rentals. Hawaii house rentals provide you with the option of choosing the rental that you want and where and when you want it. This makes things so much simpler to island hop too since you will know exactly what you are looking for on each island as you arrive. There is absolutely no better way to vacation than by vacationing in Hawaii and staying in Hawaii house rentals. One your vacation you will want to stay active and it is certainly easy to do that while vacationing on any of the islands. The best part about vacationing in the Hawaiian islands is that versatility that is available to you. You can experience this versatility when staying Hawaii house rentals on which ever islands you so choose to stay on. You will want to of course hit the beaches for surfing and windsurfing too. Then on to the forest to do a little hiking and maybe mountain biking too. Then you should hit the water again and do a little ocean kayaking so truly enjoy the beauty.

May 30th, 2008

If you are looking to plan a great Labor Day holiday fun vacation that is maybe even a little more extended than the three days then you should strongly consider planning a vacation to the island of Maui in Hawaii. This may seem like a strange idea but really when you think about it a vacation to Maui is always perfect regardless of how long or when it happens. You can choose to stay in one of many Maui rentals that will accommodate your every need and desire. You can vacation with a small or large group and be perfectly comfortable together if you choose to be. All you need is a little planning and you are on your way to the most memorable Labor Day vacation imaginable. Of course we all know that Maui is so beautiful and wonderful like all the islands in Hawaii but what you might not realize is how great it is to stay there over a holiday weekend like Labor Day. Maui rentals will provide you with the perfect opportunity to celebrate this holiday and to truly treat yourself. After all, isn’t Labor Day supposed to be a treat for those of us working folks? You can completely relax in the rental and be at ease with opportunity to experience all the great things that Maui has to offer. You can bike or hike and then hit the beach for the real fun of surfing and sunning yourself.

May 30th, 2008

If you are looking for a vacation that you can plan either last minute or well in advance then you should consider planning a vacation to the amazing island of Maui, one of the spectacular islands of Hawaii. All the islands of Hawaii are truly amazing in their own individual ways. The island of Maui is particularly amazing because it is so gloriously beautiful and simply fantastic. The island has so much to offer to vacationers and you will truly enjoy your vacation should you choose to stay in your choice of Maui house rentals. You can have a getaway vacation in Maui and it will simply be unforgettable. You will certainly not be disappointed with your choice to stay in Maui. Your stay in Maui house rentals will start by you choosing the rental that you want to stay in so that you will know exactly what you getting before you even get there. This allows you the flexibility to suit your accommodations to your exact needs and wants. The Maui house rentals are all nicely decorated, perfectly located, and very very comfortable. Your stay in Maui will just be that much better after staying in a rental. You can take advantage of everything that Maui has to offer which includes great water sports like surfing, windsurfing, biking, hiking and the list goes on. There is also great shopping and some of the best restaurants and dining experiences.

May 30th, 2008

If you are feeling really over stressed at this point in the year then what you really need is a retreat from reality where you can just take a break and relax. Everyone needs a little time to relax and it is often that after several months without a holiday or vacation that you really feel the need for some time off. You can spend that time off retreating from reality by traveling to the Hawaiian islands. You will want to choose to stay in one of many Hawaiian rentals which will give you every opportunity to enjoy the company you bring with you and to enjoy your time off as well. What could be better than a little rest and relaxation from your normal work day. Well really what could be better than a nice escape from reality is an escape from reality in the islands of Hawaii. You will feel almost immediately feel more relaxed just by arriving in Hawaii by seeing all the beautiful palm trees and just smelling that fresh air and feeling that ocean breeze. You can first relax in your chosen Hawaiian rentals for as long as you need and then maybe hit the beach for a walk. Or if you are up for things then maybe hit the town and go to a fun local bar or dance club. Then spend the rest of your vacation taking in all the activities such as surfing, kayaking, biking and many more. You will of course also need to work on that amazing golden brown tan.

May 30th, 2008

If you are planning a romantic escape for you and your special someone then you should plan on traveling to the islands of Hawaii. You will absolutely love spending time in Hawaii with the one you love or the one you really want to express your love to. Everyone knows that the most romantic vacation destination is found in the islands of Hawaii and especially the island of Kona. Kona is especially romantic island and you will truly enjoy your time together staying in Kona vacation rentals. There is no other place that is better to be at than the island of Kona for a romantic escape. Your romantic escape with your special someone will be absolutely perfect for the two of you when staying together in Kona vacation rentals. The best part will be your ability to choose the vacation rental that you want to stay in before hand so you will know exactly what you are getting into. You can choose to stay in a home rental in Kona, or a condo rental, or even a nice little villa what ever is your choice. You and your loved one can spend all the time you might want to just snuggling together in your comfortable accommodations and then spend a night out on the town treating yourself to some magnificent meals and even a nice walk on the beach to end the night – walking hand and hand.

May 30th, 2008

If you are looking to plan a great vacation for the summer then you should consider vacationing in the Hawaiian islands where you can all the fun and relaxation that you could ever want all in one place. You will find exactly what you are looking for in the way of accommodations with a stay in Hawaii rentals. Hawaii rentals have so many options for you to choose from that you will almost feel overwhelmed when it comes to making the actual choice. You can literally choose from any island that you might want to stay on whether it is Maui, Oahu, Kihei, Kauai, or maybe a combo of all the islands. Everyone knows that the Hawaiian islands offer the best in vacation destinations as it is plastered across most any website or travel guide and you should treat yourself to such a vacation treat. A trip to Hawaii is exactly what you family needs for a summer escape and vacation. Hawaii rentals provide you and your family with the perfect way to vacation together comfortably and without so much stress as staying in a hotel. You will have all the room you need or want and all the comforts of home too. While staying together you can take a few trips to the beach and maybe have your own sand castle building contest where in the end everyone wins. If you are looking for a great cultural event you should make it a point to experience a luau.

May 19th, 2008

No location says love more than the state of Hawaii.  Lovers have flocked to the Hawaiian islands for decades seeking solitude and intimacy.  Of the several islands that make up the state of Hawaii, Maui is arguably the most romantic.  White sand beaches, clear blue water, and intimate restaurants and shops are available in several locations across the island of Maui.  What better way to celebrate your marriage then by spending your anniversary in the luxury of a Maui condo.

Maui may not be the biggest of the Hawaiian Islands but it may be the most quaint.  The small community feel of Maui is the perfect atmosphere for a couple who just wants to be reminded of all of the things that attracted them to each other so many years ago.  Maui offers romance at it’s finest.  Couples can enjoy the picturesque sunset while walking on the beach and holding hands.  With their shoes off and sand between their toes many couples will be reminded of the youthful days of their first meetings.  The comfortable temperature of the climate in Maui provides the ideal environment for dining under the moon light or strolling by the water after sunset.  Speaking of dining, Maui has some of the finest opportunities for experiencing Hawaiian cuisine.  By choosing a Maui condo rather than a standard hotel or motel room, will allow a couple the liberty of choosing to dine out or create a more intimate environment inside the comfort of their own rental.  Whatever your idea of romance may be, renting a condo in Maui will provide any couple with the ultimate anniversary experience.

May 19th, 2008

It is time to celebrate!  Throwing a party is both a rewarding experience as well as a tedious obligation.  Make it easy on yourself and choose a location that offers entertainment for everyone.  Hawaii is one of America’s premier vacation destinations.  Hawaii’s popularity is likely due to the variety of entertainment opportunities available on the island.  Let’s face it, Hawaii is simply fun.  Celebrating comes naturally on an island as beautiful and peaceful as Hawaii.  With several different Princeville condos available for renting, planning your next celebration in Hawaii is effortless.

Princeville condos are available in several different central locations.  The variety of choices in lodging will allow you to pick a location that is central to everything.  Proximity to shopping, beaches, and Hawaiian culture is paramount for planning a successful party.  Think of how easily your celebration will flow when a premier location, like a condo in Hawaii, is chosen as the party spot.  The only obligation of the party host will be to rent the condo and send out the invitations.  Guests will be able to entertain themselves with all that Hawaii has to offer.  Simply laying on the soft sand next to the magnificent Pacific Ocean will suffice for many people.  Others will be entertained with surfing lessons, watching a local luau or strolling through the many consumer shops.  Dinning will come easily by choosing any one of the many quality establishments on the island.  Host your next celebration in style on the island of Hawaii.

May 19th, 2008

The day has finally come.  After months of pulling all-nighters, cramming for exams and struggling with completing projects, your son or daughter is finally graduating from college.  For many, the past four or so years have been a grueling and expensive venture.  Now it is time to relax and celebrate.  Nothing will say “we are proud of you” better than a Hawaiian vacation.  After years of serious study, the student in your life will finally be able to relax on the beaches in Hawaii.  In one of the many available Kauai rentals the entire family will celebrate the accomplishment of your graduate in style.

Graduation marks the end of an era for every graduate.  It is a time for the young man or woman graduate to begin looking for jobs and plunge into “the real world” that they have been warned about.  What better way to recuperate after college and begin to prepare for the next phase of life than by relaxing on the islands of Hawaii.  You and your graduate will enjoy spending hours reconnecting on the soft tropical sand of the beaches of Hawaii.  The peaceful drone of the water and the cool breeze through the Palm Trees will be just what your graduate needs in order to refresh.  Spending evenings watching the sunset and exploring Hawaiian shops restaurants will provide the perfect opportunity for reacquainting yourself with your son or daughter before they enter the workforce and no longer have the time to escape with the family.  Hawaii is the perfect place to celebrate the accomplishments of your son and daughter, and any one of the many Kauai rentals will provide the perfect accommodations.

May 19th, 2008

Hawaii has long been the premier vacation location in the United States.  The Bachelor Party is often considered the most important right of passage for the soon to be male newlywed.  Why not combine the two and celebrate your last few days of freedom on the islands of Hawaii?  A stay in one of the many available Hawaii condos will allow you and your boys to celebrate your former days as a bachelor in style.

There are many reasons why Hawaii is America’s premier vacation destination.  Hawaii’s access to surfing, great restaurants and gorgeous beaches are just a couple of the islands alluring features.  Any bachelor will enjoy vacationing in luxury prior to taking the plunge into marriage.  Imagine joking around with your closest friends while sailing across the great blue horizon of the Hawaiian Islands.  The few days prior to your marriage may be your last opportunity for experiencing an adventure with your former fraternity brothers, high school football buddies or graduate school roommates.  As you have matured, many of your friends have taken the next step in life and now it is your turn.  Just because everyone is growing up, does not mean there is not time for one last adventure.  Take a surfing lesson and learn the feel of riding across ocean waves on a long board.  If you already possess surfing skills, refine your prior knowledge by riding the advanced waves of the Hawaiian Pacific.  After a grueling day at the beach, you and your friends can relax with a beer in one hand and the sunset in front of you.  Don’t underestimate the Hawaiian nightlife.  Many clubs and bars are available for giving the man of the hour a proper send off into married life.  Experience the Bachelor Party of a lifetime with Hawaii condos.

May 19th, 2008

Nothing is more tiresome than planning a wedding.  It took months to find the perfect dress.  Many hours of your life were spent choosing, ordering, filling out and mailing the invitations.  Countless hours were spent on the phone arguing with your soon to be mother-in-law about the final details of the ceremony.  And don’t forget the agony of finding bridesmaid’s dresses that highlight the unique physical features of all of your future bridesmaids.  Now it is all over and it is time to celebrate.  Where better to spend your last few days of freedom than in any one of the many Hawaii house rentals.

The islands of Hawaii have long been one of the premier vacation spots in the United States.  It only makes sense that Hawaii also serves as the best place to celebrate your Bachelorette Party.  After all, you will only get married once, why not splurge and create memories that will last forever.  You and your best girl friends will spend hours reminiscing about your youthful days together while sipping Mai Tai’s on the warm sand in Hawaii.  During the afternoons there are several opportunities for site seeing, shopping and dinning while enjoying the culture and peace of the islands.  Hawaii also offers a thriving nightlife that provides the perfect locations for spending your last nights as a single woman.  Don’t underestimate the intimacy you and your friends will spend together by staying in a house rental rather than the typical hotel or motel.  Stay in one of the many Hawaii house rentals and let the islands of Hawaii be the perfect finale to all of your wedding preparations.

May 19th, 2008

It is that time of year again.  The weather is changing, the days are getting longer and the mailbox is filling up with graduation announcements.  Summer is quickly approaching.  It is time to begin planning your summer vacation.  For many, picking a vacation destination can be stressful.  How does one find a location that will make everyone happy?  The kids want amusement parks, constant entertainment and sweets.  Your husband wants sports and hearty, flavorful food.  And you, well you just want an opportunity to relax and enjoy your family without having to wash the dishes afterward.  If this description sounds like your family, then Hawaii is the ideal vacation destination for you.  Maui rentals are available across the island of Maui and cater to the needs of every member of your family.

Hawaii is one of the premier vacation locations in the United States and Maui is one of Hawaii’s favorite islands.  Maui offers recreation activities that will occupy your children for hours.  From building sand castles and playing on the spacious and beautiful beaches in Maui to taking a day excursion on a boat, your children will be fascinated and entertained by all Maui has to offer.  Adult children will even enjoy the independence of traveling around the island on a rented motor scooter.  The sport lovers in your family will spend hours watching the talented and advanced surfers challenge the waves on Maui’s North Shore.  Everyone will enjoy the flavorful and satisfying meals served at any one of the many quality restaurants on the island.  Most of all, the family will enjoy the spacious family living environment that comes with choosing a vacation rental opposed to a standard hotel or motel room.  Experience a memorable summer vacation in one of the many accommodating Maui rentals.

May 19th, 2008

It is that time of year again.  The landscape is changing while the snow starts to melt and the flowers start to bloom.  Each day is becoming longer than the next and there is a little extra bounce in your step as the air is becoming warmer.  Everything around you is a sign that Winter has ended and Spring is here.  The dawning of Spring, however, means one thing, Mother’s Day is around the corner.  It is now time to begin the hunt for the perfect Mother’s Day gift.  If your mom is like the many mothers out there, she already has everything she needs or wants.  What do you get for the woman who has everything?  The answer is to give your mother a Hawaiian vacation.  Let one of the many Maui house rentals help you to wow your mom this Mother’s Day.

Your mother will be brought to tears when she realizes that her gift this year is you.  You spending quality time with your mother as a family.  Add the fact that the family will be celebrating the matriarch of the family while surrounded by the beauty, culture and peace that is the island of Maui.  Not only will your mother be overjoyed by the gift of a Hawaiian vacation, but she will be touched by the intimacy of a house rental.  Renting a house, rather than a typical room in a hotel or motel, will allow your family the intimacy necessary for expressing to your mother how much she really is valued.  Your siblings will pale in comparison the May when you give your mother a vacation in one of the many luxurious Maui house rentals.

May 19th, 2008

When you think of Hawaii do you picture clear blue water, colorful and exotic flowers amidst luscious green foliage, clean, white sand and fascinating and exotic creatures in various bright colors?  If you do, then you must be familiar with the natural beauty of the Hawaiian Islands.  If this description is foreign to you, then it must be time to experience the basic beauty that is Hawaii.  Any one of the many Hawaiian rentals will help you understand the natural beauty of Hawaii by providing lodging in the middle of the Hawaiian landscape.

The Hawaiian Islands are considered by many to possess some of the most beautiful scenery on Earth.  The pure beauty of Hawaii is probably the reason that Hawaii continues to be one of the premier vacation destinations in the United States.  For years, people have flocked to Hawaii to experience the power and warmth of the Pacific Ocean as waves crash against the Hawaiian shores.  Many tourists venture out into the Hawaiian tropical forest and explore the pure genius of the plant and animal life that thrive in the forests of Hawaii.  Others enjoy viewing the many different species of tropical fish and various sea creatures from both the deck of a boat and under the water while scuba diving.  The various ways of observing the natural beauty of Hawaii make the island a perfect destination.  Whether you prefer to stay on land or like to swim, whether you like the beach or prefer the forest, whether you like the drone of the Pacific Ocean or prefer the peace of watching the sunset, any one of the many Hawaiian rentals are available to bring you closer to the natural beauty of Hawaii.

May 19th, 2008

Do you love shopping?  Are you in need of a vacation?  If you answered yes to both questions then you should consider Hawaii for your next vacation.  Hawaii offers a new twist to the sport of shopping.  In the many boutiques and shops, one can experience the culture of Hawaii by admiring the merchandise.  Whether you are in the market for traditional Hawaiian souvenirs such as Hawaiian shirts or leis for both males or females, or simply looking to add to your wardrobe, Hawaii is the place for you.  The quaint size of the state of Hawaii offers many shopping opportunities within close proximity to pretty much everything.  Let any one of the many available Kona vacation rentals introduce you to a rental that will allow you to explore the island of Hawaii and its shopping culture.

Kona vacation rentals are available in several locations allowing you to choose the rental that is ideal for you and your shopping needs.  Experiencing Hawaii means seeing a little of everything the island has to offer.  Variety in lodging is, therefore, important.  You want a more than a room, but a gateway to the ultimate Hawaiian experience.  For the traveling shopper, this means proximity to both the peaceful beauty that defines the Hawaiian tropical paradise, and the trendiest shopping locales.  After all, perfection is paramount when planning your ultimate shopping vacation.  Experience a perfect vacation by choosing to stay in one of the many Kona vacation rentals.

May 19th, 2008

Are you the type of person who continues to devote time to your occupation even after leaving the office?  Does your job demand your attention even during your free time.  With increasing advances in technology, today’s business executive finds it more and more difficult to leave work behind at the end of the day.  Cell phones, faxes and computer technology all make it possible to turn one’s home into a satellite office with little trouble.  Although such advances are good for the company, they may be bad for the body.  With so much time devoted to work, few people are able to relax while at home. There is always that nagging urge to complete just one more task.  If this scenario sounds familiar, than you are probably the type of person who needs the solitude, and distance, offered by a vacation destination in order to relax.  Hawaii Rentals are available in several locations and offer the peace and solitude many of today’s business executives require in order to leave work behind and enjoy life.

Picture yourself drinking Mai Tai’s on the beach.  The sun is shining, a cool breeze is blowing and the crash of the ocean can be heard while the waves collide with the shore.  What is not heard, however, is the drone of the copy machine, the eerie chirp of the fax machine or any variety of cell phone chimes ringing.  Hawaii Rentals are available in several different locations.  Such variety gives the weary executive the option of finding a location that will provide the relaxation that is naturally felt in the body when one steps onto a smooth, sandy beach, as well as a location within close proximity to restaurants, shopping centers, bars and local nightlife.  Let any one of the many Hawaii Rentals help you escape your daily grind and relax in Hawaii.

May 17th, 2008

Your Hawaii villa is near some of the world’s best beaches!  Here’s a sample of the top beaches on the Big Island of Hawaii:

MacKenzie State Park - This park is located on the Puna Coastline which is extremely rugged and is subject to strong tradewinds and currents. Trees provide shade and the leaves have turned the hard ground into a soft, natural carpet. There is no ocean access because the park sits on small pali (cliff) about 20-40′ above the ocean.
Mahukona Beach Park - The bay is fairly deep and is a good stop to take a dip or snorkel on a long drive around the Big Island, but there are no lifeguards. Snorkel and swim on calm ocean days without heavy tradewinds or large waves. There is good whale watching from the park from about December to about mid-April.
Old Airport State Recreation Area - The shoreline of Old A is great for picnicking with many pavilions and heliotrope trees for shade. The beach is long, wide and made of sand & coral rubble. There are two bathrooms with showers located at both ends of the beach for your convenience. Surfing or body boarding is possible depending on the waves.
Pahoehoe Beach Park - This park features a nice lawn with lots of shade and a beautiful ocean view. There are many benches facing the ocean available, but no picnic tables are provided. The only beach is tiny and made of sand and coral rubble so bring a chair. The best time to visit this park is during the weekdays!
Pololu Valley Overlook & Beach - The scenic point overlooks the beautiful Pololu Valley and offers a breathtaking look along the North Kohala Coastline. It will take about 20 minutes to reach the valley floor from the top. The return trip up from the beach will take 30-40 minutes depending on how many photos and breaks you take.
Punalu’u Beach Park - Punalu’u Beach is Hawaii’s easiest to reach black sand beach! Lots of Green Sea Turtles and occasional Hawksbill Turtles frequent this black sand beach. The sea turtles are endangered species. Take only pictures and DO NOT TOUCH THEM!!! Don’t expect to have this black sand beach all to yourself!
Pu’uhonua O Honaunau National Park - The park was once one of the religious centers on Hawaii. There is a “backcountry tour” that covers a large section of the park to the southern boundary. There are heiaus, burial caves, a lava tube that you can enter plus the remains of an ancient coastal village. You can borrow the trail guide for the coastal day hike.
Spencer Beach Park - The park has ample parking. Many picnic tables are scattered along the perimeter of the beach. Some large kiawe trees bordering the white sand provide shade for the tables and beachgoers. A large stone pavilion located at the southern end. The beach is a good place for kids to swim and it’s lifeguarded!
No matter where on the Big Island you rent a Hawaii villa, when you’re ready for the beach experience of your life come to the Hawaii travel.

May 17th, 2008

Submarine Dives:
When you rent house Oahu you can play Jules Verne and experience the underwater world from the comfort of a submarine, which will take you on an adventure below the surface in high-tech comfort. The entire trip is narrated as you watch tropical fish and sunken ships just outside the sub.  If swimming’s not your thing, this is a great way to see Hawaii’s spectacular sea life. Shuttle boats to the sub leave from Hilton Hawaiian Village Pier. The cost is $80 for adults (book on the Internet for just $68), $42 ($36 booked online) for kids 12 and under (children must be at least 36 in. tall). Call Atlantis Submarines (tel. 800/548-6262 or 808/973-9811; www.go-atlantis.com) to reserve. A word of warning: The ride is safe for everyone, but skip it if you suffer from claustrophobia.

Whale-Watching:
From December to April, 45-foot humpback whales — Hawaii’s most impressive visitors — come to spend the winter. They make the journey from Alaska to calve and mate in Hawaii’s calm, warm waters. Once nearly hunted to extinction, humpback whales are now protected by federal law. The mammals may not be approached by any individual or watercraft within 100 yards.
Whales can frequently be seen off the island on calm days. If you spot the familiar spout of water — a sign the mammal is exhaling — there’s a good chance you’ll see the whale on the surface. If you’re in a car, please pull over, as many accidents have occurred when visitors try to spot whales and drive at the same time.

Sportfishing:
Kewalo Basin, between the Honolulu International Airport and Waikiki, is the main location for charter fishing boats on Oahu. From Waikiki, take Kalakaua Ewa (west) beyond Ala Moana Center; Kewalo Basin is on the left, across from Ward Centre. Look for charter boats all in a row in their slips; on lucky days, the captains display the catch of the day in the afternoon. You can also take TheBus no. 19 or 20 (Airport).  The best way to book a sportfishing charter when you rent house Oahu is through the experts; the best booking desk in the state is Sportfish Hawaii (tel. 877/388-1376 or 808/396-2607; www.sportfishhawaii.com), which not only books boats on Oahu, but on all islands. These fishing vessels have been inspected and must meet rigorous criteria to guarantee that you will have a great time. Prices range from $721 to $914 for a full-day exclusive charter (you, plus five friends, get the entire boat to yourself), $550 to $625 for a half-day exclusive, or from $170 for a full-day share charter (you share the boat with five other people).

May 17th, 2008

Scientists are also keeping an eye on Mauna Loa, which has been swelling since its last eruption in 1983. If there’s a new eruption, there could be a fast-moving flow down the southwest side of the island, possibly into South Kona or Kau.  Hawaii accommodation puts you right on the scene of the action; with luck, the volcano will still be streaming rivers of red lava when you visit the park, but a continuous eruption of this length (more than 2 decades) is setting new ground, so to speak. Kilauea continues to perplex volcanologists because most major eruptions in the past have ended abruptly after only several months. But neither Mother Nature nor Madame Pele (the volcano goddess) runs on a schedule. The volcano could be shooting fountains of lava hundreds of feet into the air on the day you arrive, or it could be completely quiet — there are no guarantees. On many days, the lava flows right by accessible roads, and you can get as close as the heat will allow; sometimes, however, the flow is in underground tubes where you can’t see it, or miles away from the nearest access point, visible only in the distance. Always ask the park rangers for advice before you set out on any lava-viewing expeditions.

Volcano Vocabulary — The volcano has its own unique, poetic vocabulary that describes in Hawaiian what cannot be said so well in English. The lava that looks like swirls of chocolate cake frosting is called pahoehoe (pa-hoy-hoy); it results from a fast-moving flow that curls artistically as it moves. The big, blocky, jumbled lava that looks like a chopped-up parking lot is called aa (ah-ah); it’s caused by lava that moves slowly, pulling apart as it overruns itself.  Access Points from your Hawaii accommodation — Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is 29 miles from Hilo, on Hawaii Belt Road (Hwy. 11). If you’re staying in Kailua-Kona, it’s 100 miles, or about a 2 1/2-hour drive, to the park. At press time, admission was still $10 per vehicle, but the park was proposing to double that to $20 per car in 2008; once you pay the fee, you can come and go as often as you want for 7 days. Hikers and bicyclists pay $5; bikes are allowed only on roads and paved trails.

May 17th, 2008

Think about how Kauai vacation homes lie atop the marvelous wonders of nature!  The Hawaiian Ridge-Emperor Seamounts Chain of mostly underwater volcanic mountains extends from the Big Island of Hawaii to Alaska. For 70 million years this plate has moved slowly and created 125 volcanoes. Remarkable enough, but if we take a look further back in time when Kauai was barely a twinkle in Mother Nature’s eye, we learn that the unique locations of the Hawaiian islands is due to an abrupt detour the Pacific Plate took over 43 million years ago. Where it had formerly moved in a northerly direction, it suddenly shifted westward. One explanation is that the collision of the India landmass into the Asian continent caused the seismic shift. In any case, amazingly this detour settled the plate over a “hotspot” which began to form the Hawaiian Islands. This explanation matches the mythology of Pele, Hawaii’s fire goddess, who is credited with the creation of the islands. Scientist find it rather remarkable that somehow the ancients had a sense of what was bubbling beneath the surface and even gave a name and identity to what was causing the fuss.

It wasn’t until 1963 that a Canadian, J. Tuzo Wilson, suggested that the line-up of the Hawaiian islands was likely to to a plate shift over a stationery hotspot. In other words, all the islands originated from the same source. Kauai bubbled underwater for some 10 million years before it emerged 5 million years ago. The current highest peaks on the island, Wai’ale’ale (5,148 feet) and Kawaikini (5,243 feet) are already only half of what they were in their heyday. Meanwhile, a new island, Lo’ihi, is being formed off the coast of the Big Island and is rumored to emerge above water in about 7,000 short years. (Realtors are already getting excited about renting Kauai vacation homes there.) Although completely submerged and still a youngster, Lo’ihi is already taller than Mt. St. Helens was when it erupted. Measured from the ocean floor, Maui’s Haleakala is the most massive mountain on earth.  All this because India bumped into Asia 43 million years ago!

May 17th, 2008

Oahu vacation rentals are the way to go for great fun in the waves!  Here’s some tips from Hawaiianbeachrentals.com on the best places to swim and windsurf:

Swimming:
For a quiet, peaceful place to swim, Malaekahana Bay, near Kahuku, is one of the best Oahu beaches. This mile-long, white-sand, crescent-shaped beach is about a 90-minute drive and a million miles from the crowds at Waikiki. To get there, take Kamehameha Highway past Laie and follow the signs to Malaekahana State Recreational Area. Or take TheBus no. 52 (Circle Island). Another good swimming beach is Lanikai; secluded and calm, this beach is great for families. From Waikiki, take TheBus no. 56 or 57 (Kailua), and then transfer to the shuttle.
Water-Skiing
To learn to water-ski, or to just go out and have a good time, call the oldest water-ski company in Hawaii, Hawaii Water Sports, Koko Marina Shopping Center (tel. 808/395-3773; www.hawaiiwatersportscenter.com; TheBus: 58). Lessons and boat rental are $59 for 20 minutes and $79 for a half hour, including the boat and all equipment rental (maximum of five people).

Windsurfing:
Windward Oahu’s Kailua Beach is the home of champion and pioneer windsurfer Robbie Naish; it’s also the best place for Oahu vacation rentals to learn to windsurf. The oldest and most established windsurfing business in Hawaii is Naish Hawaii/Naish Windsurfing Hawaii, 155-A Hamakua Dr., Kailua (tel. 800/767-6068 or 808/262-6068; www.naish.com). The company offers everything: sales, rentals, instruction, repair, and free advice on where to go when the wind and waves are happening. Private lessons start at $75 for one, $100 for two for a 60- to 90-minute lesson (depending on your skill level); beginner equipment rental is $25 for 2 hours and $35 for a full day. Kite-surfing lessons are also available ($100 for 1 1/2 hr.). Kite board rentals are $25 a day. Kailua Sailboards & Kayaks, 130 Kailua Rd., a block from the Kailua Beach Park (tel. 808/262-2555; www.kailuasailboards.com), offers 3-hour small-group lessons ($79 per person, including all gear, plus lunch) and rentals of windsurfing equipment, surfboards, snorkel gear, and ocean kayaks.  Windsurfer wannabes on the North Shore can contact Surf-N-Sea, 62-595 Kamehameha Hwy. Haleiwa (tel. 808/637-9887; www.surfnsea.com), which offers equipment rental ($12 an hour or $45 for the day), as well as private lessons (beginning at $65 for 2-3 hr.).

May 17th, 2008

Gooney birds, mollymauks, boobies, auks, nene. Don’t mistake all this chatter for grammar school name calling until you realize these affectionate titles are given to certain species of seabirds roosting at Kilauea Point, a fabulous Kauai vacation rental attraction. With its position as the northernmost point in Hawaiian, as well as fortunate lack of predators (Kauai did not receive the gift of the mongoose), Kilauea provides visitors with the rare opportunity to observe these nomads of the sea up close.  How did the amazing albatross come to be known as “gooney?” Like the red-footy “booby,” the bird was often disrespected when it happened upon a sailing ship and wasn’t afraid of what it found onboard - humans. Also, because these birds spend the majority of their lives at sea, sometimes as long at eight years at a stretch, when coming ashore for the first time they are probably much like sailors on leave; their behavior is a little off.

The steep cliffs at Kilauea provide the albatross with a natural runway and jumping off point. It is here they come to mate and roost between their lengthy flights. Although takeoff is a challenge to these great birds, once in flight they can soar for days on their nine to twelve foot wingspans, even sleeping while mid-air. Some have flown as far as 10,000 miles without stopping! The nesting and mating rituals of the Laysan Albatross is animated and distinctive enough to draw visitors during mating season to their roosting sites near a Kauai vacation rental in the Princeville area where these indiscreet birds dance, preen and sing regardless of who is watching!  The telescope at the Kilauea visitors center was trained on one nesting couple tucked into the cliffs on the left side of the point. But on the other side of the lookout, it was easy to see the birds congregate with the naked eye. Here, dotting the landscape are numerous protected species such as, Hawaiian nene geese, brown boobies, red-tailed tropicbirds, wedge-tailed shearwaters, and great frigate birds. Birds are not the only attraction of Kilauea Point. The picturesque lighthouse was erected in 1913 as a guiding beacon for ships from the Orient, it was dedicated May 1, 1913 “with a luau to which everyone in Kilauea town was invited.” The original lens was built in France for $12,000 and was turned by clock-like mechanism operated by a massive weight, cable and pulley that had to be wound every 3.5 hours. In 1930 the oil vapor lamp was replaced by an electric model, and eventually in 1976, the Coast Guard decommissioned the lighthouse and installed an automated electronic beacon. In 1979, the lighthouse was placed on the Register of National Historic Places and on February 15, 1985 it became the 425th Refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System.
One more gem lying just off the point is a little Mukuae`ae.” Crashing waves force a blowhole to spout which brings rainbows in its wake, providing the jewel for the crown at the “top of Hawaii,” Kilauea Point.

May 17th, 2008

Kauai has a unique identity, and Kauai condos are your smart option to explore this wonderland.  As the oldest member of the Hawaiian islands, it has had five million years to grow, alter, adapt and mature into a majestic idyll where four thousand foot cliffs dripping with waterfalls jut into the wild blue heavens and cast evening shadows on pristine, turquoise beaches foaming with often immense surf. The “Grand Canyon of the Pacific,” dances with the colors of a high desert and lures hikers and gawkers with over forty miles of hiking trails. Kalalau Trail, an eleven mile trek that begins where the road ends at Na Pali cliffs reveals views so stunning that it could motivate a couch potato to begin a fitness program, for no slacker could handle the arduous journey. For those less hardy, the beaches between Hanalei and Na Pali offer unparalleled splendor. Near Ha’ena State Park are the famous Maniniholo Wet and Dry Caves purported built my Menehune, Hawaii’s mythical little people, during an attempt to capture an evil spirit. Ka Ulu O Laka Heiau is a temple perched up the cliffs to honor the goddess of Hula and Limahuli National Tropical Gardens is a splendid display of native plants and terraced gardens.

The wonders of Kauai are legendary. Though you would never be more than twelve linear miles from the sea at any point on the island, the amount of fascinating terrain and natural wonders packed into this spectacular dot on the map in the middle of the sea is astounding. To do it right, you need a car. Using Kauai condos as your base, driving the island is easy, accommodating, and a delight in itself. But there are limited roadways off the main thoroughfares and access to many (perhaps most) of the true wonders of Kauai is not possible by car. Overcome that handicap by booking a trek tour into the jungles and rainforests, or hire an ATV to take you off-road. Consider renting a kayak to paddle the river and don’t forget to bring a surf or boogie board to navigate the often outrageous waves. Certainly take a helicopter to catch a breathtaking glimpse of the emerald green coast, shimmering waterfalls and deep canyons. Sturdy hiking shoes and even sturdier legs are obligatory gear from Sleeping Giant to Barking Sands to the Kalakua Trail. All effort will be rewarded beyond your fantasies. Shangri-la, Fantasy Island, the Lost World; it’s all really Kauai.

May 17th, 2008

You can feast your eyes on Maui’s legendary natural wonders, and feast like a gourmet at Maui’s legendary luau’s.  Maui condo rentals bring you a feast of delights!   During the day take a Molokini and Kealewai Snorkel Cruise – Sail in comfort with plenty of room to move about freely on the Molokini and Kealewai Snorkel Cruise. The picturesque underwater paradise of Molokini Crater welcomes you with its exotic marine life. Continue your adventure to the serene beauty of Keawalai along Maui’s south shore, and hopefully see Hawaii’s green sea turtles nesting amongst their natural habitat.  Two decks stretch across this 92′ vessel offering roomy table seating for up to 149 passengers. The upper sun deck allows for clear views from the majestic slopes of Haleakala to the shoreline of Maui’s spectacular beaches. With an enclosed air-conditioned cabin, snorkeling equipment, and flotation devices, you are set for your Hawaiian ocean adventure.  The Molokini and Kealewai Snorkel Cruise includes a continental breakfast, a buffet-style deli lunch, beer, wine, the infamous P.K. rum punch, soda, juice, and roundtrip transportation. Don’t forget to bring your towels, and sunscreen (oil free) is recommended.

Then in the evening Maui condo rentals bring you the world-famous Old Lahaina Luau’  You will be individually greeted with a fresh flower lei, tropical drink and a personalized souvenir program, and Luau hosts escort you to your seats and acquaint them with the Old Lahaina Luau grounds. At the ocean’s edge, you may gather as the Kalua pig is unearthed from the “Imu”, a traditional Hawaiian underground oven, and later you will be escorted to the Hale A’i (Eating House) for your buffet dinner.  Upon sunset, the evening’s main entertainment begins. This award winning production tells the story of the Hawaiians and the Old Lahaina Luau is proud to present the Hula as it was meant to be performed, with love and reverence. Beginning with the roots of migration, to the Kahiko, then finally the more contemporary style Hula.  Don’t miss it!

May 17th, 2008

So dazzling is Kauai’s scenery that Hollywood uses it as a standard backdrop for tropical paradise. You won’t find much in the way of high-rise hotels or nightlife on the least developed of Hawaii’s touristed islands, but you’ll be too enamored with its valleys and beaches to care. A low-key attitude, lovely Kauai vacation rentals, and perfect sand at Poipu and Kalapaki beaches make Kauai a favorite for honeymooners.

On our last trip to Kauai we stayed at Kauai vacation rentals in Poipu where we saw an endangered monk seal resting on the beach, hiked the shoreline from Mahaleapu to Poipu Beach Park, drove the rutted roads to Polihale’s fa isolated 17 mile strand, and journeyed to the Na Pali Coast . Yet, I’d been entranced by the mysterious North Shore and the glorious Princeville Resort with it’s enviable position on the bluffs overlooking famed Hanalei Bay. The North Coast has a reputation of being all wet, which is reasonable considering the area rests down-mountain from Mt. Waialeale , the wettest spot on earth. Here, some 500 inches of rainfall annually provide the excessive moisture that handily feeds Kauai’s famous waterfalls and waterways, which are also the only navigable rivers in the state. But the trade-off of this soggy gamble is the exquisite reward of decompressing alongside some the world’s most remarkable scenery and beaches. Although Kauai greeted us initially with moody, misty, eerie vistas, the days that followed offered extraordinarily high surf and brilliant sunshine. Rain or shine, we spent four days exploring every road, beach, attraction and waterfall from Na Pali to Wailua.

May 17th, 2008

Maui condos are the way to go for terrific outdoor adventures!  Try the Maui Streams and Waterfalls Hiking Trek, a half day trek which takes you into some very scenic and interesting spots. If you’re interested in the lush natural beauty that Maui has to offer, and want to venture out into some of the wilderness, join this tour! Explore the areas where you’ll see waterfalls from the hillsides and water flowing into pools. You will have the opportunity to see parts of Maui that you wouldn’t expect!

Another unforgettable adventure you can do from Maui condos is the Maui Downhill Bike Ride.
Bike down a volcano for an unforgettable island experience! It is the world’s longest downhill bicycle cruise down the slopes of Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano in the world. The tour starts just outside Haleakala National Park and is approximately 28 miles (45 kilometers).
Cycle at a leisurely pace, pedaling past open fields and pastures and a stunning Maui landscape spotted with colorful flowers and regal trees. Stop for great photo opportunities as your bike guide shows you the rich cultural and historical background of the area.  Your trip also includes a light continental breakfast before the ride begins. This tour is for experienced riders only, it is not suitable for beginners.

And if you are in Maui between mid December and Mid May, don’t miss the Whale Watch Cruise!
Depart from Lahaina for a Maui whale watching experience you’ll always remember. The reliable and comfortable vessels get you quickly to each whale sighting, with an enclosed main cabin and upper observation deck to ensure dry, excellent visibility.  Maui is the place to see humpback whales in their natural breeding area. Every year from mid-December through mid-May the humpback whales make their home in the waters surrounding Maui. The whales migrate close to 3,500 miles from their Alaskan summer feeding waters, to the warm waters of Hawaii where they mate and have their calves.

May 17th, 2008

“This is the most beautiful beach I have ever seen! It’s absolute paradise with warm sun, swaying palm trees, and calm, crystal clear water with a soft, sandy bottom. You could be standing in the water up to your waist and you can still see your toes. It’s never too crowded; there are no resorts on this beach.  To access the beach you park on a road full of beautiful Lanikai villa residences and there are public beach access paths every 500ft.  I revisited Lanikai Beach by walking down the public access lane opposite the intersection of Mokumanu Street and Mokulua Drive, having learned from a friend that a small portion of the beach had survived the erosion which had removed most of the sand from both the North and South portions of the beach.”

“Our Lanikai villa put us on the most underrated beach I have ever visited in my life!   Although it is narrow in some parts the view is amazing and the water is crystal clear.  The sand is incredibly fine, and the best part is that it’s never crowded!  If you visit Oahu, forget going to Waikiki beach where the sand is coarse, there’s trash here and there, it’s always crowded and noisy.   By contrast Lanikai is a perfect beach with the best views I have ever seen due to the Mokuluas in the background. Also, it is protected by a reef a few hundred feet out, so there is never huge surf. The water can be a bit choppy though.  We rented kayaks to paddle to the Mokulua island bird sanctuary.  There were lots of people fishing at this beach. Supposedly there are turtles in this area too. We just walked along the rocks on the shore and watched the surf come in and looked for the crabs living in the rocks.  I hope this is what heaven is like!”

May 17th, 2008

In summer, when the water’s warm and there’s a soft breeze in the air, the south swell comes up. It’s surf season in Waikiki, the best place to learn how to surf on Oahu. For lessons, go early to Aloha Beach Service, next to the Sheraton Moana Surfrider, 2365 Kalakaua Ave., Waikiki (tel. 808/922-3111). The beach boys offer surfing lessons for $30 an hour; board rentals are $10 for the first hour and $5 for every hour after that. You must know how to swim.  At your Oahu beach house on the North Shore, you have no excuse not to learn to surf: Hans Hedemann, a champion surfer with 34 years of competition under his hang-ten toes, has opened the Hans Hedemann Surf School at the Turtle Bay Resort (tel. 808/924-7778; www.hhsurf.com). His classes range from one-on-one private sessions to group lessons (four students to one teacher) and begin at $50 a hour. The school offers lessons at six different hotels: New Otani Kaimana Beach Hotel, Park Shore Waikiki, Outrigger Reef on the Beach, Sheraton Waikiki, Kahala Hotel & Resort; and Turtle Bay Resort.
Surfboards are available for rent on the North Shore at Surf-N-Sea, 62-595 Kamehameha Hwy., Haleiwa (tel. 808/637-9887; www.surfnsea.com), for $5 to $7 an hour. This company also offers lessons for $65 for 2 hours.

At your Oahu beach house on the windward side, call Kimo’s Surf Hut, 151 Hekili St., across from Daiei, in Kailua (tel. 808/262-1644). Kimo and his wife, Ruth, couldn’t be more friendly and helpful. In addition to surfboards ($30 a day) and body boards for rent, Kimo has his own personal collection of vintage surfboards, lovingly displayed on the walls of his shop. If you have the time, Kimo will gladly tell you the pedigree and history of each board. Although Kimo doesn’t offer formal surfing lessons, he’d be happy to give you pointers.  More experienced surfers should drop in on any surf shop around Oahu, or call the Surf News Network Surfline (tel. 808/596-SURF) to get the latest surf conditions. The Cliffs, at the base of Diamond Head, is a good spot for advanced surfers; 4- to 6-foot waves churn here, allowing high-performance surfing.  If you’re in Hawaii in winter and want to see the serious surfers catch the really big waves, bring your binoculars and grab a front-row seat on the beach near Kalalua Point. To get here from Waikiki, take the H-1 toward the North Shore, veering off at H-2, which becomes Kamehameha Highway (Hwy. 83). Keep going to the funky surf town of Haleiwa and Waimea Bay; the big waves will be on your left, just past Pupukea Beach Park.

May 17th, 2008

There are many reasons to visit upcountry Maui from your Maui villa and to include the Ulupalakua Ranch and Tedeschi Winery in your travels. But I will admit to you immediately that the wine is not the primary reason for this recommendation.  Sure, the winery has won awards and even produces a Brut Champagne, but unless you like your wine made from pineapples instead of grapes, it might be best to stick with other vineyards and vintages. Nevertheless, the trip to the 150 year old ranch and its much more recent vineyards is sure to be a memorable experience.
Especially if you are interested in seeing bicoastal views of Maui from 2-3,000 ft elevations, to experience the cool clear air that spills from higher altitude cloud forests and to witness dozens of ecosystems in your short one hour drive from any of the island’s coastal areas. Here on the 23,000 acre ranch, seeing cows lowing in the pastures and horses tended by the cowboys (paniolos) you’ll be tempted to imagine this might be Wyoming. But then you encounter a incongruous patch of lava rock poking through the pasture lands and you know you aren’t in Kansas — or anywhere else you‘ve ever been — any more.

Besides the magnificent beauty of the trip to this bountiful upcountry locale at Ulupalakua Ranch you will have the opportunity to embrace a historical record of the island which is kept in the little museum room adjacent to the wine tasting cottage. You’ll learn that it was here that the last king of Hawaii came to be quieted during turbulent times. In fact, this Maui villa was built specifically to host the monarch and the grove of trees planted in the front yard are named the “hula grove” because they were carefully arranged to serve as a hula stage during his visits.

May 17th, 2008

Oahu vacation homes bring you a word of underwater adventure!  Some of the best snorkeling in Oahu is at the underwater park at Hanauma Bay. It’s crowded — sometimes it seems there are more people than fish, but Hanauma has clear, warm, protected waters and an abundance of friendly reef fish — including Moorish idols, scores of butterflyfish, damselfish, and wrasses. Hanauma Bay has two reefs, an inner and an outer — the first for novices, the other for experts. The inner reef is calm and shallow (less than 10 ft.); in some places, you can just wade and put your face in the water. Go early: It’s packed by 10am and closed on Tuesdays.  Braver snorkelers may want to head to Shark’s Cove, on the North Shore just off Kamehameha Highway, between Haleiwa and Pupukea. Sounds risky, we know, but we’ve never seen or heard of any sharks in this cove, and in summer, this big, lava-edged pool is one of Oahu’s best snorkel spots. Waves splash over the natural lava grotto and cascade like waterfalls into the pool full of tropical fish. To the right of the cove are deep-sea caves to explore.  The uninitiated might prefer a lesson and a snorkel tour. Surf-N-Sea, 62-595 Kamehameha Hwy., Haleiwa (tel. 808/637-9887), has 2-hour tours, with equipment, starting at $45.

It happens every day on the North Shore Shark Adventure (tel. 808/228-5900; www.hawaiisharkadventures.com), the dream of Captain Joe Pavsek, who decided, after some 30 years of surfing and diving, to share the experience of seeing a shark with visitors staying at Oahu vacation homes.. To make sure that the predators of the deep will show up for the viewing, Captain Pavsek heaves “chum,” a not very appetizing concoction of fish trimmings and entrails, over the side of his 26-foot boat, Kailolo. Sort of like ringing the dinner bell, after a few minutes the sharks (generally gray reef, Galapagos, and sandbars, ranging from 5 ft.-15 ft.) show up — sometimes just a few, sometimes a couple dozen.  Depending on the sea conditions and the weather, snorkelers can stay in the cage as long as they wish, with the sharks just inches away. The shark cage, connected to the boat with wire line, floats several feet back and a little above the surface, holding two snorkelers comfortably and four snuggly. You can stay on the boat and view the sharks from a more respectable distance for just $60. The brave and adventuresome will be down in that cage, just thin aluminum separating them from jaws. It definitely will be a memory you won’t forget.

May 16th, 2008

Maui villas provide you with with natural wonders and off the beaten path curiosities.  You can combine a scenic, expertly narrated tour to the summit of spectacular 10,023 foot high Haleakala with a visit to the unique Iao Needle located in lush Iao Valley State Park. You can also visit the town of Wailuku, see flower farms and fields of pineapple and sugar cane. Be sure to bring your camera!  Wailuku town has the unique Bailey Museum. It was here that Edward Bailey and his family, teachers from Boston, lived and established a woman‘s Seminary. Recognizing the importance of education for native Hawaiians, governor of Maui, Hoapi’ili authorized the building of this seminary where young women were boarded and taught meaningful life skills. The small museum houses important artifacts and insights into the Hawaiian culture and has some of Maui’s most amazing examples of ancient crafts such as outrageously beautiful feather and shell leis and calabash bowls. One of the only intact wood carvings of the half man-half pig of Hawaiian mythology is on display here.

Strolling around town I happened upon the lovely old theater where a performance of “Hot L Baltimore” was currently being stage by the Maui Theater company. Across the street, a farmer’s market was in full swing. Pineapples the size of pumpkins ($2), brilliant tomatoes (3/$1), long beans, organic lettuces, perfect yellow/green papaya (2/$1) , were hawked by little Asian ladies who used hand signals to communicate. For a moment I became so absorbed in the scene that I forgot I was still in America!  It really is amazing what you encounter from Maui villas when you wander just a wee bit off the beaten path.

May 16th, 2008

The Ulua, Mokapu Beach and the La Perouse Bay are just a couple of the many Wailea attractions that you should visit while staying at Wailea villas You can also enjoy a number of fun, exciting, and adventurous activities in Wailea. One of those activities involves hiking. Whether you wish to hike along La Perouse Bay or another scenic area, you can do so. Hiking on foot is the most popular, but it is also possible to find tours in Wailea that involve the use of bicycles or horses.  In addition to enjoying Wailea by land, you can also enjoy it from the water. The, above mentioned Ulua, Mokapu Beach is just one of the few areas where you can enjoy ocean or beach activities. These activities may include, but are in no way limited to, swimming, sunbathing, surfing, boating, fishing, scuba diving, and snorkeling. The beach and water activities that you have available to you will all depend on where in Wailea you are.

As important as it is to focus on what you can do and see in Wailea, while on a Maui vacation, it is also important to examine where you will turn in for the night. Luxurious oceanfront Wailea villas are the most popular form of overnight accommodations in the area and among tourists. If you are looking for exciting ways to end your days, you can also find exactly what you are looking for in Wailea, which has a host of popular restaurants, such as Restaurant Taiko, Longhi’s Wailea, SeaWatch Restaurant, and Nick’s Fishermarket Maui. In addition to a number of restaurants, Wailea also has many nighttime activities that you can enjoy. These activities can regularly be found along the beach or in local bars.

May 16th, 2008

Princeville Kauai is a fun place, where you can enjoy some of the most luxurious and delightful times of your life!  Here are some of the terrific things to do at Princeville villas:
Princeville Resort, home of the famous Prince Course world champion golf links.
5520 Ka Haku Rd., Princeville, HI
Princeville Resort Clubhouse
5-3900 Kuhio Highway , Kauai, HI
Phone - (808) 826-5000
Adjacent to the Prince Course is this vast luxury spa, offering a multitude of blissful, healthful ways to relax!
Drums of Paradise Luau
1571 Poipu Road , (at the Hyatt Regency) , Kauai, HI
Twice weekly, the Hyatt Regency presents a luau on Poipu Beach. The dinner menu is outstanding.
Na Pali Coast
Northwest shore , (end of Highway 56) , Kauai, HI
The sea cliffs of Kauai’s west side tower above the wild and beautiful ocean, sometimes reaching as high as 4,000 feet [more]

Those seeking active adventure from Princeville villas should visit Princeville Ranch, which is a 2500-acre working cattle ranch. Hiking or kayaking to the hidden waterfalls in the region is completely enjoyable. Those who prefer to stay away from water could also attempt horseback riding. For a breathtaking view of the region, visit Hanalei Valley Lookout. Situated next to Princeville Center, the lookout point is extremely popular among locals and tourists alike. Further up north is the beautiful and quaint Hanalei Town, which has a collection of shops and galleries. Also, the Waioli Mission House here is worth a visit. For some swimming, canoeing and fishing visit Hanalei Bay.  The golf courses of the Princeville Golf Club are another major attraction. The beaches on Na Pali Coast offer a range of water-based activities including scuba diving, surfing and swimming.  The beaches are spectacular. Wide, sandy beaches, towering volcanic mountains around you, great swimming and surf. You might see perhaps 25-30 other people on any given beach, at the most. Great for taking long walks and hardly seeing another soul.

May 16th, 2008

Situated in Kauai County in Hawaii, USA, Princeville is a planned resort community of luxurious Princeville rentals located on the northern end of the island of Kauai. It is spread over an area of 6.2 sq km and has a population of over 6,000.   Princeville has a wet climate as it lies in the wettest region of the Kauai Island. The average summer temperature