Monthly Sweet Spots
The Hawaiian islands offer varying activities, many suitable in specific months, making it a destination optimal for diverse year-round experiences. The first part of the year, January through April, are perfect for whale watching season, big surf and often smaller crowds.

Budget-conscious travelers will find great deals in early April, early May, early and mid-August, mid-September, mid-October and mid-November. While travel budgets are important, equally so is a vacation that allows travelers to explore freely. Skip the crowds in late February and early April, May and fall (September, October and November). Well-timed visits in August and September offer great weather and deals. It would be simple to say the weather is idyllic year-round, but some of the most enjoyable weather months include early April and May, the first part of June, the last half of October and early November.

Springtime is for event goers and a myriad of festivals are hosted in April and May, an opportunity to mingle with locals and enhance the trip. Year’s end is attractive to avid surfers and surfing enthusiasts. The waves are the best for surfers to challenge, and display, their skills.

Weather
Like the smell and cozy feel of tropical island rains? Plan to play mostly outdoors? Weather matters for golfers, surfers and other travelers seeking specific experiences. May, June, August and September have the least rainfall on the islands but can be considered too hot for some. Consider the activities and the trade-offs and try February and October for a happy medium.

Regional Activities
Travelers to the Hawaiian islands seek authentic experiences and cultural, culinary, art and sports events provide much entertainment to heighten the trip. While April, May, August and September are filled with a diverse array of festivals, just about any time of year, guests find an activity to learn more about the area, the heritage, the skills and finesse among athletes, a showcase of talent in live performances and food that is native to the islands. Meet local residents, see island traditions and enjoy the added features for an island visit. Many of the events draw international acclaim and a way for Hawaii to welcome and host global guests in a unique event.

THE WINNER IS…
HawaiianBeachRentals.com guests. Whale watchers and surfers (or surf spectators) will find January is their top pick to stay and sink into great weather and fewer crowds. May is a grand time for weather too, as well as smaller crowds, plus fantastic deals. February through April and June through December enlighten and enliven the cultural traveler, foodie, adventure enthusiast and everyone seeking an island holiday respite.

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Maui is where you’ll find championship golfing

Authentic, farm-to-table and original are a few phrases travelers mention when asked about their itinerary preferences. Maui is where you’ll find championship golf, world-class spas and plentiful outdoor activities on land and sea. The places to visit in between include coffee farms, farmers’ markets and other places for food and product tours.

Check out the coffee and protea farm tours at Shim Farm. You’ll find fruits and vegetables too, plus a chance to experience Chinatown in rural Kula. Lahaina Family Farms offers an opportunity to taste and sample and the farmers’ markets are filled with fresh catch, fruits, vegetables and handcrafted items to enjoy while visiting or to take home. Maui Tropical Plantation offers a tram tour of approximately 40 minutes. See everything from plumeria to papaya and coconuts to sugarcane on a guided tour in Wailuku. You can easily taste a variety of food made or grown on the island and ship some items home too. Find time to take home (back to your vacation rental), a fresh pineapple from the pineapple tour in Hali’imaile. If you’re looking for additional tours for families, check out Surfing Goat Dairy for food tours (dairy or barbecue), pick up gourmet goat cheese truffles and other items and learn about the island goats.

See everything from plumeria to papaya and coconuts to sugarcane on a guided tour at Maui Tropical Plantations

Hale Kamaka
West Maui’s Hale Kamaka is an intimate hideaway in Lahaina. The rock-carved pool has character, much like other features in the home that take a departure from the conventional hotel suite; rather, it offers a flair of island chic. Nearby Front Street and Kaanapali offer guests a range of activities and eateries in between the farm and food tours. The private hot tub is another appealing feature and the home sleeps a maximum of eight guests.

Explore nearby Front Street

Upcountry Kula Estate – Pili Lani
They know how to live like kings in Kula. Live, sleep and feast with views of Maui’s rich upcountry landscapes. Native flora and fauna, rugged mountains in the distance and surreal blue skies greet you daily. Make it an unforgettable getaway with a group of 18 friends or family. A tennis court, pool, Jacuzzi, 17 acres of land, a life size chess table and plenty of entertainment await at this gated estate. You may not want to leave but you’ll find plenty to explore in the Kula area and neighboring towns for beach excursions.

Au Lani Estate
Au Lani Estate in Kaanapali is a Maui vacation rental home that offers a hot tub, pool, wood flooring, bamboo ceilings, a gourmet kitchen (perfect for those meals you can prepare with items from your food tours), a pool table and exercise room. The wide views, banyan trees and glamorous features will give guests the feeling of unbelievable indulgence. The home sleeps eight and is ideal for a group or family seeking a vacation with loved ones with plenty of privacy too. Relaxing on the lanai will give you plenty to see—golf course, ocean and/or the mountains.

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The Big Island has a few places to see ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs

The culture of the Big Island, while it emanates in various ways throughout your visit, is worth a bit of focused exploration. Petroglyphs (kii pohaku) and paniolo are two of Hawaii’s treasured assets giving a glimpse of authentic experiences and island heritage. Dig into the past in a captivating setting and Big Island has a few places to see petroglyphs. History etched onto lava rock, these lasting images were among the first to capture and record Big Island life.

The Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve is excellent for a family adventure exploring and learning among hundreds of petroglyphs. If hundreds are not enough, try Hawaii Volcanoes National Park for 23,000 petroglyphs, which is quite an experience via a half-mile hike (guided or self-guided). Anaehoomalu Petroglyph Field and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park are additional places to find petroglyphs.

Cowboy and cattle lend to the culture of Big Island. Knowing how to rope and ride in the island’s beautiful upcountry region is a bit like watching living history. Take a ride or a tour on the ranch, either by horseback or the modern version of riding, on ATVs.

Take a horseback ride on the ranch

Kohala Ranch, Livin On Top Of The World
Kohala Ranch is an indulgence for a couple or a group of six guests. The duality of mountain and seaside views and the pool immediately create a sense of ‘livin’ on top of the world’. It’s a place to entertain and be entertained, with a top-notch entertainment system inside and on the lanai. Play the ukulele or guitar after a few cocktails or visit a paniolo ranch for the experience.

Home of the Hula Moon
The Kohala Coast is the site of an ocean view vacation rental home with a soothing atmosphere and a glimpse of Big Island’s gorgeous landscapes through just about every room in the home, via a window or sliding door. Spacious for eight guests, the home has plenty of areas to escape for privacy and rejoin for inviting gourmet dinners. Each of the four suites has appealing features, whether it’s the open-air shower that feels like a Zen garden space or the private lanai. Venture for the day to the Puako Petroglyph Archeological Preserve and then settle at home for a special gourmet meal.

Kapehu Retreat House
Adventure abounds for those seeking a vacation rental in an excellent location in Hilo with 20 acres on the Hamakua Coast. The home is new but has the appearance of an island plantation estate, including the private waterfall. The hot tub, views that extend for miles (with no one in sight to obstruct a single perspective), a veranda and nearby sights truly make this a retreat for those who seek a sanctuary. The feeling of restlessness won’t take over because of the captivating views, but explore the area, with Kolekole Beach Park and Akaka Falls State Park both just five minutes away. Plan an entire day for petroglyph viewing and other experiences at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

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Kauai is known as the Garden Isle

Earth Day and “being green” are certainly important and celebrated with promotions and events each year, but in Hawaii, it’s a lifestyle. Ecotourism is exploring nature, responsibly, while improving the well-being of local people. It’s easily accomplished on Kauai, notably known as the Garden Isle. Further than improving the well-being of local people, it can enhance and enliven the spirit of all who visit.

Exploring gardens, taro fields, whale watching and hiking are excellent ecotourism activities. Teach children early about the island’s beauty and visit Na Aina Kai for the hikes, guided tours or seasonal bird tours. A clear and soft blue sky frames the waterfall, wild forest garden, orchid house, Japanese tea house, and other facets of this ecotourism experience at Na Aina Kai.Taro fields off Hwy 560 are not part of an organized tour or trail, making them all the more alluring for a visit. Grids, squares or whimsically referred as a quilt, these evergreen patches of land draw visitors, whether they’re driving by or take time to pull off the side of the road. Some travelers find that architecture speaks to them of the history and heritage of a location. Kauai’s liquid-soaked taro fields provide a glimpse of its past and its current green assets.

Hike along the coastline on the Kalalau Trail

While the Kalalau Trail is a strenuous 11-mile hike, you can still explore Kauai’s varied ecotourism and natural beauty with a shorter walk. Cliffs, waterfalls, flora and dramatic colors amid blocks of green, blue and black are a few of the island’s gifts that are not accessible by car.

Hanalei Bay House
Visit the taro fields, explore the green landscapes in this quadrant of the island and stay in the bohemian chic Hanalei Bay House vacation rental. The feel of an upscale cottage with some incredible amenities, the charm of this home will entice you to stay in occasionally. The pine hardwood floors are two hundred years old and the gourmet kitchen is a top-notch location for group dinners. The vacation rental sleeps 12 so it’s either a home for an extended family or guests attending a destination wedding.

Explore Hanalei Bay

Jungle Bee
A sustainability-focused eco-friendly vacation rental, Jungle Bee in Kilauea is perfect for an intimate escape or for a group of six guests. The thirteen acres of land gives you plenty of space to explore and live like an islander, picking mangos and other fruits right from the trees. The organic and green features make this vacation rental a perfectly suited one for travelers wanting to travel green while on vacation.

The Banana Beach House
A haven for anyone wanting to enjoy an environment that includes Tunnels Beach, coral reefs and sea turtles. Four covered lanais, two master beds and a Jacuzzi are some of the appealing features of this home. An excellent location in Haena, guests of this vacation rental enjoy hiking, snorkeling and surfing, among other nature-based activities nearby.

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Experience some of Maui's most scenic views like the sunset from Haleakala

Scenic Views
Some of Maui’s best views take you on a scenic journey of gardens, lava rocks, jagged coastlines, red soil, waterfalls and craters. Whether you drive, hike or fly over some of these views, you’ll take time to take plenty of photos, which is important. Maui’s most treasured views will make you stop and appreciate the moment, the location and the rare beauty of everything in your line of sight, from blade of glass to ripple of water.

The road to Hana is on every must-see list in Maui guidebooks. The views are continuously incredible. Around the bend, you’ll see forest areas, cliffs, bridges, waterfalls and seemingly remote sacred spots. While you hear a good bit about the curvy paths and winding turns, on the road to Hana, you’ll find a special view of your own that will differ from just about every person you talk with and accompany that day. Travel back from Hana on the Piilani Highway (State Highway 31) between Ulupalakua and Kipahulu, for more pathways filled with scenic adventures of moss, cliffs and coastline.

The views along the road to Hana should be on everyone's must see list

Oheo Gulch is a land and sea lover’s top pick, for its multiple pools (not advised for swimming), waterfalls and the paths you’ll take to find each one. Large streams, waterfalls and the bridge in one frame provide a perfect image. Known as the Seven Sacred Pools, but many more than that amount in reality, it’s the Pipiwai and Palikea Streams that intersect and form the surreal picture worth taking. Take an adventurous hike and find Waimoku Falls at the end.

While it looks like a live National Geographic-worthy shot, you’ll be amazed that you’re standing in it when you make the trek to Haleakala. Both sunrises and sunsets are each idyllic and a chance to see multiple islands, mountains and landscapes including Kaho’olawe and nearby Maui’s Molokini. A departure from the craters are the whales at Ma’alaea Bay. Signage calls it the scenic point but it’s actually Paawai Point to which you want to venture, between mile markers eight and nine.

Take an adventurous hike to see the Seven Sacred Pools

Places To Stay
Some of Maui’s best scenic views are in Maui’s Upcountry and The Emperor Estate in Kula offers dreamy views of the mountains and ocean on its 15 acres. The home is spacious for eight guests and has plenty of luxury amenities, including a gourmet kitchen, balcony and huge bathroom tub. You will have plenty of great views but the nearby sights will draw you so make the most of the location near the golf course, Haleakala National Park, Baldwin Beach and Tedeschi Vineyard and Winery.

Maui’s West Side has its share of scenic views and Kai Hoku is an enviable vacation rental in Launiupoko for 10 guests. The features inside the home are alone scene-setting, notably the light-colored hardwood floors and sweeping staircase. A home that embraces the outdoors and fits into it, the outdoor areas offer unobstructed views and space for hours of stargazing.

The Lele Penthouse on Maui’s South Side in Kihei is a lovely place for 12 guests, likely an extended family or even a small group of friends who want plenty of space. Plenty of indoor entertainment, plus the gourmet kitchen, hot tub, jetted tub, sauna and outdoor grill add up to great vacation living. The plentiful sports on sand and surf are additionally appealing. A welcome basket adds a special touch upon arrival and having a beach within a five-minute walk will give you reason to see sunrises and sunset views each day of your visit.

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After a long day at the beach watch a movie at one of Oahu's best movie theaters

After catching some scorching rays on the beach, travelers seek indoor activities for some relief in a cool, dark place. Watch a fun flick on Oahu, with a silver screen escape in some of the island’s best movie theatres. Families, kids especially, find familiarity while on vacation helps them enjoy their temporary surroundings as well as entertained.

Movie Theaters
Oahu is home to beaches, culture, surfing and a world-class array of sights to explore the Hawaiian heritage. Escape when it’s rainy, nighttime or to hide a bit from the sunburn and catch a flick at some of the most comfortable movie theaters on the island. Regal Pearl Highlands Stadium 12 in Pearl City offers the latest movies; grab lunch beforehand and then indulge in some not-so-healthy snacks for a couple hours. A supermarket is nearby so if you’re going to sneak snacks, you can buy them cheaper here. Sharkey Theater is a local place and if you’re on a budget, this theater is a good pick. They take cash only and if you’re military, there’s a discount. The movies are not the latest but it’s a good place to watch that movie you missed in the theaters by just a few weeks that may not be available on DVD just yet. Consolidated Theatres has locations in both Mililani and Aiea, so you can plan a shopping excursion at the mall. Regal Entertainment Group has locations in Kaneohe and Honolulu too. Join the Regal Crown Club if you’re not already a member for freebies and discounts at the concession stand.

Honolulu offers guests many options to catch a movie

Places to Stay
Kalani Kai in Honolulu is a great choice for two families or an extended family. The beach, active water and land sports, a deck and balcony are amenities that will make you feel at home in this two-story gated waterfront home. You’ll feel as if you have your own oasis. All the major sights are within a reasonable drive and you can soak in the Jacuzzi after a busy day of golf or just a day lounging. Venture into town to catch a flick to extend the cozy convenience to make yourself really feel at home, plus a great way to keep the kids busy for a few hours.

Bay View Manor in Kaneohe is an estate and you’ll feel as if you’re in a gorgeous seaside villa all your own that overlooks multiple landscapes, including the Ko’olau mountain range, the Hawaiian fish pond and Mokolii Island (Chinaman’s Hat). It’s the perfect home for gourmet dinners and whale watching as well as plenty of sports throughout the day including golf, sailing and horseback riding. The Windward Mall is just a five-minute drive from the home so it’s easy to find a movie for a date night escape during the day if you need to dodge the sun’s searing rays for a bit.

Makaha Oceanfront Turtle House is perfect if you want to make your vacation rental an oceanfront home that is casual and elegant for cozy nights in, fun gatherings with good dinners on the grill and plenty of ocean views across a vast lanai. Enjoy the sun, surf and hot tub while also sneaking away for a flick at the nearby movie theater. The open fire pit, the rock moat and grand windows streaming in just the right amount of light make this home a top choice if you need a great mix of amenities for everyone and just want to unwind throughout the day and into the evening. You’ll enjoy entertaining with a great meal and cocktails, even if it’s just for two.

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Kauai gives its guests an opportunity to discover outdoor splendor, like hidden waterfalls

Kauai’s gorgeous contrasts of land and sea often make it a top choice for first-time guests to Oahu who are seeking a secondary island visit. The visitors who already know of the Garden Isle’s scenery find that a vacation rental here serves as a sanctuary and base for adventurous excursions. Kauai gives its guests an opportunity to discover outdoor splendor, much of which is hidden. Green lands, captivating sunsets, rich red soil, native birds flying overhead and the cliffs atop bold mountain landscapes create the paths that hikers seek, with a rewarding finish in Kauai’s waterfalls.

Opaekaa Falls
A good start for gentle family hikes, Opaekaa Falls is a photo site and a place to wander a bit. You might walk around and see some chickens gathering along the side of the road on the red dirt. The 150’ overlook is a scene year-round and the falls replicate a sense of rolling shrimp (Hawaiian words: opae for shrimp and ka’a for rolling). Walk toward the lookout over the Wailea River Valley and you’ll find scenes from films, including Outbreak, Jurassic Park and Raiders of the Lost Ark. Explore the East Side of Kauai with a hike around Opaekaa Falls area, culminating in a pre-packed gourmet lunch at one of the picnic tables.

Wailua Falls
After a local lunch, as a bonus, check out Wailua Falls, also on East Kauai. Once the backdrop of every beginning episode of Fantasy Island, it’s no wonder, and this will reinforce your decision that a vacation rental on Kauai was worth it, if only for the waterfall hikes. Wailua Falls is a double vision, with parallel cascading streams bursting down 80’. Choose the more meandering (and safer) hike if you’re interested in seeing the surrounding landscapes, but always hike safely and keep in mind that it’s an unofficial trail.

Wailua Falls is a double vision, with parallel cascading streams bursting down 80 feet

Hanakapiai Falls
A departure from the more accessible waterfalls, Hanakapiai Falls are approximately 1600’ in total height. The thrill seeker will find the spot four miles into the Kalalau Trail on Kauai’s North Shore. It’s quite the trek, both physically and scenery-wise so take supplies with you, including nourishment. Watch out for falling rocks and top off the experience with a dip in the pool. Kalihiwai Falls, also on Kauai’s North Shore, are popular for weddings and also for the daily diversions visitors seek. Whether by horseback or on foot, a hike here reveals a two-tiered waterfall, sprinkling with foaming waters. Consider an organized hike through a tour operator—the adjacent bridge and traffic in the area are two factors that make this place popular for local residents and visitors.

Mia Huna Estate in Kalihiwai on Kauai’s North Shore is a retreat for families, small group of friends or a couple seeking the ultimate in privacy and comfort. The sparkle from the sapphire blue waters will keep you mesmerized in the morning on the semi-covered balcony. Grind some good Kona coffee beans and curl up to watch the soothing scene. The home offers plenty of nearby activities, a hot tub, garden and mountain views and your own pleasant hike to Secret Beach in addition to the North Shore’s waterfall hikes. If you must work, then park yourself at the desk overlooking the Garden Isle’s lush valleys.

Guests of Sandcastles at Aliomanu Beach find themselves luxuriating on the patio with a mimosa by morning and cocktails by early evening. After a day of exploring Kauai’s gentler and more adventurous waterfall hikes, soak your muscles in the hot tub and then sink into comfy beds. Each day begins with sunny serenity and plenty of lawn of your own, a path to a hike of your own private beach, Aliomanu. The spacious home is ideal for a romantic escape from everything except accessibility to Kauai’s most scenic spots.

Planning a vacation to Kauai? Check out our selection of Kauai vacation rentals to fully experience the Garden Isle.

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Kauai is a great destination for your wedding

Destination weddings can be a great deal of fun, for the bridal party, wedding guests, family and friends. Beach destinations are often the top of the list of choices and while all of the Hawaiian islands are great options, many brides select Kauai. The wildly romantic scenery, the deep greens in the landscapes, tropical flowers and waterfalls throughout the island set the tone for weddings.

Kauai has always been a favorite for first-time and return guests, and is also one that many visitors choose as a second island to explore when they plan on a trip to Oahu. The four shores, easily designated by four directions, and each with its own features also makes this, the Garden Isle, a multi-faceted visit. Kauai’s areas to see by land on by car or by bicycle are only a smattering of the island’s vast hidden spots that guests should plan on exploring. Discovering those areas are genuine and rare experiences for the traveler who seeks more than a checking out a luau and a few waterfalls. The romance and adventure are visible by boat, airplane or by hiking trails.

The Bali House
An island within an island, The Bali House is a Kalihiwai retreat that is perfect for the bridal party or extended family attending a destination wedding. Send the bride and groom off and luxuriate in your own vacation time with an infinity-edge pool, spa tub, vast outdoor spaces and a Balinese atmosphere. Kauai’s North Shore is where this dream vacation rental is located, so explore funky and offbeat Hanalei Town and the mysteries of the Napali Coast, plus wildlife, nature and heritage excursions at the Kilauea Lighthouse and Waioli Mission House. The vast, rugged mountain setting is a welcome contrast to nearby Secret Beach. Enjoy quality time in the gourmet kitchen whipping up local meals or hire a chef to pamper and prepare sumptuous dinners.

Hale Kai

Sunny Poipu and its warm beaches are a great place to enjoy your wedding

Hale Kai, which means ocean house, exudes the feeling of sunny Poipu and its warm beaches the minute you step in the front door. A family of four or a few girlfriends will find this vacation rental a fantastic alternative to staying in a hotel room or suite. The fully equipped kitchen, proximity to beaches and golf and ocean views will please everyone. The nearby eateries and accessibility to other sides of the island are also important amenities. Staying here and making fun gourmet picnic lunches and a dinner or two on occasion will certainly help put the travel budget toward other items, or just a cost savings after making the trip to the destination wedding. It’s also a taste of paradise to enjoy a home rather than a room and gives everyone the space they need to truly enjoy Kauai’s varied sights.

Planning your wedding on Kauai? Check out our selection of Kauai vacation rentals for your stay.

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The Big Island continues to expand

The Hawaiian islands are known for Oahu’s North Shore, Kauai’s picturesque gardens and Maui’s golf. Big Island sometimes gets a visit from travelers returning to the islands, but not always the first time guests. Maybe it’s the overwhelming factor or because it’s the largest (and still expanding) of the islands. Lonely Planet recently recognized the Top 10 US Travel Destinations for 2012 and Big Island was among the locations considered new, interesting and possibly overlooked.

Exploration of the ecosystems, multiple national landmarks, lava formations throughout the island and plentiful waterfalls greet guests daily upon venturing outside. Gardens, Hawaiian heritage, regional cuisine and scenic hiking trails are additional items to add to the itinerary. Find time to spend a full day at Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage and World Biosphere Site.

Enjoy ocean views from a Big Island vacation rental

Pohoiki Bay Villa
Kona coffee farms, orchids, Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and seemingly endless fresh local food are top features of Big Island’s expansive offerings. Pahoa offers excellent proximity to venture to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park and the Pohoiki Bay Villa is an idyllic stay in Pahoa for a group of eight. Garden views, ocean views, nearby beaches for sunning or surfing and as many activities as you’d like are part of the package in a stay here. The fully equipped gourmet kitchen may entice you to cook or you can opt to request a gourmet chef during your stay (additional fee). A spacious multi-story home, grand windows and doors streaming in light and wondrous lush beauty, a greenhouse and a balcony will give a feel of your own private estate, at least for a while.

Kapehu Retreat House
Located in Hilo is an unbelievably great find and bargain on Big Island. When you can vacation on a 20-acre estate and see green valleys and fields meeting a perfect blue sky for miles, you’ll know you’ve found the retreat. A lanai overlooks the land where you can easily spend hours. The gourmet kitchen has an ocean view so you won’t mind creating meals from the fresh catch and other good local eats from the farmers’ market. The living and sleeping areas are spacious and everyone gets a spot to sit and enjoy the views. The hot tub is in the midst of nature and you can retreat indoors by the fireplace when you’re ready. Kolekole Beach Park and Akaka Falls State Park are nearby so celebrate the splendor of nature at this retreat.

For more places to stay on your Big Island vacation, check out our selection of Big Island vacation rentals.

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Find surf breaks for all skill levels off the shores of the Big Island

Lymans is a left-breaking surf spot that is a great starting point for beginners while also providing a fair share of challengers to experienced surfers. It’s a reef and point break spot with winter as the most ideal surf season. Located on the south side of Holualoa Bay, the surf spot is named for local resident Howard Lyman, a tribute to his home, a local landmark in the area. Bring the shortboards or longboards and look forward to a lush cliff, a long left reef peeling and wish for a southwest swell for a good outing. The waves are fast and powerful with good southeast and east winds. Skill levels vary here so watch and learn.

Hibiscus
A vacation rental on the Kona Coast in Kona. Hibiscus emphasizes on great views at every turn. The oceanfront home is in a gated community of Kona Bay Estates, which makes it your own piece of serenity and seclusion. Gaze at the ocean from the lanai, enjoy grilling fresh local food for dinner and relax in the Jacuzzi after a full day of surfing at Lymans or other nearby surf spots. The amenities are plentiful for others in your travel party who don’t plan to surf—swimming in the pool or escaping to the beach just steps away.

Hale Ohi’a Kai
The best surf pad for surfers seeking a completely Zen environment in which to unwind after a day’s outing at Lymans or Banyans. Hale Ohi’a Kai is cozy and elegant at the same time, a group of surfer friends can start the day with coffee at the multi-level bar area and enjoy scenic views at cocktail hour and dinner. Plenty of places to hang out in the early morning or late evening time, a Jacuzzi, jetted tub and outdoor grill make Hale Ohi’a Kai a home for a group to gather. Nature lovers will be enthralled by views of the whales, sea turtles and dolphins from the home.

The sandy bottom at Hapuna beach makes it accessible for surfers of all skill levels

Take Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway and you’ll find the surf spot, Hapuna Beach north of Kona on the Kohala Coast. The beach has clean waters for surfers exploring the Big Island’s northwest shore. Fast, hollow and short left and right breaks are powerful at Hapuna Beach, with its sandy bottom. All skill levels are welcome here, with shortboards or longboards. The weekends are busy here and winter is an exceptional time to surf Hapuna Beach. The best swells are from the northwest and the wind directions from the southeast and east. A lot of tourists like to watch surfers here so get ready for an audience.

Hale Nana Kohola
Located in the town of Puako, Hale Nana Kohola is a surfer’s castle after a day of conquering powerful waves. The spacious home sleeps eight, perfect for two families or a group of surfer friends. Two master suites in the home, bedrooms with top-notch electronics and a sandy beach adjacent to the house makes this a respite after an adventurous day. The gorgeous landscaping and stunning views are further enhanced by the third floor’s unobstructed whale watch retreat area.

Hale Naia
Located on the Kona Coast in the storied town of Captain Cook. Hale Naia vacation rental sleeps eight and is great for a casual group of surfers seeking a relaxing hot tub after a day of big waves at Hapuna Beach, Lymans, Banyans, Honls and other surf spots. Keahou Bay is just 15 minutes away. Big Island is home to farmers’ markets with fresh fruit, vegetables, coffee and other local foods plus fresh catch of the day so take advantage of the fully-equipped kitchen and dig into hearty meals at day’s end or pack a good mix of snacks to keep sustenance for a day of surfing.

Bring the shortboards or longboards and enjoy excellent right and left breaks.

Honls is a surf spot on Big Island’s West Shore, with good surfing in multiple seasons. Honls is located near Alii Drive and the area becomes quite crowded, especially on weekends. Hollow tubes, powerful waves of epic quality create an exhilarating picture for those watching and for the experienced surfers in the water. Low tides and falling tides, north and northwest swells, with north winds will make the surfing experience close to perfect. The weekdays are less crowded and Honls is not a place for beginners, which you’ll find in the moderate paddle out. Bring the shortboards or longboards and watch out for the reef and enjoy excellent right and left breaks.

Kapoho Estate Oceanfront Vacation Home
A surfer’s playhouse after a full day at Honls, Hapuna Beach or Lymans. The unique features for a group of six, plus location, make it a top pick for vacation rentals. The geothermal heated private estate pond, Lava Tree State Park just 15 minutes away and champagne pond swimming and snorkeling just paces away. The casual atmosphere with great vacation amenities (cozy living and sleeping areas, a barbecue grill, Jacuzzi and an outdoor kitchen) make Kapoho Estate a haven on Big Island.

Kohala Ranch
Kohala ranch shares the spirit of ‘livin’ on top of the world’, much like a surfer’s thrill in the water. Stay at this vacation rental and explore Big Island’s varied surf spots, including Lymans, Hapuna Beach and Honls. Spacious and casual elegance are the themes of the living, dining and sleeping areas. Multiple rooms have grand windows for gorgeous views of the ocean. Hapuna Beach is just 10 minutes away and Big Island is home to Honls, Banyans and Lymans for surfers to check out too. More exercise, or training, is on-site at the home, with a three-hole putting green and plenty of places for beach hikes. Buy island-grown Kona coffee, grind it in the gourmet kitchen and enjoy an excellent brewed cup before embarking on a glorious day on the water.

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