Get away from the crowds: 6 incredible Hawaii vacation home rentals
You don't have to leave the U.S. to find some of the best vacation and beach destinations the world has to offer — starting with Hawaii. Not only is Hawaii a destination that has something for everyone, but there are seven inhabitable main islands to choose from. There's always somewhere new to explore in the Aloha State.
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While deciding which Hawaiian island to hit can be tough, finding the perfect vacation home rental shouldn't be, which is why we've rounded up a few of our favorites to get you started. From an off-the-grid tiny house to a once-in-a-lifetime beachfront splurge, these properties will have you packing your bags in no time.
Big adventure in a tiny house
Pahoa
View On AirbnbThe Phoenix House-Tiny Home on Volcanic Lava Field
Calling all tiny house fans: We've got the spot for you. This funky bungalow on the Big Island sits on the Kalapana lava beds near the base of Kilauea Volcano — bringing the adventure straight to your back door. The one-bedroom, one-bathroom house is off the grid yet packed with modern amenities. Be prepared to wake up to panoramic views and tons of natural light, and get a peek at Pele's orange glow at night.
Rates start at $175/night.
Related: Best credit cards for booking an Airbnb
A-list luxury
Kailua-Kona
View On AirbnbModern Island Retreat with Best View in the Neighborhood
If a great pool is at the top of your vacation list, this rental will likely be the end of your search. This property's infinity pool is surrounded by lush flora and palm trees and provides ocean views for days. Modern island decor gives this private house a luxury resort feel — all for you and nine of your closest friends and family. The only problem? We have a feeling you won't want to leave.
Rates start at $850/night.
Related: 7 breathtaking Airbnb rentals in Colorado we can’t wait to visit
Sun and sand on the Big Island
Puako
View On AirbnbHale I'a U'I - Beautiful Fish House - Extravagant!
Go big or go home, right? This 5,400-square-foot property, which sleeps 10 with plenty of room to spare, is the place to do it. Guests can take their pick from four spacious bedrooms, all of which have en-suite bathrooms (and three of which have outdoor showers — pinch us!). The on-site infinity pool overlooks Puako Beach, which is just steps away and a prime spot for snorkeling. The indoor-outdoor resort-style layout means ocean breezes 24/7. There's even a billiards table (with an ocean view) for when the weather calls for an indoor activity.
Rates start at $2,050/night.
Related: How to book the best Airbnb for your trip
Incredible indoor/outdoor living
Maui
View On AirbnbDreamy Indoor-Outdoor Living Opposite a Sandy Beach
This three-bedroom, three-bath 1940s-era plantation-style home in Maui sleeps six. It's close to the beach and situated between Kalama Skate Park and Kamaole Beach Park III. The home itself is beautiful but you'll love the backyard with a heated saltwater pool, a shaded living area and plenty of padded loungers for everyone. The home is surrounded by fruit trees and plumeria. The setting is perfect for a reunion of family or friends.
Rates start at $675/night.
Related: How to find the best Airbnb
Presidential paradise found
Kailua
View On AirbnbPlantation at Paradise Point
If it's good enough for a former president (we're looking at you President Obama), it's good enough for us. Yes, this is a once-in-a-lifetime splurge, but one look at this five-bedroom property which sleeps up to 10 guests and you'll understand why. This secluded villa has beach views that stretch on for days, a fully furnished gym and a lagoon pool with a waterfall, surrounded by lush trees that brings maximum privacy to your vacation getaway.
Rates start at $5,200/night.
Related: From Star Wars-themed to beachfront paradise: 10 top Airbnb homes in Florida
A charming cottage that's all action
Kapaa
View On AirbnbGo Paddling & Biking from Charming Riverside Garden Cottage
You don't have to be a millionaire to book a great vacation rental in Hawaii, and this charming cottage is proof. This cozy and cool property is centrally located for whatever adventure is on the day's agenda, yet also comes with kayaks, stand-up paddleboards and access to the Wailua River for those looking to stay closer to home. If you're in need of a beach fix, it's only a short walk away.
Rates start at $205/night.
Bottom line
Vacations are precious times with friends and family — now more than ever. And Hawaii is the perfect destination if you're looking for a change of scenery without leaving the U.S. Once you've nailed down which island is right for you, it's time to think about accommodations. If you're ready to start planning your next adventure, let these properties inspire you.
Feature photo by Madison Blancafor/The Points Guy
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Rewards
| 6X | 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program. |
| 4X | 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. |
| 2X | 2x points on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
Annual Fee
Recommended Credit
Why We Chose It
The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Finally, the free night award certificate with a redemption level of 35,000 points or less can get you hundreds of dollars in potential value each year.Pros
- 6 points per dollar on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program
- 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, U.S. gas stations, wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and U.S. shipping
- 2 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases
- Earn a free-night award each card renewal month (up to 35,000 points)
- Receive 15 elite night credits to jump-start status
- Transfer Marriott points to 40+ airlines
Cons
- Airline points transfer ratios are poor
- Must spend $60,000 in a year for second free-night award
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 5/3/23.
- Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. Terms and Conditions Apply.
- 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
- 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
- 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card.
- Terms apply.
Rewards Rate
| 6X | 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program. |
| 4X | 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. |
| 2X | 2x points on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 5/3/23.Earn 125,000 points75,000 pointsAnnual Fee
$125Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.670-850Excellent/Good
Why We Chose It
The Marriott Bonvoy Business Amex is a stacked card with a rewards rate that will help you earn bonus points on everyday and business-related purchases. You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Finally, the free night award certificate with a redemption level of 35,000 points or less can get you hundreds of dollars in potential value each year.Pros
- 6 points per dollar on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program
- 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, U.S. gas stations, wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and U.S. shipping
- 2 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases
- Earn a free-night award each card renewal month (up to 35,000 points)
- Receive 15 elite night credits to jump-start status
- Transfer Marriott points to 40+ airlines
Cons
- Airline points transfer ratios are poor
- Must spend $60,000 in a year for second free-night award
- Limited Time Offer: Earn 125,000 Bonus Marriott Bonvoy Points after you use your new Card to make $5,000 in purchases within the first 3 months of Card Membership. Offer ends 5/3/23.
- Receive a 7% discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels that participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program when you book directly. Terms and Conditions Apply.
- 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy® program.
- 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping.
- 2x points on all other eligible purchases.
- Receive 1 Free Night Award every year after your Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award after you spend $60K in purchases on your Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.
- Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card.
- Terms apply.