Category: Travel (Reviews)

Book this Waikiki studio on Airbnb

It’s hard to find a bargain in Waikiki, so this studio is an absolute dream for its great rate and amazing location near one of the most famous beaches in the world.

The apartment may be small and standard in terms of amenities, but it provides privacy and partial ocean and sunset views from your own dedicated lanai. 

A calming neutral palette, beautiful wood floors, big windows, and plenty of storage means you won’t miss out on unnecessary square footage. The main space is comprised of a small kitchenette, and a sofa and TV for downtime, backed by a sleeping area with a Queen-size bed. 

Staying here also provides access to the complex’s soothing palm tree-lined pool, outdoor BBQ, guest laundry, and a cute outdoor fitness center. Nearby Diamond Head also provides a serious workout, so take host-provided beach towels to refresh after a morning climb. 

Quiet oceanfront condo on Molokai

Book this Molokai condo on Airbnb

Social distancing is a breeze at this condo in Ualapue, just outside the town of Kaunakakai. The population is just over 400 on this side of the island, but it’s a short drive to eateries and shops in central Molokai. 

The ground-floor condo is surrounded by a lush garden landscape with easy access to an unpopulated beach. Take advantage of resort amenities such as tennis courts, a pool, and a community recreation center. Hiking trails and waterfalls are also close by. 

Inside, light wooden floors are accented by an open-concept space with a stainless steel equipped kitchen and a King-size bedroom with ocean blue linens. A private shaded outdoor dining and lounge space boasts spectacular waterfront views. 

Condo near Kailua Village on the Big Island

Book this Kona condo on Airbnb

Staying in this condo means you’ll have the ocean just a block away, waterfront Hale Halawai Park is within a few steps, and wonderful eateries, tiki bars, and local shopping are all in close proximity. Visit nearby Kona Farmers Market for produce, freshly roasted coffee, and tropical flowers to add color to your rental home’s contemporary kitchen. 

This fully renovated condo has gorgeous wooden floors in the bedroom and cool new tile in the upgraded bathroom with a spacious walk-in shower. Furnishings are minimal while island-influenced decor like the ocean-inspired bedding are nice reminders of the surrounding tropical oasis. There is a Queen-size bedroom, though a fold-out sofa offers additional space if needed. 

Sip morning java at the kitchen bar while plotting the day’s adventures, or take breakfast onto the private furnished lanai to enjoy ocean views. Be sure to dip into the on-site pool to cool down, though you’ll also appreciate the rare island find of air-conditioning in this condo.

Private guest house on Maui

Book this Maui guest house on Airbnb

While it seems everyone wants to flock to Maui’s beaches, there’s something to be said for the charm of Lahaina Town. Front Street is bustling with activity and known for its vast array of local eateries and amazing art galleries. You’ll also find the world’s largest banyan tree right in the center of it all, just one block from this rental. 

This upper-level Lahaina guest suite has its own private entrance and comes with a work desk with a parsons chair for digital nomads, though you’ll most likely want to simply lounge with local coffee outside on the furnished private lanai. There is also a smart TV, crisp white bedding, and a modest kitchen.

Discover more of the best Airbnbs on Maui

Islander’s ocean view condo on Oahu

Book this Honolulu studio on Airbnb

This colorful studio has a prime location just two blocks from the ocean and is a fantastic deal for a couple or solo traveler. Centrally located in Honolulu, guests are steps away from great local food trucks, restaurants, entertainment, nightlife, and more. 

Chic but whimsical decor will instantly place you in vacation mode from the retro pink couch to the bright turquoise design accents, and leafy bathroom statement wallpaper. The kitchenette is small, but has a vintage mini fridge, and a balcony and with a built-in bar that overlooks the ocean waves. Beach gear, including sunblock, is also provided showcasing attention to detail and small personal touches made by the host.

Beachfront condo with a pool on Molokai

Book this beachfront condo with pool starting at $130

This oceanfront condo may be small but is packed with all you need for a great stay and is just steps from the beach. From your private furnished lanai, you’ll catch colorful sunsets and views of surrounding islands, and the beachfront pool is equally scenic.

Tasteful island decor shines with Koa wood optic floors, sleek granite countertops, and pops of color by way of accent furnishings and bedding. The apartment is fully stocked with small appliances and a gas stove, while the living room has a flat panel TV with HD cable provided and free Wi-Fi.

Provided beach gear includes an umbrella, beach mats, and towels, and the location is about a mile east of downtown Kaunakakai with local eateries and shopping. On-site coin-operated laundry is available, and gas and charcoal BBQs are free to use. 

Beach paradise condo on the Big Island

Book this Kona condo on Airbnb

Watch amazing sunsets from your private lanai at this condo rental on the outskirts of popular bar town Kailua-Kona. No rental car is needed; you can walk or cycle to nearby hotspots like Don’s Mai Tai Bar or Alii Sunset Plaza for boutique shopping or to gather groceries. 

The condo has a community pool and hot tub, though a sandy beach is mere steps from the rental, too, so you can enjoy ocean waves day or night. Inside, the decor is a touch dated but features tropical inspiration and you’ll find a nice breeze on the shaded lanai, and east-facing windows bring in fresh air while you relax in the King-size bed. The sofa converts to a full-sized bed and also benefits from its own large windows. 

There is also a full kitchen plus a wide breakfast bar for quick bites and a small dining table perfect for a candlelit dinner. Or take it outside to grill up an island feast on the provided BBQ. 

Charming riverside cottage on Kauai

Book this Kauai cottage on Airbnb

Only one block from the beach, this riverside canal cottage on the outskirts of Kapaa Town overlooks the peaceful banks of the Wailua River, where guests can paddle with host-provided kayaks and SUPs, or take bikes out for a spin on a lovely path. The river leads to a natural lava rock grotto with waterfalls, an area formerly reserved for Hawaiian royalty but now enjoyed by many.

The plantation-style cottage was built in 1953 but renovated to feature beautiful paneling and beam details, bamboo accents, air conditioning, a vaulted ceiling with fan, sustainable wood floors, and a well-appointed outdoor area with a grill and water views. The lush grounds are home to fruit-bearing trees, so don’t be surprised if the host offers you a taste of starfruit. 

The kitchen is stocked with all the basics, so you’ll be able to sample local coffee and have seasoning on hand to flavor your in-room meals. Beach chairs and umbrellas are also provided, and there’s complimentary guest laundry.

Private guest house on Maui

Book this Maui home on Airbnb

Some of Maui’s most beloved beaches are located in Kihei and Wailea-Makena, and this one-bedroom cottage makes it easy to take advantage of the waterfront along Keawakapu and Kamaole Beaches where you’ll find food trucks and casual eateries aplenty, along with great people watching.

The space is bright, light, and sparkling clean with a convection oven and enough kitchen space to cook meals. There is also a coffee maker, air conditioning, a memory foam Queen-sized bed, and blackout curtains for excellent sleep. The private courtyard space includes a BBQ and hammock surrounded by lush plant life including organic papayas, mangoes, avocados, lilikoi, guava, lemon, and lime, depending on the season.

Additionally, the living room has a mounted smart TV to stream your favorite shows and movies after a long day at the beach. This guest house is attached to the host’s home, but you will have incredible privacy with a separate entrance and your own dedicated outdoor space. 

Modern remodeled condo at Poipu Beach, Kauai

Book this Kauai condo on Airbnb

It doesn’t get much closer to the waterfront at Poipu Beach than this stunning home.

Fresh off a full remodel, the contemporary space has a cool palette of white and grey, with a stainless fridge and in-counter cooktop, ideal for quick self-made meals. Adorning the walls is a series of island images from a locally renowned photographer, and the fresh, clean design carries throughout the condo.

There is a large bath offering natural light and the main bedroom has a King-size bed and a spacious layout. The living room convertible sofa adds extra sleeping space, and big windows and air conditioning keep the space comfy and cool.

In addition to immediate beach access, the condo property also has an outdoor grill and seating area for meals outside, while guests are also close to popular ice cream shops, casual and upscale restaurants, and great local coffee roasters. 

Bohemian retreat on the Big Island

Book this Big Island home on Airbnb

Set on an organic mango orchard and surrounded by plumerias, the home is located in Captain Cook and just a mile from Kealakekua Bay, known for some of Hawaii’s best snorkeling and wild dolphins.

Kind of like glamping, this open-air, two-bedroom bungalow merges the comforts of a well-appointed, bohemian-inspired home, with the outdoors. The kitchen and living areas are partially outside and open to the elements, but protected from rain, and eclectically adorned with vintage and tribal-inspired decor.

A lofted bedroom places you eye-level with a lush canopy of trees through floor-to-ceiling windows and a 30-foot stroll down a secluded path leads to an open-air bathhouse. It’s scenic and lovely, like staying in a jungle treehouse, but best appreciated by those who are comfortable with such rustic accouterments, especially given the occasional cameos from birds, insects, and lizards.

But it’s not totally roughing it; modern amenities include Wi-Fi and a washer and dryer, and town is a short 20-minute drive.

North Shore getaway at Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu

Book this Oahu home on Airbnb

Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore is memorable for its jagged lava rock coastline, a wide assortment of sea life ideal for snorkel sessions, and a starring role in the movie “Forgetting Sarah Marshall.”

At this resort condo, guests may enjoy all the amenities of the popular resort such as a great pool complex, private beach, tennis, grills, dining, and sprawling grounds, while enjoying the privacy and quiet space of a whole home rental. 

The beach cottage comes with partial ocean views from the living room and the bedroom loft separates you from travel pals who can spread out on the Queen pullout sofa. Decor is crisp and clean with sea blue accents, and a vaulted ceiling is accented by tropical plants and island-inspired artwork. There is also a full kitchen, air conditioning, ensuite laundry, and your own designated parking space. 

Tiny home on a volcanic lava field on the Big Island

Book this Big Island home on Airbnb

For an only in Hawaii experience, book this custom-built tiny home set on an otherworldly landscape of a volcanic lava field. You might even catch a glimpse of Pele’s orange volcanic glow. 

The home is also loaded with standout decor from steel tub sinks to a brightly painted ocean landscape mural behind the bed. Light pours in through oversized windows and patio doors, brightening the industrial-inspired interiors. The main living area is open and includes a couch, full kitchen, wooden writing desk, while a Queen-size bed is tucked upstairs in a sleeping loft.

This unique rental is in a great location for visiting the national park and nearby Kehena Black Sand Beach, which is less than an hour south of Hilo Airport. You’re also on the right side of the island for sampling local-grown macadamia nuts. 

Modern condo on Kauai

Book this Kauai condo on Airbnb

Located in a well-kept apartment complex, this Princeville condo offers the amenities of a larger resort with the privacy and personality of a warm home. Located on a quiet ocean bluff, guests enjoy the use of a shared community pool, grills, scenic hiking and cycling paths, and breathtaking beaches. 

The design exudes a luxury lean, with a soothing palette of calming blues and greys that creates a very Zen-inspired feeling. The living room has a smart TV, ceiling fan, and beach views from a lovely patio, while the kitchen is full-size. The modern Queen-size bedroom includes an additional fan, blackout shades, a bathroom with walk-in shower, and the option for a Pack ‘N Play crib if needed. 

Farmers’ markets and great restaurants are located close by. Be sure to sample the taro and juice farm store in neighboring Hanalei, and note there’s even a wine market nearby that offers delivery. 

Tropical cottage on Maui’s North Shore

Book this Maui cottage on Airbnb

For a tranquil stay on Maui’s scenic North Shore, this garden cottage places you amid green grass, waterfalls, and gentle breezes, perfect for lapping up sounds of nature and stargazing. Hookipa Beach is just a 10-minute drive away while the town of Paia isn’t much further.

The one-bedroom space is airy and bright with a smart TV, ceiling fan, convection oven, dishwasher, a washer and dryer, a memory foam Queen-size bed, an additional Queen-size daybed, as well as both a picturesque terrace and a separate, screened porch with ocean views. The backyard overlooks fruit trees, and the host also provides boogie boards, snorkeling gear, and there is the added bonus of an outdoor shower.

It’s worth noting that while this cottage is private there is a shared wall with another home, but only a few guests have noticed neighbor sounds and there are “quiet hours” in place. 

Large plantation-style home on Lanai

Book this Lanai home on Airbnb

This stunning home in the heart of Lanai is ideal for group travel thanks to its sizeable footprint. The contemporary space is well-lit with high ceilings and includes deluxe appliances and an inviting marble island made for social gatherings. There’s also a private patio, free parking, on-site laundry, free Wi-Fi, and taxes are already included in the nightly rate, making it a great deal for a full-family getaway.

Each of the three bedrooms has a Queen-size bed and the spacious living room includes a plush sectional sofa that converts to a full-size bed. There’s also a daybed if you have even more family members to accommodate. 

For cool pool dips, visit the rec center a mere five-minute walk down the street. Or head to nearby Hulopoe Bay to enjoy ocean waves. 

Three-bedroom designer beach house on the Big Island

Book this Kona beach house on Airbnb

With three bedrooms, this sophisticated beach home is a solid deal given the excellent location, sleek design, and excellent amenities. It’s just 10 minutes from the closest beach and the bustling tourist town of Kona.

Select a record for the turntable or queue up something to screen on the living room projector and sink into a hanging wicker chair while admiring the serene atmosphere of this beach home with concrete floors, midcentury furnishings, and tropical plants. The neutral design feels curated out of a magazine, with a full kitchen, air conditioning (in all rooms but one bedroom), surf and bamboo accents, essential oil diffusers, and playful palm print wallpaper. Each of the three bedrooms has a Queen-size bed, and a tranquil porch and backyard blend indoor and outdoor living seamlessly.

Other extras include beach gear, a grill, two bicycles, free parking, and a slew of family-friendly perks such as a travel crib, high chair, stair gates, changing table, baby monitor, baby bath, and more, for no added fee. 

Decadent artist’s house on Lanai

Book this Lanai house on Airbnb

Located in the old Japanese section of Lanai City, this original 1930s plantation-style home has been remodeled with a contemporary chef’s kitchen with granite counters and stainless appliances and a sharp-looking range hood. 

A classic neutral color palette emphasizes natural finishes, including warm wood grains in flooring and the dining set, with a plush leather sofa for cozy movie nights. There’s also plenty of space to enjoy the outdoors with a large furnished patio, a tropical garden, and an outdoor shower to rinse off after a fun day at the beach. The two interior full bathrooms offer natural light and ample storage for the whole family, while the main bath also has a jetted tub for soothing soaks. 

A well-known local artist renovated this charming home to reflect modern needs while retaining its roots as a former plantation home. Now the property includes a steam shower, full ensuite laundry, and personality while having easy access to downtown Lanai’s shops, eateries, and cafes. 

Luxury B&B with a pool on Maui

Book this Maui B&B on Airbnb

For something closer to a hotel stay that’s still a standalone accommodation with a private entrance, this B&B offers the best of both worlds.

This guest suite includes a luxurious spa-like ensuite bathroom with a rain shower and a deep soaking tub, plus a King-size bed and golf course views. Right outside the door is a gorgeous swimming pool, hot tub, outdoor kitchen, a sauna, fitness equipment, and free daily breakfast that is included and served poolside each morning.

While the pool and outdoor amenities are shared with one other listing on the same property, staying here is truly like staying at your own exclusive resort. Plus, for a completely private escape, you can rent out both guest suites.

Award-winning Ka’anapali Beach is just across the street, so you’ll have quick access to incredible soft sand beaches, and a supreme range of local eateries and retail shops. 

FAQ: Airbnb in Hawaii

Where should I stay in Hawaii on Airbnb?

Each island has its own identity, which means you’ll eventually want to experience all the islands for a true sense of the state. 

Oahu is often a first-timer’s choice, as it’s home to Honolulu and Waikiki and cute surf towns. It’s also the most populous island, which means there’s no shortage of attractions, eateries, and places to stay. Here you’ll find a fusion of traditional art and luaus alongside city skyscrapers and contemporary five-star restaurants.  

Maui is known for its laidback beach vibes, though you can also explore lava rocks, watch the sunrise atop a volcano summit, and hike through the rainforest in between surf sessions. It’s the best island for watching migrating humpback whales in the winter, while summers are ideal for seasonal farm-to-table dining. 

The “big island” of Hawaii is hands-down a coffee lover’s paradise. This is where you’ll find famous Kona coffee beans grown on lush hillsides en route to those famous volcanoes. This island is sizeable, so you’ll want to day trip to its various seaside towns to experience all the flavors, like Macadamia nuts on the east side, coffee on the south end, and chef-driven dining in upcountry. 

For outdoors enthusiasts, the island of Kauai is a magical place to visit for its diverse terrain of stunning green valleys and towering cliffsides. Rainforests and cascading waterfalls are a big draw for hikers, too, so pack reliable footwear. Beaches on the South Shore are great for family swims and there are plenty of great snorkeling spots here, too. 

Lanai is only nine miles from Maui and easily accessible by a pedestrian ferry for day trips. The island is known for 4-wheeling and snorkeling spots, and there’s really only one town to explore in the center of it all. In tiny but chill Lanai City, guests savor local coffee at mom-and-pop cafes in between adventurous exploration of rugged island terrain.  

Finally, Molokai is only 38 miles long and while it’s perhaps the least visited island, it offers a different experience with its quiet atmosphere. The highest sea cliffs in the world are found here and lead to Kalaupapa National Historic Park. Though the island is remote, Central Molokai is home to an 80-year-old bakery and a handful of local eateries and shops. Keep in mind there is no direct air service to Molokai Airport, so you’ll need to connect from Honolulu. Once on the island, there is no public transportation, so your options will be to walk, cycle, or rent a car. 

What is the best time of year to visit Hawaii?

Hawaii’s climate is consistently warm, so there’s no bad time to visit when considering the weather. Even during the winter months, the daytime average is a balmy 78° while summer at sea level is in the mid-80s. No matter when you visit, it’s possible to experience some light trade winds or rainfall, but even in the wettest months, which are November through March, the rain passes as quickly as it arrived, so your fun won’t be interrupted for long. 

Near-shore water is consistently welcoming, so any time of year offers a refreshing dip at the beach. Just keep an eye on wave conditions to ensure you won’t face strong currents. When in doubt, swim at a beach with a lifeguard. And be sure to layer on sunscreen as even cloudy days can take your skin by surprise. 

How much does it cost to go to Hawaii?

In shoulder season and for more modest accommodations, Airbnb vacation rentals are easy to find for under $100. But expect to pay a few hundred dollars during popular vacation periods or for homes with plenty of guest space, unique features, and updated design.

Of course, you’ll also want to plan for a decent food and drink budget, which can also be expensive. You can save money on dining by picking up beverages and a few essentials at a local market like Foodland Farms or ABC Stores. 

If you can be flexible with travel dates, there is sometimes a dip in midweek pricing for Airbnbs but know that Hawaii is a year-round popular destination. Shoulder seasons may offer a bit of a price break, so keep an eye on spring and fall prices which may be less than the peak of summer vacation and winter breakers. 

Are there travel restrictions to Hawaii? 

If you are traveling during the pandemic, be sure to review Hawaii’s latest travel protocols and know that entrance requirements change often in response to new health data.

At present, all incoming mainland travelers — regardless of vaccination status — are subject to pre-travel testing to bypass a 10-day quarantine. Travelers must present a negative COVID-19 test to enter, which must be an approved test from specific trusted testing partners, no more than 72 hours before departure to Hawaii.

If you are unable to present an accepted test, you will be subject to a 10-day quarantine upon arrival. A new vaccination quarantine and test bypass program is in development, but not likely to begin until later this summer. 

All travelers must also register with the State of Hawaii Safe Travels program and be sure to stay up to date on the latest traveler guidelines. 

 Is Airbnb safe?

While there’s no such thing as a safety guarantee, getting fully vaccinated greatly decreases your chance of falling ill near home and while away.

If you’re wondering if staying at an Airbnb right now is safe, experts largely agree that private vacation rentals are likely safer than hotels due to the ease of social distancing and lack of interactions with other guests or staff.

Airbnb has also implemented reassuring new policies, including the Enhanced Cleaning Initiative, which includes new safety guidelines for hosts, as well as optional booking buffers.

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